Refrigeration appliance

Abstract

The invention relates to a refrigeration appliance which comprises a storage chamber, and an ice maker is located in the storage chamber. The ice maker comprises a shell and an upper cover, the shell defines a cavity with a top opening, and the upper cover is removably arranged on the top opening; the ice maker further comprises an ice making module, the inner shell comprises a semi-surrounding structure, and the ice cube tray is suitable for entering the inner shell from an opening of the semi-surrounding structure to be installed in the inner shell or detached from the inner shell. The ice cube tray can be conveniently taken out of the ice-making module on the premise that the overall structure of the ice-making module is not damaged, the structure is simple, and operation is convenient.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigeration appliances. Background Technology

[0002] With the diversification of people's lives, the use of ice is becoming increasingly common. To meet the needs of daily life, more and more refrigeration appliances are equipped with ice makers. For example, Japanese Patent JP1994018140A discloses an ice maker that includes an ice tray and a drive device. An ice storage box is provided in the ice tray. Water from a water supply bottle is supplied to the ice tray by a water supply pump through a water supply pipe. When the door is closed, cold air from the cold air inlet freezes the ice. When ice forms in the ice tray, the ice tray is twisted by the drive device, thereby peeling the ice off the ice tray and letting it fall into the ice storage box for storage.

[0003] Chinese patent CN1262805C discloses an ice tray, which includes a carrier with a plurality of containers and a fixing mechanism for detachably fixing the ice tray to a horizontal bottom surface. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One object of this application is to provide an improved refrigeration appliance, and in particular an ice maker for a refrigeration appliance.

[0005] One embodiment of this application provides a refrigeration appliance comprising: a housing including a storage chamber with a front opening; a door for opening or closing the front opening; and an ice maker located within the storage chamber. The ice maker includes: a housing defining a cavity with a top opening; a top cover removably disposed on the top opening; and an ice-making module including an inner shell and an ice tray. The ice tray is rotatably mounted in the inner shell along a first axis and has a first position and a second position. When the ice tray is in the first position, it is adapted to make ice. The ice tray rotates from the first position to the second position along the first axis to facilitate ice removal.

[0006] The inner shell includes a semi-enclosed structure, and the ice tray is adapted to be installed in or removed from the inner shell through an opening in the semi-enclosed structure. The description of the ice tray as adaptable to the removal of the inner shell in this application should be understood as non-destructive removal.

[0007] Therefore, without damaging the overall structure of the ice-making module, the ice tray can be easily removed from the ice-making module, resulting in a simple structure and convenient operation.

[0008] In one embodiment of this application, the semi-enclosed structure is U-shaped. This facilitates the installation and removal of the ice tray.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, the semi-enclosed structure includes a first wall, a second wall opposite to the first wall, and an intermediate wall connecting the first wall and the second wall, wherein the ice tray is connected to the first wall and the second wall along a first axis direction.

[0010] In one embodiment of this application, the semi-enclosed structure includes an upper opening facing the top opening, a lower opening opposite the upper opening, and at least one side opening connecting the upper opening and the lower opening. This facilitates the user in removing the ice tray from the side opening for cleaning. Furthermore, when the ice tray is installed onto the inner shell, the semi-enclosed structure causes less obstruction and interference during installation, thus simplifying the installation process.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, the inner shell is adapted to deform along the axial direction of the first axis, thereby causing the ice tray to detach from the inner shell. Thus, the ice tray can be disassembled without damaging the overall structure of the ice-making module, making the operation simple and convenient.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the second wall deforms away from the first wall, thereby detaching the ice tray from the inner shell assembly. This simplifies the operation and facilitates non-destructive removal of the ice tray from the inner shell. After the ice tray is removed, the second wall can return to its undeformed state, i.e., its initial state.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the ice maker includes a transmission device adapted to transmit power to the ice tray; the inner shell includes a transmission space accommodating the transmission device and an ice-making space accommodating the ice tray, the transmission space being separated from the ice-making space. This helps prevent water used for ice making from splashing into the transmission system, thus affecting the operation and lifespan of the transmission system.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, a reset member is provided in the transmission space. The reset member is configured to restore the ice tray from the first position to the second position. Thus, the reset member is separated from the ice-making space and does not directly act on the ice tray, thereby simplifying the connection between the ice tray and the inner shell and facilitating the individual removal of the ice tray.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, the direction of movement of the reset member is different from the first axial direction of the ice tray.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, the direction of movement of the reset member is perpendicular to the direction of the first axis.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the transmission device includes a gear connected to the ice grid and a rack meshing with the gear, and the reset member is arranged at one end of the rack along the height direction of the ice maker.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the semi-enclosed structure is provided with a connector, and the ice-making module is connected to the outer shell through the connector, which is located outside the transmission space.

[0019] In one embodiment of this application, at least one end of the transmission space protrudes from the ice-making space in the height direction of the ice maker.

[0020] In one embodiment of this application, the top cover includes a recessed portion facing the ice tray, and the transmission space overlaps with the recessed portion in the horizontal direction.

[0021] In one embodiment of this application, the top cover includes a recessed portion facing the ice tray, and the transmission space does not overlap with the recessed portion in the height direction of the ice maker. This helps to reduce the impact of the top cover on the layout of the transmission space.

