Refrigerator with beverage making device

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of refrigerators, in particular to a refrigerator with a beverage making device, and aims to solve the problem that the usable space in the refrigerator with the beverage making device in the prior art is reduced or the cost of the refrigerator with the beverage making device is too high. In order to achieve the purpose, the refrigerator with the beverage making device is arranged in the refrigerator, the beverage making device is arranged in the refrigerator, the beverage making device comprises a liquid supply assembly, a material box, a main water pipeline and a branch water pipeline, the main water pipeline is communicated with the liquid supply assembly, the branch water pipeline is communicated with the material box, and the beverage making device further comprises a Venturi tube. The large-section end of the Venturi tube is communicated with the main water pipeline, the small-section end of the Venturi tube is communicated with the branch water pipeline, and liquid in the liquid supply assembly can be controlled to flow through the Venturi tube so that the liquid in the material box can be sucked into the Venturi tube. A pump device does not need to be used, the cost is reduced, and meanwhile the occupied space of the beverage making device in the refrigerator is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigerator technology, specifically providing a refrigerator with a beverage preparation device. Background Technology

[0002] Existing refrigerators are generally used to store food that needs to be preserved or bottled beverages that require refrigeration. To enable refrigerators to provide homemade chilled drinks, beverage-making devices are integrated inside, allowing users to directly dispense the desired amount of beverage from the refrigerator without opening the door. However, existing refrigerators with beverage-making devices typically use a pump to dispense concentrated liquid and mix it with water. This pump device occupies a large space, thus encroaching on the space available for other food items inside the refrigerator. Furthermore, the high cost of the pump device increases the overall cost of the refrigerator. Therefore, it is necessary to provide an improved technical solution to address these problems. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application aims to solve the aforementioned technical problems, namely, to address the issues of reduced usable space or excessively high cost of refrigerators with beverage preparation devices in the prior art.

[0004] This application provides a refrigerator with a beverage preparation device. The beverage preparation device is disposed inside the refrigerator and includes a liquid supply assembly, a container, a main water pipe, and a distribution water pipe. The main water pipe is connected to the liquid supply assembly, and the distribution water pipe is connected to the container. The beverage preparation device also includes a Venturi tube. The large-section end of the Venturi tube is connected to the main water pipe, and the small-section end of the Venturi tube is connected to the distribution water pipe. Liquid in the liquid supply assembly can flow through the Venturi tube in a controlled manner, so that liquid in the container is drawn into the Venturi tube.

[0005] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with beverage preparation device described above, the container includes a discharge port, which is located at the bottom of the container. The small cross-section end communicating with the discharge port is located below the discharge port, so that the liquid in the container can flow to the small cross-section end under the action of gravity.

[0006] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with a beverage making device described above, the beverage making device further includes a flow control component, which includes a mounting base and a squeezing member disposed on the mounting base. The water distribution pipe is disposed on the mounting base, and the squeezing member is controlled to squeeze the water distribution pipe to adjust the pipe cross-section at the pressure point of the water distribution pipe.

[0007] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with beverage making device described above, the water distribution pipe is configured as a squeezing pipe, the squeezing pipe is deformable under force, and the squeezing member is rotated in a controlled manner to squeeze the squeezing pipe to adjust the pipe cross-section at the pressure point of the squeezing pipe.

[0008] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with beverage making device described above, the extruder can rotate to a first position and a second position. In the first position, the water distribution pipe is not squeezed by the extruder to achieve full opening, and in the second position, the water distribution pipe is squeezed by the extruder to be completely closed.

[0009] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with a beverage making device described above, the beverage making device further includes a sealing connecting pipe, one end of the extrusion pipe communicating with the discharge port of the material box, and the sealing connecting pipe surrounding the outside of the connection position between the extrusion pipe and the discharge port; and / or, one end of the extrusion pipe is detachably connected to the discharge port, and the other end of the extrusion pipe is detachably connected to the small-section end of the venturi tube; and / or, the extrusion pipe is detachably connected to the mounting base; and / or, the distance between the extrusion pipe and the rotation center of the extruder gradually decreases from the first position to the second position.

[0010] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with a beverage making device described above, the beverage making device further includes a mixing structure, which surrounds the outside of the Venturi tube, and a mixing cavity is formed between the Venturi tube and the mixing structure. The mixing cavity is connected to the small-section end of the Venturi tube, and the mixing structure is connected to the water distribution pipe so that the mixing cavity is connected to the water distribution pipe.

[0011] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with beverage preparation device described above, the Venturi tube is detachably installed in the main water pipe; and / or, the branch water pipe is detachably connected to the mixing structure.

[0012] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with beverage making device described above, the small cross-section end of the venturi tube is provided with a plurality of liquid inlet holes along the circumference. The liquid inlet holes are inclined so that the flow direction of the liquid flowing through the liquid inlet holes is not perpendicular to the flow direction of the liquid inside the venturi tube.

[0013] In the preferred embodiment of the refrigerator with beverage preparation device described above, a baffle plate is provided inside the ingredient box, and the baffle plate is a perforated plate.

[0014] With the above technical solution, this application provides a beverage making device inside the refrigerator. When the liquid in the liquid supply component flows through the Venturi tube, the liquid in the container is drawn into the Venturi tube. After mixing in the Venturi tube, the liquid flows to the outlet of the beverage making device. The beverage formed after the liquid is mixed flows out from the outlet. The mixing of the liquid in the container and the liquid in the liquid supply component can be achieved without the use of a pump device. Therefore, the cost is reduced and the space occupied by the beverage making device in the refrigerator is also reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The preferred embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the Venturi tube and the main water pipe and the branch water pipe inside the refrigerator with beverage making device in this application.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a split schematic diagram of the flow control component inside the refrigerator with beverage preparation device of this application;

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the mixing components inside the refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to this application;

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the mounting base inside the refrigerator with beverage making device according to this application;

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the flow control component and mixing component inside the refrigerator with beverage making device of this application, mounted on the mounting base;

[0021] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the embedded box component inside the refrigerator with beverage preparation device according to this application;

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Sectional view of AA;

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A diagram illustrating the breakdown;

[0024] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the embedded box assembly and the material box and dispenser;

[0025] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the container of the refrigerator with beverage preparation device according to this application;

[0026] Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of the door assembly of the refrigerator with beverage preparation device of this application, which integrates a feed box, a mixing component, a mounting base, a flow control component, a main water pipe, and a branch water pipe.

