Ice making equipment
By integrating the spray box and water supply components with an optimized structure, the problems of numerous parts and poor sealing in ice makers have been solved, achieving an efficient and low-cost ice-making process, and improving ice-making quality and ease of installation.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-03
AI Technical Summary
Existing ice makers have complex structures, numerous parts, and are difficult to install. The poor sealing between the spray plate and the joints poses a risk of leakage and affects the quality of ice making.
The spray box and the first connector are integrated into one structure, combined with water supply components and seals, to achieve quick connection and good sealing, simplifying the installation process. The inclined design of the spray box and the optimization of the flow stabilizing pipe improve ice-making efficiency and sealing performance.
It reduces the production cost and installation difficulty of ice-making equipment, ensures the sealing of the spraying process, prevents water leakage, improves ice-making quality and efficiency, and simplifies the manufacturing difficulty of the spray box.
Smart Images

Figure CN121782799A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of ice maker technology, and more particularly to an ice-making device. Background Technology
[0002] Currently, ice makers in related technologies typically include a spray plate, a circulating water pump, and water pipes. Generally, a connector for the water pipes needs to be installed on the spray plate. When the circulating water pump starts working, it can draw water from the water box to the spray plate to achieve spray ice making.
[0003] However, the ice makers in the relevant technologies have complex structures, a large number of parts, and are difficult to install. In addition, the seals between the spray plates and the joints are poor, which poses a risk of leakage during the spray ice-making process and affects the quality of ice. Summary of the Invention
[0004] 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 device that can reduce the number of parts, reduce the installation difficulty, facilitate installation, and improve the sealing performance at the connection between the box body and the first connector.
[0005] An ice-making apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: The device body has a water storage chamber; A spray box, comprising a box body and a first connector, the box body having a water storage chamber and a spray hole, one end of the spray hole communicating with the water storage chamber, and the other end of the spray hole penetrating through the outer wall of the box body, the first connector having a first interface communicating with the water storage chamber; A water supply component is located on the device body and connected to the first connector; the water storage chamber is connected to the first interface through the water supply component. The first connector and the box body are an integral structure.
[0006] According to the ice-making equipment of this embodiment, since the first connector and the box body are an integral structure, the sealing performance at the connection between the box body and the first connector can be improved. During the spray ice-making process, water leakage at the connection between the box body and the first connector is prevented, reducing the risk of water entering the ice storage chamber and ensuring ice quality. Simultaneously, the spray box as a whole also has a good sealing effect, ensuring that the water flow from the spray holes has sufficient pressure to smoothly enter the ice grid for ice making during the spray ice-making process.
[0007] In addition, the integrated structure facilitates the mass production of the spray box, reduces the manufacturing difficulty of the spray box, and thus helps to reduce the overall production cost of the ice-making equipment.
[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the first connector extends toward the side where the water storage cavity is located.
[0009] Since the first connector is connected to the water storage chamber through the water supply component, by extending at least part of the first connector toward the water storage chamber, the distance between the first connector and the water storage chamber is shortened, thereby effectively reducing the length of the water supply pipeline in the water supply component. This achieves spray water supply while helping to reduce the overall production cost of the ice storage equipment.
[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the spray box and the water storage chamber are arranged along the height direction of the device body; At least a portion of the first connector extends along the height direction of the device body.
[0011] Since the water storage chamber and the spray box are arranged along the height of the equipment body, the water storage chamber may optionally be located at the bottom of the spray box. That is, at least part of the first joint extends downward to shorten the distance between it and the water storage chamber, thereby reducing the overall length of the ice-making equipment while reducing the length of the pipeline, making it easier for users to store.
[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the water supply assembly includes: The second connector is connected to the first connector; The pump body is located on the main body of the equipment and is connected to the water storage chamber; A water supply pipeline, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the pump body and the second connector, and the two ends of which are respectively connected to the pump body and the first interface.
[0013] The quick-connection of the first and second connectors allows for rapid connection between the water supply components and the spray box, facilitating installation.
[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice-making device further includes: A seal is provided at the connection between the first connector and the second connector.
[0015] It can improve the sealing performance at the connection between the first and second connectors, preventing water leakage during the spray ice-making process. Furthermore, it helps improve the overall sealing performance of the spray box, ensuring the pressure of the sprayed water flow.
[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice-making device further includes: A water receiving box, comprising a connected water receiving cavity and a clearance opening, wherein the box body is disposed within the water receiving cavity, and the first connector passes through the clearance opening and is exposed outside the water receiving box.
[0017] Since the first connector protrudes through the clearance opening, it facilitates the installation between the first connector and the water supply component, thereby improving the installation efficiency of the ice-making equipment.
[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the water receiving box further includes an ice removal port, which is in communication with the water receiving cavity; The box body has a spray surface on the side away from the water storage chamber, and the spray hole extends through the spray surface at the end away from the water storage chamber. At least a portion of the spray surface is inclined toward the side where the de-icing port is located.