[0022] In one embodiment of this application, the semi-enclosed structure includes multiple walls, each wall having reinforcing ribs extending from the walls in a direction away from the ice tray. This improves the strength and reliability of the semi-enclosed structure.

[0023] In one embodiment of this application, the ice maker is mounted on the door.

[0024] In one embodiment of this application, the ice-making module is detachably fixed to the outer casing, entering the chamber from the top opening along the height direction of the ice maker. This facilitates cleaning of the ice-making module by the user, and when the ice maker is installed on a door, the ice-making module is installed in the ice maker's chamber along the height direction of the ice maker, which is also the height direction of the refrigeration appliance. This direction intersects with the opening and closing direction of the refrigeration appliance door, which helps reduce the impact of opening and closing the refrigeration appliance door on the installed ice-making module, thereby reducing the possibility of the ice-making module falling out of the ice maker's chamber. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the outer casing structure of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first frame structure of the outer shell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the second frame structure of the outer shell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the ice-making module structure viewed from the rear according to an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a partial exploded view of the ice-making module structure as seen from the front, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the transmission structure of an ice-making module according to an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting part and the operating component in the installed state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ice maker as viewed from above along the height direction of the ice maker according to an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the inner shell structure of an ice-making module according to an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 12 This is a partial exploded view of the ice-making module structure as seen from the front, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a drawer being pulled out of the cavity according to an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the drawer located inside the cavity according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of a drawer being pulled out of a chamber according to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ice maker with a hidden second frame according to an embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure label:

[0042] 1-Box body; 2-Door; 3-Ice maker; 5-Semi-enclosed structure; 6-Receiving part; 7-Transmission device; 8-Operating component; 9-Water box; 11-Front opening; 12-Storage chamber; 31-Outer shell; 32-Top opening; 33-Cavity; 34-Top cover; 35-Ice making module; 36-Ice storage box; 37-Decorative panel; 51-First wall; 52-Second wall; 53-Intermediate wall; 55-Opening; 56-Reinforcing rib; 57-Top opening; 58-Bottom opening; 59-Side opening; 61-Inlet; 70-Reset component; 71-Gear; 72-Rack; 73-Shaft; 74-First connection port; 75-Second connection port; 81-Second mounting port; 100-Refrigeration appliance; 101- First shaft; 114-Refrigerator compartment; 115-Freezer compartment; 300-Connecting structure; 301-First mounting structure; 302-Second mounting structure; 303-Third mounting structure; 304-Fourth mounting structure; 310-Wall; 311-Front wall; 312-Rear wall; 313-Side wall; 314-Bottom wall; 315-Hanging lug; 316-First frame; 317-Second frame; 341-Recess; 342-Water inlet; 350-Inner shell; 351-Ice tray; 352-Connector; 353-Limiting component; 355-Transmission space; 356-Ice making space; 357-First shell; 358-Second shell; 361-Guide rib; 362-Protrusion; 363-Limiting component 364-Mounting frame; 365-Box body; 510-Shaft hole; 521-Limiting guide groove; 522-Matching groove; 525-Stop block; 721-Through hole; 722-Connecting part; 3011-Recess; 3012-Flange; 3021-Groove; 3022-Rib; 3031-First hook; 3041-Second hook; 3042-First mounting port; 3111-Opening; 3118-Recessed surface; 3121-First support member; 3125-Limiting port; 3141-Second support member; 3142-Protruding rib; 3143-Allowing port; 3154-First rotating shaft; 3161-First side wall; 3162-First bottom wall; 3163-First side... Plate; 3164-Flanged edge; 3171-Second side wall; 3172-Second bottom wall; 3173-Second side plate; 3175-First side wall portion; 3176-Second side wall portion; 3177-Upper slide rail; 3178-Lower slide rail; 3179-Stop protrusion; 3514-First rotating shaft; 3515-Second rotating shaft; 3517-Guide protrusion; 3541-Peripheral wall; 3542-Third wall; 3543-Front peripheral wall; 3544-Rear peripheral wall; 3545-Upper peripheral wall; 3546-Lower peripheral wall; 3547-Side cover; 3548-Receiving groove; 3549-Protrusion; 3631-Front section; 3632-Rear section; 5631-First hole; 7221-Hook. Detailed Implementation

[0043] To provide a better understanding of the purpose, structure, features, and functions of this application, detailed descriptions are provided below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0044] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "height", "lateral", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional 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.

[0045] According to the embodiments of this application, for clarity, Figure 1 An XYZ coordinate system is given, where arrows schematically indicate the width direction X, front-back direction Y, and height direction Z, which are perpendicular to each other in the normal use state of the refrigeration appliance. Figure 1 The document also provides an xyz coordinate system, where arrows schematically indicate the width (x), front-back (y), and height (z) directions of the ice maker in its normal operating state. When the ice maker is installed on the door of a refrigeration appliance, the side of the ice maker facing the user when the door is open is the front side of the ice maker; when the door is closed, the ice maker is away from the user, and the front side of the refrigeration appliance faces the user. Therefore, the front-back (y) direction of the refrigeration appliance is opposite to the front-back (y) direction of the ice maker.

[0046] The refrigeration appliance 100 described in the embodiments of this application may include refrigerators, freezers, freezers, etc. Figure 1 This example demonstrates a side-by-side refrigerator. In practical applications, the structure of this implementation scheme can also be applied to other types of refrigeration appliances 1, such as multi-door refrigerators, single-door refrigerators, freezers, etc.

