Refrigerator and water injection method of water drinking equipment thereof

Abstract

According to the refrigerator and the water injection method of the water drinking equipment thereof, a fixing support is installed at a base of the water drinking equipment, the position of a water cup is adjusted through the fixing support, the water cup is clamped through a clamp, and the water cup is aligned to a water injection opening of the water drinking equipment, so that firstly, water splashing caused by inaccurate placement position during water injection can be prevented; and secondly, the water cup can be clamped to prevent the water cup from slipping off due to vibration in the water injection process, the water cup can be aligned to a water inlet of the water cup when the drinking equipment injects water, the water overflowing / splashing phenomenon in the water injection process is avoided, and the user experience is improved. Besides, in the water injection process, the water injection opening can be flush with the water inlet of the water cup, the water splashing phenomenon when the water cup is almost full is prevented, the water level height in the water cup can be detected in real time, and the water overflowing phenomenon is prevented.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of refrigerators, and in particular to a refrigerator and a water filling method for a drinking water device thereof. Background Art

[0002] To meet consumer needs, refrigerators can be equipped with built-in water dispensers or drinking equipment, combined with automatic water filling devices. Users simply place a water cup in a designated location and then operate the refrigerator's touch buttons to activate the automatic water filling device to dispense water. Currently, most automatic water filling devices on the market require manual alignment of the water inlet, which is difficult for small cups. Misalignment can lead to overflow or splashing during the filling process, and splashing water can easily scald the user if the water temperature is too high. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides a method for filling a refrigerator and a drinking water device therefor, which allows the water inlet of a drinking water device to be aligned with the water cup during filling, preventing overflow and splashing during the filling process and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the water inlet can be aligned with the water cup inlet during filling, preventing splashing when the water is almost full. Furthermore, the method can detect the water level in the water cup in real time to prevent overflow.

[0004] To achieve the above object, an embodiment of the present invention provides a refrigerator, comprising: a box body, in which at least one freezing chamber and a refrigerating chamber are formed; A drinking water device is provided in the box body, comprising a water inlet, a base, and a fixing bracket; wherein the water inlet is used to discharge water, the base is used to place a water cup, and the fixing bracket is used to fix the water cup placed on the base, and the fixing bracket comprises an extension arm and a clamp provided at one end of the extension arm; A controller, at least for controlling the water injection port and the fixing bracket, wherein the controller is configured to: When a water injection instruction is received and a water cup is placed on the base, the extension arm of the fixed bracket is controlled to start extending; When detecting that the clamp of the fixing bracket contacts the water cup, controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup; The telescopic length of the extension arm is adjusted so that the water cup is located at a designated position of the base.

[0005] As an improvement to the above-mentioned solution, the fixed bracket includes a first bracket and a second bracket respectively arranged on both sides of the drinking water equipment; wherein, the first bracket includes a first extension arm and a first clamp arranged at one end of the first extension arm, and the second bracket includes a second extension arm and a second clamp arranged at one end of the second extension arm.

[0006] As an improvement to the above solution, after controlling the clamp to clamp the cup, the controller is further configured to: Recording a first extension length of the first extension arm and a second extension length of the second extension arm, and obtaining an initial distance between the first clamp and the second clamp; Calculating a diameter of the water cup according to the first extension length, the second extension length, and the initial spacing, and determining height adjustment values ​​of the first bracket and the second bracket according to the diameter of the water cup; The heights of the first bracket and the second bracket are adjusted simultaneously according to the height adjustment value.

[0007] As an improvement to the above solution, when detecting that the clamp of the fixing bracket contacts the water cup, controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup includes: When it is detected that both the first clamp and the second clamp are in contact with the water cup, the first clamp and the second clamp are controlled to clamp the water cup.

[0008] As an improvement to the above solution, adjusting the telescopic length of the extension arm so that the water cup is located at a specified position of the base includes: Determining a total adjustment length of the first bracket and the second bracket according to the initial spacing and the diameter of the water cup; Calculating an average adjustment length of the total adjustment lengths; Based on the average adjustment length, the telescopic lengths of the first extension arm and the second extension arm are adjusted respectively, so that the water cup is located at a designated position of the base.

[0009] As an improvement to the above solution, the clamp is provided with a pressure sensor; then, the controller is further configured to: Obtaining a real-time pressure value detected by the pressure sensor; When the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset minimum pressure threshold, it is determined that the current clamp is in contact with the water cup; After controlling the clamp to clamp the cup, if the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset maximum pressure threshold, controlling the clamp to stop the clamping action.

