Cover body module and ice making equipment
By integrating temperature sensors and water level detection components into the cover module of the ice maker, the problems of loose structure and high cost caused by the discrete sensor design in existing ice makers are solved, achieving a more compact detection component and higher ice-making control accuracy.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-08
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-27
AI Technical Summary
The separate design of temperature and water level sensors in existing ice makers leads to problems such as loose internal structure, complex wiring, large space occupation, and high cost.
The temperature sensor and water level detection component are integrated into the top cover of the cover module. The temperature sensor part extends into the mold, and the water level detection component part extends into the mold. They are electrically connected to the temperature sensor through a common electrode to achieve joint detection of temperature and water level.
It simplifies the space occupied by the detection components, reduces the number of devices, lowers manufacturing costs, and improves the control accuracy and efficiency of the ice-making process.
Smart Images
Figure CN121739657A_ABST
Abstract
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of ice making, and particularly relates to a cover module and an ice making device. BACKGROUND
[0002] In the prior art, in order to realize the control of the ice making process, some ice makers adopt temperature detection members, such as temperature sensors, to detect the temperature of an evaporator or an ice mold area, so as to judge the ice forming state or control the start and stop of a refrigeration system. Some other ice makers are provided with water level detection members, such as water float switches or electrode type probes, to detect the water level in a water tank or an ice tray, so as to realize automatic water replenishment or prevent water overflow.
[0003] Some ice makers adopt water level sensors to control the water level, and meanwhile, an independent temperature sensor is additionally arranged to detect the water temperature. The disadvantage of this split design is that the two sensors need their own installation space, independent connection wire harnesses and connectors, which leads to loose internal structure layout of the ice maker, complex line arrangement, large overall occupied space, and meanwhile, increases the manufacturing cost and assembly difficulty. SUMMARY
[0004] The present application provides a cover module and an ice making device.
[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a cover module, which is applied to an ice making device. The ice making device comprises a control member and a mold for containing water used for ice making. The cover module comprises a top cover and a detection assembly. The top cover is used to shield the mold, and the top cover has an installation space. The detection assembly is connected to the top cover and electrically connected to the control member. The detection assembly comprises a temperature detection member and a water level detection member. The temperature detection member comprises a temperature sensor and a common electrode electrically connected to the temperature sensor. When the top cover shields the mold, the temperature sensor at least partially extends into the mold, and the water level detection member at least partially extends into the mold. When there is water or ice in communication between the temperature sensor and the water level detection member, the common electrode and the circuit in which the water level detection member is located are turned on.
[0006] In a second aspect, the present application further provides an ice making device. The ice making device comprises a box body, a mold, a cover module and a control member. The mold is arranged in the box body. The top cover of the cover module is connected to the box body and shields the mold. The control member is arranged in the installation space and electrically connected to the detection assembly.
[0007] The temperature sensor in the cover module provided by the application extends at least partially into the mold, and when the water level in the mold is higher than the at least partially structure of the temperature sensor, the temperature sensor can directly contact and perceive the temperature in the mold. The common electrode is electrically connected with the temperature sensor, and the temperature sensor is part of the water level temperature detection circuit. The water level detection member extends at least partially into the mold, and when the water level in the mold rises to submerge the part of the structure of the temperature sensor and the part of the structure of the water level detection member, at this time, there is water or ice in communication between the temperature sensor and the water level detection member, the common electrode and the circuit in which the water level detection member is located are turned on, thereby completing the water level detection.
[0008] The cover module provided by the application realizes temperature detection and water level detection in the mold through the temperature detection member and the water level detection member, so as to prompt the user state information or abnormal information prompt, or provide state information for long-term ice preservation control logic. The common electrode is connected with the temperature sensor, the temperature sensor is part of the water level detection circuit, and the water level detection is cooperated with the water level detection member, so that the necessary device structure is simplified, and the space occupation of the detection assembly is reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0009] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, the drawings needed in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present application, and other drawings can also be obtained by those skilled in the art without creative labor.
[0010] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an ice making equipment provided by an embodiment of the present application.
[0011] Figure 2 is Figure 1 is a sectional structural schematic diagram of the ice making equipment shown in
[0012] Figure 3 is a planar structural schematic diagram of a cover module provided by an embodiment of the present application.
[0013] Figure 4 is Figure 3 is a sectional structural schematic diagram of the cover module shown in along the line A-A.
[0014] Figure 5 is Figure 4 is an enlarged structural schematic diagram of the P1 part in
[0015] Figure 6 is Figure 3 is a sectional structural schematic diagram of the cover module shown in along the line B-B.
[0016] Figure 7 isFigure 3 A cross-sectional structure of the cover module along line C-C is shown in the schematic view.
[0017] Figure 8 is Figure 7 An enlarged structure of the P2 part in the middle is shown in the schematic view.
[0018] Label description: 100, cover module; 10, top cover; 101, mounting space; 12, first cover; 121, cover plate part; 123, coaming part; 14, second cover; 141, cover part; 143, connecting part; 16, mounting assembly; 161, mounting cylinder; 1612, first mounting hole; 1614, second mounting hole; 1616, third mounting hole; 163, positioning column; 1632, positioning hole; 1633, sealing groove; 165, connecting column; 167, fixing piece; 168, first mounting column; 169, second mounting column; 30, driving assembly; 32, motor; 34, speed reducer; 50, stirring assembly; 52, connecting piece; 54, stirring piece; 70, control piece; 80, detection assembly; 82, temperature detection piece; 820, conductive probe; 821, temperature sensor; 8212, main body part; 8214, probe head part; 8216, mounting plate; 823, common electrode; 8231, terminal; 84, water level detection piece; 841, first probe; 8412, first connecting end; 8414, first detection end; 843, second probe; 8432, second connecting end; 8434, second detection end; 86, sealing piece; 200, ice making equipment; 20, box body; 21, mounting cavity; 40, mold; 401, containing cavity; 41, mold body; 43, ice grid part; 432, water inlet end; 60, refrigeration system; 61, refrigeration piece. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] In order for those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described clearly and completely below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative labor fall within the scope of protection of the present application.