[0047] Combination Figures 1 to 16 As shown, the refrigeration appliance 100 includes a housing 1 defining a storage compartment 12 with a front opening 11, and a door 2 connected to the housing 1 for opening or closing the storage compartment 12. The storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment 114 and a freezer compartment 115, with the temperature in the freezer compartment 115 being lower than the temperature in the refrigerator compartment 114. In embodiments of this application, the freezer compartment 115 and the refrigerator compartment 114 are arranged along the width direction of the refrigeration appliance. In other embodiments, the freezer compartment and the refrigerator compartment are arranged along the height direction of the refrigeration appliance.

[0048] The refrigeration appliance 100 also includes an ice maker 3, which in this embodiment can be installed on the door 2. For manual ice makers, the ice maker is generally placed on the side of the storage compartment with a lower temperature, thus the ice maker is set on the door for closing or opening the freezer compartment.

[0049] In other embodiments of this application, the ice maker 3 can be placed directly in the storage compartment 12. Specifically, the ice maker 3 is placed directly in the freezer compartment.

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, the ice maker 3 includes a housing 31 and an ice-making module 35. The housing 31 defines a chamber 33 of the ice maker 3, the top of which has a top opening 32. A top cover 34 is removably placed at the top opening 32. The ice-making module 35 enters the chamber 33 through the top opening 32 along the height direction of the ice maker and is fixed to the housing 31.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the outer casing 31 includes a front wall 311, which faces the user when the ice maker is in use. The casing 31 also includes a rear wall 312 opposite to the front wall 311 and a side wall 313 non-detachably connected to the front wall 311. Additionally, the casing 31 includes a bottom wall 314 opposite to the opening, which is connected to the side wall 313. Furthermore, a hanging lug 315 is provided on the side wall 313 of the casing 31, and a protrusion (not shown) adapted to the hanging lug 315 is provided on the side of the door, allowing the ice maker to be detachably connected to the door.

[0052] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the outer casing 31 includes a first frame 316 and a second frame 317. The first frame 316 and the second frame 317 define a chamber 33 with a top opening 32. The ice-making module 35 enters the chamber along the height direction of the ice maker and is fixed to the outer casing.

[0053] The first frame 316 includes a rear wall 312 and a pair of first side walls 3161 connected to the rear wall 312. Specifically, the first side walls 3161 are integrally formed with the rear wall 312. The first frame 316 includes a first bottom wall 3162 connected to the rear wall 312. The first bottom wall 3162 extends forward from the rear wall 312 in the front-rear direction of the ice maker.

[0054] The second frame 317 includes a front wall 311 and a pair of second side walls 3171 non-detachably connected to the front wall 311. The second side walls 3171 extend rearward from the front wall 311. The front wall 311 and the second side walls 3171 are integrally formed. The second frame 317 also includes a second bottom wall 3172 connected to the second side walls 3171. The second bottom wall 3172 extends rearward from the front wall 311 in the front-rear direction of the ice maker.

[0055] Specifically, the second sidewall 3171 includes a first sidewall portion 3175 connected to the front wall 311 and extending obliquely relative to the front wall 311, and a second sidewall portion 3176 connected to the first sidewall portion 3175, wherein the second sidewall portion 3176 extends obliquely relative to the front wall.

[0056] like Figure 10 As shown, the angle between the first sidewall portion 3175 and the front wall 311 is θ, and the angle between the second sidewall portion 3176 and the front wall 311 is λ, where λ>θ.

[0057] The operating component 8 is located on the first side wall portion 3175, which makes the operating component relatively close to the user, making it convenient for the user to operate.

[0058] The width of the operating component 8 is adapted to the width of the first sidewall portion 3175. The width of the first sidewall portion 3175 is not greater than the width of the operating component 8. The first sidewall portion 3175 and the second sidewall portion 3176 have different light transmittance. The surface of the first sidewall portion 3175 is provided with a coating that is the same as or similar to the surface of the operating component 8. For example, the first sidewall portion 3175 and the operating component 8 are coated with a metallic coating that is similar in color or the same. As a result, on the one hand, the appearance design of the ice maker is more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing; on the other hand, especially when it is necessary to use a similar coating on the surface of the operating component and the wall on which the operating component is located, this solution helps to reduce the coating area and lower the manufacturing cost of the product.

[0059] A connecting structure 300 is provided between the first frame 316 and the second frame 317, with the first frame 316 connected to the second frame 317 from the rear. In one embodiment of this application, the connecting structure 300 includes a first mounting structure located on the upper part of the housing, second mounting structures located on both sides of the housing, and a third and fourth mounting structures located on the bottom of the housing.

[0060] like Figures 5 to 6 As shown, the first mounting structure includes a recess 3011 and a flange 3012 adapted to the recess 3011. Specifically, the first sidewall 3161 includes a flange 3164 away from the chamber 33. The recess 3011 is provided on the upper part of the flange 3164 and on the side facing the rear of the ice maker. The upper part of the second sidewall 3161 is provided with a flange 3012, and the flange extends toward the chamber of the ice maker. Thus, the upper parts of the first frame and the second frame are fixed by the cooperation of the recess 3011 and the flange 3012.