[0010] As an improvement to the above solution, the drinking water device further includes a first grating and a second grating respectively provided on both sides of the drinking water device, the first grating being used to emit a light beam, and the second grating being used to receive a light beam; then, after the water cup is located at a designated position on the base, the controller is further configured to: activating the first light barrier and the second light barrier; When it is detected that part of the light beam is not blocked, the water injection port is controlled to move downward; When all the light beams are blocked, the water injection port is stopped from moving and is controlled to start injecting water.

[0011] As an improvement to the above solution, the drinking water device further includes a distance sensor provided at the water inlet, the distance sensor being used to detect the distance between the water inlet and the water level in the water cup; then, after controlling the water inlet to start filling water, the controller is further configured to: When the user has not set a target water filling volume for the drinking water device, obtaining the water level distance detected by the distance sensor, and controlling the water filling port to stop filling water when detecting that the water level distance is less than a preset distance threshold; When the user sets a target water injection volume for the drinking water device, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water when the real-time water injection volume at the water injection port reaches the target water injection volume; When it is detected that the second grating receives the light beam, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water; When a water injection stop instruction is received, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water.

[0012] As an improvement to the above solution, after stopping moving the water injection port, the controller is further configured to: Obtaining the moving distance of the water injection port; Calculating the height of the water cup according to the moving distance and the initial height of the water filling port; The distance threshold is determined according to the height of the water cup.

[0013] To achieve the above-mentioned object, an embodiment of the present invention further provides a method for filling a water drinking device of a refrigerator, wherein the water drinking device includes a water filling port, a base, and a fixing bracket, wherein the fixing bracket includes an extension arm and a clamp provided at one end of the extension arm; the method comprises: When a water injection instruction is received and a water cup is placed on the base, the extension arm of the fixed bracket is controlled to start extending; When detecting that the clamp of the fixing bracket contacts the water cup, controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup; The telescopic length of the extension arm is adjusted so that the water cup is located at a designated position of the base.

[0014] Compared to the prior art, the refrigerator and its water filling method for drinking water disclosed in the present invention utilize a fixed bracket installed at the base of the drinking water device, which is used to adjust the position of the water cup. The bracket then clamps the water cup so that the cup is aligned with the water filling port of the drinking water device. This prevents water from splashing due to inaccurate placement during water filling, and clamps the water cup to prevent it from sliding due to vibration during the filling process. Furthermore, the method allows the water inlet of the drinking water device to be aligned with the water inlet of the cup during water filling, avoiding overflow / splashing during the filling process and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the water inlet can be aligned with the water inlet of the cup during the filling process, preventing splashing when the water is almost full. Furthermore, the water level in the cup can be detected in real time to prevent overflow. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a refrigerator provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a refrigerator provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a refrigeration system in a refrigerator provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 It is a structural diagram of a drinking water device provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a first working flow diagram of the controller provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a first bracket provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the first bracket and the second bracket provided in an embodiment of the present invention when extended; Figure 8 is another schematic diagram of the first bracket and the second bracket provided by an embodiment of the present invention when extended; Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the distribution of gratings in the drinking water equipment provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 is a second working flow diagram of the controller provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the water inlet of the drinking water device provided by the embodiment of the present invention when it moves downward; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of a distance sensor in a drinking water device provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13 is a third working flow diagram of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 The present invention provides a flowchart of a method for filling water into a refrigerator drinking water device.

[0016] Among them, 100, refrigerator; 10, drinking water equipment; 20, water cup; 1, compressor; 2, evaporator; 3, capillary tube; 4, condenser; 101, water filling button; 102, indicator light; 11, water filling port; 12, base; 13, first bracket; 131, first extension arm; 132, first clamp; 133, first pressure sensor; 14, second bracket; 141, second extension arm; 142, second clamp; 15, first grating; 16, second grating; 17, distance sensor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field based on the embodiments of the present invention without making any creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0018] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship, are based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on this application.

[0019] 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 number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. Throughout this application, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0020] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0021] See also Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a refrigerator 100 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The refrigerator 100 of this embodiment has an approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes a cabinet defining a storage space and multiple doors provided at the cabinet opening. The door includes a door shell located on the outside of the cabinet, a door inner liner located on the inside of the cabinet, an upper end cover, a lower end cover, and an insulating layer located between the door shell, the door inner liner, the upper end cover, and the lower end cover. Typically, the insulating layer is filled with foam. The cabinet is provided with a chamber, wherein the chamber includes a component storage chamber for placing components in the refrigerator, such as a compressor compartment, and also includes storage space for storing food, etc. A drinking water device 10 is provided at the door of the refrigerator, and the drinking water device 10 is used to provide hot or cold water.

[0022] See also Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a refrigerator provided by an embodiment of the present invention. The storage space can be divided into multiple storage rooms. The storage rooms can be configured as refrigerators and freezers according to different uses. They can also include variable temperature rooms, vacuum drawers, moisturizing drawers, etc. Each storage room corresponds to one or more doors, such as Figure 2 The storage room in the middle and upper part is provided with a double-door body. The door body can be pivotally arranged at the opening of the box body, and can also be opened in a drawer-like manner to realize drawer-like storage.

