Ice maker, sterilizing method thereof and household appliance

Abstract

The invention provides an ice maker, a sterilizing method thereof and a household appliance. The ice maker comprises a water supply assembly, an ice cube tray, an ozone generator and a liquid path distribution unit, the water inlet end of the ozone generator is connected with the water outlet end of the water supply assembly, and the ozone generator is used for generating ozone based on water and mixing and dissolving ozone in water to form disinfectant; the liquid path distribution unit comprises a water inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet; the water inlet is connected with the water outlet end of the ozone generator through a water inlet pipeline, the first outlet is communicated with the ice cube tray through a water supply pipeline, and the second outlet is communicated with the water supply assembly through a return pipeline; the liquid path distribution unit is configured to communicate the water inlet with the first outlet at the first working position and at least communicate the water inlet with the second outlet at the second working position. According to the ice maker, the breeding of bacteria and molds in the ice maker can be effectively avoided, and the sanitation and safety of the ice maker are ensured.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of ice makers, in particular, the present application relates to an ice maker and a disinfection method thereof, and a household appliance. BACKGROUND

[0002] At present, the hygiene cleaning problem of the ice maker is increasingly concerned. The waterway system inside the ice maker is in a humid environment for a long time, which is easy to breed bacteria and mold (such as escherichia coli, legionella or pseudomonas aeruginosa, etc.), and the microbial pollution will pollute the ice cubes and cause food safety risks.

[0003] The cleaning and disinfection of the ice maker in the related art are not thorough enough, which is difficult to guarantee the hygiene safety of the ice maker. SUMMARY

[0004] The present application is directed to the shortcomings of the prior art, and proposes an ice maker and a disinfection method thereof, and a household appliance, to solve the technical problem that the cleaning and disinfection of the ice maker in the related art are not thorough enough, which is difficult to guarantee the hygiene safety of the ice maker.

[0005] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an ice maker, comprising: a water supply assembly and an ice tray; an ozone generator connected to a water outlet end of the water supply assembly, for generating ozone based on water, and the ozone is dissolved in water to form a disinfectant solution; a liquid path distribution unit including a water inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet; so the water inlet is connected to the water outlet end of the ozone generator via a water inlet pipeline, the first outlet is communicated with the ice tray via a water supply pipeline, and the second outlet is communicated with the water supply assembly via a reflux pipeline; The liquid path distribution unit is configured to: in a first working position, the water inlet and the first outlet are communicated; in a second working position, at least the water inlet and the second outlet are communicated.

[0006] Optionally, the liquid path distribution unit includes a three-way electromagnetic valve; The ice maker further includes a controller electrically connected to the ozone generator and the three-way electromagnetic valve, and the controller is configured to, in a first cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in a working state, and control the three-way electromagnetic valve to be in a second working position, to communicate the water inlet and the second outlet, so that the disinfectant solution circulates in a loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipeline and the reflux pipeline.

[0007] Optionally, the controller is configured to, in a second cleaning mode after the first cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in a non-working state, and control the three-way electromagnetic valve to be in the first working position, to connect the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipeline flows to the ice-making grid through the water supply pipeline.

[0008] Optionally, the liquid path distribution unit comprises a three-way electromagnetic valve. The ice maker further comprises a controller, which is electrically connected with the ozone generator and the three-way electromagnetic valve; the controller is configured to, in a third cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in a working state, and control the three-way electromagnetic valve to be in the first working position, to connect the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipeline flows to the ice-making grid through the water supply pipeline.

[0009] Optionally, the liquid path distribution unit comprises a three-way proportional distribution valve. The ice maker further comprises a controller, which is electrically connected with the ozone generator and the three-way proportional distribution valve; the controller is configured to, in a fourth cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in a working state, and control the three-way proportional distribution valve to be in the second working position, to connect the water inlet and the first outlet, and connect the water inlet and the second outlet, so that part of the sterilizing liquid circulates in a loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipeline and the return pipeline, and another part of the sterilizing liquid flows to the ice-making grid through the water supply pipeline.

[0010] Optionally, the ice maker further comprises an ice storage box, which is located below the ice-making grid, and the opening of the ice storage box faces upward.

[0011] Optionally, the ice maker further comprises: a return water pump, the water inlet end of the return water pump is located at the bottom of the ice storage box; a return water pipeline, the water inlet of the return water pipeline is connected with the water outlet end of the return water pump, and the water outlet of the return water pipeline is connected with the water supply assembly; The controller is configured to, in the fifth cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in working state, control the three-way proportional diversion valve to be in the second working position, connect the water inlet to the first outlet and connect the water inlet to the second outlet, so that a portion of the disinfectant circulates in the first loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and control the return water pump to work, so that another portion of the disinfectant circulates in the second loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe, the water supply pipe, the ice tray, the ice storage box, the return water pump and the return water pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way proportional diversion valve.

[0012] Optionally, the ice maker may also include an ice-turning device electrically connected to the controller; The controller is also configured to, in any of the second to fifth cleaning modes, after the liquid distribution unit holds the first working position for a first duration, control the water supply component to stop pumping liquid and hold it for a second duration, and control the ice-turning device to flip the ice tray so that the disinfectant in the ice tray falls into the ice storage box.

