Ice storage assembly, ice making assembly and refrigeration equipment

Abstract

The ice storage assembly comprises a main body part, an ice outlet door and a driving device, an ice storage cavity and an ice outlet are formed in the main body part, the ice outlet communicates with the upper portion of the ice storage cavity, and the axis of the ice outlet extends in the front-back direction; the ice outlet door covers the outer side of the ice outlet in an openable manner, and the upper side part of the ice outlet door is rotatably connected to the upper side part of the ice outlet; the driving device is arranged on the main body part and is used for driving ice in the ice storage cavity to move to the ice outlet and driving the ice to abut against the ice outlet door to separate the lower side part of the ice outlet door from the lower side part of the ice outlet so as to discharge the ice from the ice outlet door, a first magnetic attraction piece is arranged on the edge of the ice outlet, and a second magnetic attraction piece is arranged on the edge of the ice outlet. The ice outlet door is provided with a second magnetic attraction part corresponding to the first magnetic attraction part, and the first magnetic attraction part and the second magnetic attraction part are in separable magnetic attraction fit and used for covering the ice outlet door on the outer side of the ice outlet. According to the ice storage assembly, automatic door closing is achieved through the magnetic attraction force, so that the structure is simplified, and the cost is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigeration equipment technology, and in particular to an ice storage component, an ice making component, and a refrigeration device. Background Technology

[0002] Ice makers typically use an ice outlet door to open and close the ice outlet. However, some ice makers in this technology use electromagnets or motors to open and close the ice outlet door, resulting in a more complex structure, higher manufacturing and maintenance costs, and increased energy consumption during operation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems in related technologies. Therefore, one objective of this invention is to provide an ice storage assembly with a magnetic structure. By incorporating magnetic components on the ice outlet and the ice door, the ice outlet can be magnetically closed, achieving automatic closing through magnetic force, and simplifying the structure while reducing costs.

[0004] Another object of the present invention is to provide an ice-making assembly, including the aforementioned ice storage assembly.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide a refrigeration device, including the aforementioned ice storage component or the aforementioned ice making component.

[0006] An ice storage assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a main body, an ice outlet door, and a driving device. The main body has an ice storage cavity and an ice outlet. The ice outlet door communicates with the upper part of the ice storage cavity, and the axis of the ice outlet door extends in a front-rear direction. The ice outlet door is rotatably covered on the outside of the ice outlet door, and the upper part of the ice outlet door is rotatably connected to the upper part of the ice outlet door. The driving device is disposed in the main body and is used to drive the ice in the ice storage cavity to move to the ice outlet door, and to drive the ice to push against the ice outlet door so that the lower part of the ice outlet door separates from the lower part of the ice outlet door, so as to discharge ice from the ice outlet door. The edge of the ice outlet door is provided with a first magnetic suction member, and the ice outlet door is provided with a second magnetic suction member corresponding to the first magnetic suction member. The first magnetic suction member and the second magnetic suction member are magnetically attracted and separable, so as to cover the outside of the ice outlet door.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ice storage assembly is equipped with magnetic components on the ice outlet and the ice outlet door, so that the ice outlet can be magnetically closed. The door can be automatically closed by magnetic force, which also helps to simplify the structure and reduce costs.

[0008] In addition, the ice storage assembly according to the above embodiments of the present invention may also have the following additional technical features: In some embodiments of the present invention, the first magnetic suction member is disposed at at least one of the lower edge, left edge and right edge of the ice outlet, and the second magnetic suction member is disposed at the position of the ice outlet corresponding to the first magnetic suction member.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice outlet door is provided with a first mounting groove, the opening of the first mounting groove is located on the side opposite to the ice outlet, and the second magnetic suction member is provided in the first mounting groove.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, a second mounting groove is provided on the outer side of the ice outlet edge, the first magnetic member is disposed in the second mounting groove, the second mounting groove is opposite to the first mounting groove, and the first magnetic member is disposed in the second mounting groove.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice storage assembly further includes a fixing member, at least a portion of which is disposed in the first mounting groove, the first end face of which abuts against the first magnetic member, and the second end face of which closes the opening.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, the periphery of the opening of the first mounting groove is provided with a first flange, and the periphery of the second end face is provided with a second flange, wherein the first flange abuts against the second flange.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, the fastener is interference-fitted with the first mounting groove.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice outlet door includes a panel and a rib. The panel is opposite to the ice outlet. The rib is located on the side of the panel away from the ice outlet. The rib includes a first rib and a second rib located on both sides of the panel, and a third rib located on the lower edge of the panel. The first mounting groove is located on the lower edge of the panel, and the third rib is located on opposite sides of the first mounting groove.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, the driving device includes an ice-feeding component and a motor. The ice-feeding component includes a spiral portion that extends spirally in an inclined direction, with one end facing the ice outlet. The motor can drive the ice-feeding component to rotate about the axis of the spiral portion. The inclined direction is configured to be downward in a direction away from the ice outlet. When the ice outlet is closed, the minimum distance L1 between the end of the spiral portion facing the ice outlet and the ice outlet is less than the minimum depth dimension L2 of the ice outlet.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present invention, the spiral diameter of the spiral portion is D1, and the minimum distance L3 between the axis of the spiral portion and the bottom surface of the ice outlet satisfies: ; and / or, 0.8.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice storage cavity includes a first sidewall, one end of which is opposite to the lower edge of the ice outlet and extends along the inclined direction to the bottom of the ice storage cavity. The bottom surface of the ice outlet is inclined upward along the ice outlet direction, and the inclination angle of the bottom surface of the ice outlet relative to the horizontal plane is smaller than the inclination angle of the first sidewall relative to the horizontal plane.