[0023] See also Figure 3 , Figure 3The schematic diagram of the structure of the refrigeration system in the refrigerator 100 provided in the embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration system includes a compressor 1, an evaporator 2, a drying filter (not shown in the figure), a capillary tube 3, a condenser 4 and a gas-liquid separator (not shown in the figure). The working process of the refrigeration system includes a compression process, a condensation process, a throttling process and an evaporation process. The compression process is as follows: when the power cord of the refrigerator is plugged in and the contacts of the thermostat are connected, the compressor 1 starts working, and the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant is sucked into the compressor 1, compressed into a high-temperature, high-pressure superheated gas in the cylinder of the compressor 1 and then discharged into the condenser 4; the condensation process is as follows: the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas dissipates heat through the condenser 4, the temperature continues to drop, and is gradually cooled to a saturated vapor at room temperature and high pressure, and is further cooled to a saturated liquid, and the temperature no longer drops. The temperature at this time is called the condensation temperature, and the pressure of the refrigerant remains almost unchanged during the entire condensation process; the throttling ... The process is as follows: the saturated refrigerant liquid after condensation is filtered out of moisture and impurities by a drying filter and then flows into the capillary tube 3, through which it is throttled and depressurized, and the refrigerant becomes wet steam at room temperature and low pressure; the evaporation process is as follows: the wet steam at room temperature and low pressure begins to absorb heat and vaporize in the evaporator 2, which not only reduces the temperature of the evaporator 2 and its surroundings, but also turns the refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure gas. The refrigerant coming out of the evaporator 2 passes through the gas-liquid separator and returns to the compressor 1 again, repeating the above process to transfer the heat in the refrigerator to the air outside the box, thereby achieving the purpose of refrigeration.

[0024] See also Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic structural diagram of a drinking water device 10 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The drinking water device 10 is disposed within the housing and includes a water inlet 11, a base 12, and a fixed bracket. The water inlet 11 is used to dispense water, the base 12 is used to place a water cup 20, and the fixed bracket is used to secure the water cup 20 placed on the base 12. The fixed bracket includes an extension arm and a clamp disposed at one end of the extension arm. Furthermore, the fixed bracket includes a first bracket 13 and a second bracket 14, respectively disposed on opposite sides of the drinking water device 10. The first bracket 13 includes a first extension arm 131 and a first clamp 132 disposed at one end of the first extension arm 131, and the second bracket 14 includes a second extension arm 141 and a second clamp 142 disposed at one end of the second extension arm 141. The first extension arm 131 and the second extension arm 141 can be extended in the horizontal direction to approach the water cup 20, and the first extension arm 131 and the second extension arm 141 can be moved in the vertical direction to adjust the height of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14; the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 are arc-shaped clamps that can be expanded or closed to loosen or clamp the water cup 20.

[0025] Specifically, the controller in the refrigerator is configured to: when a water injection instruction is received and a water cup is placed on the base, control the extension arm of the fixed bracket to start extending; when it is detected that the clamp of the fixed bracket contacts the water cup, control the clamp to clamp the water cup; adjust the telescopic length of the extension arm so that the water cup is located at the specified position of the base.

[0026] For example, see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a first workflow diagram of a controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the controller is configured to execute steps S11 to S16. The water injection command may be triggered by a water injection button 101 provided in the drinking water device 10, or by a user via a mobile terminal APP. After the water injection command is triggered, it is necessary to detect whether a water cup 20 is placed on the base 12. For example, if a pressure detection device is provided on the base 12, the pressure detection device measures the pressure of the base 12 to determine whether a water cup 20 is placed. If no water cup 20 is placed, it indicates that the water injection command was triggered by mistake, such as by a child in the user's home accidentally touching the water injection button 101. When receiving the water injection command, combined with the logic for determining whether a water cup 20 is placed on the base 12, the water injection command can be prevented from being triggered by mistake, thereby preventing water from flowing out of the water injection port 11 even when no water cup is placed, thereby ensuring the safe use of the drinking water device.

[0027] For example, suppose that after placing a cup 20 anywhere on the base 12, the user clicks the water filling button 101. Upon detecting that the cup 20 is indeed placed on the base 12, the controller begins a cup position calibration process. The indicator light 102 on the drinking device 10 then flashes rapidly, indicating that the cup position calibration process is in progress. The controller controls the extension arm of the fixed bracket to begin extending. During this extension process, the clamp gradually approaches the cup 20. Upon detecting that the clamp of the fixed bracket contacts the cup 20, the clamp is controlled to clamp the cup 20. The controller then further adjusts the extension length of the extension arm to position the cup 20 at the designated location on the base 12.