[0061] The second mounting structure includes a groove 3021 and a rib 3022 adapted to be inserted into the groove. Specifically, a groove 3021 extending along the ice-making height direction is provided on the front side of the flange 3164. A rib 3022 extending along the height direction of the ice maker is provided on the side of the second sidewall 3176 facing the chamber 33. Thus, the rib is adapted to be inserted into the groove to achieve a fixed connection of the outer casing sidewall.

[0062] The third mounting structure includes a first hook 3031 protruding from the second bottom wall 3172 into the cavity. Specifically, the first hook 3031 is provided on both sides of the second bottom wall 3172 and near the second side wall 3161. The first hook 3031 is adapted to engage with the front end of the first bottom wall 3162.

[0063] The fourth mounting structure includes a second hook 3041 and a second opening 3042 adapted to the second hook 3041. Specifically, the second hook 3041 is provided near the rear of the second bottom wall 3172. A first mounting opening 3042 is provided at the position where the first bottom wall 3162 connects with the second hook 3041. Thus, the mating connection between the second hook and the second opening achieves a fixed connection of the bottom wall of the housing.

[0064] To facilitate user observation of the ice-making process within the chamber, the first frame 316 and the second frame 317 are made of different materials. Preferably, the second frame 317 is made of a transparent material.

[0065] In the present application, the first frame 316 and the second frame 317 are connected in the front-to-back direction, wherein the second frame 317 at least partially encloses the first frame 316 when viewed from the front.

[0066] In other embodiments, the housing 31 may be a one-piece molded part with a top opening; or it may be composed of different frames connected together, not limited to the front-to-back direction, for example, they may be connected in the vertical direction.

[0067] like Figure 2 As shown, the ice-making module 35 is detachably fixed to the rear wall 312 of the housing 31. Specifically, the ice-making module 35 is detachably fixed to the rear wall 312 of the first frame 316.

[0068] The ice-making module 35 includes an inner shell 350, an ice tray 351, and a transmission device 7 for transmitting power to the ice tray 351. The transmission device 7 is located in the chamber 33 of the ice maker 3.

[0069] In the embodiments of this application, the ice-making module 35 is provided with two ice-making grids 351 arranged vertically along the height direction of the ice maker. In other embodiments, one or more ice-making grids 351 may be installed in the ice-making module 35 according to the user's needs. The ice-making grids 351 are rotatably installed in the inner shell 350. The ice-making grids 351 have a first position and a second position; when the ice-making grids 351 are in the first position, the ice-making grids 351 are suitable for making ice; the ice-making grids 351 rotate from the first position along the first axis 101 to the second position to facilitate ice removal.

[0070] like Figures 6 to 7As shown, the inner shell 350 includes a first shell 357 for mounting the transmission device 7 and a second shell 358 for mounting the ice tray 351. The first shell 357 defines a transmission space 355, and the second shell 358 defines an ice-making space 356, which is separated from the transmission space 355. Since ice makers generally make ice in a low-temperature environment, water may splash onto the transmission device during the process of water entering the ice tray or when the ice maker shakes. When water splashes onto the transmission device, it will freeze due to the low temperature, thus affecting the operation of the transmission device. In this application, the transmission device is located in the transmission space, which is separated from the ice-making space, preventing water from splashing onto the transmission device and reducing the impact of water on the transmission device.

[0071] At least one end of the transmission space 355 protrudes beyond the ice-making space 356 in the height direction of the ice maker. In the embodiments of this application, both the upper and lower parts of the transmission space 355 extend beyond the ice-making space 356, thereby facilitating the layout of the transmission device within the transmission space.

[0072] like Figure 7 As shown, the second housing 358 includes a first wall 51, a second wall 52 opposite to the first wall 51, and an intermediate wall 53 connecting the first wall 51 and the second wall 52.

[0073] To facilitate the installation of the ice-making module and the outer casing, a connector 352 is provided on the inner casing 350 of the ice-making module 35. Specifically, the connector 352 is provided on the intermediate wall 53 of the second casing 358. The connector 352 is located on the intermediate wall 53 and away from the transmission space 356. Specifically, the connector 352 is constructed as a hook extending downward along the height direction of the ice maker. Therefore, the connector does not occupy the volume of the ice-making space, thereby reducing the impact on ice removal from the ice tray.

[0074] Additionally, the outer casing 31 has a recessed receiving portion 6 on its rear wall 312, positioned opposite the connector 352, facing the chamber 33 of the ice maker 3. As shown in the figure, the receiving portion 6 has an inlet 61, so that when the ice-making module 35 enters the chamber 33 from the height direction, the connector 352 can be received in the receiving portion 6 through the inlet 61. The connector 352 is engaged with the wall of the receiving portion 6, thereby restricting the downward displacement of the ice-making module 35 and serving to install and fix the ice-making module. At this time, the connector 352 is located inside the receiving portion 6 and does not protrude from the outer side of the rear wall 312, thereby preventing interference between the connector and other components besides the ice maker and reducing the space occupied by the ice maker in the external environment.

[0075] Specifically, the inlet 61 of the receiving part 6 is connected to the chamber 33 of the ice maker 3. The inlet 61 faces the top opening 32 of the outer casing 31. The projection of the inlet 61 along the height direction of the ice maker is within the range of the projection of the top opening 32 along the height direction of the ice maker. Thus, the inlet does not protrude from the top opening, thereby reducing the space occupied by the ice maker in the external environment.

