Ice-making evaporator, ice-making assembly, spraying ice-making device and ice-making machine

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of ice-making equipment, and provides an ice-making evaporator, an ice-making assembly, a spraying ice-making device and an ice maker, the ice-making evaporator comprises an ice-making piece and a runner structure, the ice-making piece is provided with at least two groups of ice cube tray units, the two groups of ice cube tray units are arranged along the first direction of the ice-making piece, each group of ice cube tray unit comprises ice cube trays, and the runner structure is arranged on the ice-making piece. One side of each ice cube tray is provided with an opening; the flow channel structure is arranged on one side of the ice making piece and comprises a first micro-channel flat pipe and a second micro-channel flat pipe, one end of the first micro-channel flat pipe is used for introducing a heat exchange medium, the other end of the first micro-channel flat pipe is communicated with one end of the second micro-channel flat pipe, and the other end of the second micro-channel flat pipe is used for discharging the heat exchange medium; the first micro-channel flat pipes and the second micro-channel flat pipes are flush with each other and correspond to the two sets of ice cube tray units one to one, and due to the fact that the inner diameters of the micro-channel flat pipes are small, the flow speed of heat exchange media in the micro-channel flat pipes is increased, turbulence is enhanced, the heat exchange efficiency is improved, and the phenomenon that ice cubes are stuck is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of ice-making equipment technology, and more particularly to ice-making evaporators, ice-making components, spray ice-making devices, and ice makers. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, ice makers on the market use an internal spray system to spray liquid onto multiple ice trays, and then produce ice cubes through an ice-making module with a heat exchange medium. However, this spray-based ice-making process has at least the following problems: Firstly, due to the different arrangement of the ice blocks in different rows, when the ice blocks in different rows move towards the de-icing port, if the ice blocks in the ice-making trays farther from the de-icing port form ice blocks first, during the movement, the ice blocks formed in the ice-making trays closer to the de-icing port will also fall off at the same time, causing the ice blocks to get stuck and unable to move normally to the de-icing port. As a result, they cannot move to the ice storage position of the ice maker, ultimately affecting the normal progress of the next round of ice making process. Secondly, the heat exchange medium has a slow flow rate, weak turbulence, and low heat exchange efficiency, which affects the ice making speed and thus the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the related art. To this end, the present invention proposes an ice-making evaporator in which the flow rate of the heat exchange medium is increased, turbulence is enhanced, and heat exchange efficiency is improved.

[0004] The present invention also proposes an ice-making component.

[0005] The present invention also proposes a spray ice-making device.

[0006] The present invention also proposes an ice maker.

[0007] An ice-making evaporator according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: An ice-making component is provided with at least two sets of ice grid units, the two sets of ice grid units are arranged along a first direction of the ice-making component, each set of ice grid units includes an ice grid, and one side of the ice grid is provided with an opening; A flow channel structure is provided on one side of the ice-making component. The flow channel structure is used for heat exchange with the ice-making component. The flow channel structure includes a first microchannel flat tube and a second microchannel flat tube. One end of the first microchannel flat tube is used to introduce the heat exchange medium, and the other end is connected to one end of the second microchannel flat tube. The other end of the second microchannel flat tube is used to discharge the heat exchange medium. The first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube are arranged flush with each other and are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the two sets of ice grid units.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the ice-making evaporator of the present invention, the heat exchange medium, such as a low-temperature refrigerant, flows within a first microchannel flat tube and a second microchannel flat tube, with the microchannels in contact with the top wall of the ice grid. Due to the small inner diameter of the microchannel flat tube, the refrigerant flow velocity increases within the microchannel flat tube, enhancing turbulence and improving heat exchange efficiency. The contact between the heat exchange medium and the top wall of the ice grid, based on the flow direction of the first and second microchannel flat tubes, ensures that the ice blocks formed in the front row of ice grid units are prioritized over those in the rear row, thereby ensuring that ice blocks closer to the front fall first and helping to avoid ice block jamming.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice-making evaporator further includes a first collector and a second collector, the first collector being provided with a heat exchange medium inlet and a heat exchange medium outlet, and the second collector being provided with a transition communication portion; The first microchannel flat tube is connected to the heat exchange medium inlet, and the second microchannel flat tube is connected to the heat exchange medium outlet. The first microchannel flat tube is connected to the second microchannel flat tube through the transition connecting part.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first current collector is provided with a first positioning cavity and a second positioning cavity, one end of the first microchannel flat tube is inserted into the first positioning cavity, and one end of the second microchannel flat tube is inserted into the second positioning cavity; The heat exchange medium inlet corresponds to and is connected to the first positioning cavity, and the heat exchange medium outlet is connected to the first positioning cavity.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the inner wall of the first positioning cavity is provided with a first step, and there is a gap between the first step and a side wall of the first positioning cavity corresponding to the end of the first microchannel flat tube. The first step abuts against the end of the first microchannel flat tube, wherein the first step and the heat exchange medium inlet are misaligned or partially overlapped in the orthographic projection on the horizontal plane. And / or, the inner wall of the second positioning cavity is provided with a second step, and there is a gap between the second step and a side wall of the second positioning cavity corresponding to the end of the second microchannel flat tube. The second step abuts against the end of the second microchannel flat tube, wherein the orthographic projection of the second step and the heat exchange medium outlet on the horizontal plane is misaligned or partially overlaps.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the transition connecting portion is a cavity structure or channel structure integrally formed within the second current collector.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the transition connecting portion is a connecting cavity formed in the second current collector, and one end of both the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube is inserted into the connecting cavity; The communicating cavity is provided with a third step, and there is a gap between the third step and the side wall of the communicating cavity corresponding to the ends of the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube. The third step abuts against the ends of the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube are independently and stacked with the ice-making component.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the widths of the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube are respectively adapted to the width of the corresponding ice grid unit, and the lengths of the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube are respectively adapted to the length of the corresponding ice grid unit.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the distance between the first current collector and the second current collector is equal to the length of the ice-making component.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first current collector abuts against one end of the ice-making component in the second direction, and the second current collector abuts against the other end of the ice-making component in the second direction; The orthographic projections of the first and second current collectors along the second direction of the ice-making component partially overlap with the orthographic projections of the ice-making component along the second direction.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, each group of ice tray units includes a plurality of ice trays, and the plurality of ice trays are arranged sequentially along the second direction of the ice-making component; The ice-making component has multiple ice-removing vent holes, which are arranged one-to-one with the ice-making grid. The ice-removing vent holes are used to connect the inside and outside of the ice-making grid.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice-making evaporator includes an inlet pipe for introducing a heat exchange medium and an outlet pipe for discharging the heat exchange medium. One end of the inlet pipe is inserted into the heat exchange medium inlet, and one end of the outlet pipe is inserted into the heat exchange medium outlet. The first manifold has a fourth step at the inlet of the heat exchange medium and a fifth step at the outlet of the heat exchange medium; wherein the fourth step abuts against one end of the inlet pipe and the fifth step abuts against one end of the outlet pipe.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice-making evaporator further includes a capillary tube, which is wound around the outer wall of the outlet pipe.

[0021] An ice-making assembly according to a second aspect of the present invention includes: The ice-making evaporator described in the first aspect embodiment above; The partition body is located on one side of the ice evaporator and is adjacent to the ice grid unit. The partition body is used to independently separate the ice blocks formed by the ice grid to a preset position.

[0022] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a spray ice-making apparatus includes: A water receiving box having a water receiving cavity and an ice removal port, wherein the water receiving cavity is connected to the ice removal port; The ice-making assembly described in the second aspect embodiment above is at least partially located in the water receiving chamber; A spray element is provided in the water receiving cavity and arranged at intervals below the ice-making assembly. The spray element has a guide spray surface, which is used to receive and guide ice blocks to a preset position. The guide spray surface has multiple spray holes, which are arranged one-to-one with the ice-making grid.

[0023] An ice maker according to a fourth aspect of the present invention includes: The machine body contains an ice storage compartment. The spray ice-making device described in the third aspect embodiment above is located on the machine body, and the de-icing port is connected to the ice storage chamber.

[0024] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a partial structural cross-sectional schematic diagram of the ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the spray ice-making device of the ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the partition body, spray components, and water receiving box of the spray ice-making device of the ice maker provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the microchannel flat tube evaporator of the ice evaporator of the ice maker provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Another perspective structural diagram.

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A partial structural cross-sectional diagram.

[0034] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of its breakdown.

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first manifold of a microchannel flat tube evaporator.

[0036] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the second manifold of a microchannel flat tube evaporator.

[0037] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of an example of the partition body of an ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Another perspective structural diagram.

[0039] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an example of the partition body of an ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention, which has a flow guide bar and an ice evaporator, wherein the side walls of two adjacent flow guide bars are inclined to one side.

[0040] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A schematic diagram showing that the flow guide bar is tilted to one side relative to the sidewall at an angle α.

[0041] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another example of the partition body of the ice maker provided in the embodiment of the present invention, which has a flow guide bar.

[0042] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a partition body of an ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention, which has an aid-in flow channel.

[0043] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A cross-sectional schematic diagram.

[0044] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the water guiding and de-icing channel of the partition body of the ice maker provided in the embodiment of the present invention, which is matched with the ice grid and the inclination angle β of the water guiding and de-icing channel.

[0045] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the spray component of the ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the water receiving box of the ice maker provided in an embodiment of the present invention from the rear view.