[0020] As used in the specification and claims, certain terminology is used to refer to specific components. One skilled in the art will appreciate that hardware manufacturers can refer to the same component by different names. The specification and claims should not be distinguished by names but by functionality. As used throughout the specification and claims, "includes" and "including" means "including but not limited to".
[0021] Referring to Figure 1 The embodiment of the present application provides a cover module 100, which can be applied to an ice making device 200.
[0022] The embodiment of the present application also provides an ice making device 200 configured with the cover module 100. The ice making device 200 can be any device capable of making ice, for example, the ice making device 200 can be an ice maker, a refrigerator with an ice making function, a refrigerator with an ice making function, or the like. The ice making device 200 in the embodiment of the present application is taken as an example of an ice maker, which is used to quickly cool liquid water to form ice cubes for users to use. The ice making device 200 can be used as an industrial device for production operations, or as a food device for producing food ice cubes. The ice making device 200 can also be applied to the fields of medical treatment, cold chain transportation, etc., and the embodiment of the present application does not make specific limitations. As an example, the ice making device 200 of the embodiment of the present application is used as a household appliance and is configured in an office, a kitchen, a catering place, etc. for producing food ice cubes. When the ice making device 200 is used for making ice, it can be arranged in a refrigerator, a freezer, or the like, or can be used independently.
[0023] Referring to Figure 2 The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific structure of the ice making device 200. For example, the ice making device 200 can include a box body 20, a mold 40, a refrigeration system 60, and the cover module 100 described above. The mold 40 and the refrigeration system 60 are arranged in the box body 20. The mold 40 has a containing cavity 401 for containing water for making ice, and the cover module 100 is connected to the box body 20 and covers the containing cavity 401. The refrigeration system 60 is used to cool the mold 40, so that the liquid water in the mold 40 solidifies to form ice cubes.
[0024] The refrigeration part 61 of the refrigeration system 60 is in contact with the mold 40, and the refrigeration system 60 is used to cool the mold 40 through the refrigeration part 61, so that the liquid water in the mold 40 is frozen into ice blocks. The specific structure of the refrigeration system 60 is not limited in the present specification. As an example, the refrigeration system 60 can include a compressor, a condenser (not shown in the figure) and the above-mentioned refrigeration part 61, which can be connected by refrigerant pipelines to form an ice-making circuit. The compressor is used to compress the low-pressure gaseous refrigerant into high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is cooled and liquefied by the condenser to form high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The liquid refrigerant is transported into the refrigeration part 61. The liquid refrigerant in the refrigeration part 61 is converted from liquid to gas after absorbing heat to cool and freeze the liquid water. The gaseous refrigerant is in turn passed through the compressor and the condenser to become liquid refrigerant again. The liquid refrigerant returns to the refrigeration part 61 to continue to evaporate and absorb heat to make ice. The above process is repeated continuously to continuously cool the liquid water to form ice blocks.
[0025] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the mold 40 described above can be a flowing water ice-making grid, a static water ice-making grid, a bullet-shaped ice-making water container or other types of ice-making box structures, and the present application is not limited thereto. The mold 40 of the present application is described by taking the static water ice-making grid as an example. Specifically, the mold 40 can include a mold body 41 and an ice grid part 43, and the ice grid part 43 is arranged in the mold body 41 and cooperates with the inner wall of the mold body 41 to define an ice grid. The mold body 41 is generally in a cylindrical structure, and the top of the mold body 41 has an opening. The ice grid part 43 is arranged in the interior of the mold body 41 and tightly adheres to the inner wall of the mold body 41. The ice grid part 43 cooperates with the inner wall of the mold body 41 to define a plurality of ice grids for forming ice blocks. The ice grid part 43 has a water inlet end 432, and the connection between the water inlet end 432 and the inner wall of the mold body 41 forms a first water level mark H1. The inner wall of the mold body 41 is also provided with a second water level mark H2, and the second water level mark H2 is located between the first water level mark H1 and the cover module 100. When the ice-making water is injected into the mold 40, the water will first reach the first water level mark H1. As the amount of water increases, the water level will rise to the second water level mark H2. At this time, the amount of water in the mold 40 reaches a suitable range, and the ice-making process can be started.
[0026] The first water level mark H1 is located at the joint between the water inlet end 432 of the ice cube section 43 and the inner wall of the mold body 41, i.e., the first water level mark H1 is located at the height position of the ice cube section 43 relative to the mold body 41. The first water level mark H1 is the maximum height of the ice cubes made by the mold 40. The second water level mark H2 is not limited in the present specification, for example, the second water level mark H2 can be a groove mark formed on the inner wall of the mold body 41, or the second water level mark H2 can also be a protruding mark protruding from the inner wall of the mold body 41. In the present embodiment, the second water level mark H2 is a long strip-shaped protrusion formed on the inner wall of the mold body 41, and the second water level mark H2 is located close to the opening end of the mold body 41. When the cover module 100 covers the accommodation cavity 401, the second water level mark H2 is located between the cover module 100 and the first water level mark H1. The second water level mark H2 is the minimum height of the water added into the mold 40 for making ice cubes.
[0027] Please refer to Figure 2 The refrigeration member 61 can be a liquid cooling plate, an evaporative coil, or other refrigeration structure. The present specification does not limit the positional relationship between the refrigeration member 61 and the mold 40, for example, the refrigeration member 61 can be arranged on the peripheral wall of the mold 40 and in contact with the peripheral wall, or arranged on the bottom of the mold 40, or arranged inside the mold 40. In the present embodiment, the refrigeration member 61 is arranged on the bottom of the mold 40 and in contact with the bottom of the mold 40.