[0019] By setting an inclined and extended spray surface, rapid ice removal can be achieved, which helps to shorten ice-making time and improve ice-making efficiency.
[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the wall of the water storage chamber includes a first cavity wall and a second cavity wall connected together, and the end of the spray hole opposite to the spray surface passes through the first cavity wall; In this configuration, at least a portion of the first cavity wall is inclined toward the side where the de-icing port is located, and the second cavity wall extends along the height direction of the device body.
[0021] Because at least part of the first cavity wall is inclined towards the side where the de-icing port is located, meaning that the inclination trend of the first cavity wall and the spray surface is the same. Moreover, the second cavity wall extends along the height direction of the equipment body, that is, the cross-sectional shape of the water storage cavity wall is similar to a right trapezoidal structure, which maximizes the volume of the water storage cavity. This can slow down the flow velocity of the water entering the water storage cavity from the first interface, reduce kinetic energy, and ensure the pressure of the water sprayed from the spray hole, so that the sprayed water can smoothly reach the ice-making grid for ice making.
[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the wall of the water storage chamber further includes a third wall, which is connected to the second wall and disposed opposite to the first wall; At least a portion of the third cavity wall extends obliquely toward the side where the first connector is located, and water on the third cavity wall can flow into the first interface.
[0023] After ice making is complete, the residual water in the storage chamber can flow along the slope (third chamber wall) and return to the storage chamber through the first interface. This avoids bacterial growth due to excessive residual water in the storage chamber and allows for water recycling, thus saving water. Furthermore, the return of residual water through the first interface utilizes the existing structure, simplifying the spray box structure and reducing the overall production cost of the ice-making equipment.
[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the number of spray holes is plurality of, and the plurality of spray holes includes at least a first spray hole and a second spray hole, wherein the first spray hole is closer to the de-icing port than the second spray hole, and the spray box further includes: Multiple flow stabilizing pipes are disposed inside the water storage chamber and are respectively connected to the first chamber wall; the multiple flow stabilizing pipes are respectively connected to the multiple spray holes. Among the plurality of flow stabilizing pipes, the length of the flow stabilizing pipe connected to the first spray hole is less than the length of the flow stabilizing pipe connected to the second spray hole.
[0025] Since the length of the stabilizing pipe connected to the first spray hole is shorter than the length of the stabilizing pipe connected to the second spray hole, that is, the stabilizing pipe corresponding to the lower first spray hole is shorter and the stabilizing pipe corresponding to the higher second spray hole is longer. In other words, the length of the stabilizing pipe is matched according to the shape of the water storage chamber to ensure that each spray hole can spray water for ice making.
[0026] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice-making device further includes: A spray cap is disposed on the outside of the spray box. The spray cap includes a cap body, which is disposed opposite to the spray hole and has a gap between it and the spray hole.
[0027] Because the cap is positioned opposite the spray nozzles, and there is a gap between them—meaning the cap is positioned above the spray nozzles—when water sprays from the nozzles and hits the cap, it is dispersed by the cap to create a mist effect. Since the mist itself is diffused, the impact force is small, thus reducing the depth of the pit in the center of the ice block after ice making.
[0028] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the outer wall of the cap body opposite to the spray hole is arc-shaped; or, at least a portion of the outer wall of the cap body opposite to the spray hole is conical.
[0029] Because the outer wall of the cap facing the spray hole is an arc-shaped wall, or the outer wall of the cap facing the spray hole is a conical wall, it can reduce the impact force of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole, thereby reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of the ice block, while also guiding the dispersed airflow, reducing the flow resistance of the dispersed airflow, and ensuring that the formed mist airflow can smoothly enter the ice grid for ice making.
[0030] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the side of the box body opposite to the water storage chamber further includes a mounting groove, and the spray cap further includes: Mounting base, a portion of which is embedded in the mounting groove, the mounting base having a mist outlet; A connecting rib is provided at the mist outlet and connected to the mounting base. The connecting rib divides the mist outlet into at least two sub-ports, each of which communicates with the spray hole. The cap body is connected to the side of the connecting rib facing the spray hole.
[0031] When water jets out from the spray nozzles and hits the cap, the mist-like water jet formed by being dispersed by the cap is ejected through at least two sub-nozzles, which reduces the impact force of the water jet from the spray nozzles and thus reduces the depth of the pit in the center area of the ice block.
[0032] The above-described one or more technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention have at least one of the following technical effects: Because the first connector and the box body are integrated, the sealing at the connection between the box body and the first connector is improved. This prevents water leakage at the connection point during the spray ice-making process, reducing the risk of water entering the ice storage compartment and ensuring ice quality. Simultaneously, it also ensures a good overall seal for the spray box, guaranteeing that the water jet from the spray nozzles has sufficient pressure to smoothly enter the ice-making grid for ice production.
[0033] In addition, the integrated structure facilitates the mass production of the spray box, reduces the manufacturing difficulty of the spray box, and thus helps to reduce the overall production cost of the ice-making equipment.
