Ice maker and purified drinking equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses an ice maker and purified drinking equipment, and relates to the technical field of household appliances, the ice maker comprises a cold water tank, an ice making device and a water supply device, the cold water tank comprises a cold water cavity and a cold water outlet formed in the lower part of the cold water cavity; the ice making device comprises an ice making cavity positioned above the cold water cavity; the water supply device comprises a cold water pump, a water supply pipeline and a water inlet nozzle, an inlet of the cold water pump is opposite to the cold water outlet and communicated with the lower portion of the cold water cavity, at least one part of the water supply pipeline extends vertically, and the water supply pipeline is communicated with an outlet of the cold water pump and the water inlet nozzle. The cold water tank further comprises a filter arranged at the cold water outlet, the filter is configured to be capable of filtering water introduced into the inlet of the cold water pump from the cold water cavity, and at least one part of water in the water supply pipeline can flow back to the cold water cavity through the filter. According to the ice maker disclosed by the embodiment of the invention, at least one part of water in the water supply pipeline can flow back to the cold water cavity through the filter, so that the filter is conveniently washed, and the self-cleaning of the filter is realized.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of household appliances, in particular to an ice maker and a purified drinking equipment. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the related art, an ice maker is usually provided with a cold water pump and a filter. The cold water pump is used for pumping cold water. If particulate matter, colloid and other impurities enter the cold water pump, the cold water pump is likely to be damaged. Therefore, the ice maker is usually provided with a filter for filtering the water source and separating particulate matter, colloid and other impurities, so as to purify the water source. If the filter is not cleaned for a long time, impurities are likely to adhere to and accumulate on the filter. SUMMARY

[0003] An object of the present application is to provide an ice maker and a purified drinking equipment. At least part of water in a water supply pipeline can flow back to a cold water tank through a filter, so as to flush the filter and realize self-cleaning of the filter.

[0004] According to the ice maker of the present application, the ice maker comprises a cold water tank, an ice making device and a water supply device. The cold water tank comprises a cold water cavity and a cold water outlet arranged at a lower portion of the cold water cavity. The ice making device comprises an ice making cavity arranged above the cold water cavity. The water supply device comprises a cold water pump, a water supply pipeline and a water inlet nozzle. The cold water pump is arranged at a lower portion of the cold water tank. An inlet of the cold water pump is opposite to the cold water outlet and communicates with the lower portion of the cold water cavity. At least part of the water supply pipeline extends in an up-down direction. A lower end of the water supply pipeline communicates with an outlet of the cold water pump and an upper end of the water supply pipeline communicates with the water inlet nozzle. The water inlet nozzle is configured to supply water to the ice making cavity. The cold water tank further comprises a filter arranged at the cold water outlet. The filter is configured to filter water flowing from the cold water cavity to the inlet of the cold water pump. At least part of water in the water supply pipeline can flow back to the cold water tank through the filter.

[0005] According to the ice maker of the present application, at least part of water in a water supply pipeline can flow back to a cold water tank through a filter, so as to flush the filter and realize self-cleaning of the filter.

[0006] In addition, the ice maker according to the above-mentioned embodiments of the present application can further have the following additional technical features: In some embodiments, an inner bottom surface of the cold water tank is provided with a drainage groove. The inner bottom surface of the cold water tank is configured to be downwardly inclined from all around to the drainage groove. The cold water outlet is higher than the drainage groove.

[0007] In some embodiments, the cold water outlet is arranged at a lower portion of a side wall of the cold water tank. The cold water pump is arranged outside the lower portion of the side wall of the cold water tank.

[0008] In some embodiments, the ice-making device further includes an ice storage chamber located below the ice-making cavity and above the cold water cavity.

[0009] In some embodiments, the height dimension H1 between the centerline of the inlet of the water inlet and the liquid surface in the cold water chamber is not less than 150 mm.

[0010] In some embodiments, the cold water pump includes a pump housing, the pump housing includes an inlet pipe having an inlet for the cold water pump, the ice maker also includes a sealing sleeve, one end of the sealing sleeve is fitted over the outside of the inlet pipe, and the other end has an opening communicating with the cold water chamber, the sealing sleeve passes through the cold water outlet, and the filter is disposed inside the sealing sleeve and separates the opening of the sealing sleeve from the inlet of the cold water pump.

[0011] In some embodiments, the inlet pipe is provided with a hub and a plurality of ribs. The hub is located inside the inlet pipe and extends along the axis of the inlet pipe. The plurality of ribs are distributed around the hub and connected between the hub and the inlet pipe. The hub and the plurality of ribs are distributed opposite to the filter.

[0012] In some embodiments, the bottom wall of the cold water tank is provided with an ultraviolet lamp, which is used to emit ultraviolet light into the cold water chamber.

[0013] In some embodiments, the cold water tank includes an insulation cavity located at the lower part of the insulation cavity, the ice-making device is located at the upper part of the insulation cavity, the cold water tank includes an insulation structure located outside the insulation cavity, at least a portion of the cold water pump and at least a portion of the water supply pipeline pass through the insulation structure, and the water inlet is located inside the insulation cavity.

[0014] In some embodiments, the insulation structure includes a first insulation layer and a second insulation layer, the first insulation layer is wrapped around the outside of the insulation cavity, the second insulation layer is connected to the outside of the first insulation layer, and at least a portion of the cold water pump and at least a portion of the water supply pipeline are disposed between the first insulation layer and the second insulation layer.

[0015] In some embodiments, the water supply pipeline includes an ice-making pipeline and a connecting pipe. The ice-making pipeline is connected to the outlet of the cold water pump. The water supply device also includes a multi-way valve, which connects the ice-making pipeline and the connecting pipe. The cold water pump, the ice-making pipeline, and the multi-way valve pass through the insulation structure, and the connecting pipe is located inside the insulation cavity.

[0016] In some embodiments, the ice-making device further includes an ice-making box having an ice-making position and an ice-removing position; the ice-making device further includes a switch device configured to open the water inlet when the ice-making box is in the ice-making position and to close the water inlet when the ice-making box is in the ice-removing position.

[0017] In some embodiments, the switching device includes a valve core and an elastic element, at least a portion of the valve core is disposed within the water inlet, and the valve core is movable between an open and closed position of the water inlet, the elastic element being configured to elastically abut against the valve core and drive the valve core to close the water inlet, and when the ice maker is in the ice-making position, abut against the valve core and drive the valve core to open the water inlet.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a water purification device includes: a body; the aforementioned ice maker, wherein the ice-making device includes an ice-making box rotatably connected to the body; and a motor connected to the body and drivingly connected to the ice-making box. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion of region A in the middle circle.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention; the ice maker box is not shown.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 5 This is an exploded schematic diagram of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 6 This is another cross-sectional schematic diagram of the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the ice maker is located at the ice-making position.

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of region B in the middle circle.

[0026] Figure 8 This is another cross-sectional schematic diagram of the ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the ice maker is in the de-icing position.

[0027] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A magnified view of a portion of region C in the middle circle.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit of a water purification device in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 13 This is another water circuit diagram of the water purification device in this embodiment of the invention.

[0032] Figure 14 This is another water circuit diagram of the water purification device in this embodiment of the invention.