[0028] The box body 20 is used to hold water for making ice cubes or to accommodate the mold 40 described above, and can also be used to place the inner liner of the ice making device 200. The box body 20 can be provided with a support structure for supporting the mold 40, and the mold 40 can be detachably placed on the support structure in the box body 20. The ice making device 200 can be configured with multiple different molds 40, so as to be able to make ice cubes of different shapes. The mold 40 can be provided with one or more ice cube compartments for holding liquid water to make ice cubes adapted to the shape of the ice cube compartment. As an example, the ice cube compartment can be formed by being limited by multiple intersecting plate structures; as another example, the ice cube compartment can be a recessed structure directly formed on the box body 20. In the present embodiment, the ice making device 200 is used to make large square ice cubes, for example, the size of the ice cube compartment in the mold 40 can be 10cm*10cm*10cm, so as to be used to make large square ice cubes. In the present embodiment, the box body 20 is provided with a mounting cavity 21, which is used to hold water for making ice cubes or to place the mold 40, and can also be used to place the inner liner of the ice making device 200. Further, the mounting cavity 21 penetrates one end of the box body 20, so the box body 20 is generally in a cylindrical structure with one end open.
[0029] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5In this embodiment, the cover module 100 is connected to the housing 20 to shield the receiving cavity 401. The cover module 100 may include a top cover 10 and a detection component 80. The top cover 10 is connected to the housing 20 and is used to shield the mold 40. The top cover 10 has an installation space 101. The ice-making device 200 may also include a control component 70, which is disposed within the installation space 101. The detection component 80 is connected to the top cover 10 and electrically connected to the control component 70. The detection component 80 may include a temperature detection component 82 and a water level detection component 84. The temperature detection component 82 may include a temperature sensor 821 and a common electrode 823 electrically connected to the temperature sensor 821. When the top cover 10 shields the mold 40, the temperature sensor 821 extends at least partially into the mold 40, and the water level detection component 84 extends at least partially into the mold 40. When there is water or ice in communication between the temperature sensor 821 and the water level detection element 84, the circuit containing the control element 70, the common electrode 823, and the water level detection element 84 is turned on.
[0030] In the cover module 100, a temperature sensor 821 extends at least partially into the mold 40. When the water level inside the mold 40 is higher than at least a portion of the structure of the temperature sensor 821, the temperature sensor 821 can directly contact and sense the temperature inside the mold 40. A common electrode 823 is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 821, which serves as part of the water level and temperature detection circuit. A water level detection element 84 extends at least partially into the mold 40. When the water level inside the mold 40 rises to the point that it simultaneously submerges a portion of the structure of the temperature sensor 821 and a portion of the structure of the water level detection element 84, there is a connection between the temperature sensor 821 and the water level detection element 84. The circuit containing the control element 70, the common electrode 823, and the water level detection element 84 is then activated, thus completing the water level detection. The control element 70 can be electrically connected to the refrigeration system 60. The control element 70 receives and processes signals from the temperature detection element 821 and the water level detection element 84, and precisely controls key components of the refrigeration system 60, such as the start and stop, to ensure the smooth operation of the ice-making process. For example, when the control unit 70 detects through the temperature detection unit 82 that the temperature inside the mold 40 is lower than -1℃ or -2℃, it determines that the ice inside the mold 40 has reached the height of the first water level mark H1. At this time, the refrigeration system 60 is turned off and intermittently turned on according to subsequent ice surface height measurements to achieve long-term ice preservation.
[0031] The cover module 100 provided in this application uses a temperature detection element 82 and a water level detection element 84 to detect the temperature and water level within the mold 40, providing status or abnormal information to the user, or providing status information for the long-term ice-preservation control logic. The common electrode 823 is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 821, making the temperature sensor 821 part of the water level detection circuit. Working together with the water level detection element 84, it performs water level detection, simplifying the necessary component structure and reducing the space occupied by the detection assembly 80.
[0032] In this embodiment, the top cover 10 is movably connected to the housing 20, and the top cover 10 can be opened relative to the housing 20 to facilitate operations such as adding water or removing ice. This specification does not limit the specific connection method between the top cover 10 and the housing 20. For example, the top cover 10 can be connected to the housing 20 by a hinge, and the top cover 10 can rotate relative to the housing 20 to open or close. Alternatively, the top cover 10 can be fastened to the housing 20 by a snap-fit mechanism. In this embodiment, the top cover 10 is hinged to the housing 20.
[0033] The top cover 10 may include a first cover body 12 and a second cover body 14. The second cover body 14 is connected to the first cover body 12 and defines the space together with the first cover body 12. When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, the mounting space 101 and the mold 40 are located on opposite sides of the second cover body 14. The first cover body 12 may include a cover plate portion 121 and a surrounding plate portion 123. The cover plate portion 121 is generally flat, and the cover plate portion 121 and the second cover body 14 are spaced apart and opposite to each other. The surrounding plate portion 123 is circumferentially connected to (e.g., integrally formed on) the edge of the cover plate portion 121, and the extending direction of the surrounding plate portion 123 is generally perpendicular to the plane containing the cover plate portion 121. The second cover body 14 is connected to the surrounding plate portion 123.
[0034] The second cover 14 may include a connecting portion 143 and a cover portion 141. Both the connecting portion 143 and the cover portion 141 are spaced apart from the cover portion 121. The connecting portion 143 is connected to the surrounding plate portion 123, and the cover portion 141 is connected to the connecting portion 143 and protrudes away from the mounting space 101 relative to the connecting portion 143. The cover portion 141 is embedded in the mold 40. In some embodiments, the outer wall of the mold 40 may be spaced apart from the inner wall of the housing 20 to form a thermal insulation gap. The thermal insulation gap is used to accommodate a thermal insulation layer, such as foam insulation material, to further improve the thermal insulation effect of the ice-making equipment 200. The connecting portion 143 is connected around the edge of the cover portion 141. When the top cover 10 is closed, the connecting portion 143 corresponds to the thermal insulation gap between the mold 40 and the inner wall of the housing 20 in the height direction of the housing 20. The enclosure portion 123 and the connecting portion 143 can be integrally formed and connected, with the enclosure portion 123 protruding relative to the connecting portion 143 and embedded in the mold 40.