[0034] 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
[0035] 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.
[0036] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the spray box provided by the present invention.
[0037] Figure 2 This is the second structural schematic diagram of the spray box provided by the present invention.
[0038] Figure 3 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the spray box provided by the present invention.
[0039] Figure 4 This is one of the partial structural schematic diagrams of the ice-making equipment provided by the present invention.
[0040] Figure 5 This is the second partial structural schematic diagram of the ice-making device provided by the present invention.
[0041] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An enlarged view of the ice-making device of the illustrated embodiment at point A.
[0042] Figure 7 This is the fourth structural schematic diagram of the spray box provided by the present invention.
[0043] Figure 8 This is the fifth schematic diagram of the structure of the spray box provided by the present invention.
[0044] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An enlarged view of the spray box at point B in the illustrated embodiment.
[0045] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 An enlarged view of the spray box at point C in the illustrated embodiment.
[0046] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the ice-making equipment provided by the present invention.
[0047] Figure 12 This is the third partial structural schematic diagram of the ice-making device provided by the present invention.
[0048] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the partition provided by the present invention.
[0049] Figure label: 1: Ice-making equipment; 10: Equipment body; 12: Water storage chamber; 20: Spray box; 21: Box body; 211: Water storage chamber; 212: Spray hole; 213: Spray surface; 214: First chamber wall; 215: Second chamber wall; 216: Third chamber wall; 217: First spray hole; 218: Second spray hole; 219: Mounting groove; 22: First connector; 222: First interface; 23: Flow stabilizer pipe; 30: Water supply assembly; 32: Second connector ; 34: Pump body; 36: Water supply pipeline; 40: Seal; 50: Water receiving box; 52: Water receiving chamber; 56: De-icing port; 60: Spray cap; 62: Cap body; 64: Mounting base; 642: Mist outlet; 644: Sub-port; 66: Connecting rib; 70: Ice making module; 72: Ice grid; 74: Evaporator; 76: Compressor; 80: Partition plate; 82: Plate body; 84: Baffle plate; 86: Guide column; 88: Extension plate; 90: Ice storage bin. Detailed Implementation
[0050] 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.
[0051] 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.
[0052] 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.
[0053] 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.
[0054] 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.
[0055] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 13The ice-making device 1 provided in this embodiment of the invention will be described in detail through specific embodiments and application scenarios.
[0056] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides an ice-making device 1, which includes a device body 10, a spray box 20, and a water supply assembly 30. The device body 10 has a water storage chamber 12. The spray box 20 includes a box body 21 and a first connector 22. The box body 21 has a water storage chamber 211 and a spray hole 212. One end of the spray hole 212 communicates with the water storage chamber 211, and the other end of the spray hole 212 penetrates the outer wall of the box body 21. The first connector 22 has a first interface 222, which communicates with the water storage chamber 211. The water supply assembly 30 is disposed on the device body 10 and connected to the first connector 22. The water storage chamber 12 communicates with the first interface 222 through the water supply assembly 30. The first connector 22 and the box body 21 are an integral structure.
[0057] The ice-making device 1 provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a device body 10, a spray box 20, and a water supply assembly 30. Specifically, the water storage chamber 12 is connected to the first interface 222 via the water supply assembly 30, the first interface 222 is connected to the water storage chamber 211, and the spray hole 212 is connected to the water storage chamber 211. Specifically, when making ice, under the action of the water supply assembly 30, water in the water storage chamber 12 is drawn into the water storage chamber 211 and sprayed upward through the spray hole 212 to achieve spray ice making. Due to the continuous flushing of the water flow, gas can be prevented from freezing inside the ice during the freezing process, which helps to ensure the transparency of the ice.
[0058] The first connector 22 is connected to the water supply component 30, meaning that the box body 21 is connected to the water supply component 30 through the first connector 22. Since the first connector 22 and the box body 21 are an integral structure, that is, the spray box 20 is integrally molded, the number of parts of the ice-making equipment 1 can be reduced, the installation difficulty of the ice-making equipment 1 can be reduced, the installation can be made more convenient, and the installation efficiency of the ice-making equipment 1 can be improved.
[0059] Furthermore, since the first connector 22 and the box body 21 are an integral structure, the sealing performance at the connection between the box body 21 and the first connector 22 can be improved. During the spray ice-making process, water leakage at the connection between the box body 21 and the first connector 22 is prevented, reducing the risk of water entering the ice storage chamber and ensuring ice-making quality. At the same time, it also ensures that the spray box 20 as a whole has a good sealing effect, ensuring that the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 212 has a certain pressure during the spray ice-making process, so that it can smoothly enter the ice-making grid 72 for ice making.
[0060] In addition, the integrated structure is conducive to the mass production of the spray box 20, reduces the manufacturing difficulty of the spray box 20, and thus helps to reduce the overall production cost of the ice-making equipment 1.
[0061] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first connector 22 extends toward the side where the water storage chamber 12 is located.