[0013] Optionally, the water supply assembly includes: A water storage tank, wherein the return pipeline is connected to the water storage tank; A water pump is provided, with its inlet connected to the water storage tank and its outlet connected to the inlet of the ozone generator.

[0014] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a household appliance, including an ice maker as described above.

[0015] Optionally, the household appliance includes a refrigerator.

[0016] Optionally, the household appliance includes a water dispenser with an ice-making function.

[0017] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a disinfection method for the ice maker described above, comprising: The ozone generator is controlled to be in a working state, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in a first working position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit with the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit; and / or, the ozone generator is controlled to be in a working state, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in a second working position, at least connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit with the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit.

[0018] Optionally, controlling the ozone generator to be in operation and controlling the liquid distribution unit to be in a second operating position, at least connecting the water inlet to the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit, includes: In the first cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet and the second outlet, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way solenoid valve.

[0019] Optionally, in the first cleaning mode, after controlling the ozone generator to be in working state and controlling the three-way solenoid valve to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet and the second outlet, the system further includes: In the second cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in a non-working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe.

[0020] Optionally, controlling the ozone generator to be in operation and controlling the liquid distribution unit to be in the first operating position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit to the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit, includes: In the third cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way solenoid valve.

[0021] Optionally, controlling the ozone generator to be in operation and controlling the liquid distribution unit to be in a second operating position, at least connecting the water inlet to the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit, includes: In the fourth cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way proportional diversion valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet with the first outlet and connecting the water inlet with the second outlet, so that a portion of the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and another portion of the disinfectant flows to the ice tray through the water supply pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way proportional diversion valve.

[0022] Optionally, controlling the ozone generator to be in working condition and controlling the liquid distribution unit to be in the first working position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit with the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit, includes: in the fifth cleaning mode, controlling the ozone generator to be in working condition, controlling the three-way proportional diverter valve to be in the second working position, connecting the inlet to the first outlet and connecting the inlet to the second outlet, so that a portion of the disinfectant solution circulates in the first loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the inlet pipe and the return pipe, and controlling the return water pump to work, so that another portion of the disinfectant solution circulates in the second loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the inlet pipe, the water supply pipe, the ice tray, the ice storage box, the return water pump and the return water pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes a three-way proportional diverter valve.

[0023] The beneficial technical effects of the technical solutions provided in this application include: In this embodiment, the ice maker is equipped with an ozone generator and a liquid distribution unit. The inlet of the ozone generator is connected to the outlet of the water supply component. The ozone generator is used to generate ozone based on water. The ozone is mixed and dissolved in water to form a disinfectant (i.e., ozone water). The inlet of the liquid distribution unit is connected to the outlet of the ozone generator via an inlet pipe. The first outlet of the liquid distribution unit is connected to the ice grid via a water supply pipe. The second outlet of the liquid distribution unit is connected to the water supply component via a return pipe. By placing the liquid distribution unit in the first working position, connecting the inlet and the first outlet, the disinfectant (i.e., ozone water) in the inlet pipe can flow to the ice tray through the water supply pipe, thereby disinfecting the ice tray. By placing the liquid distribution unit in the second working position, connecting at least the inlet and the second outlet, the disinfectant can return to the water supply component through the return pipe, allowing the disinfectant to circulate in the loop formed by the water supply component, ozone generator, inlet pipe, and return pipe, achieving cyclic disinfection. This effectively prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, ensuring the hygiene and safety of the ice maker.

[0024] Furthermore, using ozone water for disinfection allows it to reach every corner of the ice maker's water system, thus solving the problem of disinfection blind spots caused by UV (ultraviolet) irradiation and ensuring the disinfection effect of the ice maker. At the same time, ozone has a short half-life in water, and after cleaning, it automatically and quickly decomposes into oxygen and water, leaving no toxic or harmful chemical residues, ensuring the safety of the ice cubes.

[0025] Moreover, the cleaning process does not require disassembling parts, which improves the cleaning efficiency of the ice maker and enhances the convenience of cleaning it.

[0026] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will become apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ice maker provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another ice maker provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the circuit framework structure of an ice maker provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 A schematic flowchart illustrating a disinfection method for an ice maker provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another disinfection method for an ice maker provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 11-Water supply components; 111-Water storage tank; 112-Water outlet pump; 12-Ice tray; 13-Ozone generator; 14-Fluid distribution unit; 141 - Inlet; 142 - First outlet; 143 - Second outlet; 15-Controller; 16-Ice storage box; 17-Return water pump; 18-Ice turning device; 20 - Inlet water pipe; 30 - Supply water pipe; 40 - Return water pipe; 50 - Return water pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary descriptions for explaining the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

[0030] Those skilled in the art will understand that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the terms "described" and "the" as used herein may also include plural forms. It should be further understood that the term "comprising" as used in this application's specification means the presence of the stated steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude other features, information, data, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof supported by this art. It should be understood that when we say an element is "connected" or "coupled" to another element, the element may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or it may mean that the element and the other element are connected through an intermediate element. Furthermore, "connected" or "coupled" as used herein may include wireless connection or wireless coupling. The term "and / or" as used herein means at least one of the items defined by the term; for example, "A and / or B" may be implemented as "A," or as "B," or as "A and B."