[0035] Please also refer toFigure 4 and Figure 6 In this embodiment, the cover module 100 may further include a drive assembly 30 and a stirring assembly 50. The drive assembly 30 is disposed within the installation space 101 and electrically connected to the control component 70. The drive assembly 30 is fixed to the first cover 12. The stirring assembly 50 is tractively connected to the drive assembly 30, and at least a portion of the structure of the stirring assembly 50 extends into the mold 40. Driven by the drive assembly 30, the stirring assembly 50 stirs the ice-making water in the mold 40, making the produced ice cubes purer and more transparent.
[0036] In this embodiment, the drive assembly 30 may include a motor 32 and a reducer 34. The reducer 34 is driven to the output shaft of the motor 32, and the output shaft of the reducer 34 passes through the cover portion 141 of the second cover 14 to connect with the stirring assembly 50. The stirring assembly 50 may include a connector 52 and a stirring element 54. The connector 52 is driven to the output shaft of the reducer 34, and the stirring element 54 is fixedly connected to the connector 52. When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, at least part of the stirring element 54 is housed inside the mold 40, and the stirring element 54 may be located between the first water level mark H1 and the second water level mark H2. The reducer 34 drives the stirring element 54 through the connector 52 to stir the ice-making water in the mold 40, so that air bubbles in the water can be discharged during the freezing process, preventing dissolved gases in the water from forming bubbles and freezing in the ice, resulting in purer, more transparent, and more uniform ice.
[0037] This specification does not limit the connection method between the connector 52 and the output shaft of the reducer 34. As an example, the connector 52 can be fixedly connected to the output shaft of the reducer 34 by fasteners such as screws, or the connector 52 can be fixedly connected to the output shaft of the reducer 34 by plugging in.
[0038] In this embodiment, the control unit 70 is connected to the first cover 12 and electrically connected to the drive assembly 30 and the detection assembly 80. The control unit 70 is used to receive and process signals transmitted from the detection assembly 80, control the start and stop of the drive assembly 30 and adjust the speed of the motor 32, and / or control the start and stop of the refrigeration system 60, thereby realizing the control of the working state of the ice-making equipment 200.
[0039] Specifically, the control component 70 is fixedly connected to the cover plate portion 121, and the control component 70 is electrically connected to the drive assembly 30 and the cooling system 60 via wires. This specification does not limit the specific type of the control component 70. For example, the control component 70 can be a PCBA, or it can be a control chip or control module, or other components with control functions. The specific form can be flexibly selected according to actual needs and design. In this embodiment, the control component 70 is a PCBA.
[0040] Please refer to it again. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, the detection component 80 is mounted on the second cover 14. To facilitate the installation of the detection component 80, the top cover 10 may also include a mounting component 16, which is fixedly connected to the side of the cover portion 141 away from the mounting space 101. When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, the mounting component 16 is located inside the mold 40, and the detection component 80 is connected to the mounting component 16.
[0041] Please also refer to Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The mounting assembly 16 may include a mounting cylinder 161 and a positioning post 163. The opening of the mounting cylinder 161 faces and communicates with the mounting space 101, and the bottom of the mounting cylinder 161 is provided with a first mounting hole 1612. The positioning post 163 is fixedly connected inside the mounting cylinder 161, and the positioning post 163 is provided with a positioning hole 1632 communicating with the first mounting hole 1612. The temperature sensor 821 passes through the positioning hole 1632, and at least a portion of its structure passes through the first mounting hole 1612.
[0042] The mounting assembly 16 ensures a more stable and precise installation of the detection assembly 80. The temperature sensor 821, passing through the positioning hole 1632 and the first mounting hole 1612, can be accurately positioned at a specific location within the mold 40, thereby more precisely sensing temperature changes within the mold 40. The opening of the mounting cylinder 161 faces the mounting space 101, facilitating electrical connection between the wiring and other components of the detection assembly 80 and the control component 70 for signal transmission. The positioning post 163 not only enhances the structural strength of the mounting assembly 16 but also guides and fixes the temperature sensor 821 through the positioning hole 1632, preventing it from shaking or shifting within the mold 40 and ensuring detection accuracy.
[0043] The mounting cylinder 161 can be integrally formed into the cover portion 141, and the mounting cylinder 161 is generally hollow cylindrical. The positioning post 163 can be integrally formed into the bottom of the mounting cylinder 161, and the extending direction of the positioning post 163 is the same as the extending direction of the mounting cylinder 161. The positioning hole 1632 is opened along the extending direction of the positioning post 163, and the mounting cylinder 161 and the positioning post 163 are respectively provided with a first mounting hole 1612. The first mounting hole 1612 penetrates the bottom of the mounting cylinder 161 and connects the receiving cavity 401 and the interior of the mounting cylinder 161 (when the top cover 10 covers the receiving cavity 401).
[0044] This specification does not limit the specific type of temperature sensor 821. For example, temperature sensor 821 can be an NTC, a PTC, or other types of temperature sensor, as long as it can meet the requirement of accurately sensing temperature changes within the mold 40. In this embodiment, temperature sensor 821 is an NTC. Temperature sensor 821 may include a conductive probe 820, which is electrically connected to a common electrode 823. Conductive probe 820 includes a main body 8212 and a probe head 8214. The main body 8212 is fixedly connected to the top cover 10, and the probe head 8214 is connected to one end of the main body 8212. When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40 and the ice-making device 200 is in operation, the height of the probe head 8214 is lower than the minimum height of the stirring member 54. In this embodiment, the probe head 8214 is located on the side of the first water level mark H1 away from the second water level mark H2. The probe head 8214 is used to contact water or ice inside the mold 40 to detect the temperature inside the mold 40. The probe head 8214 is mounted on the mounting cylinder 161 via the main body 8212.
[0045] Specifically, the main body 8212 passes through the positioning hole 1632, and the probe head 8214 passes through the first mounting hole 1612. The diameter of the probe head 8214 is smaller than the diameter of the main body 8212, and correspondingly, the diameter of the first mounting hole 1612 is smaller than the diameter of the positioning hole 1632. When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, the probe head 8214 is located on the side of the first water level mark H1 away from the second water level mark H2 and close to the first water level mark H1, thereby making the water level detection more accurate.