[0076] To further limit the upward displacement of the ice-making module during operation, a limiting member 353 is provided on the intermediate wall 53 of the inner shell 350. The limiting member 353 is located on the upper part of the connector 352, near the end of the intermediate wall 53. Specifically, the limiting member 353 is constructed as a hook extending upward along the height direction of the ice maker.

[0077] Meanwhile, a limiting opening 3125 is provided on the rear wall 312 at a position opposite to the limiting member 353. As shown in the figure, when the ice-making module 35 enters the chamber 33 from the height direction downwards, the end of the limiting member 353 enters the limiting opening 3125 of the rear wall 312, thereby limiting the upward displacement of the ice module. At this time, the limiting member 353 does not protrude from the outer side of the rear wall 312, thereby preventing interference between the limiting member and other components outside the ice maker, and helping to reduce the space occupied by the ice maker in the external environment.

[0078] In other embodiments, the ice-making module 35 is not limited to being connected to the rear wall 312 of the ice maker 3. The ice-making module 35 may also be connected to the side wall 313 or the front wall 311 of the ice maker 3, or simultaneously connected to both the rear wall 312 and the side wall 313.

[0079] To enhance the support strength of the ice-making module, as shown in the figure, a first support member 3121 is provided on the rear wall 312. The first support member 3121 is constructed as a baffle extending from the rear wall 312 toward the chamber 33. Specifically, the first support member 3121 exerts an upward supporting force on the intermediate wall 53 of the inner shell 350, thereby enhancing the support for the ice-making module.

[0080] Additionally, a second support member 3141 is provided on the bottom wall 314 of the inner shell 350. The second support member 3141 is constructed as a baffle extending from the bottom wall 314 toward the chamber 33. Specifically, the ice-making module 35 enters the chamber 33 downward through the top opening 32, and the second support member 3141 provides upward support to the first shell 357, thereby supporting the ice-making module.

[0081] When installing the ice-making module, first insert the connector 352 into the receiving part 6 downward along the top opening 32 of the ice maker 3, and then insert the limiting member 353 into the limiting port 3125. When disassembling the ice-making module 35, first press the limiting member 353 to move it towards the inside of the chamber 33, so that the limiting member 353 retracts from the limiting port 3125. Then apply an upward force along the height direction of the ice maker to the ice-making module 35 and remove the ice-making module 35 from the chamber 33.

[0082] like Figures 11 to 12 As shown, the ice-making module 35 includes a semi-enclosed structure 5. Specifically, the semi-enclosed structure 5 includes a first wall 51, a second wall 52 opposite to the first wall 51, and an intermediate wall 53 connecting the first wall 51 and the second wall 52. The semi-enclosed structure 5 includes an opening 55. The opening 55 includes an upper opening 57 facing the top opening 32, a lower opening 58 opposite to the upper opening 57, and at least one side opening 59 connecting the upper opening 57 and the lower opening 58.

[0083] In one embodiment of this application, the semi-enclosed structure 5 is U-shaped. The ice tray 351 is adapted to be installed in or removed from the inner shell 350 through the opening 55 of the semi-enclosed structure 5. Specifically, the ice tray 351 is detachably connected to the inner shell 350 along the side opening 59.

[0084] An ice tray 351 is connected to a first wall 51 and a second wall 52 along a first axis 101. At both ends of the ice tray 351 along the first axis 101, there are opposing first rotating shafts 3514 and second rotating shafts 3515. The first rotating shaft 3514 is connected to the first wall 51, and the second rotating shaft 3515 is connected to the second wall 52.

[0085] Specifically, the first wall 51 has a shaft hole 510, through which the transmission device 7 passes and connects to the first rotating shaft 3514. The second wall 52 has a mating groove 522 extending away from the first wall 51, and the second rotating shaft 3515 is connected to the mating groove 522. Additionally, the second wall 52 also has a limiting guide groove 521 extending away from the first wall 51 and communicating with the mating groove 522. In the embodiments of this application, the mating groove 522 is arc-shaped, the limiting guide groove 521 is arc-shaped, and the radius of curvature of the limiting guide groove 521 is greater than the radius of curvature of the mating groove 522.

[0086] As shown in Figure 11, the second drive shaft 3515 extends upward toward the opening of the ice tray with a guide protrusion 3517. The guide protrusion 3517 is adapted to the limiting guide groove 521. The guide protrusion 3517 moves from the first end of the limiting guide groove 521 along the arc trajectory of the limiting guide groove 521 to the second end of the limiting guide groove 521, thereby limiting the rotation of the ice tray.

[0087] Additionally, a stop block 525 is provided on the second wall 52 and located below and behind the engagement groove 522. When the ice tray 351 rotates from the first position to the second position, the stop block 525 abuts against the ice tray 351, preventing the ice tray from continuing to rotate, thereby limiting the excessive rotation of the ice tray.

[0088] When the user needs to remove the ice tray from the inner shell, the inner shell 350 is adapted to deform along the axial direction of the first axis 101, thereby causing the ice tray to detach from the inner shell. Specifically, the user applies a force to the second wall 52 away from the first wall 51, causing the second wall 52 to deform away from the first wall 51, thereby causing the ice tray to detach from the inner shell.