[0062] Since the first connector 22 is connected to the water storage chamber 12 through the water supply component 30, by extending at least part of the first connector 22 toward the water storage chamber 12, the distance between the first connector 22 and the water storage chamber 12 is shortened, thereby effectively reducing the length of the water supply pipeline in the water supply component 30. This achieves spray water supply while helping to reduce the overall production cost of the ice storage equipment.
[0063] In some embodiments, the spray box 20 and the water storage chamber 12 are arranged along the height direction of the device body 10.
[0064] At least a portion of the first connector 22 extends along the height direction of the equipment body 10.
[0065] In this embodiment, since the water storage chamber 12 and the spray box 20 are arranged along the height direction of the device body 10, the water storage chamber 12 is optionally located at the bottom of the spray box 20. That is, at least part of the first connector 22 extends downward to shorten the distance between it and the water storage chamber 12, thereby reducing the overall length of the ice-making device 1 while reducing the length of the pipeline, making it easier for the user to store.
[0066] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the water supply assembly 30 includes a second connector 32, a pump body 34, and a water supply pipe 36. The second connector 32 is connected to the first connector 22. The pump body 34 is located on the equipment body 10 and communicates with the water storage chamber 12. The two ends of the water supply pipe 36 are respectively connected to the pump body 34 and the second connector 32, and the two ends of the water supply pipe 36 are respectively connected to the pump body 34 and the first interface 222.
[0067] In this embodiment, the water supply assembly 30 is defined as including a second connector 32, a pump body 34, and a water supply pipe 36. Specifically, one end of the water supply pipe 36 is connected to the pump body 34, and the other end is connected to the second connector 32. The second connector 32 is connected to the first connector 22. That is, by quickly connecting the first connector 22 and the second connector 32, a quick connection between the water supply assembly 30 and the spray box 20 can be achieved, which facilitates installation.
[0068] In detail, during ice making, the pump body 34 starts working, drawing water from the water storage chamber 12. The water flows sequentially through the water supply pipe 36 and the first interface 222 into the water storage chamber 211, and then sprays upward through the spray hole 212 to achieve spray ice making.
[0069] Optionally, a portion of the device body 10 forms the second connector 32, meaning the second connector 32 is integrated into the device body 10. Alternatively, the second connector 32 can be a separate connector component. The specific configuration can be tailored to actual needs.
[0070] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the ice-making device 1 also includes a seal 40, which is located at the connection between the first connector 22 and the second connector 32.
[0071] In this embodiment, the ice-making device 1 further includes a sealing element 40. Specifically, the sealing element 40 is provided at the connection between the first connector 22 and the second connector 32, which can improve the sealing performance at the connection between the first connector 22 and the second connector 32 and prevent water leakage at the connection between the first connector 22 and the second connector 32 during the spray ice-making process. Moreover, it also helps to improve the overall sealing performance of the spray box 20 and ensure the pressure of the sprayed water flow.
[0072] Optionally, one of the first connector 22 and the second connector 32 is a protrusion and the other is a slot, wherein the protrusion is inserted into the slot to achieve quick insertion.
[0073] Optionally, the seal 40 includes a sealing ring, wherein the sealing ring is a rubber sealing ring or a silicone sealing ring.
[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 12 As shown, the ice-making device 1 also includes a water receiving box 50, which includes a water receiving cavity 52 and a clearance opening that are connected to each other. The box body 21 is disposed in the water receiving cavity 52, and the first connector 22 passes through the clearance opening and is exposed outside the water receiving box 50.
[0075] In this embodiment, the ice-making device 1 further includes a water receiving box 50. Specifically, the water receiving box 50 includes a water receiving cavity 52 and a clearance opening, wherein the water receiving cavity 52 and the clearance opening are connected, and the box body 21 is disposed inside the water receiving cavity 52. Since the first connector 22 protrudes through the clearance opening, it facilitates the installation between the first connector 22 and the water supply component 30, thereby improving the installation efficiency of the ice-making device 1.
[0076] Understandably, during the spray ice-making process, a small portion of the water sprayed from the spray hole 212 enters the ice grid 72 for ice making, while most of the unfrozen water falls into the water receiving chamber 52 and flows back to the water storage chamber 12 through the return port on the rear side of the water receiving box 50, thus achieving circulating spraying.
[0077] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 12 As shown, the water receiving box 50 also includes an ice removal port 56, which communicates with the water receiving cavity 52. The side of the box body 21 facing away from the water storage cavity 211 includes a spray surface 213. One end of the spray hole 212 facing away from the water storage cavity 211 extends through the spray surface 213. At least a portion of the spray surface 213 is inclined towards the side where the ice removal port 56 is located.
[0078] In this embodiment, the side of the box body 21 away from the water storage chamber 211 includes a spray surface 213. Specifically, at least a portion of the spray surface 213 is inclined toward the side where the de-icing port 56 is located. That is, at least a portion of the spray surface 213 has a tendency to be inclined toward the de-icing port 56. In other words, the back structure of the spray surface 213 is a slope that is lower in the front and higher in the back, wherein the front side is the side where the de-icing port 56 is located.