[0033] Reference numerals: Ice maker 100, cold water tank 10, cold water chamber 11, cold water outlet 111, filter 12, drain trough 13, insulation structure 14, first insulation layer 141, second insulation layer 142, third insulation layer 143, insulation chamber 144, inner shell 15, connector 151, ice maker 21, ice making position 211, ice removal position 212, ice storage box 22, ice storage chamber 221, flow passage 222, switch device 23, valve core 2 31, elastic element 232, cold water pump 31, inlet pipe 311, hub 312, rib 313, ice making pipeline 321, water inlet 33, multi-way valve 34, water inlet pipe 35, sealing sleeve 40, ultraviolet lamp 50, cold water valve 60, water purification equipment 1000, body 200, water outlet 201, motor 300, hot water tank 411, hot water valve 412, warm water chamber 413, circulation valve 414, check valve 415, warm water valve 420. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0035] Combination Figures 1 to 14According to an embodiment of the present invention, an ice maker 100 includes: a cold water tank 10, an ice-making device, and a water supply device. The cold water tank 10 includes a cold water chamber 11 and a cold water outlet 111 disposed at the lower part of the cold water chamber 11. Water in the cold water chamber 11 can be output from the cold water outlet 111. The ice-making device includes an ice-making chamber located above the cold water chamber 11. The water supply device includes a cold water pump 31, a water supply pipeline, and a water inlet 33. The cold water pump 31 is disposed at the lower part of the cold water tank 10. The inlet of the cold water pump 31 is opposite to the cold water outlet 111 and communicates with the lower part of the cold water chamber 11. When the cold water pump 31 is running, water in the cold water chamber 11 is drawn into the cold water pump 31 from the cold water outlet 111. At least a portion of the water supply pipeline extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the water supply pipeline communicates with the outlet of the cold water pump 31 and the upper end communicates with the water inlet 33. The water inlet 33 is configured to supply water to the ice-making chamber. The cold water pump 31 pumps the water in the cold water chamber 11 into the water supply pipeline. The water is then transported through the water supply pipeline to the water inlet 33, so that the water inlet 33 supplies water to the ice-making chamber. The water in the ice-making chamber cools down and freezes, thus achieving the purpose of ice making.

[0036] For example, when the cold water pump 31 is running, the water in the cold water chamber 11 is drawn into the cold water pump 31 through the cold water outlet 111 and the inlet of the cold water pump 31. The cold water pump 31 pumps the water in the cold water chamber 11 into the water supply pipeline. The water is transported from the outlet of the cold water pump 31 to the water inlet 33 through the water supply pipeline. After the water inlet 33 supplies water to the ice-making chamber, the water in the ice-making chamber cools down and freezes, so as to achieve the purpose of ice making.

[0037] The cold water tank 10 also includes a filter 12 located at the cold water outlet 111. The filter 12 is configured to filter water flowing from the cold water chamber 11 into the cold water pump 31, and at least a portion of the water in the water supply pipeline can flow back to the cold water chamber 11 through the filter 12, so that the returning water flushes the filter 12, preventing impurities from clogging the filter 12 and achieving self-cleaning of the filter 12. When the cold water pump 31 is running, the filter 12 filters the water in the cold water chamber 11, and the filtered water flows into the cold water pump 31, preventing impurities such as particulate matter and biofilm from entering the cold water pump 31, reducing the possibility of wear and damage to the cold water pump 31, and maintaining the normal operation of the cold water pump 31.

[0038] When the cold water pump 31 stops operating, it ceases pumping water from the cold water chamber 11 into the water supply pipeline and delivering it to the inlet 33. A portion of the water in the supply pipeline remains outside the inlet 33, not flowing into the ice-making chamber. Since at least a portion of the water supply pipeline extends vertically, the water in the pipeline maintains a certain water level. Under the influence of gravity, the water converts its gravitational potential energy into kinetic energy, allowing it to flow back to the cold water pump 31, pass through the filter 12, and finally return to the cold water chamber 11. This backflow flushes the filter 12, preventing impurities from accumulating and achieving self-cleaning of the filter 12. This reduces the frequency of filter cleaning, improving the user experience. Furthermore, the return of water from the supply pipeline to the cold water chamber 11 when the cold water pump 31 stops prevents water from remaining in the pipeline, reducing the growth of microorganisms and bacteria and improving water quality.

[0039] Furthermore, since the water temperature in the lower part of the cold water chamber 11 is lower, the cold water outlet 111 is located in the lower part of the cold water chamber 11. The inlet of the cold water pump 31 is opposite to the cold water outlet 111, which is conducive to the cold water pump 31 pumping cold water at a lower temperature into the water supply pipeline, and then transporting the cold water to the water inlet 33 through the water supply pipeline. The water inlet 33 supplies water to the ice-making chamber, which speeds up the freezing speed of the cold water in the ice-making chamber and helps to improve the ice-making efficiency of the ice maker 100.

[0040] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ice maker 100 allows at least a portion of the water in the water supply pipeline to flow back to the cold water chamber 11 through the filter 12, so as to flush the filter 12 and achieve self-cleaning of the filter 12.

[0041] The ice maker 100 of the present invention may further include an evaporator, which can utilize a refrigerant phase change for cooling and utilize water in the ice-making box 21 for ice making. For example, at least a portion of the evaporator can extend into the ice-making chamber and utilize the water in the ice-making chamber for ice making. Specifically, the water near the surface of the evaporator in the ice-making chamber can freeze quickly and grow outward from the evaporator to eventually form ice blocks. Alternatively, the evaporator can be located outside the ice-making box 21, and the water entering the ice-making box 21 forms ice blocks inside the ice-making box 21 under the action of the evaporator. Of course, other ice-making methods can also be used in the present invention.

[0042] Optionally, the filter 12 may include a filter screen, which can be located at the inlet of the cold water pump 31. The filter screen can effectively filter impurities such as particulate matter and biofilm in the water, preventing impurities from directly entering the cold water pump 31 and causing damage to the cold water pump 31, thus improving water quality. At the same time, the filter screen has a simple structure and low production and maintenance costs. Of course, the filter 12 may also include filter elements, reverse osmosis membranes, etc. The ice maker 100 in this embodiment of the invention is mainly described with the filter 12 including a filter screen, but this is not a limitation on the scope of protection of the invention.

[0043] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the inner bottom surface of the cold water tank 10 is provided with a drain groove 13. The inner bottom surface of the cold water tank 10 is configured to slope downward from all sides to the drain groove 13. The cold water outlet 111 is higher than the drain groove 13. The water flowing back from the water supply pipeline flushes the filter 12 and carries away the impurities on the filter 12. The impurities can be deposited on the inner bottom surface of the cold water tank 10 to prevent impurities such as particulate matter and biofilm from accumulating on the filter 12. In addition, when the ice maker 100 is not in use, the water in the cold water chamber 11 can be discharged from the drain groove 13 to prevent the water source from staying in the cold water chamber 11 for a long time.

[0044] For example, when the inlet 33 stops supplying water to the ice-making chamber, the cold water pump 31 can stop operating. Under the action of gravity, the water in the water supply pipeline flows from top to bottom and flows through the cold water pump 31 and the filter 12, and finally flows back into the cold water chamber 11. The returned water can flush the filter 12 to remove the particles, biofilm and other impurities accumulated on the filter 12, thereby cleaning the filter 12. The impurities can be deposited at the lowest point of the inner bottom surface of the cold water tank 10, reducing the risk of the filter 12 being blocked by impurities.

[0045] The drainage trough 13 can be located at the lowest point of the inner bottom surface of the cold water tank 10. Impurities such as particulate matter and biofilm can be deposited in the drainage trough 13 to facilitate the collection of impurities. At the same time, when the cold water pump 31 draws water from the cold water chamber 11, the impurities are deposited in the drainage trough 13, which can prevent the water source from carrying impurities to the filter 12, further reducing the possibility of the filter 12 being blocked by impurities.