[0027] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0028] 1. Beverage preparation device; 11. Main water pipeline; 111. Venturi tube; 111a. Large cross-section end; 111b. Small cross-section end; 1111. Liquid inlet; 1112. First axis; 112. First pipeline; 113. Second pipeline; 114. Third pipeline; 12. Distribution pipeline; 121. First position; 122. Second position; 13. Bottle holder; 14. Material box; 141. Baffle plate; 1411. Flow channel; 142. Discharge port; 14 3. Box body; 1431. Slide groove; 144. Box cover; 1441. Injection port; 145. Injection cap; 15. Mixing assembly; 150. Mixing structure; 151. Mixing chamber; 152. First part; 1521. Mounting groove; 1522. Internal thread; 153. Second part; 1531. External thread; 154. First inlet; 155. Second inlet; 156. First outlet; 16. Flow control assembly; 161. Mounting base; 162. Extrusion Pressing component; 163, Extrusion tube; 163a, First mounting joint; 163b, Second mounting joint; 165, Mounting cover; A, Cross-section corresponding to the extrusion component; 17, Distributor; 171, Liquid outlet; 172, Support column insertion part; 2, Door assembly; 21, Outer panel; 22, Inner lining; 23, Mounting base; 230, Base plate; 231, Side panel; 2311, Main water pipe inlet; 2312, Main water pipe outlet; 2313, Branch pipe 2314. Road interface; 2315. Protruding edge; 2316. Snap hole; 232. Support column; 233. Guide component; 2331. First side; 2332. Second side; 234. Sealing connection pipe; 2341. Outer pipe; 23411. Annular groove; 2342. Inner pipe; 23421. Annular protrusion; 2343. Buckle; 2344. Annular flange; 235. Support leg; 24. Cover plate; 241. Claw; 242. Cover plate handle; 3. Embedded box assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, when referring to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative of the concept of this application and do not represent all embodiments of the concept of this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of the concept of this application.

[0030] The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this application should be understood in their ordinary sense by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. Similarly, the words "a" or "one" and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. "A plurality of" means two or more.

[0031] Unless otherwise stated, terms such as "front," "back," "down," and / or "up" are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit a location or spatial orientation. Terms such as "comprising" indicate that the elements or objects preceding "comprising" encompass the elements or objects listed following "comprising" and their equivalents; other elements or objects are not excluded in this application. "Connection" should be interpreted broadly; for example, it can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] It should be noted that the beverage making apparatus 1 of this application is installed inside a refrigerator. The beverage making apparatus 1 includes a liquid supply component, a container 14, a main water pipe 11, and a branch water pipe 12. The main water pipe 11 is connected to the liquid supply component and is located at one end of the main water pipe 11. The branch water pipe 12 is connected to the container 14 and is located at one end of the branch water pipe 12. Furthermore, the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12 can be connected. The refrigerator and the liquid supply component are not shown in the figure. The liquid supply component of this application can be a built-in water tank installed inside the refrigerator or a water tank connected to an external water source. In addition, the liquid flow in the liquid supply component can be controlled by a water pump. The above is not limiting and can be configured according to the needs of those skilled in the art.

[0033] It should also be noted that the liquid supplied in the liquid supply component can be water, milk, coffee or other beverages, and the liquid in the container 14 can be a concentrate, milk or other substances. For ease of explanation, we will take water in the liquid supply component and a concentrate in the container 14 as an example.

[0034] like Figure 1As shown, this is the main water path of the beverage making device 1. The beverage making device 1 also includes a Venturi tube 111. The large cross-section end 111a of the Venturi tube 111 is connected to the main water pipe 11, and the small cross-section end 111b of the Venturi tube 111 is connected to the water distribution pipe 12. When the water in the liquid supply component can flow to the liquid outlet 171 in a controlled manner, it will flow through the Venturi tube 111. When the water flows from the large cross-section end 111a to the small cross-section end 111b of the Venturi tube 111, the flow rate of the water through the small cross-section end 111b increases due to the contraction of the cross-section of the Venturi tube 111, generating negative pressure. This draws the concentrated liquid in the material box 14 connected to the small cross-section end 111b into the Venturi tube 111, forming a mixed beverage. The mixed beverage continues to flow to the liquid outlet 171 and finally flows out from the liquid outlet 171 for the user to drink. The above-mentioned self-priming of the concentrate can be achieved through the Venturi tube 111 without the need for a pump device, thus saving costs. Since no pump device is needed, the space occupied by the beverage preparation device 1 in the refrigerator is also saved.

[0035] It should be noted that the Venturi tube 111 can be located in the middle of the main water pipeline 11. In this case, the two ends of the two large cross-section ends 111a of the Venturi tube 111 are respectively connected to the main water pipeline 11. After the Venturi tube 111 draws in the concentrate to form a mixed liquid, the mixed liquid can continue to flow through the main water pipeline 11 to the outlet 171. At this time, the outlet 171 is at the end of the main water pipeline 11 away from the liquid supply component. Of course, the Venturi tube 111 can also be located at the end of the main water pipeline 11. In this case, the mixed liquid passing through the Venturi tube 111 flows directly out from the large cross-section end 111a of the Venturi tube 111 away from the liquid supply component. At this time, the outlet 171 is the large cross-section end 111a of the Venturi tube 111 away from the liquid supply component. The above is not restrictive and can be set according to the needs of those skilled in the art. All of the above are within the protection scope of this application.