[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, a water cup calibration control system is introduced to achieve precise positioning of the water cup and the water filling port. At the same time, the fixed bracket in the calibration system can clamp the water cup according to the size of different water cups to prevent the water cup from falling off due to the action of water flow during the water filling process.

[0029] Specifically, when it is detected that the clamp of the fixing bracket contacts the water cup, the clamp is controlled to clamp the water cup, including: when it is detected that both the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 contact the water cup, the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 are controlled to clamp the water cup 20.

[0030] For example, the first extension arm 131 and the second extension arm 141 have an extension length of zero in their initial state. At this point, the first extension arm 131 and the second extension arm 141 can be embedded in their corresponding support bases. After the controller starts running the water cup position calibration program, it controls the first extension arm 131 and the second extension arm 141 to simultaneously begin extending toward the water cup, driving the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 to approach the water cup 20. When it is detected that both the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 have contacted the water cup, the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 are controlled to clamp the water cup 20. It is worth noting that the extension speed of the first extension arm 131 and the second extension arm 141 can be preset and should not be too fast to avoid the first clamp 132 / the second clamp 142 not reacting in time and causing the water cup 20 to be hit.

[0031] Specifically, a pressure sensor is provided on the clamp; then, the controller is further configured to: obtain the real-time pressure value detected by the pressure sensor; when the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset minimum pressure threshold, determine that the current clamp is in contact with the water cup; after controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup, if the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset maximum pressure threshold, control the clamp to stop the clamping action.

[0032] For example, see Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first bracket 13 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Several first pressure sensors 133 are provided on the inner side of the first clamp 132 (on the side closest to the cup 20). Similarly, several second pressure sensors are provided on the inner side of the second clamp 142 (on the side closest to the cup 20). Assuming that the cup 20 is placed to the right of the center of the base 12, the second bracket 14 will first contact the cup 20 during its extension process. The second pressure sensors located in the second bracket 14 will detect the pressure change. When the second pressure sensors detect a slight pressure change (the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset minimum pressure threshold, such as 0), it indicates that the second bracket 14 has just contacted the cup 20, and the second bracket 14 stops extending. Because the first bracket 13 is farther away from the cup 20, it continues to extend until the first pressure sensors 133 determine that the first clamp 132 has contacted the cup 20, at which point the extension stops.

[0033] For example, since there are brackets on both sides of the water cup 20, after detecting that the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 are in contact with the water cup 20, the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 are simultaneously controlled to clamp the water cup. In the process of clamping the water cup, due to the clamping of the two brackets and the action of the pulley on the arc clamp, the water cup will slowly slide or suddenly slide to the middle position of the arc clamp, so the value of the pressure sensor on the arc clamp will change suddenly or will not increase slowly and linearly according to the tightening of the brackets on both sides. When the detection values ​​of the pressure sensors on the two arc clamps begin to increase linearly, the water cup will be located at the middle position of the edge of the arc clamp with the changing wheel and will no longer move. Therefore, after clamping the cup 20, the real-time pressure values ​​detected by the first and second pressure sensors are further acquired. If the real-time pressure values ​​exceed a preset maximum pressure threshold (preset), and the values ​​detected by the two pressure sensors begin to increase linearly, the first and second clamps 132 and 142 are controlled to cease clamping. Furthermore, the maximum pressure threshold is directly proportional to the diameter of the cup; that is, the larger the cup, the tighter the clamps grip.

[0034] In this embodiment of the present invention, after both clamps have contacted the cup, they are simultaneously controlled to clamp the cup. This prevents the cup from slipping out of the clamp if a single clamp is clamped, thereby improving the stability of the clamp's grip on the cup. Furthermore, by setting the maximum pressure threshold based on the cup's diameter, the clamping force can be adjusted, ensuring that rapid water flow does not affect the cup's stability during the water filling process.

[0035] Specifically, when controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup, the controller is also configured to: record the first extension length of the first extension arm 131 and the second extension length of the second extension arm 141, and obtain the initial spacing between the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142; calculate the diameter of the water cup based on the first extension length, the second extension length and the initial spacing, and determine the height adjustment value of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 based on the diameter of the water cup; and adjust the height of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 at the same time according to the height adjustment value.