[0046] Additionally, the ice maker 100 can be installed within the water purification device 1000. The water purification device 1000 has a first drain outlet on its side and a second drain outlet at the bottom of the drain tank 13. The first and second drain outlets can be connected by a pipe. When the ice maker 100 is not in use for an extended period, the first drain outlet can be opened to drain the water from the cold water chamber 11 to the outside through the first and second drain outlets, preventing the water from being stored in the cold water chamber 11 for a long time and causing bacteria and odors. When the ice maker 100 is running, the first drain outlet is closed to prevent water leakage from the cold water chamber 11.

[0047] Optionally, the bottom wall of the drainage trough 13 can be inclined toward the second drain outlet so that the water in the cold water chamber 11 can flow along the inclined bottom wall to the second drain outlet. When the cold water chamber 11 drains, it helps to discharge the water source to the outside as much as possible, reducing the possibility of residual water in the cold water chamber 11.

[0048] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 3In some embodiments, the cold water outlet 111 is located at the lower part of the side wall of the cold water tank 10, which is beneficial to improving the ice-making efficiency of the ice maker 100. The cold water pump 31 is located on the outer side of the lower part of the side wall of the cold water tank 10 to facilitate the installation and removal of the cold water pump 31. Since the water temperature in the lower part of the cold water chamber 11 is lower, the cold water outlet 111 is located at the lower part of the side wall of the cold water tank 10, and the inlet and outlet of the cold water pump 31 can be opposite each other in the front-back direction. This is beneficial to the cold water pump 31 pumping cold water at a lower temperature into the water supply pipeline, and then delivering the cold water to the water inlet 33 through the water supply pipeline. The water inlet 33 supplies water to the ice-making chamber, which accelerates the freezing speed of the cold water in the ice-making chamber and helps to improve the ice-making efficiency of the ice maker 100.

[0049] In addition, compared to the cold water pump 31 being located inside the cold water tank 10, the cold water pump 31 is located on the outer side of the lower part of the side wall of the cold water tank 10, which facilitates the installation and disassembly of the cold water pump 31. When the cold water pump 31 malfunctions or needs maintenance, maintenance personnel can directly disassemble and install the cold water pump 31 from the outside of the cold water tank 10, reducing the difficulty of installing and disassembling the cold water pump 31. At the same time, the cold water pump 31 being located on the outside of the cold water tank 10 effectively reduces the possibility of water entering the motor components inside the cold water pump 31, which can extend the service life of the cold water pump 31 and help to increase the space for storing cold water inside the cold water tank 10, allowing the cold water tank 10 to store more cold water.

[0050] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the ice-making device further includes an ice storage chamber 221, which is located below the ice-making chamber and is used to store ice blocks generated in the ice-making chamber. The ice storage chamber 221 is located above the cold water chamber 11 so that the water in the ice storage chamber 221 and the ice-making chamber can flow directly back to the cold water chamber 11, while reducing the number of pipes between the ice storage chamber 221 and the cold water chamber 11, effectively reducing the production cost of the ice maker 100.

[0051] For example, an ice maker 100 may include an evaporator, an ice-making container 21, and an ice storage container 22. The ice-making container 21 has an ice-making chamber, and at least a portion of the evaporator extends into the ice-making chamber, using the water in the ice-making chamber to make ice. The ice storage container 22 has an ice storage chamber for storing the ice blocks generated in the ice-making chamber. When the ice-making container 21 makes ice, the water inlet 33 supplies water to the ice-making chamber. The evaporator absorbs heat through the phase change of the refrigerant, carrying away the heat from the water, thus cooling the water in the ice-making chamber and causing it to freeze. After ice is generated in the ice-making chamber, the ice-making box 21 can pour ice into the ice storage box 22. The ice can be stored in the ice storage chamber 221, and the ice-making box 21 can be used for the next round of ice making. At the same time, the ice storage box 22 is provided with a flow hole 222. When the ice-making box 21 pours ice into the ice storage box 22, a small amount of water is also poured into the ice storage box 22. The water can flow into the cold water chamber 11 through the flow hole 222, which prevents the ice in the ice storage chamber 221 from sticking together.

[0052] Compared to the method of connecting the ice storage chamber 221 and the cold water chamber 11 with a pipeline to return the water in the ice storage chamber 221 to the cold water chamber 11, the method of directly placing the ice storage chamber 221 above the cold water chamber 11 allows the water in the ice storage chamber 221 to flow directly back into the cold water chamber 11 through the flow hole 222. This method helps to reduce the number of pipelines between the ice storage chamber 221 and the cold water chamber 11, and effectively reduces the production cost of the ice maker 100.

[0053] Combination Figure 3 In some embodiments, the height dimension H1 between the center line of the inlet of the water inlet 33 and the liquid surface in the cold water chamber 11 is not less than 150mm. H1 can be set to 150mm, 155mm, 160mm, 164mm, 175mm, 180mm, etc., to ensure that there is a certain height difference between the center line of the inlet of the water inlet 33 and the liquid surface in the cold water chamber 11. This is beneficial to ensure that there is a high water level in the water supply pipeline so that the water in the water supply pipeline has a large gravitational potential energy.

[0054] For example, the water supply device may also include an inlet pipe 35, which connects the inlet nozzle 33 and the water supply pipeline. The inlet pipe 35 includes a first pipe section and a second pipe section. One end of the first pipe section is connected to the inlet nozzle 33, and the other end of the first pipe section is connected to one end of the second pipe section. The other end of the second pipe section is connected to the water supply pipeline. The first pipe section can extend in the front-back direction so that the center line of the inlet of the inlet nozzle 33 extends in the front-back direction and has a height dimension H1 between it and the liquid surface in the cold water chamber 11. If H1 is not less than 150mm, when the cold water pump 31 stops running, under the action of gravity, the gravitational potential energy of the water is converted into the kinetic energy of the water. The water in the water supply pipeline can flow through the cold water pump 31 and the filter 12 back into the cold water chamber 11 so that the returning water can flush the filter 12. When the water source with greater kinetic energy flows through the filter 12, it can carry away the impurities accumulated on the filter 12, thereby achieving the purpose of cleaning the filter 12.

[0055] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, the cold water pump 31 includes a pump housing, which includes an inlet pipe 311 through which the inlet of the cold water pump 31 is located. The ice maker 100 also includes a sealing sleeve 40, one end of which is fitted over the outside of the inlet pipe 311, and the other end of which has an opening communicating with the cold water chamber 11. The sealing sleeve 40 passes through a cold water outlet 111. The sealing sleeve 40 is used to seal the gap between the cold water outlet 111 and the inlet pipe 311 to prevent water from flowing into the gap between the cold water tank 10 and the cold water pump 31, thereby reducing the possibility of water entering the motor components of the cold water pump 31. A filter 12 is disposed inside the sealing sleeve 40 and separates the opening of the sealing sleeve 40 from the inlet of the cold water pump 31, so that the water in the cold water chamber 11 flows through the filter 12 and then enters the cold water pump 31. The filter 12 plays a certain filtering role on the water in the cold water chamber 11, preventing impurities and foreign objects from entering the cold water pump 31, reducing the risk of damage to the cold water pump 31, and improving water quality.