[0018] An ice-making assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the aforementioned ice storage assembly.

[0019] According to embodiments of the present invention, by applying the aforementioned ice storage component to the ice-making assembly, the structure can be simplified and the cost reduced.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice-making assembly further includes a cold water tank, the ice storage assembly is disposed inside the cold water tank, and the side wall of the ice outlet is integrally formed with the inner shell of the cold water tank, and the bottom wall of the ice outlet is inclined upward in the ice outlet direction, and the ice outlet is integrally formed with the cold water tank.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cold water tank is provided with a cold water cavity, the ice storage assembly is disposed inside the cold water tank and located above the cold water cavity, and there is a gap between the ice outlet and the side wall of the ice storage cavity communicating with the cold water cavity.

[0022] The refrigeration equipment according to embodiments of the present invention includes the aforementioned ice storage component or the aforementioned ice making component.

[0023] The refrigeration equipment according to embodiments of the present invention can simplify the structure and reduce costs by applying the aforementioned ice storage component or ice making component. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 These are schematic diagrams of the refrigeration equipment in some embodiments of the present invention; Figure 2 These are partial structural cross-sectional views of the refrigeration equipment in some embodiments of the present invention; Figure 3 These are partial structural schematic diagrams of the refrigeration equipment in some embodiments of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a magnified view of a partial structure of the ice storage component in some embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] Figure label: 100. Ice storage assembly; 101. Ice storage cavity; 110. Ice outlet; 11. Ice outlet door; 111. Panel; 112. Rib; 12. Drive device; 121. Motor; 122. Spiral part; 131. First magnetic suction component; 132. Second magnetic suction component; 102. First mounting groove; 103. Second mounting groove; 133. Fixing component; 1121. First flange; 1331. Second flange; 14. First side wall; 104. Guide groove; 15. Rib; 21. Cold water tank; 210. Gap; 201. Cold water cavity; 22. Ice maker; 23. Evaporator; 202. Ice maker cavity; 24. Ice maker column; 310. Ice outlet channel; 311. Connecting section; 312. Extension section; 410. Water outlet; 400. Door body; 500. Water receiving box. Detailed Implementation

[0026] 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.

[0027] Combination Figures 1 to 4 According to an embodiment of the present invention, an ice storage assembly 100 includes: a main body, an ice outlet 11, and a driving device 12. The main body is provided with an ice storage cavity 101 and an ice outlet 110. The ice outlet 110 communicates with the upper part of the ice storage cavity 101, and the axis of the ice outlet 110 extends in the front-back direction. Ice blocks can be stored in the ice storage cavity 101. The ice outlet 110 is located in the upper part of the ice storage cavity 101 to prevent ice blocks from falling out when not in the ice-discharging state.

[0028] An openable cover 11 is located on the outside of an ice outlet 110, and the upper part of the ice outlet 11 is rotatably connected to the upper part of the ice outlet 110. This allows the ice outlet 110 to be closed or sealed when ice is not being discharged, preventing cold leakage and preventing ice from falling out. Furthermore, the rotatable connection of the upper part of the ice outlet 11 to the upper part of the ice outlet 11 allows the lower part of the ice outlet 11 to be opened. During ice discharge, ice can be discharged with a small opening angle, minimizing cold loss. After ice discharge is complete, the ice outlet 11 can be closed by gravity, further reducing cold loss.

[0029] A drive device 12 is located in the main body. The drive device 12 is used to move the ice in the ice storage chamber 101 to the ice outlet 110, and to drive the ice to push against the ice outlet door 11, causing the lower part of the ice outlet door 11 to separate from the lower part of the ice outlet 110, so that ice can be discharged from the ice outlet door 11. Specifically, when ice needs to be discharged, the drive device 12 is activated to drive the ice in the ice storage chamber 101 to move towards the ice outlet 110, allowing the ice to push open the ice outlet door 11 and discharge the ice. For example, the drive device 12 pushes or stirs the ice towards the ice outlet 110, allowing the ice to overcome the magnetic attraction and open the ice outlet door 11. When the driving force decreases or disappears, the ice outlet door 11 closes due to the magnetic attraction. However, when the drive device 12 stirs the ice stored in the ice storage chamber 101, the time is too short to overcome the magnetic force, therefore, the ice will not fall out.

[0030] More specifically, the edge of the ice outlet 110 is provided with a first magnetic suction member 131, and the ice outlet door 11 is provided with a second magnetic suction member 132 corresponding to the first magnetic suction member 131. The first magnetic suction member 131 and the second magnetic suction member 132 can be magnetically attracted separately, so that the ice outlet door 11 covers the outside of the ice outlet 110. Specifically, the ice outlet door 11 can be automatically closed by magnetic attraction, and its simple structure helps to reduce costs.