[0046] In this embodiment, the temperature sensor 821 may further include a mounting plate 8216, which is fixedly connected to the end of the main body 8212 opposite to the detection head 8214. The mounting assembly 16 may further include a connecting post 165, which is fixedly connected inside the mounting cylinder 161. The mounting plate 8216 is connected to the connecting post 165 by a fastener 167 and covers the positioning hole 1632. The mounting plate 8216 and the connecting post 165 are connected by the fastener 167, which further improves the connection stability between the temperature sensor 821 and the mounting assembly 16, making the installation of the detection assembly 80 more stable and accurate.
[0047] The plane containing the largest surface of the mounting plate 8216 is perpendicular to the extending direction of the main body 8212. The mounting plate 8216 may have slotted structures for mounting the fasteners 167. The outer shell of the main body 8212, the mounting plate 8216, and the detection head 8214 can be integrally formed and connected, thus providing good conductivity to cooperate with the water level detection component 84. This specification does not limit the specific type of the fastener 167; for example, the fastener 167 can be a screw, pin, or other fastener. In this embodiment, the fastener 167 is a screw. Multiple connecting posts 165 can be provided. For example, in this embodiment, two connecting posts 165 are provided, respectively located on both sides of the positioning post 163, and each connecting post 165 has a screw hole. Correspondingly, two fasteners 167 are also provided, and the mounting plate 8216 may have two through holes for the two fasteners 167 to pass through. The two connecting posts 165 and two fasteners 167 further improve the installation stability of the detection assembly 80.
[0048] To improve the sealing between the temperature sensor 821 and the mounting cylinder 161, in this embodiment, the sidewall of the positioning hole 1632 may be provided with a sealing groove 1633. The detection assembly 80 may also include a sealing element 86, which is disposed in the sealing groove 1633 and abuts against the main body 8212 and the mounting plate 8216. The sealing element 86 effectively prevents water or moisture inside the mold 40 from seeping into the mounting cylinder 161 through the first mounting hole 1612, thereby avoiding potential damage or impact on the detection assembly 80 and ensuring the accuracy of detection and the long-term stability of the equipment.
[0049] The inner wall of the positioning hole 1632 near the mounting plate 8216 is recessed to form a stepped structure to define the sealing groove 1633. This specification does not limit the specific type of the seal 86. The seal 86 can be made of materials with good sealing performance, such as rubber or silicone, and its shape and size are matched with the sealing groove 1633 to ensure a tight fit and effective seal. In this embodiment, the seal 86 is a sealing ring. When the fixing member 167 is tightened relative to the connecting post 165, the mounting plate 8216 abuts against the end of the positioning post 163, thereby squeezing the seal 86 in the sealing groove 1633. The seal 86 undergoes elastic deformation, thereby abutting against the temperature sensor 821 with a larger area.
[0050] The temperature sensing element 82 may also include a terminal 8231, which forms a common electrode 823. The terminal 8231 is connected to the temperature sensor 821, which is a conductive metal structure. The terminal 8231 is connected to the temperature sensor 821, and the probe head 8214 of the temperature sensor 821 is located on the side of the first water level mark H1 away from the second water level mark H2. The temperature sensor 821 can serve as the probe head of the common electrode 823, eliminating the need for a separate probe element for the common electrode 823, simplifying the necessary device structure, and reducing the space occupied by the sensing component 80.
[0051] In this embodiment, terminal 8231 is a ring terminal. Terminal 8231 can be stacked on mounting plate 8216. Fixing member 167 is sequentially passed through terminal 8231, mounting plate 8216, and connecting post 165, thereby pressing terminal 8231 onto mounting plate 8216. Temperature sensor 821 is a conductive metal structure. For example, temperature sensor 821 can be made of stainless steel or other metal materials with good conductivity and corrosion resistance. Its conductivity allows terminal 8231 to be stably connected to it, forming a reliable common electrode 823, ensuring the accuracy and stability of signal transmission, and further improving the reliability and stability of detection component 80.
[0052] The water level detection component 84 may include a first probe 841, which has a first connection end 8412 and a first detection end 8414. The first connection end 8412 is electrically connected to the control component 70. When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, the first detection end 8414 is located on the side of the first water level mark H1 away from the second water level mark H2. The first detection end 8414 is spaced apart from the conductive probe 820. The first probe 841 serves as the first negative electrode and is used to detect whether the water level in the mold 40 has reached the first water level mark H1. When the water level rises to the first water level mark H1, the first detection end 8414 and the temperature sensor 821 are both in contact with the water, and the circuit containing the control component 70, the common electrode 823, and the first probe 841 is turned on, thereby transmitting the water level signal to the control component 70. The first detection end 8414 can be positioned close to the first water level mark H1, thereby making the water level detection more accurate.
[0053] To facilitate the installation of the first probe 841, in this embodiment, the mounting assembly 16 may further include a first mounting post 168, which is fixedly connected inside the mounting cylinder 161. The mounting cylinder 161 has a second mounting hole 1614 for the first probe end 8414 to pass through. The first probe 841 passes through the first mounting post 168, and the first probe end 8414 extends out of the mounting cylinder 161 through the second mounting hole 1614, so that when the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, the first probe end 8414 is located on the side of the first water level mark H1 opposite to the second water level mark H2. The first connecting end 8412 protrudes from the end of the first mounting post 168 opposite to the second mounting hole 1614 to facilitate welding with the wiring harness of the water level detection circuit.
[0054] In this embodiment, the water level detection component 84 may further include a second probe 843. The second probe 843 has a second connection end 8432 and a second detection end 8434. The second connection end 8432 is also electrically connected to the control component 70. When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, the second detection end 8434 is located between the first water level mark H1 and the second water level mark H2. The second probe 843 serves as the second negative electrode and is used to detect whether the water level in the mold 40 has reached the second water level mark H2. When the water level reaches the second water level mark H2, both the second detection end 8434 and the temperature sensor 821 are in contact with the water, and the circuit containing the control component 70, the common electrode 823, and the second probe 843 is turned on, thereby transmitting the water level signal to the control component 70. The second detection end 8434 can be positioned close to the second water level mark H2, thereby making the water level detection more accurate.