[0036] For example, see Figure 7 , Figure 7FIG. 0 is a schematic diagram of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 provided by an embodiment of the present invention during extension. Dd is the initial distance between the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142. At this time, both the first extension arm 131 and the second extension arm 141 are in their initial positions (not extended and embedded in the support base). Da is the first extension length of the first extension arm 131, and Db is the second extension length of the second extension arm 141. After controlling the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 to clamp the water cup, the first extension length Da and the second extension length Db are recorded. Because the sizes, diameters, and thicknesses of different water cups 20 are different, the water cup 20 needs to be clamped and moved in the subsequent procedures for water cup position adjustment. If the water cup is too thin, the clamping positions of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 are at the lowest position of the water cup, and there is a high probability that the water cup 20 will be toppled, especially for tall and thin water bottles. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the heights of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 according to the size (diameter) of the water cup 20. By calculating the difference between the initial distance Dd and the first extension length Da and the second extension length Db, the diameter Dw of the water cup is obtained. The calculation of the water cup diameter satisfies: Dw = Db - Da - Db. It can be understood that since the arc-shaped clamp is relatively thin and the pressure sensor provided on the arc-shaped clamp does not occupy thickness, the thicknesses of both can be ignored. Or further, the thicknesses of both can be added and then the water cup diameter is calculated. At this time, the calculation of the water cup diameter satisfies: Dw = Db - Da - Db - Dg, where Dg is the total thickness of the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142.

[0037] Exemplarily, the maximum height that the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 can be raised is Hmax (which needs to be less than the height of the water cup). The height adjustment value Hw is inversely proportional to the diameter Dw of the water cup, that is, the thinner the water cup, the higher the bracket rises, and it needs to satisfy Hw < Hmax. It should be noted that the maximum height and the height adjustment value can be preset according to the actual size of the water cup, which will not be elaborated here. Whether the water cup is circular, rectangular, or irregular in shape, the diameter of the water cup can be calculated by the above method, and this water cup diameter can accurately reflect the lateral distance of the water cup.

[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, by recording the extension length of the fixed bracket to determine the diameter of the water cup, the height of the fixed bracket can be further obtained to ensure that the water cup will not be toppled during the water injection process.

[0039] Specifically, adjusting the telescopic length of the extension arm so that the water cup is located at the specified position of the base includes: determining the total adjustment length of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 based on the initial spacing and the diameter of the water cup; calculating the average adjustment length of the total adjustment length; and adjusting the telescopic lengths of the first extension arm 131 and the second extension arm 141 respectively based on the average adjustment length so that the water cup 20 is located at the specified position of the base 12.

[0040] For example, see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is another schematic diagram of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 provided in an embodiment of the present invention when extended. After the first clamp 132 and the second clamp 142 clamp the water cup 20, the corresponding state of the initial position of the first bracket 13, the second bracket 14, and the water cup 20 has been determined. The first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 can surround the water cup 20, ensuring that the water cup will not fall off or tip over during movement. The lateral position adjustment, that is, the left and right position adjustment, begins. Assuming that the water cup 20 is located to the left of the center position of the base 12, the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 need to be extended and retracted to move the water cup 20 to a specified position on the base 12, which can be the center position of the base 12.

[0041] For example, the total adjustment length of the first bracket 13 and the second bracket 14 is determined according to the initial distance Dd and the cup diameter Dw, and the total adjustment length Ds=Dd-Dw. The average adjustment length Ds' of the total adjustment length Ds is calculated. In this case, the following conditions must be met: Ds'=Da'=Db'; Da' is the first target extension length of the first extension arm 131, and Db' is the second target extension length of the second extension arm 131. Figure 8 In the figure above, since the cup 20 is now positioned to the left of the center of the base 12, the first extension length Da of the first extension arm 131 is less than the second extension length Da of the second extension arm 141. Therefore, the first extension arm 131 needs to be further extended to reach Da', with the further extended first length h1 satisfying: h1 = Da' - Da. The second extension arm 141 needs to be shortened to reach Db', with the shortened second length h2 satisfying: h2 = Db - Db'. At this point, the first bracket 13 continues to extend, while the second bracket 14 begins to shorten simultaneously, until the first and second brackets 13, 14 reach the same length, and the cup 20 is positioned at the designated position on the base 12.

[0042] Specifically, the drinking water equipment also includes light sensing devices respectively arranged on both sides of the drinking water equipment. The light sensing devices on both sides of the drinking water equipment include a first light grating 15 and a second light grating 16. The first light grating 15 is used to emit a light beam, and the second light grating 16 is used to receive a light beam.

[0043] For example, see Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a distribution diagram of the gratings in the drinking water device 10 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. During the downward movement of the water inlet 11, the light beam emitted by the first grating 15 will be gradually blocked, thereby detecting the moving distance of the water inlet 11.

[0044] Specifically, after the water cup is located at the designated position of the base, the controller is further configured to: start the first grating 15 and the second grating 16; when it is detected that there is a part of the light beam that is not blocked, control the water injection port 11 to move downward; until all the light beams are blocked, stop moving the water injection port 11, and control the water injection port 11 to start injecting water.