[0031] During ice discharge, the ice-discharging device pushes ice blocks towards the ice outlet 110. When the ice blocks move to a certain extent towards the ice outlet 110, they overcome the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic suction element 131 and the second magnetic suction element 132, opening the ice outlet 110. The ice blocks can then be discharged from the ice outlet 110. After ice discharge is completed, the ice blocks no longer move towards the ice outlet 110, the force pushing the ice outlet gate 11 weakens or disappears, and the magnetic attraction drives the ice outlet gate 11 to move in the direction of closing the ice outlet 110. This achieves automatic closing of the ice outlet gate 11. Furthermore, when there is no driving force to discharge ice blocks, the magnetic attraction ensures that the ice outlet gate 11 is always in a closed state. In addition, the magnetic attraction can reduce the opening of the ice outlet gate 11 to a certain extent. When the amount of ice discharged from the ice outlet 110 is small or the opening is small, the magnetic attraction can always attract the ice outlet gate 11 to move in the closing direction, thereby minimizing the gap 210 of the ice outlet 110 and further reducing cold loss. When ice is not being discharged, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element 131 and the second magnetic element 132 can prevent the ice located at the ice outlet 110 from falling out.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ice storage assembly 100 is provided with magnetic elements on the ice outlet 110 and the ice door 11, so that the ice outlet 110 can be magnetically closed. The magnetic force can reduce the opening of the ice outlet 110 when it is open and realize automatic closing, which also helps to simplify the structure and reduce costs.

[0033] Optionally, the first magnetic chuck 131 and the second magnetic chuck 132 can be a magnet and a magnetically conductive material, or they can be two magnets. For example, the first magnetic chuck 131 and the second magnetic chuck 132 can be installed separately, with their magnetic poles aligned in a fixed direction to achieve polarity attraction. Alternatively, the edge of the ice outlet 110 can be directly constructed of a magnetically conductive material such as iron, with a magnet on the ice outlet door 11. When the door is closed, the magnet attracts the iron material, allowing direct contact and attraction between the two magnetic chucks, which improves the stability of the attraction. Specifically, the ice outlet door 11 can be made of plastic, making it lightweight, flexible, and easy to push open, and it can be magnetically secured when closed. Alternatively, the second magnetic chuck 132 can be located at the lower edge or bottom of the ice outlet door 11, increasing the weight of the lower part of the ice outlet door 11, lowering its center of gravity, and improving the stability of the ice outlet door 11 during movement.

[0034] More specifically, the dimensions of the first magnetic suction member 131 and the second magnetic suction member 132 can be set according to the actual application, so as to reasonably adjust the magnetic suction force. For example, it can be set according to the minimum ice output of the ice making equipment, so that the magnetic suction force after the two are attracted can be balanced between the door closing stability and the door opening driving force. This can ensure that the ice cubes will not fall out when the door is closed, and that the ice cubes can overcome the magnetic suction force and push open the ice exit door 11 when the driving device 12 drives the ice cubes to exit.

[0035] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 4 In some embodiments of the present invention, the first magnetic suction member 131 is disposed at at least one of the lower edge, left edge and right edge of the ice outlet 110, and the second magnetic suction member 132 is disposed at the position of the ice outlet 11 corresponding to the first magnetic suction member 131.

[0036] In other words, the magnetic suction component can be located on the side or bottom of the ice outlet 110. For example, the first magnetic suction component 131 and the second magnetic suction component 132 can be provided on the left and right sides or opposite sides of the ice outlet 110, thereby improving the magnetic suction force, improving the closing effect, and maintaining the stability of the ice outlet door 11 when closed.

[0037] Alternatively, the first magnetic suction member 131 can be located at the lower edge of the ice outlet 110, and the second magnetic suction member 132 can be located at the ice outlet 11 and close to the lower edge of the ice outlet 110. The magnetic attraction is below the ice outlet 110, which helps to attract the ice outlet 11 to move in the closing direction, thereby improving the closing effect of the ice outlet 11 or reducing the gap when the ice outlet 11 is opened, thus reducing the loss of cold energy.

[0038] In practical applications, after the ice is removed, the ice outlet 11 can fall downwards under the action of gravity and automatically closes due to the attraction of the first magnetic suction member 131. In addition, the second magnetic suction member 132 is located at the bottom or lower edge of the ice outlet 110, which improves the reliability of the ice outlet 11 closing from the bottom, improves the closing effect, and prevents the ice outlet 11 from opening during the ice stirring process.

[0039] Of course, the first magnetic suction element 131 can be located on the left and right sides of the ice outlet 110, or simultaneously on the left and right sides and the lower edge of the ice outlet 110. In practical applications, it can be reasonably arranged according to the ice storage capacity of the ice storage cavity 101 or the size or weight of the ice block, so as to ensure that the ice outlet 11 can stably close the ice outlet 110 when no ice is being discharged, and when ice is being discharged, the driving device 12 can drive the ice block to push open the ice outlet 11.