[0036] It should also be noted that, for ease of explanation, the following description will take the Venturi tube 111 located in the middle of the main water pipe 11 as an example, and the liquid outlet 171 located on the distributor 17 and the distributor 17 located on the refrigerator as an example. The liquid outlet 171 is located at the end of the main water pipe 11 away from the liquid supply component. The water flowing out of the liquid supply component can flow out of the liquid outlet 171 through the main water pipe 11, or the water flowing out of the liquid supply component can mix with the concentrate flowing into the main water pipe 11 and then flow out of the liquid outlet 171 for the user to drink.

[0037] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2As shown, in order to adjust the concentration of the beverage and thus produce different tastes, the beverage making device 1 also includes a flow control component 16. The flow control component 16 includes a mounting base 161 and a squeezing member 162 disposed on the mounting base 161. A water distribution pipe 12 is disposed on the mounting base 161. The squeezing member 162 is controlled to squeeze the water distribution pipe 12 to adjust the pipe cross-section at the pressure point of the water distribution pipe 12. Since the larger the cross-section at the pressure point of the water distribution pipe 12, the higher the amount of concentrate flowing into the main water pipe 11 per unit time, the higher the concentration of the beverage. Therefore, by squeezing the water distribution pipe 12 to adjust the pipe cross-section at the pressure point of the water distribution pipe 12, the amount of concentrate flowing into the main water pipe 11 per unit time can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the concentration of the beverage. The flow control component 16 has a simple structure and is highly feasible. While saving costs, it can also adjust the concentration of the beverage according to the user's preferences.

[0038] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the water distribution pipe 12 is configured as a squeezing pipe 163, which is deformable under stress. The flow control assembly 16 also includes the squeezing pipe 163. In this case, the squeezing pipe 163, the squeezing element 162, and the mounting base 161 can be an integrated structure. The squeezing element 162 is rotated in a controlled manner to squeeze the squeezing pipe 163 to adjust the pipe cross-section at the pressure point of the squeezing pipe 163. By setting the squeezing pipe 163 on the mounting base 161, the water distribution pipe 12 is integrated into the flow control assembly 16. At this time, the flow control assembly 16 can be used as a whole. When the flow control assembly 16 is needed, one end of the squeezing pipe 163 is connected to the outlet 142, and the other end is connected to the venturi tube 111. The above integration allows for easy assembly and disassembly.

[0039] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the squeeze member 162 can rotate to a first position 121 and a second position 122. In the first position 121, the squeeze tube 163 is not squeezed by the squeeze member 162, allowing it to be fully open. In the second position 122, the squeeze tube 163 is squeezed by the squeeze member 162 to be completely closed. When the user needs a high-concentration beverage, the squeeze member 162 is rotated to the first position 121, at which point the user can receive the beverage at its maximum concentration. When the user only wants to drink ice water, the squeeze member 162 can be rotated to the second position 122, in which position the squeeze tube 163 is completely closed, and only water flows out of the outlet 171. This setting can both adjust the beverage concentration and allow only ice water to be dispensed according to the user's needs. In addition, when it is necessary to clean the main water pipe 11, the squeeze member 162 can be adjusted to the second position 122. At this time, the water in the liquid supply assembly can flow in the main water pipe 11 and flow out from the outlet 171, thereby cleaning the main water pipe 11.

[0040] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2As shown, the distance between the rotation centers of the extrusion tube 163 and the extruder 162 gradually decreases from the first position 121 to the second position 122. Figure 2 In the first position 121, the distance between the extrusion tube 163 and the rotation center of the extrusion member 162 is d1, and in the second position 122, the distance between the extrusion tube 163 and the rotation center of the extrusion member 162 is d2, where d1 > d2. During this process, as the extrusion member 162 rotates from the first position 121 to the second position 122, the cross-sectional area of ​​the extrusion tube 163 at the pressure point gradually decreases, and the amount of concentrated liquid that can flow out per unit time gradually decreases, thus gradually reducing the concentration of the mixed beverage. This design is simple and allows for adjustment of the concentrated liquid output and beverage concentration according to user needs.

[0041] When it needs to be explained, Figure 2 The second position 122 is in the horizontal direction. The larger the counterclockwise rotation angle of the extruder 162 from the second position 122, the larger the cross section A at the corresponding position of the extruder 162 is. When it is rotated to the first position 121, the cross section A at the corresponding position of the extruder 162 reaches its maximum. The above is not limiting. The rotation direction, rotation angle and corresponding cross section of the extruder 162 can also be set according to the needs of those skilled in the art. Therefore, all of the above are within the protection scope of this application.

[0042] In one embodiment, a first mounting connector 163a and a second mounting connector 163b are respectively installed at both ends of the extrusion tube 163. The first mounting connector 163a is also connected to the discharge port 142 of the material box 14, and the second mounting connector 163b is also connected to the main water pipe 11. Both the first mounting connector 163a and the second mounting connector 163b extend from the mounting base 161. Extending the first mounting connector 163a and the second mounting connector 163b from the mounting base 161 facilitates the installation of the extrusion tube 163 with the discharge port 142 and the venturi tube 111.

[0043] In one embodiment, the mounting base 161 is provided with a mounting cover 165 detachably connected thereto, and the extruder 162 and the extrusion tube 163 are located between the mounting base 161 and the mounting cover 165. The mounting cover 165 prevents the extrusion tube 163 or the extruder 162 from falling off the mounting base 161, and also prevents contact with the extrusion tube 163 from causing a change in the distance between the rotation centers of the extrusion tube 163 and the extruder 162, thus affecting the adjustment of the beverage concentration. This arrangement better secures the extrusion tube 163 and the extruder 162 to the mounting base 161. In addition, when the first mounting connector 163a and the second mounting connector 163b are provided, the mounting cover 165 on the mounting base 161 can fix the first mounting connector 163a and the second mounting connector 163b and expose them outside the mounting base 161 and the mounting cover 165, thereby making it easier to install the first mounting connector 163a to the discharge port 142 of the material box 14 and the second mounting connector 163b to the venturi tube 111.