[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Currently, the hygiene and cleanliness of ice makers are receiving increasing attention. The water system inside an ice maker is in a constantly damp environment, making it highly susceptible to the growth of bacteria and mold (such as E. coli, Legionella, or Pseudomonas aeruginosa). This microbial contamination can contaminate the ice and pose food safety risks.

[0033] Related technologies typically require ice makers to be disassembled, cleaned, and disinfected regularly, which is either inefficient or inconvenient.

[0034] The technical solution of this application and how it solves the above-mentioned technical problems are described in detail below with specific embodiments. It should be noted that the following embodiments can be referenced, borrowed, or combined with each other, and the same terms, similar features, and similar implementation steps in different embodiments will not be described again.

[0035] This application provides an ice maker, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the ice maker may include a water supply assembly 11, an ice grid 12, an ozone generator 13, and a liquid distribution unit 14.

[0036] The inlet of the ozone generator 13 is connected to the outlet of the water supply assembly 11. The ozone generator 13 is used to generate ozone based on water. The ozone is mixed and dissolved in water to form a disinfectant solution.

[0037] The liquid distribution unit 14 includes an inlet 141, a first outlet 142, and a second outlet 143. Therefore, the inlet 141 is connected to the outlet of the ozone generator 13 via the inlet pipe 20, the first outlet 142 is connected to the ice grid 12 via the water supply pipe 30, and the second outlet 143 is connected to the water supply assembly 11 via the return pipe 40.

[0038] The liquid distribution unit 14 is configured as follows: In the first working position, the inlet 141 is connected to the first outlet 142.

[0039] In the second working position, at least the inlet 141 and the second outlet 143 are connected.

[0040] The ozone generator 13 converts water into ozone and hydrogen. The ozone mixes and dissolves in the water to form a disinfectant solution (i.e., ozone water), while the hydrogen dissipates. By placing the liquid distribution unit 14 in the first working position and connecting the inlet 141 and the first outlet 142, the disinfectant solution (i.e., ozone water) in the inlet pipe 20 can flow to the ice tray 12 via the water supply pipe 30, thereby achieving disinfection of the ice tray 12. By placing the liquid distribution unit 14 in the second working position and connecting at least the inlet 141 and the second outlet 143, the disinfectant solution can return to the water supply component 11 via the return pipe 40, so that the disinfectant solution circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet pipe 20, and the return pipe 40, achieving cyclic disinfection. This can effectively prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, ensuring the hygiene and safety of the ice maker.

[0041] Furthermore, using ozone water for disinfection allows it to reach every corner of the ice maker's water system, thus solving the problem of disinfection blind spots caused by UV (ultraviolet) irradiation and ensuring the disinfection effect of the ice maker. At the same time, ozone has a short half-life in water, and after cleaning, it automatically and quickly decomposes into oxygen and water, leaving no toxic or harmful chemical residues, ensuring the safety of the ice cubes.

[0042] Moreover, the cleaning process does not require disassembling parts, which improves the cleaning efficiency and convenience of the ice maker, and effectively prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, ensuring the hygiene and safety of the ice maker.

[0043] It should be noted that the inlet 141 and outlet in the embodiments of this application only indicate the direction of liquid flow and do not limit the type of liquid flowing through. For example, the liquid flowing through can be water or disinfectant.

[0044] The ozone generator 13 employs proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrocatalytic electrolysis technology. The ozone generator 13 includes an anode and a cathode. For example, the anode can be a catalytic electrode (such as a boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode or a PbO2-coated electrode). The anode produces ozone, and the cathode produces hydrogen. When a low-voltage direct current is applied to the ozone generator 13, it electrolyzes water (H2O) into ozone (O3) and hydrogen (H2). The hydrogen dissipates, while the ozone, due to its much higher solubility in water than in air, quickly dissolves in the water to form ozonated water.

[0045] In this embodiment of the application, the concentration of ozone water can be controlled between 0.5 and 2.0 ppm (parts per million, representing the mass of solute as a percentage of the total mass of the solution).

[0046] See Figure 3 In some embodiments, the fluid distribution unit 14 may include a three-way solenoid valve.

[0047] The ice maker also includes a controller 15, which is electrically connected to the ozone generator 13 and the three-way solenoid valve. The controller 15 is configured to control the ozone generator 13 to be in working state in the first cleaning mode, and to control the three-way solenoid valve to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet 141 and the second outlet 143, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component 11, the ozone generator 13, the water inlet pipe 20 and the return pipe 40.

[0048] In the first cleaning mode, the controller 15 controls the three-way solenoid valve to switch to the second working position, so that the disinfectant continuously circulates in the closed loop formed by the water supply component 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet pipe 20 and the return pipe 40, which enhances the flushing and sterilization effect on the water supply component 11 and the pipe system, and realizes the circulatory disinfection of the cold storage space; at the same time, the ozone generator 13 continuously injects ozone into the water to maintain the high activity of the disinfectant and ensure that bacteria and viruses are fully killed.

[0049] In addition, by running in the first cleaning mode for a period of time, the liquid stored in the water supply component 11 (such as a water tank) can be converted from water into disinfectant, thereby providing disinfectant for the second cleaning mode to rinse the ice tray 12.