[0079] Once ice making is complete, the ice removal process begins. The detached ice blocks fall onto the spray surface 213 and, due to the inclined direction of the spray surface 213, slide towards the ice removal port 56, exiting through the port and entering the ice storage chamber. By setting the inclined spray surface 213, rapid ice removal can be achieved, which helps to shorten ice making time and improve ice making efficiency.
[0080] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the water storage chamber 211 has a first chamber wall 214 and a second chamber wall 215 connected together. The end of the spray hole 212 facing away from the spray surface 213 passes through the first chamber wall 214. At least a portion of the first chamber wall 214 is inclined toward the side where the de-icing port 56 is located, and the second chamber wall 215 extends along the height direction of the equipment body 10.
[0081] In this embodiment, the water storage chamber 211 is defined by comprising a first chamber wall 214 and a second chamber wall 215, wherein the first chamber wall 214 and the second chamber wall 215 are connected, and the spray hole 212 penetrates through the first chamber wall 214. That is, the first chamber wall 214 and the spray surface 213 are located on opposite sides of the spray hole 212. In other words, the first chamber wall 214 is the top wall of the water storage chamber 211.
[0082] Since at least a portion of the first cavity wall 214 is inclined toward the side where the de-icing port 56 is located, that is, the first cavity wall 214 and the spray surface 213 have the same inclination trend. Moreover, the second cavity wall 215 extends along the height direction of the equipment body 10, that is, the cross-sectional shape of the cavity wall of the water storage cavity 211 is similar to a right trapezoidal structure, which maximizes the volume of the water storage cavity 211, can slow down the flow velocity of the water entering the water storage cavity 211 from the first interface 222, reduce the kinetic energy, and ensure the pressure of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 212, so that the sprayed water can smoothly reach the ice-making grid 72 for ice making.
[0083] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the water storage chamber 211 also includes a third chamber wall 216, which is connected to the second chamber wall 215 and is disposed opposite to the first chamber wall 214. At least a portion of the third chamber wall 216 extends obliquely toward the side where the first connector 22 is located, and water on the third chamber wall 216 can flow into the first interface 222.
[0084] In this embodiment, the cavity wall of the water storage cavity 211 further includes a third cavity wall 216. Specifically, the third cavity wall 216 is connected to the second cavity wall 215 and is disposed opposite to the first cavity wall 214, that is, the third cavity wall 216 is the bottom wall of the water storage cavity 211.
[0085] Because at least a portion of the third cavity wall 216 extends inclined towards the side where the first connector 22 is located, that is, along the direction close to the first connector 22, the third cavity wall 216 extends downwards at an incline. In other words, the third cavity wall 216 is configured as a slope. After ice making is completed, the residual water in the water storage chamber 211 can flow along the slope and return to the water storage chamber 12 via the first interface 222. This avoids bacterial growth in the water storage chamber 211 due to excessive residual water, while also enabling water recycling, which is beneficial for water conservation.
[0086] Moreover, the residual water in the water storage chamber 211 is returned through the first interface 222, that is, the residual water is returned by utilizing the original structure, which helps to simplify the structure of the spray box 20 and reduce the overall production cost of the ice making equipment 1.
[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, there are multiple spray holes 212, including at least a first spray hole 217 and a second spray hole 218. The first spray hole 217 is closer to the de-icing port 56 than the second spray hole 218. The spray box 20 also includes multiple flow stabilizing pipes 23, which are disposed in the water storage chamber 211 and connected to the first chamber wall 214. The multiple flow stabilizing pipes 23 are connected to the multiple spray holes 212. Among them, the length of the flow stabilizing pipe 23 connected to the first spray hole 217 is shorter than the length of the flow stabilizing pipe 23 connected to the second spray hole 218.
[0088] In this embodiment, the spray box 20 further includes multiple flow-stabilizing pipes 23. Specifically, the multiple flow-stabilizing pipes 23 are respectively connected to multiple spray holes 212. That is, when making ice, the water supply assembly 30 draws water from the water storage chamber 12 into the water storage chamber 211, and after passing through the multiple flow-stabilizing pipes 23, sprays it upward through the multiple spray holes 212 to make ice. By setting the flow-stabilizing pipes 23, the water flow entering the spray holes 212 can be stabilized and guided, so that the water flow sprayed through the spray holes 212 can flow upward as much as possible, so as to smoothly reach the ice grid 72 for ice making.
[0089] The first spray hole 217 is close to the de-icing port 56, meaning that the height of the first spray hole 217 is lower than the height of the second spray hole 218. Since the length of the flow stabilizing pipe 23 connected to the first spray hole 217 is shorter than the length of the flow stabilizing pipe 23 connected to the second spray hole 218, the flow stabilizing pipe 23 corresponding to the lower-height first spray hole 217 is shorter, and the flow stabilizing pipe 23 corresponding to the higher-height second spray hole 218 is longer. This ensures that the length of the flow stabilizing pipe 23 is matched to the shape within the water storage chamber 211, guaranteeing that each spray hole 212 can spray water for ice making.