[0047] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of a tangential mixing spray nozzle provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the spiral pressurized spray nozzle provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the automatic oscillation deflection hole provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the arc-shaped setting of the spray cap provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of the conical setting of the spray cap provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of an ice tray with interchangeable ice cube shapes provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure label: 100. Main body; 110. Ice storage compartment; 120. Water storage chamber; 130. Water supply assembly; 200, Ice-making evaporator; d210, Ice-making component; d220, First microchannel flat tube; d230, Second microchannel flat tube; d240, First manifold; d241, First positioning cavity; d2411, First step; d242, Second positioning cavity; d2421, Second step; d243, Fourth step; d244, Fifth step; d250, Second manifold; d251, Transition connecting part; 300. Baffle body; 310. Water guiding and de-icing zone; 320. Water guiding and de-icing channel; 321. First opening; 322. Second opening; 330. Water-blocking structure; 331. Water-blocking baffle; 3311. Water distribution unit; 33111. Water distribution guide column; 33112. Guide bar; 332. Extended baffle; 340. De-icing channel; 341. De-icing medium inlet; 342. De-icing medium outlet; 350. Receiving cavity; 360. Outlet baffle; 410. First positioning part; 420. Second positioning part; 430. First fixing part; 440. Second fixing part; 500, Water receiving box; 510, Water receiving chamber; 520, De-icing port; 530, Flow guide wall; 540, Return port; 550, Flow guide plate; 600. Sprayer component; 610. Spray guide surface; 620. Spray hole; 630. Guide rib; 640. Guide channel; 650. Water storage chamber; 660. Return slope; 670. Flow stabilizer pipe; 681. Tangential mixing spray nozzle; 682. Spiral pressurized spray nozzle; 683. Automatic vibration deflection hole; 684. Spray cap; 600a. Box body; 600b. First connector; 700, Compressor; 800, Ice-dispensing mechanism; 810, Ice dispenser; 820, Ice-dispensing drive unit; A. Heat exchange medium inlet; B. Heat exchange medium outlet; C. Ice grid unit; C1. Ice grid; D. Flow channel structure; E. De-icing vent; F. Inlet fitting; G. Outlet fitting; G1. Capillary tube; H. Return channel. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0055] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," 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 the embodiments of the present 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 the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0056] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0057] In embodiments of the present 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," "on top of," and "over" 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.

[0058] 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 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.

[0059] The following is combined with Figures 1-27 This invention describes an ice-making evaporator, ice-making assembly, spray ice-making device, and ice maker. In some examples of this invention, the ice maker includes a body 100, a spray ice-making device, a water supply assembly 130, a compressor 700, and an ice-dispensing mechanism 800. Of course, the ice maker also includes components such as a housing.

[0060] It should be noted that, referring to Figures 1 to 3 In some examples of the present invention, the first direction intersects with the second direction. The three basic directions of the ice maker are defined as follows: the first direction is along the lateral width direction of the ice maker, i.e., the front-to-back direction; the second direction is along the lateral length direction of the ice maker, i.e., the left-to-right direction; and the height direction is along the longitudinal direction of the ice maker, i.e., the up-to-down direction.

[0061] Understandably, referring to Figure 4 In some examples of the present invention, the spray ice-making device includes a water receiving box 500, an ice-making component, and a spray component 600.

[0062] Specifically, refer to Figures 4 to 5In some examples, the water receiving box 500 has a water receiving cavity 510 and an ice removal port 520, with the water receiving cavity 510 communicating with the ice removal port 520; the ice making assembly is at least partially located in the water receiving cavity 510, and the ice making assembly has a heat exchange medium inlet A, a heat exchange medium outlet B, multiple sets of ice grid units C and a flow channel structure D for introducing the heat exchange medium, one end of the flow channel structure D is connected to the heat exchange medium inlet A, and the other end is connected to the heat exchange medium outlet B, and the flow channel structure D is configured to guide the heat exchange medium through the multiple sets of ice grid units C, each set of ice grid units C including an ice grid C1 for making ice cubes, with an opening on one side of the ice grid C1; The spray element 600 is located in the water receiving cavity 510 and is arranged at intervals on one side of the ice making assembly. The spray element 600 has a guide spray surface 610, which is used to receive and guide the ice blocks to move towards the de-icing port 520. The guide spray surface 610 has multiple spray holes 620, which are arranged one-to-one with the ice making grid C1. Among them, multiple sets of ice grid units C are arranged sequentially from near to far from the de-icing port 520, and the heat exchange medium on the flow channel structure D at least corresponds to the ice grid unit C to flow from the ice grid unit C near the de-icing port 520 to the ice grid unit C far from the de-icing port 520.

[0063] With the above configuration, during ice making, the spray nozzle 620 sprays liquid into the ice grid C1, and the heat exchange medium is transported through the flow channel structure D to exchange heat with the ice grid C1. The flow direction of the heat exchange medium on the flow channel structure D, at least corresponding to the ice grid unit C, is from the ice grid unit C closest to the de-icing port 520 to the ice grid unit C C furthest away from the de-icing port 520. This can be understood as follows: when making ice, the heat exchange medium, being a low-temperature refrigerant, first flows into the row of ice grid C1 closest to the de-icing port 520, and then flows through the row of ice grid C1 furthest away from the de-icing port 520, thereby adjusting the ice-making time for different rows. Similarly, during de-icing, the heat exchange medium, being a high-temperature refrigerant, will also first flow into the row of ice grid C1 closest to the de-icing port 520, and then flow through the row of ice grid C1 furthest away from the de-icing port 520, thus ensuring that ice cubes closest to the de-icing port 520 fall first, avoiding the phenomenon of ice cubes getting stuck.

[0064] In the above-mentioned ice-making process, after the ice is formed, it passes through the guide spray surface 610 provided by the spray component 600. The guide spray surface 610 receives and guides the ice to move towards the de-icing port 520, which improves the stability of the ice movement and its integrity. In addition, since the ice moves to the de-icing port 520 through the directional movement of the guide spray surface 610 and then moves to the preset position from the de-icing port 520, the moving speed of the ice is increased to a certain extent. This helps to ensure the normal operation of the ice-making process, improves the ice-making efficiency, and facilitates user use.

[0065] Understandably, referring to Figure 4In some examples of the present invention, the de-icing port 520 may be arranged longitudinally or laterally. In this embodiment, the de-icing port 520 is described as being arranged longitudinally.

[0066] Understandably, referring to Figure 5 In this embodiment, the de-icing port 520 extends along the left-right direction of the ice maker, and is located at the front of the water receiving box 500. The spray component 600 is located below the ice-making assembly. Along the front-back direction of the ice-making assembly, the ice grid units C1 in the row closest to the de-icing port 520 can be understood as the front row ice grid units C, and the ice grid units C1 in the row furthest from the de-icing port 520 can be understood as the rear row ice grid units C. It should be noted that the distance between the front row ice grid units C and the rear row ice grid units C and the de-icing port 520 is based on comparing the horizontal distances of the front row units and the rear row units from the de-icing port 520 according to their respective front-back positions in a horizontal layout.

[0067] Understandably, referring to Figures 1 to 3 In some examples of the present invention, the body 100 is provided with an ice storage chamber 110, the spray ice making device is located inside the body 100, the de-icing port 520 is connected to the ice storage chamber 110, and ice blocks can be moved through the de-icing port 520 or fall into the ice storage chamber 110.

[0068] Reference Figures 1 to 3 In some examples of the present invention, the body 100 is further provided with a water storage chamber 120; one end of the water supply component 130 is connected to the water storage chamber 120, and the other end is connected to the spray hole 620 of the spray component 600.

[0069] Specifically, the ice storage compartment 110 has several water holes, the diameter of which is smaller than the size of the ice grid. These water holes connect to the water storage cavity 120 to drain the liquid from the melting ice into the water storage cavity 120. The water supply assembly 130 includes a circulating water pump and a water supply pipeline. The circulating water pump is connected to the water storage cavity 120, and one end of the water supply pipeline is connected to the circulating water pump, while the other end is connected to the spray unit 600. Through a circulating water pump and water supply pipeline, water is sprayed upwards through the spray holes 620 of the spray unit 600 to the corresponding ice-making grid C1 for ice making. Due to the continuous flushing of water, gas is prevented from being frozen inside the ice during the freezing process, thus ensuring the transparency of the ice.

[0070] It is understood that in some examples of the present invention, different ice-making times are set according to different ambient temperatures in order to ensure the consistency of ice cubes under different environments.

[0071] This ensures that the size, density, and transparency of the ice produced remain consistent regardless of whether it is in scorching heat or freezing cold. Furthermore, it achieves significant energy savings and equipment protection at a deeper level, ultimately elevating the ice-making process from a passive, manual operation to an intelligent art of proactive adaptation and precise control, greatly enhancing product reliability and the professional level of user experience.

[0072] Understandably, referring to Figures 1 to 3 In this embodiment, part of the ice-dispensing mechanism 800 is located inside the ice storage chamber 110, and another part is located outside the body 100. The ice-dispensing mechanism 800 is used to transport the ice blocks in the ice storage chamber 110 to the preset position for the user to take ice.

[0073] With the above configuration, an ice-dispensing mechanism 800 is provided. Users do not need to manually retrieve ice. After the user outputs the ice-retrieval command, the ice-dispensing mechanism 800 can move the ice blocks located in the ice storage chamber 110 to the preset position for the user to retrieve ice, which makes it convenient for users to retrieve ice, reduces waiting time costs, and further improves the convenience of use.

[0074] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 3 In some examples of the present invention, the ice-dispensing mechanism 800 includes an ice-dispensing box 810 and an ice-dispensing drive unit 820. The ice-dispensing box 810 has an ice-dispensing channel, one end of which is connected to the ice storage chamber 110, and the other end is connected to a preset position on the ice maker for the user to take ice. The ice-dispensing drive unit 820 is mounted on the ice-dispensing box 810 or the machine body 100. The ice-dispensing drive unit 820 has an ice-dispensing component that extends into the ice storage chamber 110. It can be understood that the ice-dispensing component is an auger component that can move relative to the ice storage chamber 110, thereby moving the ice cubes into the ice-dispensing channel. With the above configuration, continuous, automated, and convenient ice cube supply without manual intervention can be achieved, significantly improving usage efficiency and user experience.

[0075] Understandably, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some examples of the present invention, the guiding spray surface 610 is configured to be inclined toward the ice-making assembly from the direction of approaching to moving away from the de-icing port 520.

[0076] Based on the above, the guide spray surface 610 is lower in the front and higher in the back, which allows the ice to move quickly through the guide spray surface 610 and detach from the de-icing port 520, thereby increasing the moving speed of the ice, which is conducive to ensuring the normal operation of the ice making process, improving the ice making efficiency, and making it convenient for users.

[0077] Of course, in other examples, the guiding spray surface 610 can also be set horizontally, which is not limited here.