[0044] In one embodiment, the flow control component 16 further includes a drive motor (not shown in the figure), which drives the extruder 162 to rotate. The rotational power of the extruder 162 can come from the drive motor. The motor controls the rotation angle of the extruder 162 according to user instructions, thereby adjusting the output of the concentrate. This setting facilitates user operation. Of course, the rotational power of the extruder 162 can also be manual. The rotation of the extruder 162 can also be controlled by manually turning it. The above is not limiting and can be set according to the needs of those skilled in the art. All of the above are within the protection scope of this application.

[0045] It should be noted that the above-described method of controlling the rotation of the extruder 162 to compress different positions of the extrusion tube 163 corresponds to different concentrations of the beverage. Alternatively, the extruder 162 can be controlled to move linearly in a certain direction to compress the same position of the extrusion tube 163. By controlling the linear movement distance of the extruder 162, the pipe area at the pressure point of the extrusion tube 163 can be adjusted, thereby regulating the output of the concentrate and the concentration of the beverage. The above is not limiting; modifications can be made according to the needs of those skilled in the art, and all of the above are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0046] In one embodiment, the extrusion tube 163 is detachably connected to the mounting base 161. Similarly, one end of the extrusion tube 163 is detachably connected to the discharge port 142, and the other end of the extrusion tube 163 is detachably connected to the small-section end 111b of the venturi tube 111. This detachable connection facilitates subsequent pipeline cleaning. When cleaning is required, simply remove the extrusion tube 163 from the mounting base 161 or detach both ends of the extrusion tube 163 from the discharge port 142 and the venturi tube 111. Furthermore, when the extrusion tube 163 is damaged, its detachable design allows for quick replacement without replacing the entire flow control assembly 16, thus saving maintenance costs.

[0047] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, the beverage making apparatus 1 also includes a mixing component 15, with a venturi tube 111 as part of the mixing component 15. The mixing component 15 also includes a mixing structure 150 surrounding the venturi tube 111. A mixing chamber 151 is formed between the venturi tube 111 and the mixing structure 150. The mixing chamber 151 is connected to the venturi tube 111. Preferably, the small cross-section end 111b of the venturi tube 111 is connected to the mixing chamber 151. Since the mixing structure 150 is connected to the water distribution pipe 12, the mixing chamber 151 is also connected to the water distribution pipe 12. Therefore, the concentrate in the water distribution pipe 12 needs to pass through the mixing chamber 151 first before being sucked into the venturi tube 111 by the small cross-section end 111b. In addition, when the mixing chamber 151 is present, the water flowing out of the liquid supply assembly will also flow into the mixing chamber 151. Since the concentrate from the water distribution pipe 12 will also pass through the mixing chamber 151 first, the water flowing out of the liquid supply assembly and the concentrate flowing out of the material box 14 can be mixed in the mixing chamber 151 first. After preliminary mixing, it is sucked into the venturi tube 111. Therefore, the setting of the mixing structure 150 can further ensure the uniformity of the mixing of water and concentrate.

[0048] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3As shown, the mixing structure 150 includes a detachably connected first part 152 and a second part 153. A Venturi tube 111 is located between the first part 152 and the second part 153. The first part 152 includes a first inlet 154 and a second inlet 155. The first inlet 154 communicates with the large-section end 111a of the Venturi tube 111, and the second inlet 155 communicates with the mixing chamber 151. The second part 153 includes a first outlet 156, which communicates with the other large-section end 111a of the Venturi tube 111. In this configuration, the mixing structure 150 surrounds the Venturi tube 111 and forms a single unit with it. When the mixing assembly 15 needs to be connected to the water system, only the first inlet 154 and the first outlet 156 need to be connected to the main water pipe 11, and the second inlet 155 needs to be connected to the branch water pipe 12. Therefore, it is easy to assemble and disassemble. When the mixing component 15 needs to be cleaned, the mixing component 15 is removed from the water channel, and the first part 152 and the second part 153 are disassembled. Therefore, the above-mentioned detachable configuration of the mixing structure 150 can also facilitate cleaning.

[0049] In one embodiment, one end of the venturi tube 111 is fixed to one of the first portion 152 and the second portion 153, and the other end of the venturi tube 111 abuts against a mounting groove 1521 provided on the other of the first portion 152 and the second portion 153. Figure 3 The example described is that one end of the venturi tube 111 is fixedly connected to the second part 153 and the mounting groove 1521 is set on the first part 152. In this case, the venturi tube 111 can be stably set between the first part 152 and the second part 153 without any tilting.

[0050] In one embodiment, one of the first part 152 and the second part 153 is provided with an internal thread 1522, and the other of the first part 152 and the second part 153 is provided with an external thread 1531. The first part 152 and the second part 153 are connected by screwing the internal thread 1522 and the external thread 1531. Figure 3 Taking the example of the first part 152 having an internal thread 1522 and the second part 153 having an external thread 1531, the threaded connection facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the first part 152 and the second part 153 while ensuring a tight connection between them. Of course, the first part 152 and the second part 153 can also be connected in other ways, such as by snap-fit, which also allows for detachment. The above is not limiting; the design can be customized according to the needs of those skilled in the art, and all of the above are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0051] In one embodiment, the small-section end 111b of the Venturi tube 111 is provided with a liquid inlet hole 1111. The small-section end 111b of the Venturi tube 111 is connected to the mixing chamber 151 by providing the liquid inlet hole 1111, which is simple in structure. Furthermore, the liquid inlet hole 1111 is inclined so that the first axis 1112 is not perpendicular to the liquid inlet direction of the liquid inlet hole 1111. The first axis 1112 passes through the axis of the Venturi tube 111. At this time, the angle α formed by the first axis 1112 and the liquid inlet direction of the liquid inlet hole 1111 is not 90 degrees. That is, the flow direction of the liquid flowing through the liquid inlet hole 1111 is not perpendicular to the flow direction of the liquid in the Venturi tube 111. Since the water and the concentrate are initially mixed in the mixing chamber 151, the initially mixed liquid spirally enters the Venturi tube 111 through the inclined liquid inlet hole 1111. During the spiral entry process, the water and the concentrate are further mixed. Therefore, the mixed liquid can be made more uniform. The liquid inlet 1111 can be set to one or more. Setting it to multiple times can improve the efficiency of the concentrate entering the venturi tube 111.