[0045] For example, see Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is the second workflow diagram of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention. After executing step S16, the controller is further configured to execute steps S17 to S21. After starting the first grating 15 and the second grating 16, since the water cup 20 has been placed at the designated position of the base 12, the water cup 20 will block the light beam at the lower part emitted by the first grating 15. After starting the grating, it is detected that all light beams are blocked, that is, the second grating 16 cannot receive the light beam, indicating that the water inlet of the water cup 20 just touches the water injection port 11, or the water injection port 11 is located inside the water inlet of the water cup. At this time, the water injection port 11 can be directly controlled to start water injection. After the grating is started, if it is detected that part of the light beam is not blocked, that is, the second grating 16 can still receive the light beam, it means that the water inlet 11 is a certain distance away from the water inlet of the water cup 20. If water is directly poured at this time, water splashing is likely to occur when the water is almost full. Therefore, it is necessary to control the water inlet 11 to move downward. During the downward movement of the water inlet 11, the light beam emitted by the first grating 15 will be gradually blocked. Figure 11 , Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of the water inlet 11 of the drinking water device 10 provided in an embodiment of the present invention during downward movement. When all light beams are blocked, the water inlet 11 stops moving and is controlled to begin filling water. It is worth noting that the first light barrier 15 must be positioned so that the emitted light beam can be blocked by the water inlet 11 during its downward movement.

[0046] In the embodiment of the present invention, the water filling port can be made flush with the water inlet of the water cup before water filling begins, so as to prevent water splashing when the cup is almost full.

[0047] Specifically, see Figure 12 , Figure 12 1 is a schematic diagram of the setting of the distance sensor 17 in the drinking water device 10 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The drinking water device 10 also includes a distance sensor 17 arranged at the water filling port 11, and the distance sensor 17 is used to detect the water level distance between the water filling port 11 and the water level in the water cup 20.

[0048] Furthermore, after controlling the water injection port 11 to start injecting water, the controller is also configured to: when the user has not set the target water injection volume of the drinking water device, obtain the water level distance detected by the distance sensor, and when it is detected that the water level distance is less than a preset distance threshold, control the water injection port to stop injecting water; when the user sets the target water injection volume of the drinking water device, when the real-time water injection volume of the water injection port reaches the target water injection volume, control the water injection port to stop injecting water; when it is detected that the second grating receives a light beam, control the water injection port to stop injecting water; when a stop water injection instruction is received, control the water injection port to stop injecting water.

[0049] For example, see Figure 13 , Figure 13 This is the third working flow diagram of the controller provided by the embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment of the present invention provides four ways of controlling the water injection port 11 to stop injecting water.

[0050] In the first embodiment, referring to step S211 , if it is detected that the second light barrier 16 can receive the light beam, it means that the water cup 20 has moved, which may be caused by the user directly removing the water cup from the base 12 , and the water filling stops at this time.

[0051] In the second embodiment, referring to steps S212 to S214, after stopping moving the water inlet 11, the controller is further configured to: obtain the moving distance of the water inlet 11; calculate the height of the water cup 20 based on the moving distance and the initial height of the water inlet 11; and determine the distance threshold based on the height of the water cup.

[0052] For example, see Figure 12After stopping the movement of the water inlet 11, the movement distance Sb of the water inlet 11 is obtained (determined by blocking the light beam or by the distance sensor 17), as well as the initial height Sn of the water inlet 11 (pre-stored in the system). The height Sa of the water cup 20 is calculated, satisfying Sa = Sn - Sb. The distance threshold Sa1 can be set based on the water cup height Sa, Sa = Sa1 + Sa2, where Sa2 is the liquid level. If the water cup height Sa < 1 / 2Sn, the distance threshold Sa1 is set to 1 cm. If Sa ≥ 1 / 2Sn, the distance threshold Sa1 is set to 2 cm. Considering that taller water cups generally have a higher opening at the top of the cup, if the cup is overfilled, water may overflow when the cup lid is tightened. Therefore, the distance threshold is proportional to the cup height.

[0053] In the third embodiment, referring to step S215, if the user sets a target water injection volume, such as the target water injection volume is xxml, water injection is stopped after the real-time water injection volume reaches xxml.

[0054] In the third embodiment, referring to step S216 , if the user presses the water filling button 101 again, the water filling is stopped.

[0055] In the embodiment of the present invention, the water level in the water cup is detected in real time to prevent overflow. In addition, the current liquid level in the water cup is determined based on the water level distance of the distance sensor 17, and the water inlet 11 is controlled to stop filling water, thereby preventing the water cup from being overfilled and overflowing.

[0056] Furthermore, when the water inlet is stopped, the first and second gratings 15 and 16 are controlled to close, the water inlet 11 is moved up to its initial position, and the first and second brackets 13 and 14 are retracted to their initial positions. Indicator light 102 becomes permanently illuminated, indicating that water filling is complete. The automatic water filling control program ends.