[0040] Combination Figure 4 In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice outlet 11 is provided with a first mounting groove 102, the opening of which is located on the side opposite to the ice outlet 110, and the second magnetic member 132 is disposed in the first mounting groove 102. This facilitates assembly, and after assembly, the second magnetic member 132 can be closer to the ice outlet 110, which helps to improve the magnetic attraction effect. Thus, the second magnetic member 132 can be installed into the first mounting groove 102 from the opening, realizing the installation of the second magnetic member 132, which is convenient for assembly, and the first mounting groove 102 can also play the role of strengthening the structural strength and protecting the second magnetic member 132. Since the second magnetic member 132 is installed in the first mounting groove 102 from the side opposite to the ice outlet 110, it will not come into contact with the ice during ice dispensing, thereby preventing contamination of the ice and damage to the magnetic member.

[0041] In some embodiments of the present invention, a second mounting groove 103 is provided on the outer side of the edge of the ice outlet 110, the second mounting groove 103 being opposite to the first mounting groove 102, and the first magnetic suction member 131 being disposed in the second mounting groove 103. Thus, the first magnetic suction member 131 can be installed in the second mounting groove 103, facilitating assembly, and the second mounting groove 103 can strengthen the structure and protect the first magnetic suction member 131. Furthermore, the second mounting groove 103 being located on the outer side of the edge of the ice outlet 110 facilitates spatial arrangement and assembly and maintenance. Additionally, during ice dispensing, the second mounting groove 103 will not interfere with the ice dispensing channel 310 of the ice-making component or refrigeration equipment, and the ice block will not contact the second mounting groove 103, thus improving the stability of the magnetic attraction.

[0042] Furthermore, combined Figure 4In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice storage assembly 100 further includes a fixing member 133. At least a portion of the fixing member 133 is disposed in the first mounting groove 102. The first end face of the fixing member 133 abuts against the second magnetic member 132, and the second end face of the fixing member 133 closes the opening. Specifically, after the second magnetic member 132 is installed, the fixing member 133 is also installed in the first mounting groove 102. On the one hand, it can fix the second magnetic member 132 and improve the stability of the magnetic member after installation. On the other hand, the fixing member 133 closing the opening of the first mounting groove 102 can also protect the magnetic member and isolate the magnetic member from the ice outlet channel 310 of the ice making assembly or refrigeration equipment, thereby preventing the cold air or humid gas in the ice outlet channel 310 from affecting the second magnetic member 132.

[0043] Optionally, the fastener 133 is interference-fitted with the first mounting groove 102, which facilitates assembly, improves the stability after assembly, and has a simple structure with low precision requirements for the parts.

[0044] Alternatively, the fastener 133 may be a flexible element, such as a rubber plug.

[0045] In some embodiments of the present invention, a first flange 1121 is provided around the opening of the first mounting groove 102, and a second flange 1331 is provided around the second end face. The first flange 1121 and the second flange 1331 abut against each other, which can increase the contact area between the fastener 133 and the first mounting groove 102, improve the tightness of the fit, and also improve the structural strength of the first mounting groove 102 and the overall structural strength of the fastener 133 after installation.

[0046] Combination Figure 4 In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice outlet 11 includes a panel 111 and a rib 112. The panel 111 is opposite to the ice outlet 110, and the rib 112 is provided on the side of the panel 111 away from the ice outlet 110. The panel 111 can be used to block the ice outlet 110, and the outwardly protruding rib 112 can be provided on the periphery of the panel 111 to improve the structural strength of the panel 111 and improve the reliability and stability of the ice outlet 11 during operation.

[0047] Specifically, the rib 112 includes a first rib and a second rib provided on both sides of the panel 111, and also includes a third rib provided on the lower edge of the panel 111. The first mounting groove 102 is provided on the lower edge of the panel 111, and the third rib is provided on the opposite sides of the first mounting groove 102.

[0048] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ribs 112 are provided with multiple spaced-apart hollow structures, which helps to reduce the weight of the door body 400. That is to say, the ice exit door 11 is provided with ribs 112 with hollow structures, which can improve the structural strength of the ice exit door 11, improve the structural stability after magnetic closing, and the weight of the ice exit door 11 will not be too heavy, so that the ice block can push open the ice exit door 11 when ice is being removed.

[0049] Combination Figure 2 In some embodiments of the present invention, the driving device 12 includes an ice feeding component and a motor 121. The ice feeding component includes a spiral portion 122, which extends spirally in an inclined direction and has one end opposite to the ice outlet 110. The motor 121 can drive the ice feeding component to rotate around the axis of the spiral portion 122. The inclined direction is configured to be downward in a direction away from the ice outlet 110. Thus, when the spiral portion 122 rotates, it can push the ice block at the bottom of the ice storage cavity 101 upward towards the ice outlet 110. When the ice outlet 11 closes the ice outlet 110, the minimum distance L1 between the end of the spiral portion 122 opposite to the ice outlet 110 and the ice outlet 11 is less than the minimum depth dimension L2 of the ice outlet 110. Thus, the driving device 12 can be used to drive the ice block to stop the ice outlet 11 and open the ice outlet 110. Specifically, when the spiral part 122 drives the ice block to move towards the ice gate, the distance between the spiral part 122 and the ice gate 11 is less than the depth dimension of the ice outlet 110. That is, the distance between the spiral part 122 and the ice gate 11 is closer than the distance between the end of the ice outlet 110 away from the gate body 400. This allows the spiral part 122 to drive the ice block to the ice outlet 110. When the ice outlet 110 has a certain depth, the ice block is more likely to be driven to the inner wall in the depth direction of the ice outlet 110. This makes it easier for the ice block to push open the ice gate 11. As the ice feeding part rotates continuously, more ice blocks move towards the ice outlet 110, which can further push out the ice blocks close to the ice gate 11.