[0055] When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40 and the ice-making device 200 is in operation, the probe head 8214 is located below the first water level mark H1, the first probe end 8414 is also located below the first water level mark H1, and the second probe end 8434 is located above the first water level mark H1 and below the second water level mark H2. The second probe end 8434 of the second probe 843 is higher than the first probe end 8414 of the first probe 841, and the first probe end 8414 of the first probe 841 is higher than the probe head 8214 of the temperature sensor 821. The first probe end 8414 is slightly lower than the first water level mark H1; for example, the height difference between the first probe end 8414 and the first water level mark H1 can be between 3 and 10 mm (including the endpoint). The second probe end 8434 is slightly lower than the second water level mark H2; for example, the height difference between the second probe end 8434 and the second water level mark H2 can be between 3 and 10 mm (including the endpoint).
[0056] To facilitate the installation of the first probe 841, in this embodiment, the mounting assembly 16 may further include a second mounting post 169, which is fixedly connected inside the mounting cylinder 161. The mounting cylinder 161 is also provided with a third mounting hole 1616 for the second probe end 8434 to pass through. The second probe 843 passes through the second mounting post 169 and the second probe end 8434 extends out of the mounting cylinder 161 through the third mounting hole 1616, so that when the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, the second probe end 8434 is located between and close to the second water level mark H1 and the second water level mark H2. The second connecting end 8432 protrudes from the end of the second mounting post 169 that is away from the third mounting hole 1616 to facilitate welding with the wiring harness of the water level detection circuit.
[0057] When the top cover 10 covers the mold 40, if the water level does not reach the first water level mark H1, the temperature sensor 821, the first probe 841, and the second probe 843 are not in contact with the water. At this time, the resistance between the common positive electrode (common electrode 823) and the first negative electrode (first probe 841) is extremely high, and the resistance between the common positive electrode and the second negative electrode (second probe 843) is also extremely high. The ice-making device 200 is in an idling state and cannot be turned on, reminding the user to add water. When the water level exceeds the first water level mark H1 but does not reach the second water level mark H2, the temperature sensor 821 and the first probe 841 are in contact with the water. At this time, the resistance between the common positive electrode (common electrode 823) and the first negative electrode (first probe 841) is relatively low, and the resistance between the common positive electrode (common electrode 823) and the second negative electrode (second probe 843) is extremely high. The mold 40 is in a half-immersion state, indicating to the user that there is insufficient water for ice making in the mold 40. When the water level reaches the second water level mark H2, the resistance between the common positive electrode (common electrode 823) and the first negative electrode (first probe 841) is small, and the resistance between the common positive electrode and the second negative electrode (second probe 843) is extremely small; the ice-making equipment 200 can operate normally.
[0058] Once the water level reaches the second water level mark H2, the ice-making equipment 200 can operate normally. During the ice-making process, when the temperature sensor 821 detects that the temperature inside the mold 40 is below -1℃ or -2℃, and the conductivity of the common positive electrode (common electrode 823) and the first negative electrode (first probe 841) changes significantly from their initial conductivity, it is determined that the ice has reached the first water level mark H1. At this time, the first probe 841 and the temperature sensor 821 will partially freeze, and the volume of free ions will change. Under these circumstances, the compressor of the refrigeration system 60 stops, and it is intermittently turned on to follow up with subsequent ice surface height measurements to achieve long-term ice preservation.
[0059] In this embodiment, the control unit 70 is configured to: acquire detection information, including temperature information output by temperature detection unit 82 and water level information output by water level detection unit 84; and control the ice-making equipment 200 to operate based on the detection information. The control unit 70 is electrically connected to the refrigeration system 60 of the ice-making equipment 200, and can control the refrigeration system 60 according to the temperature information output by temperature detection unit 82 and water level information output by water level detection unit 84.
[0060] The water level detection component 84 includes the aforementioned first probe 841 and second probe 843. When a conductor exists between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823, the first probe 841, the common electrode 823, and the conductor form a first conductive branch; when a conductor exists between the second probe 843 and the common electrode 823, the second probe 843, the common electrode 823, and the conductor form a second conductive branch. Based on the detection information, the ice-making device 200 is controlled to operate, including: when the water level information indicates that the water level inside the ice-making device 200 is greater than or equal to a first preset water level value, determining the ice height inside the ice-making device 200 based on at least one of the temperature information and the water level information; wherein, the condition that both the first conductive branch and the second conductive branch are conductive indicates that the water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level value.
[0061] In this embodiment, the "conductor" is understood as water or ice inside the mold 40. When water or ice exists between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823, the first probe 841, the common electrode 823, and the conductor form a first conductive branch; when water or ice exists between the second probe 843 and the common electrode 823, the second probe 843, the common electrode 823, and the conductor form a second conductive branch. The "first preset water level value" is understood as the water level height represented by the second water level mark H2 mentioned above. "Water level information representing the situation where the water level inside the ice-making device 200 is greater than or equal to the first preset water level value" is understood as the situation where the water level inside the mold 40 reaches or exceeds the second water level mark H2. The control component 70 can determine the ice height inside the mold 40 based on the water level information or temperature information at this time. The situation where the water level inside the mold 40 reaches or exceeds the second water level mark H2 indicates that the water level inside the mold 40 reaches or exceeds the second water level mark H2.
[0062] Determining the icing height inside the ice-making device 200 based on at least one of temperature information and water level information includes: determining that the icing height has reached a target height when the temperature information is within a specified temperature range; and / or obtaining the actual conductivity between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823 when the temperature information is within a specified temperature range; and determining that the icing height has reached a target height when the difference between the actual conductivity and the initial conductivity between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823 is greater than or equal to a preset value.