[0057] Compared to the prior art, the refrigerator disclosed in the present invention aligns the cup with the water inlet of the drinking device by installing a fixed bracket at the base of the drinking device, adjusting the position of the water cup using the fixed bracket, and clamping the cup with a clamp. This prevents water from splashing due to inaccurate placement during water filling, and also clamps the cup to prevent it from sliding due to vibration during the filling process. This allows the cup to be aligned with the water inlet of the drinking device during filling, avoiding overflow / splashing during the filling process and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the water inlet can be aligned with the water inlet of the cup during the filling process, preventing splashing when the water is almost full. Furthermore, the water level in the cup can be detected in real time to prevent overflow. See also Figure 14 , Figure 14This is a flow chart of a method for filling a water drinking device of a refrigerator provided by an embodiment of the present invention. The water drinking device includes a water filling port, a base, and a fixing bracket. The fixing bracket includes an extension arm and a clamp provided at one end of the extension arm. The method includes: S1. When a water injection instruction is received and a water cup is placed on the base, controlling the extension arm of the fixed bracket to start extending; S2. When detecting that the clamp of the fixing bracket contacts the water cup, controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup; S3. Adjust the telescopic length of the extension arm so that the water cup is located at a designated position of the base.

[0058] Specifically, the fixed bracket includes a first bracket and a second bracket respectively arranged on both sides of the drinking water equipment; wherein, the first bracket includes a first extension arm and a first clamp arranged at one end of the first extension arm, and the second bracket includes a second extension arm and a second clamp arranged at one end of the second extension arm.

[0059] Specifically, after controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup, the method also includes: recording the first extension length of the first extension arm and the second extension length of the second extension arm, and obtaining the initial spacing between the first clamp and the second clamp; calculating the diameter of the water cup based on the first extension length, the second extension length and the initial spacing, and determining the height adjustment value of the first bracket and the second bracket based on the diameter of the water cup; and adjusting the height of the first bracket and the second bracket at the same time according to the height adjustment value.

[0060] Specifically, when it is detected that the clamp of the fixing bracket contacts the water cup, the clamp is controlled to clamp the water cup, including: when it is detected that both the first clamp and the second clamp contact the water cup, the first clamp and the second clamp are controlled to clamp the water cup.

[0061] Specifically, adjusting the telescopic length of the extension arm so that the water cup is located at the specified position of the base includes: determining the total adjustment length of the first bracket and the second bracket based on the initial spacing and the diameter of the water cup; calculating the average adjustment length of the total adjustment length; and adjusting the telescopic length of the first extension arm and the second extension arm respectively based on the average adjustment length so that the water cup is located at the specified position of the base.

[0062] Specifically, the clamp is provided with a pressure sensor; then, the method further includes: obtaining a real-time pressure value detected by the pressure sensor; when the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset minimum pressure threshold, determining that the current clamp is in contact with the water cup; after controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup, if the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset maximum pressure threshold, controlling the clamp to stop the clamping action.

[0063] Specifically, the drinking water device also includes a first grating and a second grating respectively arranged on both sides of the drinking water device, the first grating is used to emit a light beam, and the second grating is used to receive a light beam; then, after the water cup is located at the designated position of the base, the method also includes: starting the first grating and the second grating; when it is detected that there is part of the light beam that is not blocked, controlling the water injection port to move downward; until all the light beams are blocked, stopping moving the water injection port, and controlling the water injection port to start injecting water.

[0064] Specifically, the drinking water device further includes a distance sensor provided at the water inlet, the distance sensor being used to detect the water level distance between the water inlet and the water level in the water cup; then, after controlling the water inlet to start water filling, the method further includes: When the user has not set a target water filling volume for the drinking water device, obtaining the water level distance detected by the distance sensor, and controlling the water filling port to stop filling water when detecting that the water level distance is less than a preset distance threshold; When the user sets a target water injection volume for the drinking water device, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water when the real-time water injection volume at the water injection port reaches the target water injection volume; When it is detected that the second grating receives the light beam, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water; When a water injection stop instruction is received, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water.

[0065] Specifically, after stopping the movement of the water inlet, the method further includes: obtaining the movement distance of the water inlet; calculating the height of the water cup according to the movement distance and the initial height of the water inlet; determining the distance threshold according to the height of the water cup; It is worth noting that the working process of the method for filling water into the drinking water device of the refrigerator described in the embodiment of the present invention can refer to the specific working process of the controller in the refrigerator described in the above embodiment, which will not be repeated here.