[0050] For example, the liquid distribution unit 14 can be a two-position three-way solenoid valve. When the two-position three-way solenoid valve is in the first working position, it connects the inlet 141 and the first outlet 142. When the two-position three-way solenoid valve is in the second working position, it disconnects the originally connected first outlet 142 and switches to connect the inlet 141 and the second outlet 143.

[0051] Optionally, the controller 15 is configured to, in a second cleaning mode following the first cleaning mode, control the ozone generator 13 to be in a non-operating state and control the three-way solenoid valve to be in the first operating position, connecting the water inlet 141 and the first outlet 142, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe 20 flows to the ice grid 12 through the water supply pipe 30.

[0052] When the second cleaning mode is running, the liquid in the water supply component 11 has been converted into disinfectant. The controller 15 controls the three-way solenoid valve to switch to the first working position, connecting the water inlet 141 and the first outlet 142, so that the disinfectant is delivered to the ice tray 12 through the water supply pipeline 30, which thoroughly washes and disinfects the surface and internal channels of the ice tray 12, effectively removing microorganisms on the ice tray 12.

[0053] In other feasible embodiments, the controller 15 is configured to, in the third cleaning mode, control the ozone generator 13 to be in operation and control the three-way solenoid valve to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet 141 and the first outlet 142, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe 20 flows to the ice grid 12 through the water supply pipe 30.

[0054] In the third cleaning mode, the ozone generator 13 is activated, continuously injecting ozone into the flowing liquid. The three-way solenoid valve remains in the first working position, allowing the ozone-containing disinfectant to enter the ice tray 12 through the water supply pipe 30, thus performing a comprehensive sterilization treatment on the ice tray 12.

[0055] The third cleaning mode can operate independently or be activated after the first cleaning mode to further enhance the disinfection effect on hard-to-reach areas inside the ice tray 12.

[0056] See Figure 3 In some embodiments, the fluid distribution unit 14 includes a three-way proportional flow divider valve.

[0057] The ice maker also includes a controller 15, which is electrically connected to the ozone generator 13 and the three-way proportional diverter valve. The controller 15 is configured to, in the fourth cleaning mode, control the ozone generator 13 to be in working state and control the three-way proportional diverter valve to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet 141 with the first outlet 142 and connecting the water inlet 141 with the second outlet 143, so that a portion of the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply assembly 11, the ozone generator 13, the water inlet pipe 20 and the return pipe 40, and another portion of the disinfectant flows to the ice grid 12 via the water supply pipe 30.

[0058] The three-way proportional flow divider valve can precisely adjust the fluid distribution ratio according to the instructions of the controller 15. In the fourth cleaning mode, it can realize the dual-path synchronous supply of disinfectant, which not only ensures the continuous ozone injection in the circuit to maintain the activity of disinfectant and the continuous circulation flushing of water supply component 11 and pipeline system, but also ensures that ice tray 12 receives a sufficient amount of high-concentration disinfectant for thorough flushing, thereby improving cleaning efficiency and hygiene safety.

[0059] Optionally, in some embodiments, the controller 15 is also configured to, in drainage mode, control the liquid distribution unit 14 in the first working position to connect the inlet 141 and the first outlet 142, so that the disinfectant in the inlet pipe 20 flows to the ice grid 12 via the water supply pipe 30.

[0060] It should be noted that the ozone generator 13 can be in either working or non-working state during drainage mode. When the ozone generator 13 is in working state during drainage mode, the residual liquid inside the ice maker is simultaneously disinfected with ozone during the drainage process, effectively inhibiting the growth of microorganisms in the pipeline. Furthermore, the trace amounts of ozone remaining in the pipeline after drainage are automatically decomposed, preventing secondary pollution and ensuring a continuously clean internal environment. When the ozone generator 13 is in non-working state, the drainage process primarily involves physical emptying, suitable for users sensitive to residual disinfectant components.

[0061] Optionally, in some embodiments, the controller 15 is configured to control the ozone generator 13 to be in a non-working state in ice-making mode, and control the liquid distribution unit 14 to be in a first working position, connecting the water inlet 141 and the first outlet 142, so that the water in the water inlet pipe 20 flows to the ice grid 12 through the water supply pipe 30.

[0062] The water flow path in ice-making mode is as follows: water supply component 11 (e.g., water storage tank and water pump), ozone generator 13 (non-working state), liquid distribution unit 14, water supply pipeline 30 to ice grid 12; after the water flows through the water supply pipeline 30 into the ice grid 12, it completes the freezing process under the action of the refrigeration system.

[0063] In ice-making mode, the three-way proportional flow divider valve precisely opens the flow channel between the inlet 141 and the first outlet 142 according to the controller 15, while cutting off the second outlet 143 to ensure that all water flows to the ice grid 12.

[0064] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the ice maker may also include an ice storage box 16 located below the ice grid 12, with the opening of the ice storage box 16 facing upwards.

[0065] The ice storage box 16 has an upward-facing opening to catch ice cubes that fall from the ice tray 12. In addition, during any of the cleaning modes from the second to the fifth cleaning modes or the drainage mode, the disinfectant in the ice tray 12 can automatically overflow into the ice storage box 16 below the ice tray 12, thereby disinfecting the ice storage box 16 and draining the disinfectant.

[0066] In some embodiments, the ice storage box 16 is equipped with a detachable design, which facilitates the user's access to ice and subsequent cleaning and maintenance, improving ease of use and hygiene. For example, the disinfectant can be drained and removed by manually emptying the disinfectant from the ice storage box 16.