[0056] Optionally, the filter 12 can be interference-fitted with the sealing sleeve 40, and one side of the filter 12 can abut against the inlet pipe 311 of the cold water pump 31, so that the filter 12 can be stably locked in the sealing sleeve 40, preventing the filter 12 from being pushed out when the water source flows in the sealing sleeve 40, and ensuring that the water in the cold water chamber 11 flows through the filter 12 and is then input into the cold water pump 31.

[0057] Optionally, the filter 12 may include a filter screen, which can effectively filter impurities such as particulate matter and biofilm in the water, preventing impurities from directly entering the cold water pump 31 and causing damage to the cold water pump 31, thus improving water quality. At the same time, the filter screen has a simple structure and low production and maintenance costs.

[0058] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the inlet pipe 311 is provided with a hub 312 and a plurality of ribs 313. The hub 312 is disposed inside the inlet pipe 311 and extends along the axis of the inlet pipe 311. The plurality of ribs 313 are distributed around the hub 312 and connected between the hub 312 and the inlet pipe 311. The hub 312 and the plurality of ribs 313 are distributed opposite to the filter 12. The cold water pump 31 may also include an impeller. When the impeller rotates at high speed, it generates centrifugal force, forcing the water source to be thrown from the center of the impeller to the outlet of the cold water pump 31. During this process, the water source gains velocity and pressure. The axis of the inlet pipe 311 may extend in the front-back direction, and the hub 312 may extend in the front-back direction. The hub 312 is used to install the impeller. At least a portion of the hub 312 may pass through the impeller to prevent the impeller from deflecting in the vertical direction when rotating. After the water in the cold water chamber 11 is filtered by the filter 12, the filtered water is introduced into the inlet pipe 311. Multiple ribs 313 divide the interior of the inlet pipe 311 into multiple flow channels, which helps to guide the water source into the impeller from multiple flow channels, improves the uniformity of the water source flow velocity distribution, and reduces the irregular flow of the water source.

[0059] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the bottom wall of the cold water tank 10 is equipped with an ultraviolet lamp 50, which emits ultraviolet light into the cold water chamber 11 to sterilize and disinfect the water and components inside the cold water chamber 11. Specifically, ultraviolet light irradiates the water in the cold water chamber 11 and the components located within it, such as the walls of the cold water chamber 11, the ice maker 21, and the water inlet 33, causing photolysis and denaturation of bacterial proteins, destroying and killing the bacterial structure, thus achieving sterilization and disinfection. Simultaneously, when ultraviolet light passes through the air, it ionizes oxygen in the air to produce ozone, enhancing the sterilization effect.

[0060] Optionally, the ultraviolet lamp 50 may include an ultraviolet light-emitting diode (LED). Compared with the traditional ultraviolet lamp 50 which uses a mercury lamp to emit ultraviolet light, the LED emits ultraviolet light into the cold water chamber 11, avoiding the problem of mercury leakage, making it more environmentally friendly and safer. At the same time, the LED occupies a smaller volume, preventing the ultraviolet lamp 50 from taking up too much space in the cold water tank 10. In addition, the LED has a longer service life and is easy to control to start and stop.

[0061] Combination Figure 1 , Figures 3 to 5 In some embodiments, the cold water tank 10 includes an insulation cavity 144, a cold water cavity 11 located at the lower part of the insulation cavity 144, an ice-making device located at the upper part of the insulation cavity 144, and an insulation structure 14 located on the outside of the insulation cavity 144. At least a portion of the cold water pump 31 and at least a portion of the water supply pipeline pass through the insulation structure 14. The water inlet 33 is located inside the insulation cavity 144. The sidewall of the insulation cavity 144 is separated from the external environment to prevent the sidewall of the insulation cavity 144 from exchanging heat with the outside air, which is beneficial to maintaining the low temperature environment inside the insulation cavity 144. At the same time, it avoids the outside air from contacting the sidewall of the insulation cavity 144 for heat exchange and generating condensate.

[0062] The cold water tank 10 includes an insulation structure 14, which is located on the outside of the insulation cavity 144. The insulation structure 14 provides insulation for the insulation cavity 144 and prevents condensation from forming on its sidewalls. Because the temperature inside the insulation cavity 144 is low, the sidewalls of the insulation cavity 144 are also at a low temperature. Meanwhile, the air temperature in the external environment is relatively high, and the air contains water vapor. If the water vapor comes into contact with the sidewalls of the insulation cavity 144, it easily condenses and forms condensate. By providing the insulation structure 14, the sidewalls of the insulation cavity 144 are separated from the external environment, preventing heat exchange between the sidewalls of the insulation cavity 144 and the external air. This helps maintain the low-temperature environment inside the insulation cavity 144 and avoids heat exchange and condensation formation between the external air and the sidewalls of the insulation cavity 144.

[0063] In addition, at least a portion of the cold water pump 31 and at least a portion of the water supply pipe are housed within the insulation structure 14, which helps maintain a low-temperature environment within the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipe, and prevents condensation from forming on the outside of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipe. The cold water pump 31 is used to pump water from the cold water chamber 11 into the water supply pipe, and the water supply pipe is used to transport the water from the cold water chamber 11 to the water inlet 33. Because the water temperature in the cold water chamber 11 is low, the temperature inside the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipe is also low. The insulation structure 14 provides insulation for at least a portion of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline, so that the outside of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline can be isolated from the external environment, preventing at least a portion of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline from exchanging heat with the outside air. This helps maintain a low-temperature environment inside the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline, while reducing the contact heat exchange between the outside air and the outer surface of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline, thus generating condensate and ensuring the electrical safety of the ice maker 100.

[0064] Furthermore, the water inlet 33 is located inside the insulation cavity 144. The cold water pump 31 and the water inlet 33 are connected through a water supply pipeline. A part of the water supply pipeline can be installed inside the insulation structure 14, and the other part of the water supply pipeline can be located inside the insulation cavity 144. Even if condensation occurs on the outer surface of the other part of the water supply pipeline, the condensation will flow back into the cold water cavity 11 and will not overflow to the outside of the ice maker 100, thus ensuring the electrical safety of the ice maker 100.

[0065] Combination Figure 1 , Figures 3 to 5 In some embodiments, the insulation structure 14 includes a first insulation layer 141 and a second insulation layer 142. The first insulation layer 141 wraps around the outside of the insulation cavity 144, and the second insulation layer 142 is connected to the outside of the first insulation layer 141. At least a portion of the cold water pump 31 and at least a portion of the water supply pipeline are disposed between the first insulation layer 141 and the second insulation layer 142. The first insulation layer 141 and the second insulation layer 142 provide a certain degree of insulation for the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline, while preventing the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline from contacting the outside air and generating condensate, thereby improving the safety and reliability of using the ice maker 100. The first insulation layer 141 can be used to wrap the cold water cavity 11 to insulate the space inside the cold water cavity 11. The cooperation of the second insulation layer 142 and the first insulation layer 141 can be used to position the cold water pump 31 and at least a portion of the water supply pipeline, thereby achieving insulation of the water supply device and simplifying the insulation structure 14.

[0066] For example, the front-to-back direction of the cold water chamber 11 can be referenced. Figure 1In the front-to-back direction, the first insulation layer 141 can wrap around the outer wall of the cold water cavity 11 to isolate the outer wall of the cold water cavity 11 from the external environment. Since the temperature inside the cold water cavity 11 is low, the temperature of the outer wall of the cold water cavity 11 is also low. By separating the outer wall of the cold water cavity 11 from the external environment through the first insulation layer 141, it is possible to effectively prevent the external air from contacting the outer wall of the cold water cavity 11 for heat exchange and generating condensate.