[0052] It should be noted that the mixing structure 150 described above is exemplified by being positioned around the small-section end 111b of the Venturi tube 111. However, the mixing structure 150 can also be positioned around the large-section end 111a of the Venturi tube 111. In this case, the concentrated liquid is drawn into the Venturi tube 111 and mixed with water. The mixed liquid flows towards the outlet 171, passing through the mixing chamber 151 and being fully mixed within it before continuing to flow to the outlet 171. This is not a limiting description and can be configured according to the needs of those skilled in the art.

[0053] It should also be noted that when the mixing structure 150 is enclosed at the small cross-section end 111b of the venturi tube 111, the small cross-section end 111b of the venturi tube 111 can be connected to the water distribution pipe 12 through the mixing chamber 151. When the mixing structure 150 is enclosed at the large cross-section end 111a of the venturi tube 111, a water pipe can be directly led out from the small cross-section end 111b of the venturi tube 111 and directly connected to the water distribution pipe 12. All of the above are within the protection scope of this application.

[0054] In one embodiment, for ease of cleaning, the Venturi tube 111 can be detachably installed in the main water pipe 11. Similarly, the branch water pipe 12 and the mixing structure 150 can be detachably connected. In this case, when the Venturi tube 111 or the mixing structure 150 becomes dirty or blocked, it can be disassembled and cleaned in time.

[0055] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4As shown, the refrigerator is also equipped with a mounting base 23, which can be used to fix the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12. The mounting base 23 includes a base plate 230 and side plates 231 surrounding the base plate 230. The side plates 231 are provided with a main water pipe inlet 2311 for installing the main water pipe 11, a main water pipe outlet 2312 for installing the branch water pipe 12, and a branch water pipe interface 2313 for installing the branch water pipe 12. At this time, the main water pipe 11 can pass through the main water pipe inlet 2311 and the main water pipe outlet 2312 on the mounting base 23. One end of the branch water pipe 12 passes through the branch water pipe interface 2313, and the other end is connected to the main water pipe 11, so that the connection end of the branch water pipe 12 and the main water pipe 11 is set on the base plate 230. The mounting base 23 can limit the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12, and at the same time, it can also organize the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12, thereby minimizing the space occupied by the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12 in the refrigerator, and avoiding the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12 being placed too messily, which would affect the feed box 14 or other structures such as the liquid supply component.

[0056] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4 , 9 As shown, a support leg 235 is provided on the side plate 231 or the bottom plate 230. The support leg 235 extends in the opposite direction to the side plate 231 and is used to support the mounting base 23. The mounting base 23 can be supported by the support leg 235. In addition, a support column 232 is also provided on the side plate 231 or the bottom plate 230. The support column 232 is used to connect to the distributor 17 so that the distributor 17 can vertically support the mounting base 23. The distributor 17 is provided with a support column insertion part 172. The support column 232 is inserted into the support column insertion part 172, so that the distributor 17 provides vertical support for the mounting base 23. When the mounting base 23 is vertically installed in the refrigerator, the support leg 235 can abut against the side wall of the refrigerator. Taking the mounting base 23 installed on the door assembly 2 of the refrigerator as an example, the door assembly 2 can provide horizontal force to the mounting base 23 through the support leg 235, thereby providing horizontal limiting support for the mounting base 23. The aforementioned support legs 235 or support columns 232 can fix and limit the mounting base 23 inside the refrigerator, further ensuring the stability of its installation with the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12.

[0057] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4 , 9As shown, a guide member 233 is provided on the outer side of the water distribution pipe interface 2313. The guide member 233 has a bent structure. The first side 2331 of the bent structure is used to abut against the side wall of the material box 14, thereby limiting the side wall of the material box 14. The second side 2332 of the bent structure is used to abut against the bottom wall of the material box 14, thereby limiting and supporting the bottom wall of the material box 14. The second side 2332 is connected to the side plate 231, thereby supporting the guide member 233 through the side plate 231. The discharge port 142 of the material box 14 can pass through the second side 2332 and communicate with the water distribution pipe interface 2313, so that the water distribution pipe 12 can pass through the water distribution pipe interface 2313 and connect with the discharge port 142. The water distribution pipe interface 2313 can protect and limit the connection position between the water distribution pipe 12 and the discharge port 142. In addition, by Figure 4 It can be seen that the second side 2332 is inclined towards the side plate 231 from the first side 2331. When the concentrate overflows from the outlet 142, the overflowing concentrate can flow along the second side 2332 onto the bottom plate 230, so that it can be noticed by the user in time.

[0058] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, the mounting base 23 can also be used to install the flow control component 16. In this case, the mounting seat 161 of the flow control component 16 is installed on the mounting base 23. When the water distribution pipe 12 is set as the extrusion pipe 163 in the flow control component 16, in order to ensure a tight connection between the extrusion pipe 163 and the outlet 142, a sealing connection pipe 234 is provided in the water distribution pipe interface 2313. The sealing connection pipe 234 surrounds the outside of the connection position between the extrusion pipe 163 and the outlet 142. The sealing connection pipe 234 can fix the connection position between the outlet 142 and the extrusion pipe 163, thereby reducing the shaking of the connection position and preventing the leakage of concentrate due to unstable connection between the outlet 142 and the water distribution pipe 12.