[0089] However, in existing technologies, to achieve ice removal from the ice tray, a torsion spring is typically installed at one end of the ice tray to reset it after ice removal. This results in a complex connection structure between the ice tray and the shell, hindering disassembly and installation. In this application, the installation of the ice tray and the inner shell is simple, requiring no disruption of the connection structure. The ice tray is non-destructively detached through deformation of the inner shell, and this detachment is reversible; after removal, the second wall can return to its undeformed, initial state. The ice tray can be reinstalled onto the inner shell through deformation, allowing for multiple disassembly and installation cycles. Therefore, the structure is simple, operation is convenient, and cleaning of the ice tray is easy.

[0090] To improve the structural strength of the semi-enclosed structure, reinforcing ribs 56 are provided on multiple walls of the semi-enclosed structure 5. Specifically, reinforcing ribs 56 extending in a direction away from the ice tray 351 are provided on the second shell 358.

[0091] like Figures 6 to 11 As shown, the first housing 357 defines a transmission space 355. The transmission device 7 is located in the transmission space 355. Specifically, the first housing 357 includes a first wall 51, a peripheral wall 3541, and a third wall 3542 connected to the peripheral wall 3541. The peripheral wall 3541 includes a front peripheral wall 3543, a rear peripheral wall 3544, an upper peripheral wall 3545, and a lower peripheral wall 3546. The front peripheral wall 3543, the rear peripheral wall 3544, the upper peripheral wall 3545, and the lower peripheral wall 3546 are interconnected to form a space suitable for installing the transmission device.

[0092] In an embodiment of this application, the third wall 3542 is configured as a side cover 3547, which is adapted to close the opening of the space defined by the peripheral wall 3541 and the first wall 51, thereby enabling the transmission device to be mostly covered, which helps to prevent the user from touching the transmission device and causing injury to the user, improves the safety performance of the product, and helps to prevent water used for making ice from splashing onto the transmission device.

[0093] The transmission device 7 includes a gear 71 connected to the first rotating shaft 3514 of the ice tray 351 and installed at the shaft hole 510 of the first wall 51. In the embodiments of this application, the ice-making module 35 is provided with two ice trays 351, which are arranged vertically along the height direction of the ice maker, and a gear 71 is installed on the first rotating shaft 3514 of each ice tray 351.

[0094] In addition, the transmission device 7 also includes a rack 72 that meshes with the gear 71 and a shaft 73 for mounting the rack 72 onto the inner housing 350. Specifically, the rack 72 has a through hole 721 extending along its length, allowing the rack 72 to move up and down relative to the shaft 73. The shaft 73 passes through the through hole 721 to mount the rack 72 onto the peripheral wall 3541 along the height direction of the ice maker. Specifically, the upper peripheral wall 3545 has a first hole 5631 through which one end of the shaft 73 passes; a receiving groove 3548 is provided on the side of the lower peripheral wall 3546 located within the transmission space 355, the receiving groove 3548 being configured to receive the other end of the shaft 73.

[0095] like Figure 6 As shown, the top of the side cover 3547 is provided with a protrusion 3549. The protrusion 3549 is adapted to receive the end of the rod shaft 73 that extends beyond the upper peripheral wall 3545.

[0096] In the embodiments of this application, the rack 72 and the shaft 73 are made of different materials, and the shaft 73 is preferably a metal part.

[0097] like Figure 7 As shown, the reset member 70 is disposed in the transmission space 355. Specifically, the reset member 70 is provided at the lower end of the rack 72. One end of the reset member 70 is installed in the receiving groove 3548 of the lower peripheral wall 3546, and the other end of the reset member 70 abuts against the rack 72. Thus, the reset member is located in the transmission space and separated from the ice-making space. On the one hand, this prevents water from splashing onto the reset member and affecting its service life; on the other hand, the reset member is separated from the ice tray, which simplifies the installation structure of the ice tray and the inner shell and facilitates the disassembly and installation of the ice tray.

[0098] In addition, after the user completes the operation of the control unit, the reset unit can automatically apply a force in the opposite direction to the operation of the control unit, so that the user does not need to perform an additional reset operation, thereby restoring the ice tray to its original position.

[0099] In one embodiment of this application, the reset member 70 is a spring.

[0100] like Figures 6 to 11 As shown, the first housing 357 includes a first connection port 74, and the transmission device 7 extends out of the first connection port 74 and connects to the operating member 8.

[0101] The first connection port 74 penetrates at least two walls of the first housing 357. Specifically, the first connection port 74 penetrates the front peripheral wall 3543 and the third wall 3542.

[0102] The transmission device 7 is provided with a connecting part 722, through which the operating member 8 is detachably connected to the transmission device 7. The connecting part 722 is configured to extend from the transmission space 355 to reach the chamber 33 of the ice maker 3, protruding from the inner shell 350 but not from the outer shell 31. A second connecting port 75 is provided on the outer shell 31 at a position opposite to the connecting part 722. Specifically, the connecting part 722 is disposed opposite to the first side wall portion 3175. Preferably, the central axis of the connecting part 722 is substantially perpendicular to the first side wall portion 3175. The second connecting port 75 is disposed on the first side wall portion 3175. The connecting part 722 passes through the first connecting port 74 into the chamber 33, and the operating member 8 is detachably connected to the connecting part 722 through the second connecting port 75, thereby transmitting power to the ice tray through the transmission device to achieve ice removal from the ice tray.