[0067] The cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline can be located on the front side of the first insulation layer 141. The inlet of the cold water pump 31 can pass through the first insulation layer 141 and the cold water outlet 111 of the cold water chamber 11, so that the inlet of the cold water pump 31 is connected to the cold water chamber 11. One end of the water supply pipeline is connected to the outlet of the cold water pump 31, and the other end of the water supply pipeline is connected to the water inlet 33. The cold water pump 31 can pump the water in the cold water chamber 11 to the water inlet 33 through the water supply pipeline, so as to achieve the purpose of supplying water from the water inlet 33 to the ice box 21.

[0068] Because the water temperature inside the cold water chamber 11 is low, the temperature inside the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline is also low. The second insulation layer 142 can be connected to the front of the first insulation layer 141 to wrap at least a part of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline between the first insulation layer 141 and the second insulation layer 142, effectively improving the insulation effect of the first insulation layer 141 and the second insulation layer 142 on the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline, so as to maintain the low temperature environment inside the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline. At the same time, through the second insulation layer 142, the outside of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline is isolated from the external environment, which can effectively reduce the contact heat exchange between the outside air and the outside of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline and the generation of condensate, thus ensuring the electrical safety of the ice maker 100.

[0069] Optionally, the second insulation layer 142 can be detachably connected to the first insulation layer 141 to facilitate the installation and removal of the second insulation layer 142. When at least a part of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline needs to be replaced and maintained, the maintenance personnel can remove the second insulation layer 142 and then directly remove the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline without disassembling the entire insulation structure 14, which helps to reduce the operational difficulty of installing and removing at least a part of the cold water pump 31 and the water supply pipeline.

[0070] Combination Figure 1 , Figures 3 to 5In some embodiments, the water supply pipeline includes an ice-making pipeline 321 and a connecting pipe (not shown in the figures). The ice-making pipeline 321 is connected to the outlet of the cold water pump 31. The water supply device also includes a multi-way valve 34, which connects the ice-making pipeline 321 and the connecting pipe. This helps to reduce the number of pipelines in the ice maker 100 and lower the production cost of the ice maker 100. The cold water pump 31, the ice-making pipeline 321, and the multi-way valve 34 pass through the insulation structure 14, preventing the cold water pump 31 and the ice-making pipeline from passing through each other. With circuit 321 and multi-way valve 34 exposed to the external environment, the generation of condensate on the surfaces of the cold water pump 31, ice-making circuit 321 and multi-way valve 34 can be effectively reduced, ensuring the electrical safety of the ice maker 100. The connecting pipe is located inside the insulation cavity 144. Even if air comes into contact with the outside of the connecting pipe and exchanges heat to generate condensate, the condensate will flow directly back into the cold water cavity 11, preventing condensate from leaking to the outer surface of the ice maker 100 and improving the safety and reliability of the ice maker 100 during operation.

[0071] For example, the multi-way valve 34 may have a first interface and a second interface. The first interface can be connected to the upper end of the ice-making pipeline 321. The cold water tank 10 may also include an inner shell 15, with a connector 151 on the inner side of the inner shell 15. One end of the connector 151 is connected to the second interface, and the other end of the connector 151 is connected to a connecting pipe. The inner shell 15 has a mounting groove for connecting the second interface, and the mounting groove is connected to the connector 151. The second interface can extend into the mounting groove so that the second interface is connected to the connector 151. The multi-way valve 34 may include a first pipeline and a second pipeline. The first interface is located at one end of the first pipeline, and the second interface is located at one end of the second pipeline. The other ends of the first pipeline and the other ends of the second pipeline are connected to each other. In addition, the water inlet 33 can be opened and closed. When the water inlet 33 is open, the water inlet 33 can supply water to the ice-making chamber; when the water inlet 33 is closed, the water inlet 33 stops supplying water to the ice-making chamber.

[0072] When the water inlet 33 is opened, the cold water pump 31 pumps water from the cold water chamber 11 into the ice-making pipeline 321. The water flows sequentially through the ice-making pipeline 321, the first pipeline, and the second pipeline before being delivered to the connector 151. The connector 151 then delivers the water to the water inlet 33 through a connecting pipe, thus supplying water to the ice-making box 21. The flow path of the water in the cold water chamber 11 at this time is: cold water pump 31 → ice-making pipeline 321 → first pipeline → second pipeline → connector 151 → connecting pipe → water inlet 33.

[0073] When the water inlet 33 is closed, the water inlet 33 cannot supply water to the ice-making chamber, and the cold water pump 31 can stop running, thus avoiding excessive hydraulic pressure in the multi-way valve 34, which could lead to cracking or damage to the multi-way valve 34.

[0074] Compared to setting up multiple pipes to connect the ice-making pipe 321, connector 151 and cold water valve 60 respectively, setting up a multi-way valve 34 to connect the ice-making pipe 321, connector 151 and cold water valve 60 respectively helps to reduce the number of pipes in the ice maker 100, simplify the assembly steps of the ice maker 100, and make the pipes of the ice maker 100 neater and more aesthetically pleasing.

[0075] Optionally, the ice maker 100 may further include a water outlet 201 and a cold water valve 60. The water outlet 201 is used to supply water to the outside, and the cold water valve 60 is used to control the opening and closing of the water outlet 201. When the water outlet 201 is open, it can supply water to the outside; when the water outlet 201 is closed, it stops supplying water to the outside. The multi-way valve 34 may also have a third interface, on which the cold water valve 60 can be installed. The multi-way valve 34 also includes a third pipeline, with the third interface located at one end of the third pipeline. The other end of the third pipeline is connected to the first pipeline, so that the multi-way valve 34 connects the ice-making pipeline 321 and the cold water valve 60. The cold water valve 60 can be opened and closed. When the cold water valve 60 is open, the third pipeline is connected to the water outlet 201; when the cold water valve 60 is closed, the third pipeline is not connected to the water outlet 201.

[0076] When a user needs to draw water, the cold water valve 60 opens. Driven by the cold water pump 31, the water in the cold water chamber 11 flows through the ice-making pipeline 321, the first pipeline, the third pipeline, and the cold water valve 60 before being output to the water outlet 201, which can supply water to the outside. When the user stops drawing water, the cold water valve 60 closes, the third pipeline and the water outlet 201 are not connected, and the water source cannot be delivered to the water outlet 201.

[0077] Combination Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figures 12 to 14 In other examples, the ice maker 100 also includes a cold water valve 60, and the water supply device also includes a multi-way valve 34. The water supply pipeline includes an ice-making pipeline 321 and a connecting pipe. The multi-way valve 34 includes a first interface, a second interface and a third interface. The first interface is connected to the ice-making pipeline 321, the second interface is connected to the connector 151, and the third interface is connected to the cold water valve 60. This helps to reduce the number of pipelines in the ice maker 100 and reduce the production cost of the ice maker 100.

[0078] For example, the first interface can be connected to the end of the ice-making pipe 321; the cold water tank 10 may also include an inner shell 15, with a connector 151 on the inner side of the inner shell 15. One end of the connector 151 is connected to the second interface, and the other end of the connector 151 is connected to a connecting pipe. The inner shell 15 is provided with a mounting groove for connecting the second interface, and the mounting groove is connected to the connector 151. The second interface can extend into the mounting groove so that the second interface is connected to the connector 151; the cold water valve 60 can be installed at the third interface.