[0059] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 , 8As shown, the sealing connection pipe 234 includes an inner pipe 2342 and an outer pipe 2341. The outer pipe 2341 is provided with one of an annular groove 23411 or an annular protrusion 23421. The inner pipe 2342 is provided with the other of an annular groove 23411 or an annular protrusion 23421 along the circumferential direction. For ease of description, the example of providing an annular groove 23411 in the outer pipe 2341 and an annular protrusion 23421 on the outside of the inner pipe 2342 is described. The inner pipe 2342 and the outer pipe 2341 are detachably connected by snapping the annular protrusion 23421 and the annular groove 23411. The inner pipe 2342, the end of the water distribution pipe 12 (i.e., the extrusion pipe 163) connected to the discharge port 142 and the discharge port 142 are sequentially sleeved from the outside to the inside. The inner tube 2342 of the sealing connection tube 234 circumferentially fixes the connection position between the extrusion tube 163 and the discharge port 142, thereby increasing the stability of the connection between the extrusion tube 163 and the discharge port 142. The outer tube 2341 circumferentially and axially fixes the inner tube 2342, further enhancing the stability of the connection between the extrusion tube 163 and the discharge port 142. It should be noted that when the end of the extrusion tube 163 connected to the discharge port 142 is provided with a first mounting joint 163a, the extrusion tube 163 is connected to the sealing connection tube 234 and the discharge port 142 through the first mounting joint 163a.

[0060] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 , 8 As shown, the bottom of the outer tube 2341 is provided with a buckle 2343, and the top of the outer tube 2341 is provided with an annular flange 2344. One end of the sealing connection tube 234 passes through the water distribution pipe interface 2313. The buckle 2343 and the annular flange 2344 respectively abut against the two ends of the mounting plate where the water distribution pipe interface 2313 is located, so that the sealing connection tube 234 is fixed inside the water distribution pipe interface 2313. By abutting the top and bottom of the outer tube 2341 against the top and bottom surfaces of the side wall of the water distribution pipe interface 2313 respectively, the outer tube 2341 is fixed inside the water distribution pipe interface 2313. The above arrangement can increase the stability and sealing of the connection between the extrusion tube 163 and the discharge port 142 while ensuring a stable connection between the sealing connection tube 234 and the mounting base 23.

[0061] After the flow control component 16 is placed on the mounting base 23, the two can become an integrated structure to form the embedded box component 3. The embedded box component 3 can be disassembled and installed separately from the refrigerator, which facilitates the disassembly and installation of the beverage making device 1 in the refrigerator, and also reduces the space occupied in the refrigerator.

[0062] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 , 8As shown, the pre-embedded box assembly 3 may also include a venturi tube 111 or a mixing assembly 15 with a venturi tube 111. Taking the mixing assembly 15 with a venturi tube 111 as an example, the first outlet 156 of the mixing assembly 15 is connected to the extrusion tube 163. At this time, the mounting base 23, the flow control assembly 16 and the mixing assembly 15 can become an integral structure to form the pre-embedded box assembly 3. The pre-embedded box assembly 3 can be disassembled and installed separately from the refrigerator. The above configuration can also facilitate the disassembly and installation of the beverage making device 1 in the refrigerator, and can further reduce the number of assembly components and further reduce the space occupied by the beverage making device 1 in the refrigerator.

[0063] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 , 6 As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the pre-embedded box assembly 3 may also include a main water pipe 11. The main water pipe 11 includes a first pipe 112 connecting the liquid outlet 171 and the venturi tube 111, and a second pipe 113 connecting the liquid supply assembly and the venturi tube 111. When the pre-embedded box assembly 3 includes a mixing assembly 15, the first pipe 112 connects the liquid outlet 171 and the first outlet 156, and the second pipe 113 connects the liquid supply assembly and the first inlet 154. The first pipe 112 passes through the main water pipe outlet 2312, and the second pipe 113 passes through the main water pipe inlet 2311. At this time, after the pre-embedded box assembly 3 is installed in the refrigerator, it is only necessary to connect the first pipe 112 to the liquid outlet 171, the second pipe 113 to the liquid supply assembly, and the extrusion tube 163 to the discharge port 142. The above settings greatly reduce the assembly steps and assembly difficulty, and save assembly time.

[0064] In one embodiment, such as Figure 6 , 7 As shown in Figure 8, the pre-embedded box assembly 3 may also include a cover plate 24. The mixing component 15 and the flow control component 16 are located between the mounting base 23 and the cover plate 24. The cover plate 24 can effectively protect the flow control component 16 and the mixing component 15. The cover plate 24 is provided with a claw 241, and the side plate 231 is provided with a locking hole 2315. The claw 241 and the locking hole 2315 cooperate to lock the cover plate 24 onto the mounting base 23. The connection structure by locking is simple and easy to install. In addition, the outer periphery of the side plate 231 is provided with a protruding edge 2314. The outer periphery of the cover plate 24 abuts against the protruding edge 2314, which can prevent the cover plate 24 from protruding from the surface of the mounting base 23. At this time, it will not increase the overall volume occupied by the pre-embedded box assembly 3 in the refrigerator. The cover plate 24 is also provided with a cover plate handle 242. The handle is provided to facilitate the gripping of the cover plate 24, thereby facilitating the installation or removal of the cover plate 24.

[0065] In one embodiment, such as Figure 10As shown, the container 14 includes a body 143 and a lid 144. The body 143 is used to contain liquid, and the lid 144 is located on top of the body 143 to seal it. The body 143 has a discharge port 142 for communication with the outside. A baffle plate 141, which is a perforated plate, is installed inside the container 14. This application allows for replenishment of the concentrate by removing the lid 144 from the body 143. The lid 144 prevents contamination of the concentrate inside the container 14, and the baffle plate 141 prevents splashing of the concentrate when it is added to the container 14.