[0103] Along the height direction of the ice maker, the central axis of the connecting part 722 and the first shaft 101 have an angle α, the value of which is between 30 degrees and 60 degrees. Preferably, α is 49 degrees.

[0104] This makes the overall design of the outer casing more reasonable, reducing the impact on the chamber volume of the ice maker on the one hand, and preventing interference between the outer casing and the door when the ice maker is installed on the door on the other hand.

[0105] Specifically, the connecting portion 722 is located on the rack 72. The connecting portion 722 is integrally formed with the rack 72. Projected along the height direction of the ice maker, the central axis of the connecting portion 722 and the plane defined by the direction of movement of the rack 72 form an angle β, the angle β being between 30 degrees and 90 degrees. Preferably, β is 41 degrees.

[0106] like Figure 9 As shown, the connecting part 722 is provided with a hook part 7221. The hook part 7221 is elastic and is adapted to the second mounting port 81 on the operating member 8, thereby realizing the detachable connection between the operating member and the connecting part.

[0107] like Figure 13 As shown, an ice storage box 36 is provided at the bottom of the outer shell 31. Specifically, an opening 3111 is provided at the lower part of the front wall 311, through which the ice storage box 36 is slidably received in the chamber 33.

[0108] The ice storage box 36 includes a box body 365 for holding ice cubes and a mounting frame 364 connected to the box body 365.

[0109] Specifically, guide ribs 361 are provided on both sides of the ice storage box 365, and the guide ribs 361 extend along the front-back direction of the ice storage box 36. A protrusion 362 is provided near the rear of the guide ribs 361, and the protrusion 362 is configured to extend downward along the height direction of the ice maker from the guide ribs.

[0110] Mounting frame 364 is adapted to close opening 3111 of front wall 311. Mounting frame 364 extends downward along the height direction of ice maker and beyond the bottom of box 365, thereby facilitating the user to pull ice storage box out of the chamber from the bottom of mounting frame.

[0111] The first frame 316 has a first side plate 3163 extending along the first bottom wall 3162 toward the cavity 33. The first side plate 3163 is spaced a certain distance from the first side wall 3161. A limiting groove 363 is provided at the top of the first side plate 3163 near the rear of the cavity 33. The limiting groove 363 divides the top into a front section 3631 and a rear section 3632. The front section 3631 is away from the rear wall 312 and is inclined upward in a front-to-back direction. The ice storage box 36 enters the cavity 33 along the top of the first side plate 3163 until the protrusion 362 falls into the limiting groove 363, thereby restricting the front-to-back displacement of the ice storage box in the cavity.

[0112] like Figures 14 to 15 As shown, the second frame 317 has a second side plate 3173 extending along the second bottom wall 3172 toward the cavity 33. An upper slide rail 3177 and a lower slide rail 3178 are arranged opposite each other on the second side plate 3173, with a certain distance between them, defining a guide channel between them. A stop protrusion 3179 extending toward the upper slide rail 3177 is provided on the lower slide rail 3178. When the user pulls the ice storage box 36 out of the cavity 33, the guide ribs 361 on both sides of the ice storage box 36 slide out of the cavity 33 along the first side plate 3163 on the first frame 316 and the guide channel until the protrusion 362 on the guide rib 361 abuts against the stop protrusion 3179, thereby preventing the ice storage box from completely falling out of the cavity.

[0113] In addition, if it is necessary to completely remove the ice storage box 36 from the chamber 33, when the ice storage box 36 is pulled to the stop protrusion 3179, the ice storage box 36 is simultaneously lifted upward and pulled outward, so that the protrusion 362 slides out of the guide channel and the ice storage box is removed from the chamber.

[0114] A raised rib 3142 extending toward the chamber 33 is provided on the bottom wall 314. The bottom of the ice storage box 36 contacts the raised rib 3142. Thus, when water or ice melts in the ice tray and flows to the bottom wall, the ice storage box is easy to push and pull in the chamber because the contact area between the bottom of the ice storage box and the bottom wall is small.

[0115] Specifically, a clearance opening 3143 is provided at the front end of the bottom wall 314, with the opening of the clearance opening 3143 facing the mounting frame 364 of the ice storage box 36. This facilitates the user to push and pull the ice storage box from the bottom.

[0116] like Figure 15 As shown, the top cover 34 is removably disposed on the top opening 32. The top cover 34 includes a recess 341 recessed toward the ice tray 351. Specifically, the transmission space 355 overlaps with the recess 341 in the horizontal direction. The transmission space 355 and the recess 341 do not overlap in the height direction of the ice maker. Thus, the top cover and the transmission space do not interfere with each other, thereby facilitating the layout of the transmission space.

[0117] In the embodiment of this application, the upper cover 34 is funnel-shaped.

[0118] A water inlet 342 is provided at the position corresponding to the ice tray 351 on the top cover 34. Thus, in actual use, the user can directly pour water into the ice tray through the water inlet. In addition, the ice maker 3 also includes a water box 9, which is placed in the recess 341 of the top cover 34, and the shape of the water box 9 is adapted to the shape of the recess 341.