[0090] Optionally, the inner diameter of each flow stabilizer 23 is larger than the aperture of the spray hole 212 to increase the pressure of the water flow ejected from the spray hole 212.
[0091] In some embodiments, the diameter of the spray hole 212 is d, where 2mm ≤ d ≤ 4mm.
[0092] In this embodiment, the range of the spray hole diameter 212 is defined. Specifically, the diameter of the spray hole 212 is between 2mm and 4mm. It is understood that if the diameter of the spray hole 212 is too small, i.e., less than 2mm, the pressure of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 212 will be too high, resulting in ice blocks with deep pits, affecting the ice-making effect. If the diameter of the spray hole 212 is too large, i.e., greater than 4mm, the pressure of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 212 will be too low, and it will not be able to effectively enter the ice-making grid 72 for ice making.
[0093] By limiting the diameter of the spray hole 212 to between 2mm and 4mm, it is possible to ensure that the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 212 can reach the ice grid 72 smoothly for ice making, while reducing the depth of the pits on the formed ice block, thus ensuring the ice making effect.
[0094] Optionally, the aperture of the spray hole 212 is any one of 2mm, 2.3mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 3.5mm and 4mm.
[0095] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the ice-making device 1 also includes a spray cap 60, which is disposed on the outside of the spray box 20. The spray cap 60 includes a cap body 62, which is disposed opposite to the spray hole 212 and has a gap between it and the spray hole 212.
[0096] In this embodiment, the ice-making device 1 is further defined as including a spray cap 60, specifically, the spray cap 60 includes a cap body 62.
[0097] Since the cap 62 is positioned opposite the spray hole 212, and there is a gap between the cap 62 and the spray hole 212, that is, the cap 62 is positioned above the spray hole 212. When water flows out from the spray hole 212 and rushes towards the cap 62, it is dispersed by the cap 62 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.
[0098] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, at least a portion of the outer wall of the cap body 62 opposite to the spray hole 212 is arc-shaped; or, at least a portion of the outer wall of the cap body 62 opposite to the spray hole 212 is conical.
[0099] In this embodiment, the shape of the outer wall of the cap body 62 is defined. Specifically, the outer wall of the cap body 62 opposite to the spray hole 212 is an arc-shaped wall, meaning that the center of the arc-shaped wall is located on the side of the arc-shaped wall away from the spray hole 212. Alternatively, the outer wall of the cap body 62 opposite to the spray hole 212 is a conical wall, meaning that the tip of the conical wall faces the spray hole 212. The specific shape can be set according to actual needs.
[0100] Since the outer wall of the cap 62 opposite to the spray hole 212 is an arc-shaped wall, or the outer wall of the cap 62 opposite to the spray hole 212 is a conical wall, it can reduce the impact force of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 212, thereby reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of the ice block, and at the same time, it can guide the dispersed airflow, reduce the flow resistance of the dispersed airflow, and ensure that the formed mist airflow can smoothly enter the ice grid 72 for ice making.
[0101] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the side of the box body 21 opposite to the water storage chamber 211 also includes a mounting groove 219. The spray cap 60 also includes a mounting base 64 and a connecting rib 66. A portion of the mounting base 64 is embedded in the mounting groove 219. The mounting base 64 has a mist outlet 642. The connecting rib 66 is located at the mist outlet 642 and is connected to the mounting base 64. The connecting rib 66 divides the mist outlet 642 into at least two sub-outlets 644, each sub-outlet 644 communicating with the spray hole 212. The cap body 62 is connected to the side of the connecting rib 66 facing the spray hole 212.
[0102] In this embodiment, the spray cap 60 is further defined as including a mounting base 64 and a connecting rib 66. Specifically, a portion of the mounting base 64 is embedded in the mounting groove 219 of the box body 21 to achieve the assembly between the spray cap 60 and the box body 21.
[0103] The connecting rib 66 is connected to the mounting base 64, and the cap body 62 is connected to the side of the connecting rib 66 facing the spray hole 212. The connecting rib 66 divides the mist outlet 642 into at least two sub-outlets 644, each of which is connected to the spray hole 212. That is, when water flows out of the spray hole 212 and hits the cap body 62, the mist-like water flow formed by being dispersed by the cap body 62 is sprayed out through at least two sub-outlets 644, reducing the impact force of the water flow sprayed out of the spray hole 212, thereby reducing the depth of the pit in the central area of the ice block.
[0104] Optionally, the mounting base 64, the cap body 62, and the connecting rib 66 are an integral structure.
[0105] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 and Figure 11 As shown, the ice-making device 1 also includes an ice-making module 70, which is located on the device body 10. The ice-making module 70 includes an ice grid 72 and an evaporator 74. The ice grid 72 is located on top of the spray box 20 and is positioned opposite to the spray holes 212. The evaporator 74 is located on the side of the ice grid 72 away from the spray box 20.