[0078] It is understood that, in some examples of the present invention, the compressor 700 is connected to the ice-making assembly to facilitate the heat exchange step.

[0079] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, the compressor 700 is located at the lower part of the ice maker, and the lower part of the body 100 has a clearance recess to facilitate the installation of the compressor 700, reduce the overall length of the ice maker in the left and right direction, and help to reduce the volume; the ice-making component is located at the upper part of the ice maker, so that the compressor 700 and the ice-making component are set separately to avoid mutual interference.

[0080] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some examples of the present invention, the ice-making assembly includes an ice-making evaporator 200, which is fixedly connected to a water receiving box 500.

[0081] Reference Figure 6 The heat exchange medium inlet A and heat exchange medium outlet B are located in the ice-making evaporator 200. The ice-making evaporator 200 has a flow channel structure D and an ice grid unit C arranged along its height direction.

[0082] The compressor 700 is connected to the ice-making assembly to facilitate the heat exchange ice-making process. A flow channel structure D and an ice grid unit C are arranged vertically, with the ice grid unit C located below the flow channel structure D. Rapid ice-making is achieved by the downward flow of cold air into the ice grid unit C.

[0083] It should be noted that, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 27 In some examples, there can be multiple ice trays C1 or just one, depending on the needs; the ice tray C1 is square in shape, and the ice maker produces cubes of ice. (See reference...) Figure 26 The shape of each ice tray C1 can be set according to actual needs, including but not limited to circles, squares, rectangles, triangles or ovals.

[0084] Specifically, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 27 In this embodiment, ice grid units C are arranged in two groups along the front and back. Each group of ice grid units C includes five ice grids C1, and the cross-section of the ice grid C1 is described as square.

[0085] A cube of ice has 6 faces, therefore, referring to... Figure 7Ice tray C1 has an end wall and a peripheral wall surrounding the end wall. The peripheral wall forms an opening opposite to the end wall. The opening of ice tray C1 is located at its lower end and faces downward. Therefore, the end wall at the upper end is the top wall, and the peripheral wall corresponds to the four faces around the cube of ice. At the same time, it can be understood that the top wall and the peripheral wall constitute the surrounding wall of ice tray C1, that is, the wall surface surrounding the upper side and the left, right, front and back sides of the opening.

[0086] Therefore, in this embodiment, the ice tray C1 has a total of 5 surfaces, including the top wall and the four side walls. These 5 surfaces can be used as cooling surfaces, and the low-temperature refrigerant can flow through one or more cooling surfaces depending on the flow channel configuration.

[0087] In this embodiment, the ice tray C1 can be made of metal, high-temperature resistant plastic, etc. For example, when the ice tray C1 is made of metal, the extrusion aluminum production process is also used, which greatly shortens the processing time of the ice evaporator 200. In this embodiment, the ice tray C1 is described as a metal part, or it can be understood that the ice evaporator 200 is described as a metal structure as a whole.

[0088] Reference Figure 7 In some examples of the present invention, the ice evaporator 200 is provided with a plurality of ice removal vent holes E, which are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the ice grid C1. The ice removal vent holes E are used to connect the inside and outside of the ice grid C1.

[0089] Through the above structure, the de-icing vent E connects the inside and outside of the ice tray C1, balancing the internal and external air pressure during freezing and eliminating negative pressure adsorption; at the same time, it guides residual moisture to drain or evaporate, reducing the surface tension adhesion between the ice tray C1 and the ice; in some examples, the de-icing vent E can also assist in drainage to prevent secondary freezing, ultimately greatly reducing demolding resistance and allowing the ice to easily detach from the ice tray.

[0090] Understandably, referring to Figures 6 to 8 The ice-making evaporator 200 includes an inlet pipe F for introducing heat exchange medium, an outlet pipe G for discharging heat exchange medium, and a capillary tube G1. One end of the inlet pipe F is inserted into the heat exchange medium inlet A, and one end of the outlet pipe G is inserted into the heat exchange medium outlet B. The capillary tube G1 is wound around the outer wall of the outlet pipe G.

[0091] The above settings can be understood as a regenerative system that improves the operating efficiency of the ice maker, stabilizes system parameters (pressure, temperature, flow rate), and ultimately achieves the goals of improving refrigeration efficiency, protecting the compressor 700, and extending system life.

[0092] Reference Figures 6 to 11In some examples of the present invention, the ice-making evaporator 200 is a microchannel flat tube evaporator. The ice-making evaporator 200 includes an ice-making element d210, which is provided with two sets of ice grid units C. The two sets of ice grid units C are arranged along a first direction of the ice-making element d210, and one side of the ice grid unit C is opened. The flow channel structure D is used for heat exchange with the ice-making element d210. The flow channel structure D is provided on one side of the ice-making element d210. The flow channel structure D includes a first microchannel flat tube d220 and a second microchannel flat tube d230. One end of the first microchannel flat tube d220 is connected to the heat exchange medium inlet A, and the other end is connected to one end of the second microchannel flat tube d230. The other end of the second microchannel flat tube d230 is connected to the heat exchange medium outlet B. The first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230 are arranged flush with each other and correspond one-to-one with the two sets of ice grid units C. This can be understood as the two sets of ice grid units C being arranged along the front-to-back direction.

[0093] With the above setup, the heat exchange medium, such as a cryogenic refrigerant, flows within the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230, with the microchannels in contact with the top wall of the ice grid C1. Due to the small inner diameter of the microchannel flat tubes, the refrigerant's flow velocity increases within them, enhancing turbulence and improving heat exchange efficiency. The refrigerant's contact with the top wall of the ice grid C1 ensures that the ice blocks formed in the front row of ice grid units C1 are prioritized over those in the rear row, thus ensuring that ice blocks near the de-icing port 520 fall out preferentially, helping to prevent ice blocks from becoming stuck.

[0094] Reference Figures 6 to 9 In some examples of the present invention, the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230 are independently and stacked with the ice-making component d210.

[0095] The above settings allow for changes to the evaporator shape and the replacement of different ice-making components (d210) to meet the requirements of different ice types.

[0096] Specifically, refer to Figure 8 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 In this embodiment, the ice-making evaporator 200 further includes a first collector d240 and a second collector d250. The first collector d240 is provided with a heat exchange medium inlet A and a heat exchange medium outlet B, and the second collector d250 is provided with a transition connecting part d251. The first microchannel flat tube d220 is connected to the heat exchange medium inlet A, and the second microchannel flat tube d230 is connected to the heat exchange medium outlet B. The first microchannel flat tube d220 is connected to the second microchannel flat tube d230 through the transition connecting part d251.

[0097] With the above arrangement, the heat exchange medium flows from the heat exchange medium inlet A through the first manifold d240 into the first microchannel flat tube d220, and after entering the microchannel flat tube through the transition connecting part d251, it flows out from the heat exchange medium outlet B, forming a complete medium flow path. The transition connecting part d251 serves as an intermediate connection, which not only ensures the independence of the medium path, but also realizes the indirect connection of the microchannel flat tube, providing an orderly channel for the circulation of the heat exchange medium in the system and ensuring the smooth progress of the heat exchange process.

[0098] Specifically, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 10 In this embodiment, the first collector d240 is provided with a first positioning cavity d241 and a second positioning cavity d242. One end of the first microchannel flat tube d220 is inserted into the first positioning cavity d241, and one end of the second microchannel flat tube d230 is inserted into the second positioning cavity d242. The heat exchange medium inlet A corresponds to and is connected to the first positioning cavity d241, and the heat exchange medium outlet B is connected to the first positioning cavity d241.

[0099] With the above structure, when one end of the first microchannel flat tube d220 is inserted into the first positioning cavity d241 and one end of the second microchannel flat tube d230 is inserted into the second positioning cavity d242, the two positioning cavities respectively form precise limits and fixation on the ends of the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230, preventing the tube body from shaking or displacing and ensuring that the axes of the two are aligned; the heat exchange medium inlet A of the first positioning cavity d241 and the heat exchange medium outlet B of the second positioning cavity serve as directional channels for the medium to enter and exit, respectively. With the stable constraint of the positioning cavity on the tube end, the medium flows smoothly from the inlet through the first positioning cavity d241 and the first micro-movement channel flat tube, and then exits from the heat exchange medium outlet B through the second micro-movement channel flat tube and the second positioning cavity d242. This reduces flow resistance and leakage risk, and ensures the stability and efficiency of the medium transmission path.

[0100] More specifically, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 10 In some examples of the present invention, the inner wall of the first positioning cavity d241 is provided with a first step d2411, and there is a gap between the first step d2411 and a side wall on the first positioning cavity d241 corresponding to the end of the first microchannel flat tube d220. The first step d2411 abuts against the end of the first microchannel flat tube d220. The first step d2411 and the heat exchange medium inlet A are misaligned or partially overlapped in the horizontal plane. And / or, the inner wall of the second positioning cavity d242 is provided with a second step d2421, and there is a gap between the second step d2421 and the side wall of the second positioning cavity d242 corresponding to the end of the second microchannel flat tube d230. The second step d2421 abuts against the end of the second microchannel flat tube d230, wherein the orthographic projection of the second step d2421 and the heat exchange medium outlet B on the horizontal plane is misaligned or partially overlaps.

[0101] The design of the step and the medium inlet / outlet projecting out of the horizontal plane with misalignment or partial overlap, through spatial orientation misalignment constraints, ensures that the microchannel flat tube stops when it comes into contact with the step during insertion, thereby precisely limiting the insertion depth. At the same time, the orthographic misalignment or partial overlap avoids interference that may be caused by direct alignment of the step and the inlet / outlet (such as the tube wall blocking the flow channel and hindering the flow of the medium), which ensures both positioning reliability and smooth medium entry and exit, achieving a unity of depth control and functional compatibility.

[0102] In addition, it should be noted that the overlapping projections of the steps and the entrance / exit on the horizontal plane not only ensures the function of medium entry and exit but also helps to reduce the second-direction length of the ice evaporator 200, thereby making reasonable use of the internal space of the ice maker.