[0067] Optionally, the ice storage box 16 is equipped with a cooling structure inside, which is connected to the refrigeration system to ensure stable temperature during ice storage and prevent ice blocks from melting and sticking together.

[0068] See Figure 2 Optionally, in some embodiments, the ice maker may also include a return water pump 17 and a return water line 50.

[0069] The water inlet of the return water pump 17 is located at the bottom of the ice storage box 16.

[0070] The inlet 141 of the return water pipe 50 is connected to the outlet of the water pump, and the outlet of the return water pipe 50 is connected to the water supply component 11.

[0071] The controller 15 is configured to, in the fifth cleaning mode, control the ozone generator 13 to be in working state, control the three-way proportional diversion valve to be in the second working position, connect the inlet 141 to the first outlet 142, and connect the inlet 141 to the second outlet 143, so that a portion of the disinfectant circulates in the first loop formed by the water supply assembly 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet pipe 20 and the return pipe 40, and control the return water pump 17 to work, so that the disinfectant circulates in the second loop formed by the water supply assembly 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet pipe 20, the water supply pipe 30, the ice tray 12, the ice storage box 16, the return water pump 17 and the return water pipe 50; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way proportional diversion valve.

[0072] In other words, the inlet of the return water pump 17 is located on or near the bottom wall of the ice storage box 16. The return water pump 17 provides the power for the disinfectant to flow from the ice storage box 16 through the return water pipe 50 to the water supply assembly 11. After the return water pump 17 is started, it drives the disinfectant to be drawn from the bottom of the ice storage box 16 and transported to the water supply assembly 11 through the return water pipe 50. It mixes with the ozone generated by the ozone generator 13 to form a highly oxidizing disinfectant water flow (i.e., disinfectant). This allows the disinfectant to circulate in the second loop formed by the water supply assembly 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet water pipe 20, the water supply pipe 30, the ice tray 12, the ice storage box 16, the return water pump 17, and the return water pipe 50, thereby achieving a thorough rinsing of the contact surfaces with the disinfectant, effectively killing bacteria and viruses, and completing a deep cleaning of the entire water circuit and ice storage area.

[0073] See Figure 3 Optionally, the ice maker may also include an ice-turning device 18 electrically connected to the controller 15.

[0074] The controller 15 is also configured to, in any of the cleaning modes from the second to the fifth cleaning modes, after the control liquid distribution unit 14 holds the first working position for a first time, control the water supply component 11 to stop pumping liquid and hold it for a second time, and control the ice-turning device 18 to flip the ice tray 12 so that the disinfectant in the ice tray 12 falls into the ice storage box 16.

[0075] By controlling the liquid distribution unit 14 to maintain the first working position for a first duration, the ice tray 12 is ensured to be full of disinfectant. Then, the water supply component 11 is controlled to stop pumping liquid and maintain the position for a second duration, so that the disinfectant can fully soak the inner wall of the ice tray 12 and effectively decompose dirt and microorganisms. At this time, the ice turning device 18 is activated to turn the ice tray 12 over, so that the residual disinfectant can be completely poured out, thereby draining the disinfectant.

[0076] For example, the amount of water entering during the first period can be the capacity of ice tray 12, ensuring that the disinfectant completely fills ice tray 12. For example, the amount of water entering during the first period can be about 80-100ml.

[0077] In some embodiments, the second duration is not less than the minimum contact time for the disinfectant to fully sterilize the product; for example, the second duration can be 10 to 30 seconds to ensure sufficient soaking.

[0078] Since the CT value of drinking water is 1.6 = 0.4 mg / L After 4 minutes, the surface disinfection CT value was 7.5 = 1.5 mg / L. The user can select different CT values ​​for different operating conditions and set a corresponding second duration based on the selected CT value. The second duration represents the contact time of the disinfectant on the inner wall of the ice tray 12. For example, when the surface disinfection mode is selected, the controller 15 automatically sets the second duration to 300 seconds based on the CT value requirement corresponding to an ozone concentration of 1.5 mg / L and a contact time of 5 minutes, ensuring that the disinfectant is fully effective in the ice tray 12. In the normal cleaning mode, the second duration is set to 240 seconds based on a concentration of 0.4 mg / L and a contact time of 4 minutes. The controller 15 precisely controls the soaking time according to the selected operating conditions, balancing sterilization effect and energy efficiency.

[0079] Optionally, the controller 15 is also configured to perform the following operation a preset number of times in drainage mode: control the water supply component 11 to pump out liquid and the liquid distribution unit 14 to maintain the first working position for a first time, and then control the ice-turning device 18 to flip the ice tray 12 so that the disinfectant in the ice tray 12 falls into the ice storage box 16.

[0080] For example, the preset number of cycles is 3. Each time, the water volume is the same as that in the ice tray 12, approximately 80-100ml. Once the ice tray 12 is full of disinfectant, the ice-tumbling device 18 flips the ice tray 12, causing the disinfectant inside to fall into the ice storage box 16. This process is repeated 3 times to clean any residual ozone water in the pipes and water storage box.

[0081] Optionally, after draining, let it stand for a period of time (e.g., 5 minutes) before starting the ice-making mode, so that the residual ozone can be fully decomposed into oxygen before making ice, thus avoiding ozone contamination of the ice.