[0063] The aforementioned target height can be understood as the height of the ice obtained after cooling and freezing when the water level inside the mold is greater than or equal to the first preset water level value. In this embodiment, the target height is understood as the height of the first water level marker H1. First, the ice height inside the ice-making device 200 can be determined based on temperature information. The aforementioned "specified temperature range" in this embodiment can be less than -1℃ or -2℃. For example, the specified temperature range can be between -5℃ and -2℃ (inclusive). When the temperature information is within the specified temperature range, the ice height is determined to have reached the target height. Second, the ice height inside the ice-making device 200 can also be determined by combining the temperature information and the conductivity between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823. An initial conductivity can exist between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823. When the temperature information is within a specified temperature range, the actual conductivity between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823 is detected. If the difference between the actual conductivity and the initial conductivity between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823 is greater than or equal to a preset value, it is determined that the icing height has reached the target height. For example, when the temperature information is within a specified temperature range, if the change between the actual conductivity and the initial conductivity between the first probe 841 and the common electrode 823 reaches 30%, it is determined that the icing height has reached the target height.
[0064] The ice-making equipment 200 includes a refrigeration system 60 for cooling a mold 40; the control unit 70 is further configured to control the operation of the refrigeration system 60 based on the icing height, including: when the icing height is greater than or equal to a target height, controlling the refrigeration system 60 to operate in a first operating mode, the first operating mode indicating that the refrigeration system 60 operates intermittently; when the icing height is less than the target height, controlling the refrigeration system 60 to operate in a second operating mode, the second operating mode indicating that the refrigeration system 60 operates continuously.
[0065] When the ice height is greater than or equal to the target height, the control unit 70 controls the compressor of the refrigeration system 60 to operate in a first working mode, which indicates that the compressor of the refrigeration system 60 operates intermittently. Controlling the refrigeration system 60 to operate in the first working mode includes: dynamically detecting and acquiring the ice height inside the ice-making equipment 200 in real time; when the height is less than a first predetermined value, controlling the compressor to start; when the height is greater than a second predetermined value, controlling the compressor to stop. For example, if the ice height exceeds or reaches the first water level mark H1, the control unit 70 can first control the compressor to stop; if the ice in the mold 40 melts and the water level detector 84 detects that the water level in the mold 40 has dropped to a predetermined height (the first predetermined value), the control unit 70 controls the compressor to start again to make ice; if the height exceeds or reaches the first water level mark H1, controlling the compressor to stop again. When the ice height is lower than the first water level mark H1, the control unit 70 controls the compressor of the refrigeration system 60 to operate in a second working mode, which indicates that the refrigeration system operates continuously. If the ice level is below the first water level mark H1, the control unit 70 controls the compressor to continue running so that the liquid water in the mold 40 solidifies to form ice.
[0066] The ice-making equipment 200 also includes a prompting module electrically connected to the control unit 70. The control unit 70 is further configured to control the prompting module to issue prompting information based on detection information, including: when the water level information indicates that the water level inside the ice-making equipment 200 is less than a second preset water level value, the control prompting module generates a first prompting message; wherein the second preset water level value is less than the first preset water level value, and the first prompting message is used to indicate that the water level inside the mold 40 is too low; when the water level information indicates that the water level inside the ice-making equipment 200 is greater than or equal to the second preset water level value and less than the first preset water level value, the control prompting module generates a second prompting message, and the second prompting message is used to indicate that the water level inside the mold 40 is low.
[0067] The aforementioned second preset water level value is the height of the first water level marker H1, and the first preset water level is the height of the second water level marker H2. When the water level information indicates that the water level inside the mold 40 is lower than the first water level marker H1, the control component 70 controls the prompt module to generate a first prompt message, indicating that the water level inside the mold 40 is too low, thus reminding the user to add water. When the water level information indicates that the water level inside the mold 40 is higher than or equal to the first water level marker H1, but lower than the second water level marker H2, the control prompt module generates a second prompt message, indicating that the water level inside the mold 40 is low, the mold 40 is in a half-immersion state, and that the user's ice-making water inside the mold 40 is insufficient.
[0068] In the cover module 100 provided in this application, the temperature sensor 821 extends at least partially into the mold 40. When the water level inside the mold 40 is higher than at least a portion of the structure of the temperature sensor 821, the temperature sensor 821 can directly contact and sense the temperature inside the mold 40. The common electrode 823 is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 821, and the temperature sensor 821 serves as part of the water level and temperature detection circuit. The water level detection element 84 extends at least partially into the mold 40. When the water level inside the mold 40 rises to the point that it simultaneously submerges a portion of the structure of the temperature sensor 821 and a portion of the structure of the water level detection element 84, there is a connection between the temperature sensor 821 and the water level detection element 84. The circuit containing the control element 70, the common electrode 823, and the water level detection element 84 is activated, thereby completing the water level detection. The control element 70 can be electrically connected to the refrigeration system 60. The control element 70 receives and processes the signals from the temperature detection element 821 and the water level detection element 84, and precisely controls key components such as the start and stop of the refrigeration system 60 to ensure the smooth operation of the ice-making process. For example, when the control unit 70 detects through the temperature detection unit 82 that the temperature inside the mold 40 is lower than -1℃ or -2℃, it determines that the ice inside the mold 40 has reached the height of the first water level mark H1. At this time, the refrigeration system 60 is turned off and intermittently turned on according to subsequent ice surface height measurements to achieve long-term ice preservation.
[0069] The cover module 100 provided in this application uses a temperature sensor 82 and a water level sensor 84 to detect the temperature and water level within the mold 40, providing status or abnormal information to the user, or providing status information for the long-term ice-preservation control logic. The common electrode 823 is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 821, making the temperature sensor 821 part of the water level and temperature detection circuit. Working together with the water level sensor 84, it performs water level detection, simplifying the necessary component structure and reducing the space occupied by the detection assembly 80.
[0070] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. 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.