[0103] Reference Figure 11 In some examples of the present invention, the transition connecting part d251 is a cavity structure integrally formed within the second collector d250. The structure is simple, eliminates gaps and assembly errors in the splicing of multiple parts, and makes the medium flow path continuously closed, which reduces flow resistance and leakage risk, and improves the structural strength and overall reliability of the collector.

[0104] More specifically, in this embodiment, the transition connecting portion d251 is a connecting cavity formed in the second collector d250, and one end of both the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230 is inserted into the connecting cavity. The cavity has a third step, which is spaced from the side wall of the cavity corresponding to the ends of the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230. The third step abuts against the ends of the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230.

[0105] With the above structure, the transition connecting part d251 integrates the ends of the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230 into the connecting cavity, concentrating the dispersed interfaces into one place, simplifying the assembly structure and reducing the risk of leakage at the connection point; a third step is provided in the connecting cavity, which limits the insertion depth by abutting against the ends of the two microchannel flat tubes, avoiding over-insertion damage or poor contact, and ensuring docking consistency; the gap between the step and the side wall is to reserve buffer space around the tube ends, which not only prevents rigid friction between the tube wall and the side wall, but also does not hinder the smooth flow of the medium between the two tubes and the cavity, taking into account both positioning accuracy and flow efficiency.

[0106] Of course, it should be noted that a sealing structure such as sealant can be further added between the connecting cavity and the two microchannel flat tubes to achieve a sealed fit; the first positioning cavity d241 and the second positioning cavity d242 are also sealed with the microchannel flat tubes.

[0107] Of course, in other examples, the aforementioned transitional connecting part d251 can also be a channel structure, which is not limited here.

[0108] It is understood that in this embodiment, the widths of the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230 are respectively adapted to the width of the corresponding ice grid unit C, and the lengths of the first microchannel flat tube d220 and the second microchannel flat tube d230 are respectively adapted to the length of the corresponding ice grid unit C. This not only shortens the ice-forming time, but also makes the ice temperature distribution more uniform, further enhancing the overall heat exchange efficiency.

[0109] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 In some examples of the present invention, the first collector d240 abuts against one end of the ice maker d210 in the second direction, and the second collector d250 abuts against the other end of the ice maker d210 in the second direction. The orthographic projections of the first collector d240 and the second collector d250 along the second direction of the ice-making component d210 partially overlap with the orthographic projection of the ice-making component d210 along the second direction.

[0110] The first collector d240 and the second collector d250 not only serve to allow the medium to enter and exit and flow, but also the clamping at both ends of the first collector d240 and the second collector d250 enables the ice-making component d210 to be stably positioned in a preset direction. At the same time, by utilizing the partial overlap of the projection of the two collectors and the ice-making component d210, the reasonableness of the contact area is ensured, and complementary constraints are formed in the second direction, which effectively improves the installation stability of the components, reduces the risk of displacement, and takes into account both positioning accuracy and structural adaptability.

[0111] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first manifold d240 has a fourth step d243 at the heat exchange medium inlet A and a fifth step d244 at the heat exchange medium outlet B; wherein, the fourth step d243 abuts against one end of the inlet pipe F, and the fifth step d244 abuts against one end of the outlet pipe G.

[0112] By adopting the above settings, the installation stability of the inlet fitting F and the outlet fitting G is effectively improved, the risk of displacement is reduced, and the positioning accuracy and structural adaptability are balanced.

[0113] It is understandable that in related technologies, after ice makers have produced multiple ice blocks, the ice blocks stick together. That is, existing ice makers have the problem that when water comes into contact with the metal surface during the spraying process, it freezes, and multiple ice blocks stick together and cannot be separated. Finally, they fall onto the guide spraying surface 610 and accumulate in the ice storage chamber 110.

[0114] To solve the above problems, refer to Figures 2 to 5 ,as well as Figures 12 to 19 In some examples of the present invention, the ice-making assembly further includes a partition body 300, which is disposed below the ice-making evaporator 200. The partition body 300 is disposed adjacent to the ice grid C1 of the ice grid unit C. The partition body 300 is used to independently separate the ice blocks formed by the ice grid C1 to a preset position.

[0115] By adding a partition body 300, the ice blocks are separated. The ice blocks in the ice storage compartment 110 are independent individuals with distinct particles, so that users can obtain a complete ice block without manually crushing and separating them. Users can obtain the corresponding number of ice blocks as needed, which improves the user experience.

[0116] Understandably, referring to Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some examples of the present invention, the partition body 300 has a water-guiding and de-icing area 310, and the water-guiding and de-icing area 310 is provided with a plurality of water-guiding and de-icing channels 320. The plurality of water-guiding and de-icing channels 320 are independently arranged, and the water-guiding and de-icing channels 320 correspond one-to-one with the ice grid C1 and are connected, so that each ice block can be independently detached to a preset position along the water-guiding and de-icing channel 320.

[0117] With the above setup, water can be sprayed into the ice grid C1 along the independent water-guiding and ice-removing channels 320 to complete the ice making process; the multiple water-guiding and ice-removing channels 320 are independent of each other and connected to the ice grid C1 one by one, so that each ice block has its own dedicated detachment channel and their movement is not hindered by each other; each ice block can detach independently and smoothly to the preset position, effectively avoiding the problem of mutual adhesion when multiple ice blocks detach simultaneously, and improving the detachment integrity.

[0118] It should be noted that, in some examples of the present invention, the portion of the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310 that corresponds to the formation of at least a plurality of water-guiding and de-icing channels 320 is a heat-insulating structure to prevent water from contacting the metal surface and freezing during the spraying process.

[0119] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the partition body 300 is entirely made of plastic. The partition body 300, made of plastic with low thermal conductivity, is installed below the metal ice-making evaporator 200 to prevent water from contacting the metal surface and freezing during spraying. Of course, in other examples, it is possible that the partition body 300 is made of other materials with low thermal conductivity.

[0120] Specifically, in this embodiment, the water guiding and de-icing channel 320 is arranged to extend along the height direction of the partition body 300. This arrangement effectively achieves regional connectivity between the upper and lower areas of the partition body 300, reducing assembly complexity and process costs.

[0121] Specifically, refer to Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 19 In this embodiment, the water guiding and de-icing channel 320 is provided with a first opening 321 and a second opening 322 along its height. The first opening 321 is close to the ice grid C1, and the second opening 322 is away from the ice grid C1. The circumferential edge of the first opening 321 is aligned with the circumferential sidewall of the ice tray C1, and the area of ​​the first opening 321 is smaller than the area of ​​the second opening 322.

[0122] With the above configuration, the area of ​​the first opening 321 is smaller than the area of ​​the second opening 322, forming a demolding angle structure with a smaller upper opening and a larger lower opening. During spraying, the water flow can more easily enter the ice grid C1, and can further ensure that the ice blocks fall smoothly downwards.

[0123] It should be noted that in the de-icing process of this invention, a pulse spraying method is also used. For example, during the 3-minute de-icing time, the water pump is intermittently powered during the last minute to complete the pulse spraying (4 seconds on, 1 second off). The purpose of this is to give the ice a period of impact, which is more conducive to the ice falling off.

[0124] Specifically, in this embodiment, the orthographic projection of the first port 321 on the horizontal plane is located within the orthographic projection of the second port 322 on the horizontal plane.

[0125] With the above settings, when the ice block comes out of the first opening 321, its trajectory is naturally constrained by the projection range of the second opening 322. This not only avoids jamming caused by directional deviation during the detachment process, but also provides a gradual detachment guide for the ice block through the inclusiveness of the projection area. The ice block can smoothly slide towards the second opening 322 along the center of the first opening 321 or a preset path without additional angle adjustment, which significantly reduces the detachment resistance and ensures the integrity of the ice block.

[0126] More specifically, refer to Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 19 In this embodiment, the sidewall of the water guiding and de-icing channel 320 is inclined relative to the center line of the water guiding and de-icing channel 320.

[0127] The side wall of the water-guiding and de-icing channel 320 is inclined relative to the center line, so that the first opening 321 and the second opening 322 at both ends have a taper difference. The inclined wall guides the liquid to smoothly enter the ice tray C1, or the ice in the ice tray C1 can be smoothly removed.

[0128] Reference Figure 19 In this embodiment, the angle β between the sidewall of the water-guiding and de-icing channel 320 and its centerline is 1.5°. The sidewall of the water-guiding and de-icing channel 320 exhibits only a very gentle inclination, preserving the guiding effect of the inclined wall on the ice block, avoiding obstruction by right-angled edges during detachment, and maintaining a smooth operating feel; and because the angle is extremely small, the dimensional difference between the two ends of the water-guiding and de-icing channel 320 is controlled within a small range, preventing the ice block from shaking and hitting the sidewall of the water-guiding and de-icing channel 320 due to excessive taper, thus ensuring the integrity of the ice block.

[0129] Of course, in another example, the angle β of the water-guiding and de-icing channel 320 may be 1°, 2°, or 3°, or even larger. Meanwhile, in other examples, the sidewall of the water-guiding and de-icing channel 320 may also be a vertical sidewall, meaning it is not inclined.

[0130] During the spray ice-making process, as the ice freezes, the depth of the pits in the ice becomes shallower, but the flow rate of the spray water remains constant. This causes a large amount of water to spill outwards along the perimeter of the pits. If left unchecked, the spray water will splash into the ice storage chamber 110, posing a risk of melting the ice inside.

[0131] To solve the above problems, refer to Figures 12 to 18 In some examples of the present invention, the partition body 300 is further provided with a water-blocking structure 330, which surrounds at least a portion of the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310. The orthographic projection of the area surrounded by the water-blocking structure 330 on the horizontal plane is the first orthographic projection, and the orthographic projection of the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310 on the horizontal plane is the second orthographic projection, wherein the second orthographic projection is located within the first orthographic projection.

[0132] By incorporating a water-blocking structure 330, when the horizontal orthographic projection of the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310 lies entirely within the first orthographic projection of the area enclosed by the water-blocking structure 330, it means that the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310 is completely surrounded by the water-blocking structure 330 within its horizontal coverage area. This arrangement first ensures that the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310 is under the "protection" of the water-blocking structure 330, which effectively prevents liquid from splashing onto the ice storage chamber 110 during the spraying process, forming a physical barrier and enhancing the overall waterproof controllability.