[0079] In conjunction with the foregoing, the multi-way valve 34 may include a first pipe, a second pipe, and a third pipe. A first interface is located at one end of the first pipe, a second interface at one end of the second pipe, and a third interface at one end of the third pipe. The other ends of the first, second, and third pipes are interconnected. The ice maker 100 may also include a water outlet 201. A cold water valve 60 can be opened and closed. When the cold water valve 60 is open, the third pipe is connected to the water outlet 201; when the cold water valve 60 is closed, the third pipe is not connected to the water outlet 201. Additionally, the water inlet 33 can be opened and closed. When the water inlet 33 is open, it supplies water to the ice-making container 21; when the water inlet 33 is closed, it stops supplying water to the ice-making container 21.

[0080] When the cold water valve 60 is closed and the inlet 33 is open, the cold water pump 31 pumps water from the cold water chamber 11 into the ice-making pipeline 321. The water flows sequentially through the ice-making pipeline 321, the first pipeline, and the second pipeline before being delivered to the connector 151. The connector 151 then delivers the water to the inlet 33 via a connecting pipe, thus supplying water to the ice container 21. The flow path of the water in the cold water chamber 11 at this time is: cold water pump 31 → ice-making pipeline 321 → first pipeline → second pipeline → connector 151 → connecting pipe → inlet 33.

[0081] When the cold water valve 60 is closed and the inlet 33 is closed, the water source cannot be delivered to the outlet 201, the inlet 33 cannot supply water to the ice box 21, and the cold water pump 31 can stop running, thus avoiding excessive hydraulic pressure in the multi-way valve 34, which could lead to cracking or damage to the multi-way valve 34.

[0082] When the cold water valve 60 is open and the inlet 33 is closed, the third pipe and the outlet 201 are connected. When the cold water pump 31 is running, it can pump the water in the cold water chamber 11 into the ice-making pipe 321. The water source flows through the ice-making pipe 321, the first pipe, and the third pipe in sequence and is then delivered to the outlet 201 to achieve the purpose of discharging cold water from the outlet 201. At this time, the flow path of the water in the cold water chamber 11 is: cold water pump 31 → ice-making pipe 321 → first pipe → third pipe → outlet 201.

[0083] When the cold water valve 60 and the inlet 33 are open, the third pipe and the outlet 201 are connected. At the same time, the inlet 33 can supply water to the ice maker 21. The cold water pump 31 pumps the water in the cold water chamber 11 into the ice-making pipe 321. A portion of the water flows sequentially through the ice-making pipe 321, the first pipe, and the second pipe before being delivered to the connector 151. The connector 151 delivers the water to the inlet 33 through the connecting pipe, thus achieving the purpose of supplying water to the ice maker 21 through the inlet 33. At this time, the flow path of the water in the cold water chamber 11 is: cold water pump 31 → ice-making pipe 321 → first pipe → second pipe → connector 151 → connecting pipe → inlet 33; the other portion of the water flows sequentially through the ice-making pipe 321, the first pipe, and the third pipe before being delivered to the outlet 201, thus achieving the purpose of discharging cold water from the outlet 201. At this time, the water flow path in the cold water chamber 11 is: cold water pump 31 → ice making pipeline 321 → first pipeline → third pipeline → water outlet 201.

[0084] In addition, compared to setting up multiple pipes to connect the ice-making pipe 321, connector 151 and cold water valve 60 respectively, setting up a multi-way valve 34 to connect the ice-making pipe 321, connector 151 and cold water valve 60 respectively helps to reduce the number of pipes in the ice maker 100, simplify the assembly steps of the ice maker 100, and make the pipes of the ice maker 100 neater and more aesthetically pleasing.

[0085] Optionally, combined Figure 13 An ice maker 100 can be installed inside a water purification device 1000 for producing cold water and ice. The water purification device 1000 may also include a warm water valve 420 and a warm water chamber 413. The warm water valve 420 can be installed on a multi-way valve 34 and can control the connection between the water outlet 201 and the warm water chamber 413. The warm water chamber 413 is used to store warm water.

[0086] When the warm water valve 420 is closed, the water outlet 201 and the warm water chamber 413 are not connected, and warm water does not flow from the water outlet 201. When the warm water valve 420 is open, the water outlet 201 connects to the warm water chamber 413, allowing water from the chamber to be supplied to the water outlet 201, from which the user can collect warm water. Compared to the 1000 water purifier which only has a hot water valve 412 and a cold water valve 60, the addition of the warm water valve 420 allows users to directly collect warm water from the warm water chamber 413 without the need for mixing hot and cold water to avoid uneven mixing. Furthermore, users can collect water at different temperatures, further improving the user's water collection experience.

[0087] Combination Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 14In some examples, the ice maker 100 also includes a circulation valve 414 and a one-way valve 415. The multi-way valve 34 also includes a fourth port. The fourth port, circulation valve 414, and one-way valve 415 are connected in series. The one-way valve 415 is configured to control the unidirectional flow of liquid from the fourth port to the circulation valve 414. The circulation valve 414 can be installed at the fourth port. The multi-way valve 34 can also include a fourth pipeline. The fourth port is located at one end of the fourth pipeline, and the other end of the fourth pipeline can be interconnected with the first pipeline, the second pipeline, and the third pipeline.

[0088] In conjunction with the foregoing, the ice maker 100 can be installed within the water purification equipment 1000 for producing cold water and ice. For example... Figures 12 to 14 As shown, the water purification device 1000 may also include a heating component. A one-way valve 415 can connect to the heating component, allowing it to generate hot water and deliver it to the ice maker 100, thus enabling the ice maker 100 to sterilize using hot water. During the ice-making and cooling process of the water purification device 1000, the one-way valve 415 effectively prevents hot water from the hot water tank 411 from flowing back into the cold water chamber 11 or the ice container 21, avoiding a rise in temperature within the ice maker 100 and improving its ice-making and cooling efficiency.

[0089] For example, combined Figures 12 to 14 The heating component includes a warm water chamber 413, a hot water tank 411, and a hot water valve 412. The top of the hot water tank 411 is connected to the top of the hot water valve 412 and the top of the warm water chamber 413, and the bottom of the hot water tank 411 is connected to the bottom of the warm water chamber 413. The warm water chamber 413 is located above the hot water tank 411 and above the cold water chamber 11. The hot water valve 412 can also be installed on a multi-way valve 34 and can connect the hot water tank 411 and the water outlet 201. When the water purifier 1000 needs to draw hot water from the water outlet 201, the hot water valve 412 can be opened. Due to the height difference between the water level in the warm water chamber 413 and the water level in the hot water tank, the water in the warm water chamber 413 is forced into the hot water tank 411 so that the water in the hot water tank 411 can be output from the water outlet 201 after passing through the hot water valve 412.

[0090] Among them, combined Figure 14When the ice maker 100 needs to use hot water for sterilization, the hot water valve 412 and the cold water valve 60 can be closed, and the circulation valve 414 can be opened. The water levels in the cold water chamber 11 and the warm water chamber 413 reach their maximum levels. The cold water pump 31 pumps the water in the cold water chamber 11 into the ice-making pipeline 321. After flowing through the ice-making pipeline 321, the water enters the multi-way valve 34. The water can then flow through the fourth pipeline, the circulation valve 414, and the check valve 415 before returning to the hot tank 411, so that the hot tank 411 heats the water. As the water continuously flows into the hot tank 411, the heated water in the hot tank is forced into the warm water chamber. Inside 413, the water overflows from the warm water chamber 413 and flows into the cold water chamber 11. The cold water pump 31 can continue to pump the water in the cold water chamber 11 to the ice-making pipeline 321 so that the water source is circulated and heated, thereby raising the water temperature in the cold water chamber 11. The cold water pump 31 can also pump the water in the cold water chamber 11 into the ice-making pipeline 321. After the water source flows through the ice-making pipeline 321, it enters the multi-way valve 34. The hot water can flow through the second pipeline, connector 151 and connecting pipe in sequence so that the hot water is delivered to the water inlet 33. The water inlet 33 can input the hot water into the ice box 21 so as to achieve the disinfection and sterilization of the ice maker 100 by the hot water.