[0050] Specifically, the motor 121 is located outside the ice storage cavity 101. The motor shaft of the motor 121 is connected to the spiral part 122 for transmission. The motor shaft is inclined downwards towards the interior of the ice storage cavity 101. The main body is provided with a mounting hole located above the ice outlet 11. The motor shaft extends into the ice storage cavity 101 through the mounting hole. The distance that the end of the motor shaft away from the motor 121 extends within the ice storage cavity 101 does not exceed the depth of the ice outlet 110. Alternatively, the minimum distance between the end of the motor shaft located within the ice storage cavity 101 and the ice outlet 11 is less than the minimum depth of the ice outlet 110.

[0051] In some embodiments of the present invention, the spiral diameter of the spiral portion 122 is D1, and the minimum distance L3 between the axis of the spiral portion 122 and the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 satisfies: ; and / or, 0.8.

[0052] Specifically, L3 is the minimum vertical distance from the axis of the spiral part 122 to the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110. When L3 is too large, the ice block may be pressed between the spiral part 122 and the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110, causing compression and jamming. When L3 is too small, the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 may hinder the rotation of the spiral part 122 or the spiral part 122 may block the ice block from being discharged from the bottom of the ice outlet 110. The distance from the highest point of the outer edge of the spiral part 122 to the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 is approximately equal to the maximum outer diameter of an ice block. This ensures that the ice block is not stuck and also improves the driving effect on the ice block, allowing for better driving of the ice block. This facilitates the driving device 12 to drive the ice block to stop the ice outlet 11 from opening the ice outlet 110 and to facilitate the driving of the ice block to be sent out from the ice outlet 110.

[0053] According to some embodiments of the ice storage assembly 100 of the present invention, the ice block size is generally between 20 mm and 30 mm, therefore, The value can be greater than or equal to 20 mm and less than or equal to 30 mm to ensure the ice-forming effect. L3 is the ratio of the radius of the spiral section 122 to the distance from the axis of the spiral section 122 to the ground of the ice outlet 110. The smaller the ratio, the larger the radius of L3 relative to the spiral section 122, and the larger the gap. The larger the ratio, the smaller the radius of L3 relative to the spiral section 122, the smaller the gap, and the easier it is for ice to get stuck.

[0054] According to some embodiments of the ice storage assembly 100 of the present invention, the ratio can be between 0.5 and 0.8, for example, 0.55, to accommodate the size of typical ice blocks, thereby facilitating smooth ice dispensing. In other words, when designing the ice storage assembly 100, the position and size of the drive device 12 can be set according to the above formula to ensure that ice is not stuck and that the ice at the bottom is effectively scraped and delivered, thus guaranteeing the ice dispensing effect.

[0055] Preferably, the ice cubes can be 25 mm in size.

[0056] In practical applications, settings can be adjusted according to the actual ice size to improve the ice dispensing effect. Some equipment can produce ice blocks of various sizes, so settings can be adjusted according to the maximum ice block size that the ice-making or refrigeration equipment can produce to ensure that large ice blocks can be discharged smoothly.

[0057] When ice is not being dispensed, it may be necessary to stir the ice to prevent it from sticking together. By tilting the bottom of the ice outlet 110 inward and downward, it is possible to prevent the ice outlet 11 from being pushed open during the stirring of the ice.

[0058] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice storage cavity 101 includes a first sidewall 14, one end of which is opposite to the lower edge of the ice outlet 110 and extends in an inclined direction to the bottom of the ice storage cavity 101. The bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 is inclined upward in the ice discharge direction, and the inclination angle of the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 relative to the horizontal plane is smaller than the inclination angle of the first sidewall 14 relative to the horizontal plane. Specifically, when ice is not being discharged, it may be necessary to stir the ice to prevent it from sticking together. By inclining the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 inward and downward, it is possible to prevent the ice from being pushed open by the ice door 11 during the stirring process, thereby preventing cold leakage and preventing the ice from falling out accidentally.

[0059] More specifically, the inclination angle of the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 is smaller than the inclination angle of the first sidewall 14 of the ice storage cavity 101. On the one hand, the inclination angle of the first sidewall 14 of the ice storage cavity 101 prevents the ice from moving to the ice outlet 110 too quickly when the ice is stirred. Since the driving device 12 typically operates for a relatively short time when stirring ice to prevent it from sticking together, the ice is less likely to reach the ice outlet 110, thus preventing accidental opening. During ice dispensing, the inclined first sidewall 14 also allows the ice to gradually move towards the ice outlet 110 under the driving action of the driving device 12, preventing excessive ice from suddenly gushing out or causing blockage when the ice volume is large, thereby improving the uniformity and effectiveness of ice dispensing.