[0082] In other feasible embodiments, the projection of the ice tray 12 in the horizontal plane is located at the projection of the opening of the ice storage box 16 in the horizontal plane. This allows the controller 15 to control the liquid distribution unit 14 to work continuously in the first working position during any of the second to fifth cleaning modes. The disinfectant in the ice tray 12 automatically overflows into the ice storage box 16 below the ice tray 12, thereby enabling continuous disinfection of the ice tray 12 and the ice storage box 16, as well as the discharge of the disinfectant. Furthermore, in the drainage mode, the ozone generator 13 is controlled to be in a non-working state, and the liquid distribution unit 14 is controlled to work continuously in the first working position. The disinfectant in the ice tray 12 automatically overflows, is diluted, and then discharged, avoiding ozone residue.

[0083] Optionally, in ice-making mode, after the ice tray 12 completes one ice-making cycle, the controller 15 loosens the ice blocks using a heating element or mechanical device. The controller 15 also controls the ice-flipping device 18 to flip the ice tray 12, allowing the ice blocks to slide naturally into the ice storage box 16, thus achieving automatic ice collection. After the ice-flipping device 18 is activated, the controller 15 controls the ice-flipping device 18 to reset the ice tray 12 to prepare for the next ice-making cycle.

[0084] Optionally, the ice maker may also include a drainage assembly located at the bottom of the ice storage box 16, with the controller 15 electrically connected to the drainage assembly and configured to control the opening of the drainage assembly in drainage mode to drain the wastewater or residual disinfectant accumulated in the ice storage box 16.

[0085] For example, the drainage assembly includes an electric valve and a drainage pump. In drainage mode, the controller 15 controls the electric valve to open and starts the drainage pump to quickly drain the liquid in the ice storage box 16 and prevent water accumulation and bacterial growth. After drainage is completed, the controller 15 controls the electric valve to close and stops the drainage pump to complete the drainage process.

[0086] Optionally, the controller 15 can activate at least one of the above cleaning modes at preset intervals to achieve a timed and frequencyd automated cleaning process, effectively ensuring the continuous cleanliness of the ice-making environment.

[0087] Considering that the temperature in the cold storage space (which may include a water supply assembly 11 and an ozone generator 13, and the water supply assembly 11 may include a water storage tank 111 and a water pump 112) is higher and more prone to the growth of bacteria and mold, the cleaning cycle of the cold storage space can be shorter than the cleaning cycle of the entire ice-making pipeline.

[0088] For example, when the liquid distribution unit 14 includes a three-way solenoid valve, the controller 15 is configured to activate the first cleaning mode every third interval, causing the disinfectant to circulate in the loop formed by the water supply component 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet pipe 20, and the return pipe 40; and to activate the third cleaning mode every fourth interval, causing the liquid in the inlet pipe 20 to flow to the ice tray 12 via the water supply pipe 30; the third interval is shorter than the fourth interval. By prioritizing the cleaning frequency of the refrigerated space, which has a higher temperature and is prone to bacterial and mold growth, the hygiene and safety of the ice can be ensured, while avoiding resource waste caused by excessive disinfection.

[0089] For example, the third disinfection period is 12 hours, and the fourth disinfection period is 48 hours. This means that the refrigerated space is disinfected twice a day, and the frozen space is disinfected once every two days. This effectively inhibits bacterial growth and avoids the waste of resources caused by excessive disinfection.

[0090] As another example, when the liquid distribution unit 14 includes a three-way proportional flow divider valve, the controller 15 is configured to activate the fourth cleaning mode every fifth interval, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet pipe 20 and the return pipe 40, and so that the disinfectant flows to the ice tray 12 via the water supply pipe 30; and to activate the fifth cleaning mode every fifth interval, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet pipe 20, the water supply pipe 30, the ice tray 12, the ice storage box 16, the return water pump 17 and the return water pipe 50.

[0091] Of course, the timing control of the above cleaning modes can be flexibly adjusted according to the actual use environment. For example, the cleaning cycle can be shortened appropriately in hot and humid seasons to enhance the antibacterial effect.

[0092] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the water supply assembly 11 includes a water storage tank 111 and a water pump 112.

[0093] The return pipe 40 is connected to the water storage tank 111, which is used to supply water.

[0094] The inlet of the water pump 112 is connected to the water storage tank 111, and the outlet of the water pump 112 is connected to the inlet of the ozone generator 13; the water pump 112 is used to transport the water in the water storage tank 111 to the ozone generator 13.

[0095] In other feasible embodiments, the water supply component 11 may include a water supply pipe and a water pump 112, with the water outlet connected to the water inlet of the ozone generator 13, and the water supply pipe directly connected to an external water source to provide water and achieve continuous water supply.

[0096] The water in this application embodiment includes drinking water, which includes boiled water at room temperature, purified water, mineral water, water purified by a water purifier or filtration device, etc.

[0097] In some embodiments, the water pump 112 is electrically connected to the controller 15, which adjusts the start / stop and flow rate of the water pump 112 according to various cleaning modes, drainage modes, and ice-making modes.

[0098] It should be noted that in each cleaning mode, drainage mode and ice-making mode in the embodiments of this application, the controller 15 controls the water pump 112 to work.