[0066] In one embodiment, the outlet 142 of the material box 14 is located at the bottom of the material box 14, and the small-section end 111b of the Venturi tube 111, which communicates with the outlet 142, is located below the outlet 142. The liquid in the material box 14 can flow to the small-section end 111b under the action of gravity. When the small-section end 111b of the Venturi tube 111 is connected to the outlet 142 through the extrusion tube 163, the extrusion tube 163 is also located at the bottom of the outlet 142, so that the concentrate can flow to the extrusion tube 163 under the action of gravity. The flow of the concentrate in the material box 14 under gravity can reduce the use of other power sources. At the same time, the suction effect of the Venturi tube 111 can accelerate the flow rate of the concentrate, saving costs without the need for additional power sources.

[0067] In one embodiment, a flow channel 1411 is provided at one end of the baffle plate 141 near the bottom of the box body 143, allowing liquid on both sides of the baffle plate 141 to flow through the perforations and the flow channel 1411. This prevents uneven liquid distribution on both sides of the baffle plate 141, which could cause the material box 14 to tilt, and also prevents liquid on the side of the baffle plate 141 away from the discharge port 142 from being blocked by the baffle plate 141 and unable to flow towards the discharge port 142.

[0068] In one embodiment, to facilitate liquid injection into the material box 14, a liquid injection port 1441 is provided on the box cover 144. The liquid injection port 1441 can communicate with the outside. At this time, liquid can be injected into the box body 143 without removing the box cover 144. A liquid injection cap 145 is provided at the liquid injection port 1441. The liquid injection cap 145 is used to close the liquid injection port 1441. After the liquid injection is completed, the liquid injection cap 145 is placed on the liquid injection port 1441 to prevent contamination of the concentrated liquid in the box body 143. The liquid injection cap 145 is detachably connected to the liquid injection port 1441 to facilitate timely liquid injection into the liquid injection port 1441.

[0069] In one embodiment, the box body 143 is provided with either a sliding groove 1431 or a sliding block, and the anti-surge plate 141 is provided with either a sliding groove 1431 or a sliding block. The sliding block extends into the annular groove to fix the anti-surge plate 141 to the material box 14. The sliding groove 1431 and the sliding block facilitate the installation and removal of the anti-surge plate 141 within the material box 14. Taking the example of the sliding groove 1431 being located inside the box body 143 and the sliding block being located on the anti-surge plate 141, two sliding grooves 1431 are provided, located on two non-adjacent side walls of the box body 143. The two ends of the anti-surge plate 141 can be installed as sliding blocks in the two sliding grooves 1431 respectively. After installation, it can ensure that the anti-surge plate 141 is stably located within the box body 143, preventing it from shaking during the flow of the concentrate. Of course, the sliding groove 1431 can also be provided as one, in which case the box body 143 is connected to one end of the anti-surge plate 141. It should be noted that the slide groove 1431 can also be set on the wave deflector 141. In this case, the box body 143 is set as a slider, and the slide groove 1431 on the wave deflector 141 is fitted onto the slider so that the wave deflector 141 is fixed in the box body 143. The above is also within the protection scope of this application.

[0070] In one embodiment, the wave deflector 141 is vertically arranged with the bottom of the box body 143, which can avoid uneven liquid distribution on both sides of the wave deflector 141 and facilitate the installation of the wave deflector 141.

[0071] In one embodiment, such as Figure 8 , 11 As shown, the refrigerator also includes a door assembly 2, which includes a flow control component 16. The flow control component 16 can be integrated into the door assembly 2. The door assembly 2 includes an inner liner 22 and an outer panel 21, with the flow control component 16 disposed between the inner liner 22 and the outer panel 21. Integrating the flow control component 16 between the inner liner 22 and the outer panel 21 of the door reduces the space occupied by the flow control component 16 inside the refrigerator and also increases the neatness of the refrigerator interior.

[0072] In one embodiment, such as Figure 8 , 10As shown in Figure 11, a mounting base 23 can also be integrated between the inner lining 22 and the outer panel 21 for installing the flow control component 16. The installation of the mounting base 23 and the flow control component 16 has been described previously and will not be repeated here. In addition, a main water pipe 11 can also be integrated on the door assembly 2. The main water pipe 11 includes a first pipe 112 connected to the outlet 171, a second pipe 113 connected to the supply component, and a third pipe (not shown in the figure). The first pipe 112 passes through the main water pipe outlet 2312, the second pipe 113 passes through the main water pipe inlet 2311, and the third pipe is located on the mounting base 23 and connected to the first pipe 112 and the second pipe 113. The squeeze tube 163 is connected to the third pipe. Integrating the main water pipe 11 into the door assembly 2 also reduces the space occupied by the main water pipe 11 inside the refrigerator. Furthermore, one or more of the first pipe 112, the second pipe 113, and the third pipe can be detachably connected to the mounting base 23, or the compression tube 163 can be detachably connected to the third pipe. Detachable pipe connections facilitate subsequent cleaning, or, if a section of the pipe is damaged, the damaged section can be replaced without replacing other pipes, thus saving on subsequent maintenance costs. It should be noted that when the main water pipe 11 is also equipped with a mixing assembly 15, the mixing assembly 15 can be used to replace the third pipe. The connection between the mixing assembly 15 and the main water pipe 11 and the compression tube 163 has been described previously and will not be repeated here.

[0073] In one embodiment, such as Figure 8 , 11 As shown, the door assembly 2 can also integrate a mixing component 15 separately. The door assembly 2 includes an inner liner 22 and an outer panel 21, with the mixing component 15 disposed between the inner liner 22 and the outer panel 21. The mixing component 15 communicates with the feed box 14 and the liquid supply assembly. When water flowing from the liquid supply assembly passes through the mixing component 15, the concentrated liquid in the feed box 14 can be drawn into the mixing component 15. The mixing component 15 has been described above and will not be repeated here. Integrating the mixing component 15 separately onto the door assembly 2 can also reduce the space occupied by the mixing component 15 inside the refrigerator.