[0133] Understandably, referring to Figure 2 In some embodiments of the present invention, the orthographic projection of the water-blocking structure 330 on the horizontal plane lies within the orthographic projection of the water receiving box 500 on the horizontal plane. This allows the liquid to flow back into the water receiving box 500, blocked by the water-blocking structure 330.

[0134] Understandably, referring to Figures 12 to 18 In some examples of the present invention, the water-blocking structure 330 includes a water-blocking baffle 331.

[0135] Reference Figures 12 to 18 In some examples, the partition body 300 and the water-blocking baffle 331 are integrally molded structures. The integral molding of the partition body 300 and the water-blocking baffle 331 results in a seamless connection of the overall structure, effectively eliminating the risk of water seepage at the splicing gaps and improving waterproof reliability; at the same time, it reduces the number of assembly steps and components, simplifies the production process, and enhances the structural strength, making it less prone to functional failure due to component loosening or aging during long-term use.

[0136] It should be noted that when the partition body 300 and the water-blocking baffle 331 are integrally molded structures, it is necessary to ensure an appropriate height to prevent ice from falling.

[0137] Reference Figure 14 In other examples, the partition body 300 and the water-blocking baffle 331 are separate structures, and their size, material or installation angle can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs to adapt to the waterproof or spatial layout requirements of different scenarios. The separate structure also makes it easy to replace damaged parts individually, reducing maintenance costs, and the local sealing process can be optimized during assembly, taking into account both functionality and economy.

[0138] It should be noted that in this embodiment, when the partition body 300 and the water-blocking baffle 331 are separate structures, the water-blocking baffle 331 is connected to the water receiving box 500, and the partition body 300 and the water-blocking baffle 331 are in close contact.

[0139] It should also be noted that the connection between the aforementioned water-blocking baffle 331 and the water receiving box 500 can be a fixed connection. Similarly, when fixed, a suitable height must be ensured to prevent ice from falling. The connection between the water-blocking baffle 331 and the water receiving box 500 can also be a movable connection or a rotating connection. The rotation can be a non-drive setting, ensuring sufficiently low rotational resistance to prevent the ice from being too light to push. Alternatively, the rotation can be such that, during ice removal, the actuator drives the water-blocking baffle 331 to rotate. Of course, a sliding connection is also possible; for example, an electromagnetic push rod can push the water-blocking baffle 331 up, and it can retract when not removing ice.

[0140] Specifically, refer to Figure 12 In this embodiment, the water-blocking baffle 331 is arranged along the height direction of the partition body 300; A water-blocking baffle 331 is arranged on one side of the baffle body 300, wherein the water-blocking baffle 331 is protruding away from the location of the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310.

[0141] With the above configuration, the water-blocking baffle 331 is arranged to bulge downwards on the side away from the water-guiding area, so that the water flow is guided and blocked by the bulging structure; the area formed by the bulge can buffer the impact of the water flow, reduce water overflow or turbulence, enhance the directional guidance ability of the baffle body 300 to the water flow, and improve the synergistic effect of water blocking and water guiding.

[0142] More specifically, in this embodiment, the water-blocking baffle 331 is installed at the front end of the partition body 300, that is, near the de-icing port 520, to prevent liquid from overflowing into the ice storage chamber 110 through the de-icing port 520.

[0143] Of course, in other examples, water-blocking baffles 331 can be provided around the partition body 300, which is not limited here.

[0144] Reference Figure 12 In some examples of the present invention, the water-blocking baffle 331 is bent or tilted, and the direction of bending or tilting of the water-blocking baffle 331 is toward the location of the water-guiding de-icing zone 310.

[0145] With the above configuration, the water-blocking baffle 331 guides the liquid to flow downwards towards the corresponding water-guiding de-icing zone 310, so as to prevent the liquid from overflowing into the ice storage chamber 110 through the de-icing port 520.

[0146] Specifically, the length of the water-blocking baffle 331 is greater than or equal to the length of the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310, which can form a continuous barrier on the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310 near the de-icing port 520, preventing water flow from escaping from the end of the water-blocking baffle 331 and effectively constraining and guiding it.

[0147] Understandably, during the latter half of ice making, water spillage is very severe, forming a water curtain on the water-blocking baffle 331. When this water curtain converges at a certain point and then falls, a large volume of water will drop into the ice storage chamber 110. Therefore, In some examples of the present invention, the water-blocking baffle 331 is provided with a water-dividing unit 3311, which is used to separate the liquid adhering to the water-blocking baffle 331.

[0148] With the above configuration, the water distribution unit 3311 avoids the water flow from connecting horizontally to form a water curtain, which is more conducive to the falling of the water flow.

[0149] Specifically, refer to Figure 13 In some embodiments, the water distribution unit 3311 includes a plurality of water distribution guide columns 33111, which are spaced apart along the second direction of the water blocking baffle 331 on one side wall of the water blocking baffle 331 facing the water guiding and de-icing zone 310. The height direction of the water diversion column 33111 is consistent with the height direction of the water blocking baffle 331.

[0150] With the above setup, the water curtain is divided into multiple parts by the water diversion column 33111 to facilitate the water flow.

[0151] Specifically, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some embodiments, one end of the water diversion column 33111 in the height direction is connected to the water diversion and de-icing zone 310, and the other end of the water diversion column 33111 in the height direction protrudes from the end face of the water blocking baffle 331 that is away from the water diversion and de-icing zone 310 in the height direction.

[0152] With the above configuration, the lower end of the water diversion column 33111 is protruding, and the water flow is accurately guided along the column to the designated area, dripping onto the water receiving cavity 510 and the guiding spray surface 610 of the spray component 600, thereby increasing the speed of water flow.

[0153] Specifically, refer to Figures 14 to 16 In some examples of the present invention, the water distribution unit 3311 includes a flow guide bar 33112, which is provided to protrude along the height direction of the partition body 300. There are multiple flow guide bars 33112, which are spaced apart along the second direction of the partition body 300.

[0154] With the above configuration, multiple guide bars 33112 evenly divide the water flow into fine streams at reasonable intervals, disperse and concentrate the impact force, and avoid splashing, overflow and local scouring; through the interval of multiple guide bars 33112, the water flow is directly separated, and the guide bars 33112 can guide the flow well, so that the water flow falls smoothly.

[0155] Reference Figures 14 to 16 In some embodiments, the opposite sidewalls of two adjacent flow guide bars 33112 are arranged in parallel.

[0156] By adopting the above settings, the water flow can maintain a uniform cross-section and velocity distribution among the streams, avoid water flow deviation, and ensure that each stream after diversion has a regular shape and balanced force. The parallel structure also makes it easier to control the precision of the flow guide bar 33112 during processing, and ensures high consistency during assembly, forming a stable flow guide channel 640, further improving the uniformity of water flow separation and the synchronicity of falling, making the overall flow guide process smooth and reliable.

[0157] Specifically, in this embodiment, the distance between the opposite sidewalls of two adjacent flow guide bars 33112 is 2mm to 5mm. This structure ensures a smooth and reliable overall flow guidance process. The distance can be one of 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, or 5mm.

[0158] Reference Figure 16 In some examples, multiple flow guide bars 33112 are arranged perpendicularly to the longitudinal section along the second direction of the baffle body 300, forming a regular flow guide channel 640, which makes the water flow evenly dispersed, reduces turbulence disturbance, and improves the stability and directional consistency of the flow guide process.

[0159] Or, refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 In some examples, the sidewalls of the multiple flow guide bars 33112 have an inclined angle with the longitudinal section along the second direction of the baffle body 300, and the sidewalls of the flow guide bars 33112 are inclined to the same side relative to the second direction of the baffle body 300. This can guide the water flow to generate lateral deflection force during the flow, causing the fluid to converge in a specific direction, such as the drainage position, thereby enhancing the ability to directionally control the flow direction of the fluid.

[0160] Reference Figure 15 In some examples, the angle α between the longitudinal section along the second direction of the baffle body 300 and the sidewall of the guide bar 33112 is 30° to 40°. Setting the guide bar 33112 to one side, such as the right side with an angle α of 30-40° in this embodiment, can ensure that the water flow does not spill outward and can also distribute the flow evenly.

[0161] It should be noted that the longitudinal section along the second direction of the partition body 300 can be understood as the front side of the partition body 300.

[0162] Understandably, during the spraying process, due to the Coanda effect, the liquid flows upwards along the wall, which may cause ice to freeze on the side of the partition body 300. This could result in an excessively large adhesion area between the ice and the partition body 300, making it difficult to remove the ice. To solve the above problems, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some examples of the present invention, the water-blocking structure 330 further includes an extension baffle 332, one side wall of which is connected to the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310, and the other side wall of the extension baffle 332 is convex relative to the partition body 300 along the direction away from the water-guiding and de-icing zone 310; wherein, one end of the extension baffle 332 is connected to or abuts against the water-blocking baffle 331.

[0163] By providing an extended baffle 332, water flow is prevented from flowing upwards along the wall, thus preventing ice from freezing on the side of the baffle body 300 and facilitating smooth ice removal.

[0164] Specifically, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 In this embodiment, there are two extension baffles 332, which are located on opposite sides of the water guiding and de-icing zone 310, and the extension baffles 332 are arranged along the first direction of the partition body 300.

[0165] This can be understood as referring to Figure 12 and Figure 13 The extended baffle 332 is designed with a lateral protrusion to improve the effect of water flow upward movement in the left and right directions of the water guiding and de-icing zone 310.

[0166] Understandably, in some examples, during the spray ice-making process, to avoid the phenomenon that the plastic partition body 300 has poor surface roughness and thermal conductivity, and that the ice-covered areas on the plastic partition body 300 are difficult to detach quickly, further, referring to Figure 17 and Figure 18 In some examples, the baffle body 300 is also provided with a de-icing channel 340, which is arranged in correspondence with the water guiding and de-icing zone 310. The de-icing channel 340 is configured to allow the de-icing medium to pass through. The arrangement path of the de-icing channel 340 surrounds multiple water-guiding de-icing channels 320. The de-icing channel 340 exchanges heat with the water-guiding de-icing channels 320 to apply the heat of the de-icing medium to the surface of the water-guiding de-icing channel 320 facing the ice.