[0099] In some embodiments, the controller 15 is also configured to monitor the working status of the water pump 112 and the pipeline pressure value in real time in any of the first to fifth cleaning modes, and dynamically adjust the speed of the water pump 112 according to the comparison between the pipeline pressure value and the preset pressure threshold, so as to maintain a stable flow rate of disinfectant in the pipeline.

[0100] Optionally, when a pipe blockage or abnormal flow is detected, the controller 15 automatically switches to the mode of intermittently starting and stopping the water pump 112. By intermittently starting and stopping the water pump 112, pressure fluctuations are generated to promote the stripping and discharge of residues in the pipe and improve cleaning efficiency.

[0101] The ice maker provided in this application embodiment can be applied to refrigerators, water dispensers, freezers or multi-temperature zone refrigeration equipment, and can be integrated into the storage room as a built-in ice-making module.

[0102] The beneficial technical effects of the technical solutions provided in this application include: The ice maker includes an ozone generator 13 and a liquid distribution unit 14. The inlet of the ozone generator 13 is connected to the outlet of the water supply assembly 11. The ozone generator 13 is used to generate ozone based on water, and the ozone is mixed and dissolved in water to form a disinfectant. The liquid distribution unit 14 includes an inlet 141, a first outlet 142, and a second outlet 143. The inlet 141 of the liquid distribution unit 14 is connected to the outlet of the ozone generator 13 via an inlet pipe 20. The first outlet 142 of the liquid distribution unit 14 is connected to the ice grid 12 via a water supply pipe 30. The second outlet 143 of the liquid distribution unit 14 is connected to the water supply assembly 11 via a return pipe 40. The liquid distribution unit 14 is configured in a first working position, connecting the inlet 141 and the first outlet 142. In a second working position, it connects at least the inlet 141 and the second outlet 143. Therefore, by placing the liquid distribution unit 14 in the first working position and connecting the inlet 141 and the first outlet 142, the disinfectant in the inlet pipe 20 can flow to the ice tray 12 via the water supply pipe 30, thereby achieving the disinfection of the ice tray 12. By placing the liquid distribution unit 14 in the second working position and connecting at least the inlet 141 and the second outlet 143, the disinfectant can return to the water supply component 11 via the return pipe 40, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component 11, the ozone generator 13, the inlet pipe 20 and the return pipe 40, achieving cyclic disinfection, which can effectively prevent the growth of bacteria and mold and ensure the hygiene and safety of the ice maker.

[0103] Furthermore, using ozone water for disinfection allows it to reach every corner of the ice maker's water system, thus solving the problem of disinfection blind spots caused by UV (ultraviolet) irradiation and ensuring the disinfection effect of the ice maker. At the same time, ozone has a short half-life in water, and after cleaning, it automatically and quickly decomposes into oxygen and water, leaving no toxic or harmful chemical residues, ensuring the safety of the ice cubes.

[0104] Moreover, the cleaning process does not require disassembling parts, which improves the cleaning efficiency and convenience of the ice maker, and effectively prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, ensuring the hygiene and safety of the ice maker.

[0105] Based on the same inventive concept, this application provides a household appliance, including an ice maker as described above.

[0106] The household appliances in this embodiment include the ice maker of any of the above embodiments. For specific technical details and effects, please refer to the foregoing. They will not be repeated here.

[0107] In some embodiments, the household appliance includes a refrigerator.

[0108] Optionally, the refrigerator's main evaporator is located near the ice maker's ice tray to provide cooling; or, the ice maker includes an evaporator that provides cooling to the ice maker's ice tray.

[0109] For example, an ice maker can be an in-fridge ice maker. The ice maker's ice trays are installed inside the freezer compartment of the refrigerator, for example, the ice maker's ice trays are located in the upper or rear part of the freezer compartment, and the ice storage boxes are dedicated ice boxes or ice storage compartments inside the freezer compartment.

[0110] For example, an ice maker can be a door-mounted ice maker (also known as a door-mounted ice maker or an external ice maker). The ice tray, evaporator, and ice storage box of the ice maker are located inside the refrigerator door. Optionally, a switch button can be installed on the outside of the refrigerator door for one-touch ice dispensing.

[0111] In another feasible embodiment, the household appliance includes a water dispenser with an ice-making function.

[0112] Of course, the home appliances in this embodiment may also include freezers or multi-temperature zone refrigeration equipment, and the ice maker is integrated into the storage room as a built-in ice-making module of the home appliance.

[0113] Based on the same inventive concept, this application provides a disinfection method for an ice maker as described above, the method comprising: The ozone generator is controlled to be in a working state, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in a first working position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit to the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit; and / or, the ozone generator is controlled to be in a working state, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in a second working position, connecting at least the inlet of the liquid distribution unit to the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit.

[0114] An ozone generator converts water into ozone and hydrogen. The ozone dissolves in the water to form a disinfectant solution (ozonated water), while the hydrogen dissipates. By placing the liquid distribution unit in the first working position, connecting the inlet and the first outlet, the disinfectant solution in the inlet pipe flows to the ice tray via the water supply pipe, thus disinfecting the ice tray. By placing the liquid distribution unit in the second working position, connecting at least the inlet and the second outlet, the disinfectant solution returns to the water supply component via the return pipe. This allows the disinfectant solution to circulate in a loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the inlet pipe, and the return pipe, achieving cyclic disinfection. The cleaning process does not require disassembly of parts, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency and convenience of the ice maker, effectively preventing the growth of bacteria and mold, and ensuring the hygiene and safety of the ice maker.