[0060] The bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, so that when the drive device 12 is not working, the ice block will not easily move upward and fall out of the ice outlet 110. However, the inclination angle of the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 can be smaller than the inclination angle of the first side wall 14, to prevent the ice block from being difficult to discharge from the ice outlet 110 due to an excessive inclination angle. In addition, the inclination angle gradually decreases in the ice discharge direction, which is conducive to achieving a smooth transition and improving the smoothness of ice discharge.

[0061] When the drive device 12 stops running, it no longer pushes the ice block forward. Even if the ice block is already in the ice outlet 110, the ice block is subjected to a vertically downward gravity, a support force perpendicular to the slope and upward, and a frictional force along the slope on the inclined ice outlet 110. Therefore, the ice block will no longer exert a pushing force on the ice outlet 11. Thus, even if the magnetic attraction between the ice outlet 11 and the ice outlet 110 is weak, the ice block is not easy to fall out.

[0062] Combination Figures 1 to 4 Another object of the present invention is to provide an ice-making assembly including the aforementioned ice storage assembly 100. By applying the aforementioned ice storage assembly 100 to the ice-making assembly, the structure can be simplified and the cost reduced.

[0063] Furthermore, in some embodiments of the present invention, the ice-making assembly further includes a cold water tank 21, the cold water tank 21 having a cold water cavity 201, and the ice storage assembly 100 disposed inside the cold water tank 21; the ice outlet 110 is connected to the side wall of the ice storage cavity 101 and extends toward the outside of the ice storage cavity 101, the inner bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 is connected to the inner side surface of the corresponding side wall of the ice storage cavity 101, and the inner bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 is inclined upward as it extends toward the outside of the ice storage cavity 101, and the ice outlet 110 and the cold water tank 21 are an integral structure.

[0064] Specifically, the ice outlet 110 can be configured to extend along the ice outlet direction, forming a pipe or channel. This allows for a transition between the opening of the ice storage chamber 101 and the ice outlet 110. Furthermore, the ice outlet 110 and the cold water tank 21 are integrally formed, facilitating manufacturing and simplifying the structure of the main body of the ice storage assembly 100. The inner bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 extends upwards along the ice outlet direction, preventing ice from falling out when ice dispensing stops or when the drive device 12 stops operating.

[0065] Furthermore, combining Figure 2 In some embodiments of the present invention, the cold water tank 21 is provided with a cold water cavity 201, and the ice storage assembly 100 is disposed inside the cold water tank 21 and located above the cold water cavity 201. A gap 210 connecting the ice outlet 110 and the side wall of the ice storage cavity 101 communicates with the cold water cavity 201. Specifically, when the ice outlet door 11 is opened, the ice outlet 110 connects the inside and outside of the ice storage cavity 101. Due to the potentially high external ambient temperature, some condensate is generated during the ice dispensing process. Combined with the aforementioned fact that the ice outlet 110 is inclined upwards along the ice dispensing direction, the condensate does not easily flow out of the ice outlet 110. However, if the condensate flows back into the ice storage cavity 101, where the temperature is low, the condensate can refreeze and connect with the existing ice blocks in the ice storage cavity 101, causing the ice blocks to stick together and thus affecting the ice dispensing effect. Therefore, by setting the inclined ice outlet 110 on the cold water tank 21, and having a gap 210 connecting the ice outlet 110 and the ice storage chamber 101 at one end of the ice outlet 110 near the ice storage chamber 101, when condensate is generated, the condensate can automatically flow down the inclined surface to the cold water chamber 201 based on gravity. The cold water chamber 201 stores cold water, which can realize the recycling of cold water.

[0066] Combination Figure 3The first sidewall 14 is provided with a guide groove 104. The guide groove 104 is strip-shaped and extends in the same direction as the first sidewall 14. In this way, when the ice block moves from the bottom of the ice storage cavity 101 through the first sidewall 14 to the ice outlet 110, the water on the surface of the ice block can flow into the cold water cavity 201 through the guide groove 104 during the movement of the ice block. This can realize the recovery of cold water, so that the state of the ice block after discharge is better, and the water on the outer surface of the ice block can be drained out, making it less likely to collect ice in the ice storage cavity 101.

[0067] Combination Figure 4 In some embodiments of the present invention, the inclination angle of the inner bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 relative to the horizontal plane is θ, satisfying 8°≤θ≤20°. Specifically, if the inclination angle is too large, it will increase the difficulty of dispensing ice; if the inclination angle is too small, the condensate will not be able to flow back to the inside of the ice outlet 110, or the condensate will remain in the ice outlet 110 for a long time, causing it to freeze or the ice cubes to fall out easily when dispensing stops. Therefore, the inclination angle of the inner bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 relative to the horizontal plane can be reasonably set according to the actual application. Specifically, it can be set with the principle that the ice outlet 110 can support the ice cubes, for example, the ice cubes will neither immediately fall back into the ice storage box nor fall from the outlet side of the ice outlet 110.

[0068] Furthermore, combining Figure 2 In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice-making assembly further includes an ice outlet channel 310, which is connected to an ice outlet 110. Ice blocks in the ice storage chamber 101 can be discharged from the ice outlet 110 and then pass through the ice outlet channel 310. When ice needs to be dispensed, the ice outlet door 11 is opened to allow ice blocks to enter the ice outlet channel 310 from the ice outlet 110. After ice dispensing is completed, the ice outlet door 11 is closed, thereby ensuring that ice blocks in the ice storage chamber 101 do not fall out and also preventing the loss of cold energy in the ice storage chamber 101.