[0119] For example, the water tank 9 can be marked with graduations, such as the maximum water volume MAX shown in the figure, to indicate the maximum amount of water the ice tray can hold. This helps users determine the appropriate amount of water to fill and avoids overfilling and overflowing the ice tray.

[0120] A decorative panel 37 is provided on the front wall 311. Specifically, a recessed surface 3118 is provided on the side of the front wall 311 facing the user, and the decorative panel 37 is installed on the recessed surface 3118. The top of the decorative panel 37 protrudes beyond the plane defined by the top opening 32. Preferably, the top of the decorative panel 37 is substantially flush with the top of the top cover. As a result, when the user observes the ice maker from the front, the overall appearance of the ice maker is more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing.

[0121] In the embodiments of this application, the outer surface of the decorative panel 37 is substantially flush with the outer surface of the mounting frame 364 of the ice storage box 36, thereby making the overall appearance of the ice maker more aesthetically pleasing.

[0122] Combination Figures 1 to 16 Various embodiments of the individual components described can be combined with each other in any given manner to achieve the advantages of this application.

[0123] This application has been described with reference to the above-mentioned embodiments; however, the above embodiments are merely examples for implementing this application. It must be noted that the disclosed embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. On the contrary, any modifications and refinements made without departing from the spirit and scope of this application are within the scope of patent protection of this application.

Claims

1. A refrigeration appliance (100), comprising: The box (1) includes a storage room (12) with a front opening (11); Door (2), the door (2) being used to open or close the front opening (11); An ice maker (3) is located in a storage room (12); The ice maker (3) includes: The outer casing (31) defines a chamber (33) having a top opening (32); A top cover (34) is removably disposed on the top opening (32); An ice-making module (35) includes an inner shell (350) and an ice grid (351); The ice tray (351) is rotatably mounted in the inner shell (350) along the first axis (101), and the ice tray (351) has a first position and a second position; When the ice tray (351) is in the first position, the ice tray (351) is suitable for making ice; The ice tray (351) is rotated from the first position to the second position along the first axis (101) to facilitate ice removal; The inner shell (350) is characterized in that the inner shell (350) includes a semi-enclosed structure (5), and the ice tray (351) is adapted to be installed in or removed from the inner shell (35) by entering the inner shell (35) through the opening (55) of the semi-enclosed structure (5).

2. The refrigeration appliance as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The semi-enclosed structure (5) is U-shaped; and / or, The semi-enclosed structure (5) includes a first wall (51), a second wall (52) opposite to the first wall (51), and an intermediate wall (53) connecting the first wall (51) and the second wall (52). The ice grid (351) is connected to the first wall (51) and the second wall (52) along the first axis (101).

3. The refrigeration appliance as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The semi-enclosed structure includes an upper opening (57) facing the top opening (32), a lower opening (58) opposite to the upper opening (57), and at least one side opening (59) connecting the upper opening (57) and the lower opening (58).

4. The refrigeration appliance as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner shell (350) is adapted to deform along the axial direction of the first axis (101) so that the ice tray is disengaged from the inner shell.

5. The refrigeration appliance as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The second wall (52) deforms away from the first wall (51) so that the ice tray detaches from the inner shell.

6. The refrigeration appliance as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The ice maker (3) includes a transmission device (7) adapted to transmit power to the ice grid (351); the inner shell (350) includes a transmission space (355) for accommodating the transmission device (7) and an ice-making space (356) for accommodating the ice grid, the transmission space (355) being separated from the ice-making space (356).

7. The refrigeration appliance as described in claim 6, characterized in that, A reset member (70) is provided in the transmission space (355), the reset member (70) being configured to restore the ice tray (351) from the first position to the second position.

8. The refrigeration appliance as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The direction of movement of the reset member (70) is different from the direction of the first axis (101) of the ice tray (351).

9. The refrigeration appliance as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The direction of movement of the reset member (70) is perpendicular to the direction of the first shaft (101).

10. The refrigeration appliance as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The transmission device (7) includes a gear (71) connected to the ice grid (351) and a rack (72) meshing with the gear (71), and the reset member (70) is arranged at one end of the rack (72) along the height direction of the ice maker.

11. The refrigeration appliance as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The semi-enclosed structure is provided with a connector (352), and the ice-making module (35) is connected to the outer shell (31) through the connector (352). The connector (352) is located outside the transmission space (355).

12. The refrigeration appliance as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The transmission space (355) protrudes from at least one end of the ice-making space (356) in the height direction of the ice maker (3); and / or The top cover (34) includes a recess (341) recessed toward the ice tray, and the transmission space (355) overlaps with the recess (341) in the horizontal direction; and / or, The top cover (34) includes a recess (341) that is recessed toward the ice grid, and the transmission space (355) and the recess (341) do not overlap in the height direction of the ice maker.

13. The refrigeration appliance as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The semi-enclosed structure (5) includes multiple walls (54), and the walls (54) are provided with reinforcing ribs (541), which extend from the walls (54) in a direction away from the ice grid.

14. The refrigeration appliance as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The ice maker (3) is mounted on the door (2).

15. The refrigeration appliance as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The ice-making module (35) is detachably fixed to the outer shell (31) and enters the chamber (33) from the top opening (32) along the height direction of the ice maker.

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