[0167] By providing a de-icing channel 340, a de-icing medium such as room temperature water can be added. During de-icing, room temperature water can be introduced to accelerate the separation between the ice and the plastic partition body 300, thereby quickly de-icing. In addition, this design allows for room temperature water circulation during the ice-making process, directly preventing the plastic partition body 300 from freezing with the ice.

[0168] Specifically, refer to Figure 18In this embodiment, the portion of the baffle body 300 corresponding to the water guiding and de-icing zone 310 is a hollow structure to form a de-icing channel 340.

[0169] The hollow structure design of the baffle body 300 allows the corresponding area to naturally form a through flow channel 340 for aiding separation. Through the low resistance characteristics of the hollow structure, the flow channel can guide the fluid to flow in a predetermined direction along a preset path, reducing turbulence and viscous blockage during the separation process.

[0170] Reference Figure 18 In this embodiment, the arrangement path of the de-icing channel 340 surrounds multiple water-guiding and de-icing channels 320. This ensures that a continuous fluid guiding area is formed around each water-guiding and de-icing channel 320, allowing simultaneous action on the de-icing process of multiple water-guiding and de-icing channels 320, thus avoiding the problem of asynchronous de-icing caused by a single-point channel only covering a local area.

[0171] It is understood that in some examples of the present invention, the partition body 300 is provided with a de-icing medium inlet 341 and a de-icing medium outlet 342, and the de-icing aid flow channel 340 is connected at one end to the de-icing medium inlet 341 and at the other end to the de-icing medium outlet 342. The de-icing medium inlet 341 and the de-icing medium outlet 342 are arranged on the same side of the partition body 300.

[0172] It should be noted that a blocking part located in the de-icing medium inlet 341 and the de-icing medium outlet 342 is provided between them, which blocks the connection between the two.

[0173] With the above setup, the same-side layout facilitates centralized connection and spatial arrangement of pipelines, simplifies external pipeline design, and reduces installation complexity and space occupation.

[0174] Specifically, in some examples, the heat exchange medium inlet A, heat exchange medium outlet B, de-icing medium inlet 341 and de-icing medium outlet 342 can all be arranged on the same side, or they can be arranged on different sides, which is not limited here.

[0175] Reference Figure 17 In some examples, the baffle body 300 is provided with an outlet baffle 360, which is arranged corresponding to the de-icing medium outlet 342.

[0176] By adopting the above settings, the room temperature water coming out of the de-icing medium outlet 342 can be prevented from splashing directly into the ice storage chamber 110, thus blocking the outflow speed of the room temperature water and causing it to flow in a preset direction; similarly, it can also prevent the de-icing medium outlet 342 from being blocked by external impurities.

[0177] Understandably, referring to Figure 14In some examples of the present invention, the partition body 300 is provided with a first positioning part 410, and the ice evaporator 200 is provided with a second positioning part 420. The first positioning part 410 is a positioning hole, and the second positioning part 420 is a positioning protrusion that engages with the positioning hole. Of course, in other examples, the first positioning part 410 is a positioning protrusion, and the second positioning part 420 is a positioning hole.

[0178] The design utilizes the snap-fit ​​mechanism of positioning holes and positioning protrusions to achieve precise alignment between the inner wall of the partition body 300 and the outer wall of the ice evaporator 200. During assembly, the parts can be quickly snapped into place without repeated adjustments, effectively avoiding misalignment. The snap-fit ​​structure itself provides a certain degree of constraint, which can enhance the connection stability between the two parts. At the same time, it simplifies the assembly steps and improves the operating efficiency, making the combination of the partition body 300 and the ice evaporator 200 more reliable and convenient.

[0179] Specifically, refer to Figure 12 In this embodiment, the partition body 300 is provided with a receiving cavity 350 corresponding to the water guiding and de-icing zone 310. The receiving cavity 350 is provided with a clearance opening for the ice evaporator 200 to be inserted. At least part of the ice evaporator 200 in the height direction is located in the receiving cavity 350. The peripheral sidewall surrounding the opening side of the receiving cavity 350 is connected to the water guiding and de-icing zone 310, and the water guiding and de-icing channel 320 is connected to the receiving cavity 350.

[0180] By adopting the above configuration, the installation stability of the inner wall of the partition body 300 and the outer wall of the ice evaporator 200 can be enhanced. At the same time, the assembly steps are simplified and the operation efficiency is improved, making the combination of the partition body 300 and the ice evaporator 200 more reliable and convenient.

[0181] It should also be noted that, referring to Figure 17 and Figure 19 In some examples of the present invention, a plurality of first fixing parts 430 are provided on the portion of the partition body 300 corresponding to the water guiding and de-icing zone 310. The plurality of first fixing parts 430 are located in the receiving cavity 350, and the plurality of first fixing parts 430 are arranged at least partially aligned with the arrangement path of the de-icing channel 340. The ice evaporator 200 is provided with a plurality of second fixing parts 440, and the first fixing part 430 and the second fixing part 440 are in one-to-one correspondence and engaging.

[0182] It is understandable that the first fixing part 430 is a snap-fit ​​protrusion and the second fixing part 440 is a snap-fit ​​groove a2111, which can enhance the installation stability of both the partition body 300 and the ice evaporator 200, and at the same time simplify the assembly steps.

[0183] It should also be noted that, in some examples, to a certain extent, when the layout path of the dewatering channel 340 is arranged with snap-fit ​​protrusions, the surface thickness of the partition body 300 facing the ice-making evaporator 200 can be increased. This makes it easier to isolate the temperature transmission to the metal ice-making evaporator 200 when the hollow plastic partition is continuously exposed to room temperature water, thus avoiding affecting the ice-making process.

[0184] Understandably, referring to Figure 20 In some examples of the present invention, the spray surface 610 is further provided with a plurality of guide ribs 630, the plurality of guide ribs 630 are spaced apart, and a guide channel 640 is formed between two adjacent guide ribs 630. And / or, the spray hole 620 is positioned to form a flow channel 640 between the flow guide rib 630 and the flow guide rib.

[0185] With the above configuration, the spray component 600 is also provided with multiple guide ribs 630. Specifically, the multiple guide ribs 630 are spaced apart. When ice making ends, the ice in the ice grid C1 falls onto the spray component 600 after it detaches. Because multiple guide ribs 630 are provided, the contact area with the ice can be reduced, making it easier to quickly detach the ice into the ice storage chamber 110.

[0186] Furthermore, since there is a flow channel 640 between any two adjacent guide ribs 630, and / or the spray hole 620 is located at a position where there is a flow channel 640 with the guide rib 630, the water flow sprayed out and falling from the spray hole 620 can flow along the flow channel 640 to the bottom wall of the water receiving cavity 510; moreover, it can also avoid the problem of ice making being affected by the collision between the falling water flow and the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 620, which is conducive to achieving rapid ice making.

[0187] Understandably, referring to Figure 20 In some examples of the present invention, the spray member 600 has a water storage chamber 650 and a water inlet, the spray hole 620 is connected to the water storage chamber 650, and the water inlet is connected to the water storage chamber 650. The bottom wall of the water storage chamber 650 includes a return slope 660, which is inclined.

[0188] With the above configuration, the water supply component 130 is connected to the water storage chamber 650 through the water inlet. Specifically, when making ice, the water supply component 130 supplies water to the water storage chamber 650 through the water inlet. The water entering the water storage chamber 650 is sprayed into the ice grid C1 through the spray hole 620 to make ice. Due to the continuous flushing of the water flow, gas can be prevented from being frozen in the ice during the freezing process, thereby ensuring the transparency of the ice.

[0189] It is understandable that the ice tray C1 is not a commonly used household appliance. If a large amount of residual water in the water storage chamber 650 is not drained in time after one use, bacteria can easily grow after being left for a long time.

[0190] Since the bottom wall of the water storage chamber 650 is a sloping return slope 660, it can guide the residual water in the water storage chamber 650. After ice making is finished, the residual water in the water storage chamber 650 can flow along the return slope 660 and be discharged to the outside of the water storage chamber 650 in time, effectively reducing the residual water in the water storage chamber 650 after ice making and preventing bacteria from easily growing in the water storage chamber 650 due to the presence of a lot of residual water.

[0191] Optionally, the return slope 660 is inclined towards the side where the inlet is located. After ice making is completed, the residual water in the water storage chamber 650 is guided by the return slope 660 and flows back to the water supply component 130 through the inlet. This not only avoids the growth of bacteria in the water storage chamber 650 due to the presence of a lot of residual water, but also enables the recycling of water, which is beneficial for saving water resources.

[0192] Optionally, the spray unit 600 also has a drain outlet, which is connected to the water storage chamber 650, and the return slope 660 is inclined towards the side where the drain outlet is located. After ice making is completed, the residual water in the water storage chamber 650 is discharged from the drain outlet under the guidance of the return slope 660, realizing the timely discharge of residual water. The drain outlet can be connected to the water receiving chamber 510 of the water receiving box 500.

[0193] Understandably, referring to Figure 4 In this embodiment, the water storage chamber 650 of the spray component 600 is also provided with a flow stabilizing pipe 670. One end of the flow stabilizing pipe 670 is connected to the cavity wall of the water storage chamber 650, and the other end of the flow stabilizing pipe 670 extends to the side where the return slope 660 is located. The flow stabilizing pipe 670 has a pressurizing channel. One end of the pressurizing channel is connected to the spray hole 620, and the other end of the pressurizing channel is connected to the water storage chamber 650. The flow area of ​​the pressurizing channel is larger than the flow area of ​​the spray hole 620.

[0194] Since the flow stabilizer pipe 670 is equipped with a pressurization channel, and the two ends of the pressurization channel are connected to the spray hole 620 and the water storage chamber 650 respectively, when making ice, the water supply component 130 supplies water to the water storage chamber 650 through the water inlet. After entering the water storage chamber 650, the water flows through the pressurization channel and is sprayed out through the spray hole 620 into the ice grid C1 for ice making.