[0069] In some embodiments of the present invention, a first magnetic suction member 131 is disposed on the ice outlet door 11, and a second magnetic suction member 132 is disposed on the outer wall of the ice outlet channel 310 and close to the ice outlet 110, with the first magnetic suction member 131 and the second magnetic suction member 132 located on opposite sides of the ice outlet 110. Thus, the first magnetic suction member 131 and the second magnetic suction member 132 can generate a magnetic attraction force around the ice outlet 110, thereby facilitating the closing of the ice outlet 110.

[0070] Combination Figure 2In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice outlet channel 310 includes a connecting section 311 and an extension section 312. The connecting section 311 is opposite to the ice outlet 110. The extension section 312 is connected to the lower end of the connecting section 311 and extends downward. The ice outlet door 11 has an open position and a closed position. When the ice outlet door 11 is in the open position, it is accommodated in the connecting section 311. The connecting section 311 can provide accommodating space and space for ice block flow when the ice outlet door 11 is open. The downward extension of the extension section 312 facilitates the user in receiving ice blocks.

[0071] Specifically, in combination Figure 2 and Figure 4 The second mounting groove 103 is located on the outer side of the ice outlet 310 near the ice outlet 110, or the second mounting groove 103 is located on the outer side of the connecting section 311 near the ice outlet 110. The opening of the second mounting groove 103 faces upward and is opposite to the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110. In this way, the first magnetic suction member 131 can be installed from the opening into the second mounting groove 103. After assembly, the outer wall of the bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 can directly cover the first magnetic suction member 131, thereby improving the stability after installation. The side of the first magnetic suction member 131 can be opposite to the ice outlet door 11 along the ice outlet direction to achieve magnetic attraction.

[0072] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice outlet 110 is configured to gradually narrow from the ice storage cavity 101 toward the ice outlet channel 310.

[0073] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments of the present invention, the ice-making assembly further includes an ice-making box 22 and an evaporator 23. The ice-making box 22 is disposed on the upper side of the ice storage box, and the ice-making box 22 is provided with an ice-making cavity 202. The evaporator 23 includes an ice-making column 24, at least a portion of which can extend into the ice-making cavity 202 for making ice using water in the ice-making cavity 202.

[0074] Combination Figure 4 The ice-making column 24 has a diameter of D2, and the gap 210 between the inner bottom surface of the mating opening and the inner bottom surface of the ice outlet 110 is L4, where 3 ≤ L4 / D2 ≤ 4. To prevent ice from getting stuck in the gap 210 during dispensing, the actual ice size can be calculated from the size of the ice-making column 24, and then the size of the gap 210 can be calculated using the above formula. In some embodiments of the ice-making assembly according to the present invention, the diameter of the ice-making column 24 can be 10 mm, and the size of the ice produced by the ice-making column 24 is between 20 mm and 30 mm. Therefore, the ratio of L4 / D2 can be between 3 and 4 to ensure smooth ice dispensing.

[0075] Specifically, the ice-making box 22 is rotatably connected to the ice storage cavity 101, and the bottom surface of the ice storage cavity 101 is provided with a through hole. Specifically, the evaporator 23 has multiple spaced ice-making columns 24. After the evaporator 23 cools, bullet ice will form outside the ice-making columns 24. After the bullet ice falls into the ice-making box 22, the ice-making box 22 tilts, and the water and ice cubes fall into the ice storage cavity 101. The water flows from the through hole to the cold water cavity 201 below, and the ice cubes remain in the ice storage cavity 101.

[0076] In one specific embodiment of the present invention, the diameter of the ice column 24 is 10 mm, the ice thickness is about 8 mm, and the diameter of the resulting ice block is about 25 mm.

[0077] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments of the present invention, the inner surface of the ice storage cavity 101 is provided with a plurality of ribs 15. The ribs 15 extend in the vertical direction and are spaced apart in the direction surrounding the groove. The ribs 15 protrude from the inner surface of the ice storage cavity 101, which can reduce the contact area between the ice and the inner surface of the ice storage cavity 101. On the one hand, the ribs 15 can reduce the adhesion between the water film of the ice and the inner surface of the ice storage cavity 101. On the other hand, the ribs 15 can break the stability of the ice accumulation and prevent the ice from adhering to the inner surface of the ice storage cavity 101. In addition, the ribs 15 extend in the vertical direction. In other words, the extension direction of the ribs 15 is generally consistent with the movement direction of the ice, so as to avoid obstructing the movement of the ice.

[0078] Combination Figure 1 According to the refrigeration equipment of the present invention, the ice storage component 100 or the ice making component described above is included. By applying the ice storage component 100 or the ice making component described above, the structure can be simplified and the cost can be reduced.

[0079] Specifically, the refrigeration equipment has an outlet 410 and an ice outlet channel 310. Cold water in the cold water chamber 201 can flow out from the outlet 410. One end of the ice outlet channel 310 is connected to the ice-making component and the other end extends vertically. The outlet 410 and the ice outlet 110 are arranged side by side. The bottom of the outlet 410 and the ice outlet 110 is provided with a water receiving box 500, which can facilitate users to place water or ice containers and can also catch spilled water or ice.