[0106] In this embodiment, the ice-making device 1 is further defined as including an ice-making module 70. Specifically, the ice-making module 70 includes an ice grid 72 and an evaporator 74. The ice grid 72 is located on top of the spray box 20 and is arranged opposite to the spray hole 212.
[0107] Specifically, during ice making, the water supply assembly 30 draws water from the water storage chamber 12 into the water storage chamber 211, and sprays it upwards through the spray holes 212. Part of the sprayed water enters the ice-making grid 72, where it is thawed by the evaporator 74. Some of the unfrozen water falls into the water receiving chamber 52 of the water receiving box 50 and flows back into the water storage chamber 12 through the return port on the rear side, thus achieving circulating water spraying. After ice making is completed, the ice blocks fall and are de-iced through the de-icing port 56.
[0108] Optionally, the ice tray 72 includes multiple ice trays, each of which is opposite to a plurality of spray holes 212. The shape of each ice tray can be set according to actual needs, including but not limited to circular, square, rectangular, triangular or oval shapes.
[0109] Optionally, the ice-making module 70 also includes a compressor 76.
[0110] Optionally, the ice-making device 1 also includes an ice storage chamber 90, which is connected to the de-icing port 56 and is used to store ice blocks.
[0111] Optionally, the evaporator 74 includes an inlet, an outlet, and a heat exchange channel, with the inlet and outlet respectively connected to the heat exchange channel. The evaporator 74 also includes a heat exchange trough, which is disposed within the heat exchange channel and is connected to the heat exchange channel.
[0112] Because a heat exchange groove is set inside the heat exchange channel and the heat exchange groove is connected to the heat exchange channel, that is, the inner wall of the heat exchange channel is recessed outward to form a heat exchange groove, the contact area between the refrigerant and the evaporator 74 is effectively increased, which effectively increases the heat exchange area between the refrigerant and the evaporator 74, significantly improving the heat exchange efficiency. This enables rapid ice making and rapid ice removal, which is beneficial to improving ice making efficiency, shortening ice making time, and thus reducing the energy consumption of the ice making equipment 1.
[0113] Optionally, the ice-making equipment 1 also includes a temperature detection element at the outlet of the evaporator 74 for detecting the outlet temperature of the evaporator 74.
[0114] Understandably, if ice blocks are not completely removed during an ice-making cycle, large blocks of ice will form in the next cycle, ultimately preventing the ice-making equipment 1 from removing ice properly and rendering it ineffective. By installing a temperature sensor at the outlet of evaporator 74, the outlet temperature of evaporator 74 will be abnormally low when ice removal 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.
[0115] Optionally, such as Figure 5 , Figure 12 and Figure 13As shown, the ice-making device 1 also includes a partition 80, which is located on the side of the ice grid 72 away from the evaporator 74. The partition 80 has a communication port that communicates with the opening of the ice grid.
[0116] In this embodiment, it is understood that the ice tray 72 is usually made of metal, such as aluminum. During the circulating water spraying process, the water will directly contact the bottom surface of the ice tray 72 and freeze. As a result, after the ice making is completed, the ice blocks in multiple ice trays stick together and cannot be separated, making it difficult to remove the ice and affecting the user experience.
[0117] By installing a partition 80 below the ice tray 72, the circulating water is separated from the bottom surface of the ice tray 72. During ice making, this effectively solves the problem of ice cubes sticking together and becoming impossible to separate due to the circulating water directly contacting the bottom surface of the ice tray 72 and freezing. It also facilitates quick and easy ice removal after ice making, thus shortening the ice making time. Furthermore, after ice removal, the individual ice cubes are clearly separated, making it easier for users to remove ice and improving the user experience.
[0118] Optionally, the partition 80 includes a plastic component. Understandably, the plastic component has a low thermal conductivity. That is, installing a low thermal conductivity plastic component under the ice tray 72 prevents water from contacting the metal surface of the ice tray 72 during the circulating water spraying process and freezing, which would eventually cause multiple ice cubes to stick together and become inseparable, thus ensuring that the produced ice cubes are distinct.
[0119] Optionally, such as Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the partition 80 includes a plate body 82 and a baffle 84. The plate body 82 is connected to the side of the ice grid 72 away from the evaporator 74, and the plate body 82 has a communication opening. The baffle 84 is located on the side of the plate body 82 near the de-icing port 56. During the spray ice-making process, as the ice freezes, the depth of the pit continuously decreases, but the flow rate of the spray water remains constant, resulting in a large amount of water splashing outwards along the perimeter of the pit. By setting the baffle 84, the outward splashing water flow can be blocked, thereby limiting the splashing direction of the water flow and reducing the risk of the ice in the ice storage chamber 90 melting due to the spray water splashing into the ice storage chamber 90.
[0120] Optionally, at least a portion of the baffle 84 is arc-shaped, and the end of the baffle 84 away from the plate body 82 is bent inward to further restrict the water flow and prevent spray water from splashing into the ice storage chamber 90.