[0195] By installing the flow stabilizing pipe 670, the water flow entering the water storage chamber 650 can be stabilized and guided, ensuring that the water sprayed through the spray holes 620 flows upward as much as possible, so that it can smoothly reach the ice-making grid C1 for ice making. In addition, since the flow area of ​​the pressurizing channel is larger than that of the spray holes 620, the pressure of the water sprayed from the spray holes 620 can be increased, further ensuring that the sprayed water can enter the ice-making grid C1 for ice making.

[0196] Specifically, in this embodiment, the plurality of spray holes 620 include at least a first spray hole and a second spray hole, with the first spray hole being closer to the de-icing port 520 than the second spray hole; There are multiple flow stabilizers 670, among which the length of the flow stabilizer 670 connected to the first spray hole is less than the length of the flow stabilizer 670 connected to the second spray hole.

[0197] With the above configuration, since the length of the stabilizing pipe 670 connected to the first spray hole is less than the length of the stabilizing pipe 670 connected to the second spray hole, that is, the stabilizing pipe 670 corresponding to the lower-height first spray hole is shorter, and the stabilizing pipe 670 corresponding to the higher-height second spray hole is longer. In other words, the length of the stabilizing pipe 670 is matched according to the shape inside the water storage chamber 650, ensuring that each spray hole 620 can spray water for ice making.

[0198] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the flow stabilizer 670 and the spray element 600 are an integral structure.

[0199] In some embodiments, the spray hole 620 is a cylindrical spray hole, and the diameter of the spray hole 620 is d, wherein 2mm≤d≤4mm.

[0200] In this embodiment, the range of the spray hole 620's diameter is defined. Specifically, the diameter of the spray hole 620 is between 2mm and 4mm. It is understood that if the diameter of the spray hole 620 is too small, i.e., less than 2mm, the pressure of the water flow from the spray hole 620 will be too high, resulting in ice blocks with deep pits, affecting the ice-making effect. If the diameter of the spray hole 620 is too large, i.e., greater than 4mm, the pressure of the water flow from the spray hole 620 will be too low, and it will not be able to effectively enter the ice-making grid C1 for ice making.

[0201] By limiting the diameter of the spray hole 620 to between 2mm and 4mm, it is possible to ensure that the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 620 can reach the ice grid C1 smoothly for ice making, while reducing the depth of the pits on the formed ice block, thus ensuring the ice making effect.

[0202] Optionally, the diameter of the spray hole 620 is any one of 2mm, 2.3mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 3.5mm and 4mm.

[0203] Table 1 Comparison of weight and dent depth of a single ice cube

[0204] As shown in the table above, when the diameter of the spray hole 620 is greater than 2mm, the depth of the pit on the ice block can be significantly reduced, thus increasing the weight of a single ice block.

[0205] The ice-making time is 25 minutes, and the produced ice cubes are 25mm x 5mm square ice cubes.

[0206] Reference Figures 22 to 24 In some embodiments, the spray hole 620 may also be one of the following: a tangential mixed flow spray nozzle 681, a spiral pressurized spray nozzle 682, and an automatic oscillating deflection hole 683.

[0207] Reference Figure 22 The tangential mixed-flow spray nozzle 681 can be understood as comprising two cylindrical bodies on the inner and outer sides. The outer side is a hollow cylinder, and the inner cylinder has a smaller diameter than the outer hollow cylinder. Water enters from below the cylinder, is blocked by the inner central cylinder, and then flows into the interlayer between the inner and outer cylinders. Four tangential inlets are opened around the inner central cylinder, and the water flow is divided into flows in along the tangential direction of the cylinder, and then flows out from the spray nozzle directly above the outer hollow cylinder. At this time, due to the spiral centrifugal force, the fluid will form a cone-shaped spray effect at the outlet.

[0208] Reference Figure 23 The spiral pressurized spray nozzle 682 can be understood as a sandwiched flow channel composed of multiple cylindrical parts, and the flow channel is constantly rising, the flow area component is shrinking, thereby creating a spirally rising fluid, and the water pressure gradually increases, finally spraying from the top spray hole to form a cone-shaped spray.

[0209] Reference Figure 24 The automatic oscillating deflection orifice 683 can be understood as including a spray inlet, a spray outlet, a spray channel, a first deflection channel, and a second deflection channel. Along the first direction, the first and second deflection channels are located on opposite sides of the spray channel; that is, the first and second deflection channels are located on the left and right sides of the spray channel, respectively. Optionally, the first deflection channel is located on the left side of the spray channel, and the second deflection channel is located on the right side. Alternatively, the first deflection channel is located on the right side of the spray channel, and the second deflection channel is located on the left side. The specific configuration can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0210] Since the two ends of the first deflection channel are connected to the first and second ends of the spray channel, respectively, and the two ends of the second deflection channel are also connected to the first and second ends of the spray channel, the water path between the spray inlet and the spray outlet is divided into three paths. Specifically, when making ice, the water flows in from the spray inlet. Because the water flow in different paths is random and the forces of the water flow in different paths are different (e.g., pressure, velocity, flow rate, kinetic energy), the water flow will switch left and right to spray out, so that the water flow sprayed from the spray outlet forms a diffused water curtain and oscillates back and forth within a certain range, increasing the spray range. Compared with vertical spray in a single direction, it can reduce the impact force of the water flow, thereby significantly reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of ​​the ice block and improving the ice-making quality.

[0211] Or, refer to Figure 25 and Figure 26 In some other examples, the spray element 600 is also provided with a spray cap 684, which is disposed on the guide spray surface 610. The spray cap 684 includes a cap body, which is disposed opposite to the spray hole 620 and has a gap between them. Since the cap body is disposed opposite to the spray hole 620 and there is a gap between the cap body and the spray hole 620, that is, the cap body is disposed above the spray hole 620. When the water flow is sprayed out from the spray hole 620 and rushes towards the cap body, it is dispersed by the cap body to form a spray effect. Since the spray itself is in a scattered state, the impact force is small, thereby reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of ​​the ice block after ice making.

[0212] Based on the above example, at least a portion of the outer wall of the cap body opposite the spray hole 620 is arc-shaped; or, at least a portion of the outer wall of the cap body opposite the spray hole 620 is conical. This defines the shape of the outer wall of the cap body. Specifically, if the outer wall of the cap body opposite the spray hole 620 is an arc-shaped wall, it can be understood that the center of the arc-shaped wall is located on the side of the arc-shaped wall away from the spray hole 620. Alternatively, if the outer wall of the cap body opposite the spray hole 620 is a conical wall, it can be understood that the tip of the conical wall faces the spray hole 620. The specific shape can be set according to actual needs.

[0213] It is understandable that, in reference Figure 20 In some examples of the present invention, the spray member 600 includes a box body 600a and a first connector 600b. The box body 600a is disposed in the water receiving cavity 510, the spray-bearing surface 610 is disposed on the outer wall of the box body 600a, and the water storage cavity 650 is formed inside the box body 600a. The first connector 600b is connected to the water storage chamber 650; The first connector 600b and the box body 600a are an integral structure.

[0214] With the above structure, the first connector 600b and the box body 600a are integrated, which improves the sealing performance at the connection between the box body 600a and the first connector 600b. During the spray ice-making process, this prevents water leakage at the connection between the box body 600a and the first connector 600b, reducing the risk of water entering the ice storage chamber 110 and ensuring ice-making quality. Simultaneously, it also ensures that the spray component 600 as a whole has a good sealing effect, guaranteeing that the water flow from the spray hole 620 has sufficient pressure to smoothly enter the ice grid C1 for ice making during the spray ice-making process.

[0215] In addition, the integrated structure facilitates the mass production of the spray component 600, reduces the manufacturing difficulty of the spray component 600, and thus helps to reduce the overall production cost of the ice maker.

[0216] Specifically, in this embodiment, the water receiving box 500 is provided with a clearance opening, which is connected to the water receiving cavity 510. The first connector 600b passes through the clearance opening and is exposed outside the water receiving box 500. The outer wall of the first connector 600b is fitted with a sealing element.

[0217] The first connector 600b extends through the clearance opening, facilitating the installation between the first connector 600b and the water supply component 130, thereby improving the installation efficiency of the ice maker.

[0218] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the first connector 600b also has the aforementioned water inlet, which is connected to the water supply pipeline of the water supply assembly 130. A second connector is provided on the water supply pipeline. The first connector 600b and the second connector are connected by a quick-connect fitting, and a sealing element such as a rubber sealing ring is used between them to ensure sealing while also facilitating installation. Understandably, referring to Figure 5 and Figure 21 In some examples of the present invention, the cavity wall of the water receiving cavity 510 is provided with a guide wall 530. The guide wall 530 is disposed opposite to the outer wall of the spray member 600 away from the guide spray surface 610, and forms a return channel H. The return channel H is used to connect the drainage position of the water receiving cavity 510. This can be understood as the aforementioned guide wall 530 and return slope 660 being positioned relative to each other.

[0219] When making ice, the water supply component 130 supplies water to the water storage chamber 650 through the water inlet. The water entering the water storage chamber 650 is sprayed out through the spray hole 620. Part of the sprayed water enters the ice grid C1 to make ice, while the other part of the sprayed water falls into the water receiving chamber 510.

[0220] Because of the reflux channel H, the water that falls into the water receiving cavity 510 will flow back to the drainage position of the water receiving cavity 510 through the reflux channel H. In this embodiment, the reflux channel H flows back to the water storage cavity 120 of the body 100 through the drainage position of the water receiving cavity 510, realizing the recycling of water and saving water.

[0221] Under the action of the guide wall 530, the water can flow away from the de-icing port 520, that is, flow backward. This facilitates rapid backflow while preventing water that has fallen into the water receiving cavity 510 from entering the ice storage chamber 110 through the de-icing port 520.

[0222] It should be noted that, referring to Figure 5 and Figure 21 In this embodiment, the aforementioned guide wall 530 has a slope of more than 2 degrees along the front-to-back direction, which can be understood as being higher in the front and lower in the back, which helps to ensure that the water flow can flow smoothly to the rear of the water receiving box 500.

[0223] In this embodiment, the water receiving cavity 510 is connected to the water storage cavity 120, and the connection point between the water receiving cavity 510 and the water storage cavity 120 is located outside the ice storage chamber 110. This allows the liquid in the water receiving cavity 510 to drain away from the ice storage chamber 110 through the return channel H, preventing liquid from entering the ice storage chamber 110.