[0071] Unless otherwise expressly specified or 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 connection; a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; a direct connection or an indirect connection via an intermediate medium; a connection within two components; or merely surface contact. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.
[0072] 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 application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.
[0073] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. A cover module, characterized in that, The cover module is used in an ice-making device, which includes control components and a mold for containing water for ice making. The cover module includes: A top cover for concealing the mold, the top cover having an installation space; and A detection component, connected to the top cover and electrically connected to the control unit, includes a temperature detection component and a water level detection component. The temperature detection component includes a temperature sensor and a common electrode electrically connected to the temperature sensor. When the top cover covers the mold, the temperature sensor extends at least partially into the mold, and the water level detection element extends at least partially into the mold; when there is water or ice in communication between the temperature sensor and the water level detection element, the circuit containing the temperature sensor, the common electrode, and the water level detection element is connected.
2. The cover module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cover module further includes a drive assembly and a stirring assembly. The drive assembly is disposed within the installation space and electrically connected to the control component. The stirring assembly is drively connected to the drive assembly and has a stirring element. When the top cover covers the mold, at least a portion of the structure of the stirring element is accommodated inside the mold.
3. The cover module as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The temperature sensor includes a main body and a probe head. The main body is fixedly connected to the top cover, and the probe head is connected to one end of the main body. When the top cover covers the mold and the ice-making equipment is in operation, the height of the probe head is lower than the minimum height of the stirring component.
4. The cover module as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The top cover is provided with an installation assembly on one side. The installation assembly includes an installation cylinder and a positioning post. The opening of the installation cylinder faces the installation space and communicates with the installation space. The bottom of the installation cylinder is provided with a first installation hole. The positioning post is fixedly connected to the installation cylinder. The positioning post is provided with a positioning hole communicating with the first installation hole. The main body passes through the positioning hole, and the probe head passes through the first installation hole.
5. The cover module as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The temperature sensor also includes a mounting plate, and the main body is fixedly connected to the mounting plate; the mounting assembly also includes a connecting column, the connecting column is fixedly connected inside the mounting cylinder, and the mounting plate is connected to the connecting column by a fastener and covers the positioning hole.
6. The cover module as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The sidewall of the positioning hole is provided with a sealing groove, and the detection component also includes a sealing element, which is disposed in the sealing groove and abuts against the main body and the mounting plate.
7. The cover module as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The water level detection device includes a first probe electrically connected to the control device. The first probe has a first detection end for detecting the water level. The temperature sensor includes a conductive probe electrically connected to the common electrode and spaced apart from the first detection end.
8. The cover module as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The water level detection device further includes a second probe electrically connected to the control device. The second probe has a second detection end for detecting the water level. When the top cover covers the mold and the ice-making equipment is in operation, the height of the second detection end is higher than the height of the first detection end.
9. The cover module as described in claim 8, characterized in that, When the top cover covers the mold and the ice-making equipment is in operation, the height of the first detection end is higher than or equal to the height of the detection end of the conductive probe.
10. An ice-making device, characterized in that, include: Box; The mold is set inside the box; The cover module as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the top cover of the cover module is connected to the housing and conceals the mold; and A control component is disposed within the installation space and electrically connected to the detection assembly.
11. The ice-making apparatus as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The mold includes a mold body and an ice tray. The ice tray is disposed within the mold body and together with the inner wall of the mold body defines the ice tray. The ice tray has a water inlet. A first water level mark is formed at the connection between the water inlet and the inner wall of the mold body. A second water level mark is also provided on the inner wall of the mold body. When the top cover covers the mold, the second water level mark is located between the first water level mark and the cover module. The height of the detection end of the temperature sensor is lower than the first water level mark.
12. The ice-making equipment as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The control element is configured to: Acquire detection information, which includes temperature information output by the temperature detection device and water level information output by the water level detection device; Based on the detection information, the ice-making equipment is controlled to operate.
13. The ice-making equipment as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The water level detection device includes a first probe and a second probe. When there is a conductor between the first probe and the common electrode, the first probe, the common electrode, and the conductor form a first conductive branch; when there is a conductor between the second probe and the common electrode, the second probe, the common electrode, and the conductor form a second conductive branch. The step of controlling the ice-making equipment to operate based on the detection information includes: When the water level information indicates that the water level inside the ice-making device is greater than or equal to a first preset water level value, the ice height inside the ice-making device is determined based on at least one of the temperature information and the water level information; wherein, the case where both the first conductive branch and the second conductive branch are conductive indicates that the water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level value.
14. The ice-making apparatus as described in claim 13, characterized in that, Determining the ice height inside the ice-making equipment based on at least one of the temperature information and the water level information includes: If the temperature information is within a specified temperature range, determine that the icing height has reached the target height; and / or When the temperature information is within a specified temperature range, the actual conductivity between the first probe and the common electrode is obtained; when the difference between the actual conductivity and the initial conductivity between the first probe and the common electrode is greater than or equal to a preset value, it is determined that the icing height has reached the target height.
15. The ice-making apparatus as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The ice-making equipment further includes a refrigeration system for cooling the mold; the control element is further configured to control the operation of the refrigeration system based on the ice height, including: When the icing height is greater than or equal to the target height, the refrigeration system is controlled to operate in a first working mode, wherein the first working mode indicates that the refrigeration system operates intermittently. When the icing height is less than the target height, the refrigeration system is controlled to operate in a second working mode, which indicates that the refrigeration system operates continuously.
16. The ice-making apparatus as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The ice-making equipment further includes a prompting module electrically connected to the control unit. The control unit is further configured to control the prompting module to issue prompting information based on the detection information, including: When the water level information indicates that the water level inside the ice-making equipment is less than a second preset water level value, the prompting module is controlled to generate a first prompt message; wherein, the second preset water level value is less than the first preset water level value, and the first prompt message is used to indicate that the water level inside the mold is too low. When the water level information indicates that the water level inside the ice-making equipment is greater than or equal to the second preset water level value and less than the first preset water level value, the prompting module is controlled to generate a second prompt message, which is used to indicate that the water level inside the mold is low.