[0121] Optionally, such as Figure 13As shown, the baffle 80 also includes multiple guide columns 86, which are spaced apart on the inner side of the baffle 84. Because water splashing is very severe in the latter half of ice making, a water curtain will form on the baffle 84. When the water curtain converges at a certain point and falls, a large volume of water will drop into the ice storage chamber 90. By setting multiple guide columns 86, the water flow is prevented from connecting horizontally to form a water curtain. Furthermore, the guide columns 86 have downward protrusions, which further facilitate the falling of the water.
[0122] Optionally, such as Figure 13 As shown, the partition 80 also includes an extension plate 88. Along the length of the plate body 82, the extension plate 88 is disposed on at least one side of the plate body 82, and extends along the length of the plate body 82 and toward the side away from the plate body 82. During ice making, the water flows upward along the wall due to the Coanda effect. At this time, there is only a thin layer of plastic (plate body 82) between the water flow and the metal ice grid 72, resulting in poor heat insulation. This leads to ice forming on the sides, ultimately causing the ice to stick to the partition 80 for too large an area, making it difficult to remove the ice.
[0123] By providing an extension plate 88 on at least one side of the plate body 82 along its length, water flow is prevented from flowing upwards along the wall due to the Coanda effect, thus preventing difficulties in ice removal due to side icing, ensuring smooth ice removal, and helping to shorten ice-making time and improve ice-making efficiency.
[0124] 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 device, characterized in that, include: The device body has a water storage chamber; A spray box, comprising a box body and a first connector, the box body having a water storage chamber and a spray hole, one end of the spray hole communicating with the water storage chamber, and the other end of the spray hole penetrating through the outer wall of the box body, the first connector having a first interface communicating with the water storage chamber; A water supply component is located on the device body and connected to the first connector; the water storage chamber is connected to the first interface through the water supply component. The first connector and the box body are an integral structure.
2. The ice-making equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first connector extends toward the side where the water storage cavity is located.
3. The ice-making equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The spray box and the water storage chamber are arranged along the height direction of the equipment body; At least a portion of the first connector extends along the height direction of the device body.
4. The ice-making equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water supply components include: The second connector is connected to the first connector; The pump body is located on the main body of the equipment and is connected to the water storage chamber; A water supply pipeline, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the pump body and the second connector, and the two ends of which are respectively connected to the pump body and the first interface.
5. The ice-making equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A seal is provided at the connection between the first connector and the second connector.
6. The ice-making equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A water receiving box, comprising a connected water receiving cavity and a clearance opening, wherein the box body is disposed within the water receiving cavity, and the first connector passes through the clearance opening and is exposed outside the water receiving box.
7. The ice-making equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The water receiving box also includes an ice removal port, which is connected to the water receiving cavity; The box body has a spray surface on the side away from the water storage chamber, and the spray hole extends through the spray surface at the end away from the water storage chamber. At least a portion of the spray surface is inclined toward the side where the de-icing port is located.
8. The ice-making equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that, The water storage chamber includes a first chamber wall and a second chamber wall connected together, and the end of the spray hole opposite to the spray surface passes through the first chamber wall. In this configuration, at least a portion of the first cavity wall is inclined toward the side where the de-icing port is located, and the second cavity wall extends along the height direction of the device body.
9. The ice-making equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, The water storage chamber also includes a third chamber wall, which is connected to the second chamber wall and is disposed opposite to the first chamber wall; At least a portion of the third cavity wall extends obliquely toward the side where the first connector is located, and water on the third cavity wall can flow into the first interface.
10. The ice-making equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, The number of spray holes is multiple, and the multiple spray holes include at least a first spray hole and a second spray hole. The first spray hole is closer to the de-icing port than the second spray hole. The spray box also includes: Multiple flow stabilizing pipes are disposed inside the water storage chamber and are respectively connected to the first chamber wall; the multiple flow stabilizing pipes are respectively connected to the multiple spray holes. Among the plurality of flow stabilizing pipes, the length of the flow stabilizing pipe connected to the first spray hole is less than the length of the flow stabilizing pipe connected to the second spray hole.
11. The ice-making apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, Also includes: A spray cap is disposed on the outside of the spray box. The spray cap includes a cap body, which is disposed opposite to the spray hole and has a gap between it and the spray hole.
12. The ice-making equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, At least a portion of the outer wall of the cap body opposite to the spray hole is arc-shaped; or, at least a portion of the outer wall of the cap body opposite to the spray hole is conical.
13. The ice-making equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, The side of the box body opposite to the water storage chamber also includes a mounting groove, and the spray cap also includes: Mounting base, a portion of which is embedded in the mounting groove, the mounting base having a mist outlet; A connecting rib is provided at the mist outlet and connected to the mounting base. The connecting rib divides the mist outlet into at least two sub-ports, each of which communicates with the spray hole. The cap body is connected to the side of the connecting rib facing the spray hole.