[0074] In one embodiment, such as Figure 8 , 11As shown, after the door assembly 2 integrates the mixing component 15, to further enhance the tidiness of the refrigerator interior, a main water pipe 11 and a branch water pipe 12 can be integrated between the outer panel 21 and the inner lining 22. The main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12 are connected through the mixing component 15, and the connection between the main water pipe 11, the branch water pipe 12, and the mixing component 15 has been described previously. To ensure that the main water pipe 11 or the branch water pipe 12 can be fixed, a mounting base 23 can be integrated between the inner lining 22 and the outer panel 21 for mounting the mixing component 15 and fixing the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12. The above configuration further reduces the space occupied by the components in the beverage making device 1 inside the refrigerator, thereby ensuring storage space for other items inside the refrigerator.

[0075] It should be noted that after the mounting base 23 is integrated into the door assembly 2, a sealing connection pipe 234 can also be installed at the water distribution pipe interface 2313 on it. The connection between the sealing connection pipe 234 and the water distribution pipe interface 2313, and the connection between the sealing connection pipe 234 and the discharge port 142 and the extrusion pipe 163 have been described above and will not be repeated here. In addition, when the sealing connection pipe 234 is installed on the door assembly 2, the outer pipe 2341 is provided with a buckle 2343, and the door assembly 2 is provided with a bayonet. When the mounting base 23 is installed on the door assembly 2, the bayonet is the water distribution pipe interface 2313.

[0076] It should also be noted that the door assembly 2 may integrate the mixing component 15 only between the door liner and the outer panel 21, or integrate the flow control component 16 only between the inner liner 22 and the outer panel 21, or integrate both the mixing component 15 and the flow control component 16, or integrate the mixing component 15, the flow control component 16, the main water pipe 11 and the branch water pipe 12. The above are not limiting and can be configured according to the needs of those skilled in the art.

[0077] Additionally, when the door assembly 2 integrates the mixing component 15 or the flow control component 16, a mounting base 23 can be integrated onto the door assembly 2. The mounting base 23 can be a structure pre-embedded within the door assembly 2, in which case the flow control component 16 or the mixing component 15 can be directly installed onto the mounting base 23. Of course, the mounting base 23 can also be a component that can be detachably installed onto the door assembly 2. In this case, the flow control component 16 and / or the mixing component 15 are first installed onto the mounting base 23 to form the pre-embedded box assembly 3, and then the pre-embedded box assembly 3 is installed onto the door assembly 2. Alternatively, the flow control component 16, the mixing component 15, and the main water pipe 11 are first integrated onto the mounting base 23 to form the pre-embedded box assembly 3, and then the pre-embedded box assembly 3 is integrated entirely onto the door assembly 2. The above is not restrictive and can be configured according to the needs of those skilled in the art, and all of the above are within the protection scope of this application.

[0078] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11 As shown, the dispenser 14 or the liquid supply assembly is also integrated into the door assembly 2. In this case, the dispenser 14 or the liquid supply assembly can be installed on the door assembly 2 in the same way as the bottle holder 13. When the door assembly 2 includes an inner liner 22 and an outer panel 21, the dispenser 14 or the liquid supply assembly, or both, are disposed on the inner liner 22, thereby reducing their space occupation inside the refrigerator.

[0079] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A refrigerator with a beverage preparation device, characterized in that, The beverage preparation device is installed inside the refrigerator. The beverage preparation device includes a liquid supply component, a container, a main water pipe, and a distribution water pipe. The main water pipe is connected to the liquid supply component, and the distribution water pipe is connected to the container. The beverage preparation device also includes a Venturi tube. The large-section end of the Venturi tube is connected to the main water pipe, and the small-section end of the Venturi tube is connected to the distribution water pipe. The liquid in the liquid supply component can flow through the Venturi tube in a controlled manner, so that the liquid in the container is drawn into the Venturi tube.

2. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The material box includes a discharge port located at the bottom of the material box. The small cross-section end communicating with the discharge port is located below the discharge port, so that the liquid in the material box can flow to the small cross-section end under the action of gravity.

3. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The beverage making device also includes a flow control component, which includes a mounting base and an extruder disposed on the mounting base. The water distribution pipe is disposed on the mounting base, and the extruder is controlled to extrude the water distribution pipe to adjust the pipe cross-section at the pressure point of the water distribution pipe.

4. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The water distribution pipeline is configured as a squeeze pipe, which is deformable under force. The squeeze member is rotated in a controlled manner to squeeze the squeeze pipe to adjust the pipe cross-section at the pressure point of the squeeze pipe.

5. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The extruder can rotate to a first position and a second position. In the first position, the water distribution pipe is not squeezed by the extruder to achieve full opening. In the second position, the water distribution pipe is squeezed by the extruder to achieve full closure.

6. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The beverage preparation apparatus further includes a sealing connecting pipe, one end of the extrusion pipe being connected to the discharge port of the material box, and the sealing connecting pipe surrounding the connection point between the extrusion pipe and the discharge port; and / or, One end of the extrusion tube is detachably connected to the discharge port, and the other end of the extrusion tube is detachably connected to the small-section end of the venturi tube; and / or, The extrusion tube is detachably connected to the mounting base; and / or The distance between the extrusion tube and the rotation center of the extruder gradually decreases from the first position to the second position.

7. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The beverage making apparatus further includes a mixing structure, which surrounds the outside of the Venturi tube. A mixing cavity is formed between the Venturi tube and the mixing structure. The mixing cavity is connected to the small-section end of the Venturi tube. The mixing structure is connected to the water distribution pipe so that the mixing cavity is connected to the water distribution pipe.

8. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The venturi tube is detachably installed in the main water pipeline; and / or, The water distribution pipeline is detachably connected to the hybrid structure.

9. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The venturi tube has multiple inlet holes circumferentially arranged at its small cross-section end. The inlet holes are inclined so that the flow direction of the liquid flowing through the inlet holes is not perpendicular to the flow direction of the liquid inside the venturi tube.

10. The refrigerator with a beverage preparation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The material box is equipped with a wave-proof plate, which is a perforated plate.

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