[0080] The lower part of the refrigeration equipment has a receiving space, which contains a water tank. The refrigeration equipment also includes a door 400, which can be opened and closed to receive the space. When closed, the door can improve the overall consistency of the appearance of the refrigeration equipment and enhance its aesthetics. When the door 400 is open, it is convenient to replace the water tank or add water to the water tank.

[0081] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "width", "height", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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 storage assembly (100), characterized in that, include: The main body is provided with an ice storage cavity (101) and an ice outlet (110). The ice outlet (110) is connected to the upper part of the ice storage cavity (101), and the axis of the ice outlet (110) extends in the front-back direction. Ice gate (11) is openable and covers the outside of ice outlet (110). The upper part of the ice gate (11) is rotatably connected to the upper part of ice outlet (110). A driving device (12) is provided on the main body. The driving device (12) is used to drive the ice in the ice storage chamber (101) to move to the ice outlet (110), and to drive the ice to push against the ice outlet door (11) so that the lower part of the ice outlet door (11) separates from the lower part of the ice outlet (110) so that the ice is discharged from the ice outlet door (11). The ice outlet (110) is provided with a first magnetic suction member (131) on its edge, and the ice door (11) is provided with a second magnetic suction member (132) corresponding to the first magnetic suction member (131). The first magnetic suction member (131) and the second magnetic suction member (132) are magnetically attracted to each other in a separable manner, so that the ice door (11) can cover the outside of the ice outlet (110).

2. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first magnetic suction member (131) is located at least one of the lower edge, left edge and right edge of the ice outlet (110), and the second magnetic suction member (132) is located at the position of the ice outlet (11) corresponding to the first magnetic suction member (131).

3. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice outlet door (11) is provided with a first mounting groove (102), the opening of the first mounting groove (102) is located on the side away from the ice outlet (110), and the second magnetic suction member (132) is provided in the first mounting groove (102).

4. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The outer side of the ice outlet (110) is provided with a second mounting groove (103), the first magnetic suction member (131) is provided in the second mounting groove (103), the second mounting groove (103) is opposite to the first mounting groove (102), and the first magnetic suction member (131) is provided in the second mounting groove (103).

5. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a fastener (133), at least a portion of which is disposed in the first mounting groove (102), the first end face of which abuts against the first magnetic member (131), and the second end face of which closes the opening.

6. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first mounting groove (102) has a first flange (1121) around its opening, and the second end face has a second flange (1331) around its opening. The first flange (1121) abuts against the second flange (1331); and / or The fastener (133) is interference-fitted with the first mounting groove (102).

7. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The ice outlet (11) includes a panel (111) and a rib (112). The panel (111) is opposite to the ice outlet (110). The rib (112) is located on the side of the panel (111) away from the ice outlet (110). The rib (112) includes a first rib (15) and a second rib (15) located on both sides of the panel (111), and also includes a third rib (15) located on the lower edge of the panel (111). The first mounting groove (102) is located on the lower edge of the panel (111), and the third rib (15) is located on the opposite sides of the first mounting groove (102).

8. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driving device (12) includes an ice-feeding component and a motor (121). The ice-feeding component includes a spiral portion (122) that extends spirally in an inclined direction, with one end facing the ice outlet (110). The motor (121) can drive the ice-feeding component to rotate around the axis of the spiral portion (122). The inclined direction is configured to be downward in a direction away from the ice outlet (110). When the ice gate (11) closes the ice outlet (110), the minimum distance L1 between the end of the spiral part (122) opposite to the ice outlet (110) and the ice gate (11) is less than the minimum depth dimension L2 of the ice outlet (110).

9. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The spiral diameter of the spiral section (122) is D1, and the minimum distance L3 between the axis of the spiral section (122) and the bottom surface of the ice outlet (110) satisfies: ; and / or, 0.

8.

10. The ice storage assembly (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The ice storage cavity (101) includes a first sidewall (14), one end of which is opposite to the lower edge of the ice outlet (110) and extends along the inclined direction to the bottom of the ice storage cavity (101). The bottom surface of the ice outlet (110) is inclined upward along the ice outlet direction, and the inclination angle of the bottom surface of the ice outlet (110) relative to the horizontal plane is smaller than the inclination angle of the first sidewall (14) relative to the horizontal plane.

11. An ice-making assembly, characterized in that, Includes the ice storage assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1-10.

12. The ice-making assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, It also includes a cold water tank (21), the ice storage assembly (100) is disposed inside the cold water tank (21), and the side wall of the ice outlet (110) is integral with the inner shell of the cold water tank (21), and the bottom wall of the ice outlet (110) is inclined upward in the ice outlet direction. The ice outlet (110) and the cold water tank (21) are integral with each other.

13. The ice-making assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The cold water tank (21) is provided with a cold water cavity (201), the ice storage assembly (100) is located inside the cold water tank (21) and above the cold water cavity (201), and there is a gap (210) between the ice outlet (110) and the side wall of the ice storage cavity (101) to communicate with the cold water cavity (201).

14. A refrigeration device, characterized in that, Includes the ice storage assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1-10 or the ice making assembly according to any one of claims 11-13.

Images