[0224] More specifically, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 21 In this embodiment, the drainage position of the water receiving cavity 510 is as follows: the water receiving box 500 is also provided with a return port 540, which is connected to the water receiving cavity 510. The de-icing port 520 and the return port 540 are located on different sides of the water receiving cavity 510.

[0225] In this embodiment, the de-icing port 520 is located on the front side of the water receiving cavity 510, and correspondingly, the return port 540 is located on the rear side of the water receiving cavity 510. By forming a return channel H between the bottom wall of the water receiving cavity 510 and the bottom wall of the spray member 600, the unfrozen water flowing into the water receiving cavity 510 will directly return to the water storage cavity 120 through the return channel H and the return port 540, mix with the water stored in the water storage cavity 120, and the mixed water enters the water storage cavity 650 and is sprayed out again through the spray hole 620 to realize the circulating water spraying.

[0226] Specifically, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 21 In this embodiment, the water receiving box 500 is also provided with a guide plate 550. The guide plate 550 is located on the side of the water receiving box 500 away from the water receiving cavity 510 and is located at the return port 540. The guide plate 550 is convex towards the end away from the return port 540.

[0227] The guide plate 550 is convex at the end furthest from the return port 540. This can be understood as the guide plate 550 protruding towards the side where the water storage chamber 120 is located, meaning the end furthest from the return port 540 extends downwards. After water is collected in the water box 500, the water flows backwards along the return channel H, flows out through the return port 540, and then flows downwards along the guide plate 550 into the water storage chamber 120. By setting the guide plate 550, the returning water can be guided, ensuring that the water flows back into the water storage chamber 120 in the designated direction.

[0228] In this embodiment, the baffle plate 550 and the water receiving box 500 are an integral structure, which simplifies the structure and facilitates assembly. Of course, in other examples, the baffle plate 550 and the water receiving box 500 can also be separate structures.

[0229] It should be noted that when there are multiple return ports 540, such as two or three return ports 540, there are also multiple guide plates 550. The number of guide plates 550 is matched with the number of return ports 540, and multiple guide plates 550 are respectively set at multiple return ports 540.

[0230] It should be noted that in some examples of the present invention, the ice maker is equipped with two modes: fast ice and thick ice. When the user wants to obtain ice cubes quickly, the ice-making time is shortened to ensure that the user obtains ice cubes in a short time, but the ice cubes do not form a complete cube at this time.

[0231] It should be noted that, in some examples of the present invention, in some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a temperature detection element, which is located at the medium outlet of the ice evaporator 200 and is used to detect the outlet temperature of the ice evaporator 200.

[0232] Understandably, if ice blocks are not completely detached during an ice-making cycle, large chunks of ice will form in the next cycle, ultimately preventing the ice maker from properly detaching ice and rendering it inoperable. By installing a temperature sensor at the medium outlet of the ice evaporator 200, the outlet temperature of the ice evaporator 200 will be abnormally low when detachment is abnormal. In this case, the ice-making system will directly execute an anti-large ice program until the remaining ice blocks melt and fall off.

[0233] Optionally, the anti-icing procedure can be an immediate de-icing procedure.

[0234] Optionally, the temperature sensing element can be a temperature probe.

[0235] Optionally, the spray component 600 is made of PP plastic, with a processing accuracy of ±0.1mm, a temperature resistance of -20~50℃, and resistance to acid and alkali corrosion.

[0236] Specifically, in some examples of this invention, the spraying state can be adjusted by regulating the flow rate of the circulating water pump, and the spraying frequency can be adjusted by changing the on / off state of the circulating water pump. For example, in a 25-minute ice-making time, the pump operates at 100% full power for the first 20 minutes, and then uses a 40% duty cycle for continuous spraying for the last 5 minutes. During this time, the circulating water pump pressure and flow rate are reduced proportionally (full power operation: flow rate 1.5 L / min; water pressure 0.006 MPa).

[0237] Since the ice-making time varies under different ambient temperatures, the spray power can be reduced to 40% for the last 1 / 5 of the time period to meet the dynamic adjustment under different ambient temperatures.

[0238] It can also be understood that by running at 100% full power for the first 20 minutes and then using a 40% duty cycle for continuous spraying for the next 5 minutes, the occurrence of ice pits can be reduced to some extent.

[0239] It is understood that, in some examples of this invention, the overall control logic of the ice maker is as follows: When the water level in the storage chamber 120 is detected as high, the compressor 700, fan, and circulating water pump start. The ice-making time is calculated from the moment the water temperature drops to 1°C (e.g., 25 minutes for an ambient temperature of 25°C). When the ice-making time is up, the fan and circulating water pump are turned off. The refrigerant solenoid valve is opened to begin de-icing (e.g., 3 minutes for a 25°C ambient temperature). After de-icing is complete, if the water level in the storage chamber 120 is detected as low, water is added. The ice-making time is calculated from the moment the water temperature drops to 1°C, thus forming an ice-making cycle.

[0240] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only for illustrating the present invention and not for limiting the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of the present invention do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention and should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. An ice-making evaporator, characterized in that, include: An ice-making component is provided with at least two sets of ice grid units, the two sets of ice grid units are arranged along a first direction of the ice-making component, each set of ice grid units includes an ice grid, and one side of the ice grid is provided with an opening; A flow channel structure is provided on one side of the ice-making component. The flow channel structure is used for heat exchange with the ice-making component. The flow channel structure includes a first microchannel flat tube and a second microchannel flat tube. One end of the first microchannel flat tube is used to introduce the heat exchange medium, and the other end is connected to one end of the second microchannel flat tube. The other end of the second microchannel flat tube is used to discharge the heat exchange medium. The first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube are arranged flush with each other and are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the two sets of ice grid units.

2. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice-making evaporator further includes a first collector and a second collector. The first collector is provided with a heat exchange medium inlet and a heat exchange medium outlet, and the second collector is provided with a transition communication section. The first microchannel flat tube is connected to the heat exchange medium inlet, and the second microchannel flat tube is connected to the heat exchange medium outlet. The first microchannel flat tube is connected to the second microchannel flat tube through the transition connecting part.

3. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first current collector is provided with a first positioning cavity and a second positioning cavity. One end of the first microchannel flat tube is inserted into the first positioning cavity, and one end of the second microchannel flat tube is inserted into the second positioning cavity. The heat exchange medium inlet corresponds to and is connected to the first positioning cavity, and the heat exchange medium outlet is connected to the first positioning cavity.

4. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inner wall of the first positioning cavity is provided with a first step, and there is a gap between the first step and the side wall of the first positioning cavity corresponding to the end of the first microchannel flat tube. The first step abuts against the end of the first microchannel flat tube, wherein the first step and the heat exchange medium inlet are misaligned or partially overlapped in the horizontal plane. And / or, the inner wall of the second positioning cavity is provided with a second step, and there is a gap between the second step and a side wall of the second positioning cavity corresponding to the end of the second microchannel flat tube. The second step abuts against the end of the second microchannel flat tube, wherein the orthographic projection of the second step and the heat exchange medium outlet on the horizontal plane is misaligned or partially overlaps.

5. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The transition connection portion is a cavity structure or channel structure integrally formed within the second current collector.

6. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 5, characterized in that, The transition connecting part is a connecting cavity formed in the second collector, and one end of both the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube is inserted into the connecting cavity; The communicating cavity is provided with a third step, and there is a gap between the third step and the side wall of the communicating cavity corresponding to the ends of the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube. The third step abuts against the ends of the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube.

7. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube are independent of and stacked with the ice-making component.

8. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The widths of the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube are respectively adapted to the width of the corresponding ice grid unit, and the lengths of the first microchannel flat tube and the second microchannel flat tube are respectively adapted to the length of the corresponding ice grid unit.

9. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The distance between the first current collector and the second current collector is equal to the length of the ice-making component.

10. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first collector abuts against one end of the ice-making component in the second direction, and the second collector abuts against the other end of the ice-making component in the second direction; The orthographic projections of the first and second current collectors along the second direction of the ice-making component partially overlap with the orthographic projections of the ice-making component along the second direction.

11. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each ice grid unit includes multiple ice grids, which are arranged sequentially along the second direction of the ice-making component. The ice-making component has multiple ice-removing vent holes, which are arranged one-to-one with the ice-making grid. The ice-removing vent holes are used to connect the inside and outside of the ice-making grid.

12. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ice-making evaporator includes an inlet pipe for introducing heat exchange medium and an outlet pipe for discharging heat exchange medium. One end of the inlet pipe is inserted into the heat exchange medium inlet, and one end of the outlet pipe is inserted into the heat exchange medium outlet. The first manifold has a fourth step at the inlet of the heat exchange medium and a fifth step at the outlet of the heat exchange medium; wherein the fourth step abuts against one end of the inlet pipe and the fifth step abuts against one end of the outlet pipe.

13. The ice-making evaporator according to claim 12, characterized in that, The ice-making evaporator also includes a capillary tube, which is wound around the outer wall of the outlet pipe.

14. An ice-making assembly, characterized in that, include: The ice-making evaporator according to any one of claims 1 to 13; The partition body is located on one side of the ice evaporator and is adjacent to the ice grid unit. The partition body is used to independently separate the ice blocks formed by the ice grid to a preset position.

15. A spray ice-making device, characterized in that, include: A water receiving box having a water receiving cavity and an ice removal port, wherein the water receiving cavity is connected to the ice removal port; The ice-making assembly of claim 14, wherein the ice-making assembly is at least partially located in the water receiving chamber; A spray element is provided in the water receiving cavity and arranged at intervals below the ice-making assembly. The spray element has a guide spray surface, which is used to receive and guide the ice blocks to move to a preset position. The guide spray surface has multiple spray holes, which are arranged one-to-one with the ice-making grid.

16. An ice maker, characterized in that, include: The machine body contains an ice storage compartment. The spray ice-making device according to claim 15, wherein the spray ice-making device is disposed on the machine body, and the de-icing port is connected to the ice storage chamber.

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