[0066] Compared to the prior art, the disclosed method for filling a refrigerator drinking water device employs a fixed bracket installed at the base of the drinking device, adjusts the position of the water cup using the bracket, and clamps the water cup with a fixture, aligning the water cup with the water inlet of the drinking device. This prevents water from splashing due to inaccurate placement during filling, and clamps the water cup to prevent it from sliding due to vibration during filling. Furthermore, the method aligns the water inlet of the drinking device with the water cup during filling, avoiding overflow / splashing during the filling process and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the water inlet can be aligned with the water cup inlet during filling, preventing splashing when the water is almost full. Furthermore, the water level in the cup can be detected in real time to prevent overflow.

[0067] The above is a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be pointed out that for ordinary technicians in this technical field, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principles of the present invention. These improvements and modifications are also considered to be within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that: include: a box body, in which at least one freezing chamber and a refrigerating chamber are formed; The drinking water device is arranged in the box and includes: Light sensing devices are provided on both sides of the drinking water equipment; A distance sensor is provided outside the water inlet; the distance sensor is used to detect the water level distance between the water inlet and the water level in the water cup; then, after controlling the water inlet to start water filling, the controller is further configured to: When the user has not set a target water filling volume for the drinking water device, obtaining the water level distance detected by the distance sensor, and controlling the water filling port to stop filling water when detecting that the water level distance is less than a preset distance threshold; When the user sets a target water injection volume for the drinking water device, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water when the real-time water injection volume at the water injection port reaches the target water injection volume; When it is detected that the second grating receives the light beam, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water; When a water injection stop instruction is received, the water injection port is controlled to stop injecting water.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The light sensing device comprises: A first grating is provided on both sides of the drinking water device, and the first grating is used to emit a light beam; The second grating is arranged on both sides of the drinking water device, and the second grating is used to receive the light beam.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein: After the water cup is located at a designated position on the base, the controller is further configured to: activating the first light barrier and the second light barrier; When it is detected that part of the light beam is not blocked, the water injection port is controlled to move downward; When all the light beams are blocked, the water injection port is stopped from moving and is controlled to start injecting water.

4. A refrigerator, characterized in that: include: a box body, in which at least one freezing chamber and a refrigerating chamber are formed; A drinking water device is provided in the box body, comprising a water inlet, a base, and a fixing bracket; wherein the water inlet is used to discharge water, the base is used to place a water cup, and the fixing bracket is used to fix the water cup placed on the base, and the fixing bracket comprises an extension arm and a clamp provided at one end of the extension arm; A controller, at least for controlling the water injection port and the fixing bracket, wherein the controller is configured to: When a water injection instruction is received and a water cup is placed on the base, the extension arm of the fixed bracket is controlled to start extending; When detecting that the clamp of the fixing bracket contacts the water cup, controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup; The telescopic length of the extension arm is adjusted so that the water cup is located at a designated position of the base.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein: The fixed bracket includes a first bracket and a second bracket respectively arranged on both sides of the drinking water equipment; wherein, the first bracket includes a first extension arm and a first clamp arranged at one end of the first extension arm, and the second bracket includes a second extension arm and a second clamp arranged at one end of the second extension arm.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 5, wherein After controlling the clamp to clamp the cup, the controller is further configured to: Recording a first extension length of the first extension arm and a second extension length of the second extension arm, and obtaining an initial distance between the first clamp and the second clamp; Calculating a diameter of the water cup according to the first extension length, the second extension length, and the initial spacing, and determining height adjustment values ​​of the first bracket and the second bracket according to the diameter of the water cup; The heights of the first bracket and the second bracket are adjusted simultaneously according to the height adjustment value.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 5, wherein When detecting that the clamp of the fixing bracket contacts the water cup, controlling the clamp to clamp the water cup includes: When it is detected that both the first clamp and the second clamp are in contact with the water cup, the first clamp and the second clamp are controlled to clamp the water cup.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein: The adjusting the telescopic length of the extension arm so that the water cup is located at a designated position of the base includes: Determining a total adjustment length of the first bracket and the second bracket according to the initial spacing and the diameter of the water cup; Calculating an average adjustment length of the total adjustment lengths; Based on the average adjustment length, the telescopic lengths of the first extension arm and the second extension arm are adjusted respectively, so that the water cup is located at a designated position of the base.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein: The clamp is provided with a pressure sensor; then, the controller is further configured to: Obtaining a real-time pressure value detected by the pressure sensor; When the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset minimum pressure threshold, it is determined that the current clamp is in contact with the water cup; After controlling the clamp to clamp the cup, if the real-time pressure value is greater than a preset maximum pressure threshold, controlling the clamp to stop the clamping action.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein After stopping moving the water injection port, the controller is further configured to: Obtaining the moving distance of the water injection port; Calculating the height of the water cup according to the moving distance and the initial height of the water filling port; The distance threshold is determined according to the height of the water cup.

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