[0091] At this time, the flow path for heating the water in the cold water chamber 11 is: cold water pump 31 → ice making pipeline 321 → first pipeline → fourth pipeline → circulation valve 414 → one-way valve 415 → hot tank 411 → warm water chamber 413 → cold water chamber 11.

[0092] Furthermore, after the water overflows from the ice container 21, it can flow into the cold water chamber 11. When the temperature in the cold water chamber 11 is high, for example, above 70°C, the circulation valve 414 can be closed, and the hot tank 411 can stop heating the water source to reduce the energy loss of heating the water source. When the temperature in the cold water chamber 11 is low, for example, below 60°C, the circulation valve 414 can be opened, and the water in the cold water chamber 11 can be transported to the hot tank 411 for heating to raise the water temperature in the cold water chamber 11.

[0093] Furthermore, combined Figure 3 and Figure 5 The insulation structure 14 may also include a third insulation layer 143. The multi-way valve 34 may have a certain installation space so that the third insulation layer 143 can be embedded in the multi-way valve 34. The third insulation layer 143 can wrap around the outside of the third pipeline, effectively improving the insulation effect of the third insulation layer 143 on the third pipeline, so as to maintain the low temperature environment inside the third pipeline. At the same time, the third insulation layer 143 prevents the third pipeline from being exposed to the external environment, which can effectively reduce the contact heat exchange between the external air and the outside of the third pipeline and the generation of condensate, thus ensuring the electrical safety of the ice maker 100.

[0094] CombinationFigures 6 to 9 In some embodiments, the ice-making device further includes an ice-making container 21, which has an ice-making position 211 and an ice-removing position 212; the ice-making device also includes a switch device 23, which is configured to open the water inlet 33 when the ice-making container 21 is in the ice-making position 211, so that the water inlet 33 can supply water to the ice-making container 21; and to close the water inlet 33 when the ice-making container 21 is in the ice-removing position 212, so that the water inlet 33 stops supplying water to the ice-making container 21.

[0095] Specifically, when the ice maker 21 is in the ice-making position 211, the switch device 23 opens the water inlet 33, allowing water to enter the ice-making chamber. Under the action of the evaporator, the water in the ice-making chamber freezes. After ice making is completed, the ice maker 21 can be flipped to the ice-removing position 212. At this time, the switch device 23 closes the water inlet 33, preventing water from entering the ice-making chamber. This avoids water from the water inlet 33 flowing onto the ice when the ice maker 21 is in the ice-removing position 212, causing the ice to melt. This reduces the problem of ice sticking and improves the uniformity of ice making in the ice maker 100.

[0096] For example, the ice maker 100 can be used in the water purification equipment 1000. An ice storage chamber 221 can be provided below the ice maker 21. When the ice maker 21 is flipped to the ice release position 212, the ice can be released from the ice maker cavity and collected in the ice storage chamber 221. It can be understood that when the ice maker 21 is in the ice release position 212, if the water inlet 33 is still open, water will flow into the ice storage chamber 221 below the ice maker 21, causing ice to stick together and wasting energy. By setting the switch device 23, the water inlet 33 is closed when the ice maker 21 is in the ice release position 212, avoiding the sticking of ice in the ice storage chamber 221, improving the ice making uniformity of the ice maker 100, and reducing the blockage when the water purification equipment 1000 dispenses ice, ensuring that the water purification equipment 1000 can dispense ice continuously and stably.

[0097] The switch device 23 opens the water inlet 33 when the ice maker 21 is in the ice-making position 211. For example, the switch device 23 may include an electronic switch; or, the switch device 23 may be a mechanical structure that cooperates with the ice maker 21. That is, when the ice maker 21 is in the ice-making position 211, the ice maker 21 can trigger the switch device 23 to open the water inlet 33, and when the ice maker 21 is in the de-icing position 212, the ice maker 21 releases the switch device 23 to close the water inlet 33.

[0098] Optionally, the machine body 200 also includes an ice storage box 22, which is located below the ice maker 21. The bottom of the ice storage box 22 has a flow hole 222. The cold water chamber 11 is located below the ice storage box 22 and is connected to the flow hole 222. Specifically, after the ice maker 21 finishes making ice, the ice can be collected in the ice storage box 22 for easy removal by the user. The bottom of the ice storage box 22 has a flow hole 222, and the bottom has a cold water chamber 11, which allows a small amount of water in the ice storage box 22 to be collected into the cold water chamber 11 through the flow hole 222, preventing water from melting the ice and causing the ice to stick together.

[0099] Combination Figures 6 to 9 In some embodiments of the present invention, the switch device 23 is located at the water inlet 33. When the ice maker 21 is in the ice-making position 211, the switch device 23 is activated to open the water inlet 33, allowing water to enter the ice-making chamber. When the ice maker 21 is in the de-icing position 212, the switch device 23 is released to close the water inlet 33, at which time the water inlet 33 is in a closed state. By locating the switch device 23 inside the water inlet 33, it is easier for the switch device 23 to stably open and close the water inlet 33. Furthermore, by activating and releasing the switch device 23 through the ice maker 21, the switch device 23 can open and close the water inlet 33, eliminating the need for a separate, complex control switch device 23 structure, thus simplifying the structure of the ice maker 100.

[0100] Combination Figures 6 to 9 In some embodiments, the switching device 23 includes a valve core 231 and an elastic element 232. At least a portion of the valve core 231 is disposed within the water inlet 33, and the valve core 231 is movable between the open and closed positions of the water inlet 33. The elastic element 232 is configured to elastically stop the valve core 231 and drive the valve core 231 to close the water inlet 33. When the ice maker 21 is in the ice-making position 211, it stops the valve core 231 and drives the valve core 231 to open the water inlet 33.

[0101] Specifically, the valve core 231 may have a first position with the inlet nozzle 33 open and a second position with the inlet nozzle 33 closed. The valve core 231 is movable between the first and second positions. By setting the valve core 231, the switching device 23 can stably open and close the inlet nozzle 33, thereby improving the reliability of the switching device 23. Combined with... Figure 6 and Figure 7 When the ice maker 21 is in the ice-making position 211, the ice maker 21 stops the valve core 231 and overcomes the elastic force of the elastic element 232, causing the valve core 231 to open the water inlet 33, allowing fluid to enter the ice-making chamber from the water inlet 33. Figure 8 and Figure 9When the ice maker 21 switches to the de-icing position 212, the ice maker 21 releases the valve core 231. The elastic element 232 breaks the water film tension and presses down on the valve core 231, causing the valve core 231 to close the water inlet 33, preventing water from flowing onto the ice through the water inlet 33. By setting the elastic element 232, the valve core 231 can stably close the water inlet 33 when the ice maker 21 is in the de-icing position 212, preventing water leakage from the water inlet 33 when the ice maker 21 is in the de-icing position 212.

[0102] For example, the side wall of the water inlet 33 may be provided with a water inlet, and the bottom of the water inlet 33 may be provided with a water outlet. The valve core 231 can move up and down within the water inlet 33, and the second position of the valve core 231 is located below the first position. Specifically, when the ice maker 21 is in the ice-making position 211, the ice maker 21 triggers the valve core 231 to move upward to the first position and open the water inlet 33, connecting the water inlet to the water outlet, allowing water to flow into the ice maker 21; when the ice maker 21 is in the de-icing position 212, the ice maker 21 releases the valve core 231, which can move downward under the action of gravity and close the water inlet 33; or, the switching device 23 may include an elastic element 232, and when the ice maker 21 is in the de-icing position 212, the valve core 231 can move under the elastic drive of the elastic element 232 and close the water inlet 33.

[0103] For example, the elastic element 232 can be a spring, which simplifies the structure of the switching device 23 and improves the stability of the switching device 23 in closing the water inlet 33.

[0104] Combination Figures 1 to 14 According to an embodiment of the present invention, a water purification device 1000 includes: a body 200; the aforementioned ice maker 100, the ice-making device including an ice-making box 21 rotatably connected to the body 200; and a motor 300 connected to the body 200 and drivenly connected to the ice-making box 21. Specifically, the motor 300 can drive the ice-making box 21 to rotate, the ice-making box 21 having an ice-making position 211 and an ice-removing position 212, so that the motor 300 drives the ice-making box 21 to rotate between the ice-making position 211 and the ice-removing position 212. For example, when ice is needed, the motor 300 can drive the ice-making box 21 to rotate to the ice-making position 211, and when ice making is completed, the motor 300 can drive the ice-making box 21 to rotate to the ice-removing position 212.

[0105] Among them, combined Figure 10 and Figure 11The ice maker 100 can be located on the upper part of the body 200. The water purification device 1000 can include a storage area for placing a water bucket. The storage area can be located below the ice maker 100. That is, purified water can be placed in the storage area, and the water purification device 1000 can heat, cool, and make ice from the purified water. Alternatively, the water purification device 1000 can include a filter element. That is, the water purification device 1000 can simultaneously filter water, heat and cool water, and make ice.

[0106] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the ice maker 1000 of the water purification device 100 has the specific structure of the ice maker 100 as described above. Since the water purification device 1000 adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0107] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0108] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0109] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0110] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0111] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0112] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An ice maker (100), characterized in that, include: A cold water tank (10) includes a cold water chamber (11) and a cold water outlet (111) located at the lower part of the cold water chamber (11); An ice-making device, the ice-making device including an ice-making chamber located above the cold water chamber (11); A water supply device, comprising a cold water pump (31), a water supply pipeline and a water inlet (33), wherein the cold water pump (31) is located at the lower part of the cold water tank (10), the inlet of the cold water pump (31) is opposite to the cold water outlet (111) and communicates with the lower part of the cold water chamber (11), at least a portion of the water supply pipeline extends in the vertical direction, the lower end of the water supply pipeline is communicated with the outlet of the cold water pump (31) and the upper end is communicated with the water inlet (33), and the water inlet (33) is configured to supply water to the ice-making chamber; The cold water tank (10) further includes a filter (12) disposed at the cold water outlet (111). The filter (12) is configured to filter water flowing from the cold water chamber (11) into the inlet of the cold water pump (31), and at least a portion of the water in the water supply pipeline can flow back to the cold water chamber (11) through the filter (12).

2. The ice maker (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner bottom surface of the cold water tank (10) is provided with a drainage groove (13), and the inner bottom surface of the cold water tank (10) is configured to slope downward from all sides to the drainage groove (13), and the cold water outlet (111) is higher than the drainage groove (13).

3. The ice maker (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cold water outlet (111) is located at the lower part of the side wall of the cold water tank (10), and the cold water pump (31) is located on the outer side of the lower part of the side wall of the cold water tank (10).

4. The ice maker (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice-making device also includes an ice storage chamber (221), which is located below the ice-making cavity and above the cold water cavity (11).

5. The ice maker (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height dimension H1 between the center line of the inlet of the water inlet (33) and the liquid surface in the cold water chamber (11) is not less than 150 mm.

6. The ice maker (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cold water pump (31) includes a pump housing, the pump housing includes an inlet pipe (311) that houses the inlet of the cold water pump (31), the ice maker (100) also includes a sealing sleeve (40), one end of the sealing sleeve (40) is fitted outside the inlet pipe (311), and the other end is provided with an opening that communicates with the cold water chamber (11), the sealing sleeve (40) passes through the cold water outlet (111), and the filter (12) is located inside the sealing sleeve (40) and separates the opening of the sealing sleeve (40) from the inlet of the cold water pump (31).

7. The ice maker (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The inlet pipe (311) is provided with a hub (312) and a plurality of ribs (313). The hub (312) is located inside the inlet pipe (311) and extends along the axis of the inlet pipe (311). The plurality of ribs (313) are distributed around the hub (312) and connected between the hub (312) and the inlet pipe (311). The hub (312) and the plurality of ribs (313) are distributed opposite to the filter (12).

8. The ice maker (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom wall of the cold water tank (10) is provided with an ultraviolet lamp (50), which is used to emit ultraviolet light into the cold water chamber (11).

9. The ice maker (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cold water tank (10) includes an insulation cavity (144), the cold water cavity (11) is located at the lower part of the insulation cavity (144), the ice-making device is located at the upper part of the insulation cavity (144), the cold water tank (10) includes an insulation structure (14), the insulation structure (14) is located on the outside of the insulation cavity (144), at least a part of the cold water pump (31) and at least a part of the water supply pipeline pass through the insulation structure (14), and the water inlet (33) is located inside the insulation cavity (144).

10. The ice maker (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The insulation structure (14) includes a first insulation layer (141) and a second insulation layer (142). The first insulation layer (141) is wrapped around the outside of the insulation cavity (144), and the second insulation layer (142) is connected to the outside of the first insulation layer (141). At least a part of the cold water pump (31) and at least a part of the water supply pipeline are disposed between the first insulation layer (141) and the second insulation layer (142).

11. The ice maker (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The water supply pipeline includes an ice-making pipeline (321) and a connecting pipe. The ice-making pipeline (321) is connected to the outlet of the cold water pump (31). The water supply device also includes a multi-way valve (34). The multi-way valve (34) is connected to the ice-making pipeline (321) and the connecting pipe. The cold water pump (31), the ice-making pipeline (321) and the multi-way valve (34) pass through the insulation structure (14). The connecting pipe is located inside the insulation cavity (144).

12. The ice maker (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice-making device further includes an ice-making box (21) having an ice-making position (211) and an ice-removing position (212); the ice-making device further includes a switch (23) configured to open the water inlet (33) when the ice-making box (21) is in the ice-making position (211) and close the water inlet (33) when the ice-making box (21) is in the ice-removing position (212).

13. The ice maker (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The switching device (23) includes a valve core (231) and an elastic element (232). At least a portion of the valve core (231) is disposed inside the water inlet (33), and the valve core (231) is movable between the open and closed positions of the water inlet (33). The elastic element (232) is configured to elastically abut against the valve core (231) and drive the valve core (231) to close the water inlet (33). When the ice maker (21) is in the ice-making position (211), it abuts against the valve core (231) and drives the valve core (231) to open the water inlet (33).

14. A water purification device (1000), characterized in that, include: Body (200); The ice maker (100) according to any one of claims 1-13, the ice making device includes an ice making box (21), the ice making box (21) being rotatably connected to the body (200); An electric motor is connected to the body (200) and is drive-connected to the ice maker (21).

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