[0115] Optionally, the ozone generator is controlled to be in an operating state, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in a second operating position, at least connecting the inlet to the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit, including: In the first cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet and the second outlet, so that the disinfectant solution circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way solenoid valve.

[0116] Optionally, in the first cleaning mode, after controlling the ozone generator to be in working state and controlling the three-way solenoid valve to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet and the second outlet, the system further includes: In the second cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in a non-working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe.

[0117] Optionally, the ozone generator is controlled to be in operation, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in the first operating position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit to the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit, including: In the third cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working condition, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way solenoid valve.

[0118] As an example, this application provides a disinfection method for an ice maker, wherein the liquid distribution unit of the ice maker includes a three-way solenoid valve. See also Figure 4 The method includes: S101: Determine the cleaning mode to be executed based on the cleaning mode selected by the user or the cleaning mode switching sequence set by the system.

[0119] S102: In the first cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet and the second outlet, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe.

[0120] S103: In the second cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in a non-working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe.

[0121] S104: In the third cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe.

[0122] Optionally, the ozone generator is controlled to be in an operating state, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in a second operating position, at least connecting the inlet to the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit, including: In the fourth cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working condition, and the three-way proportional diverter valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet to the first outlet and connecting the water inlet to the second outlet, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and so that the disinfectant flows to the ice tray through the water supply pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way proportional diverter valve.

[0123] Optionally, the ozone generator is controlled to be in operation, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in the first operating position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit to the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit, including: In the fifth cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working condition, and the three-way proportional diversion valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet to the first outlet and connecting the water inlet to the second outlet. This allows a portion of the disinfectant to circulate in the first loop consisting of the water supply assembly, ozone generator, water inlet pipe, and return pipe. The return water pump is also controlled to work, allowing another portion of the disinfectant to circulate in the second loop consisting of the water supply assembly, ozone generator, water inlet pipe, water supply pipe, ice tray, ice storage box, return water pump, and return water pipe. The liquid distribution unit includes the three-way proportional diversion valve.

[0124] As an example, this application provides a disinfection method for an ice maker, wherein the liquid distribution unit of the ice maker includes a three-way proportional flow divider valve. See also Figure 5 The method includes: S201: Determine the cleaning mode to be executed based on the cleaning mode selected by the user or the cleaning mode switching sequence set by the system.

[0125] S202: In the fourth cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way proportional diverter valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet with the first outlet and connecting the water inlet with the second outlet, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and the disinfectant flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe.

[0126] S203: In the fifth cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way proportional diverter valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet to the first outlet and connecting the water inlet to the second outlet, so that a part of the disinfectant circulates in the first loop consisting of the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and the return water pump is controlled to work, so that another part of the disinfectant circulates in the second loop consisting of the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe, the water supply pipe, the ice tray, the ice storage box, the return water pump and the return water pipe.

[0127] S204: In the sixth cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working condition, and the three-way proportional diversion valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the disinfectant flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipeline.

[0128] It should be noted that this embodiment is a specific implementation of the ice maker cleaning control method corresponding to the aforementioned ice maker. For specific technical details and effects, please refer to the foregoing, and they will not be repeated here.

[0129] Those skilled in the art will understand that the steps, measures, and solutions in the various operations, methods, and processes discussed in this application can be alternated, modified, combined, or deleted. Furthermore, other steps, measures, and solutions in the various operations, methods, and processes discussed in this application can also be alternated, modified, rearranged, decomposed, combined, or deleted. Furthermore, steps, measures, and solutions in related technologies that are similar to those disclosed in this application can also be alternated, modified, rearranged, decomposed, combined, or deleted.

[0130] In the description of this application, the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate directions or positional relationships based on the exemplary directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used to facilitate the description or simplification of the embodiments of this application and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0131] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0132] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" 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 direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0133] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0134] The above description represents some embodiments of this application. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, other similar implementation methods based on the technical concept of this application, without departing from the technical concept of this application, also fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An ice maker, characterized in that, include: Water supply components and ice trays; An ozone generator, with its inlet connected to the outlet of the water supply assembly, is used to generate ozone from water, which is then mixed and dissolved in water to form a disinfectant solution. The liquid distribution unit includes an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet; Therefore, the water inlet is connected to the water outlet of the ozone generator via the water inlet pipe, the first outlet is connected to the ice grid via the water supply pipe, and the second outlet is connected to the water supply assembly via the return pipe. The fluid distribution unit is configured as follows: In the first working position, the water inlet is connected to the first outlet; In the second working position, at least the inlet and the second outlet are connected.

2. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fluid distribution unit includes a three-way solenoid valve; The ice maker also includes a controller electrically connected to both the ozone generator and the three-way solenoid valve. The controller is configured to, in a first cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in operation and control the three-way solenoid valve to be in a second operating position, connecting the water inlet and the second outlet, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe, and the return pipe.

3. The ice maker according to claim 2, characterized in that, The controller is configured to, in a second cleaning mode following the first cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in a non-working state and control the three-way solenoid valve to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe.

4. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fluid distribution unit includes a three-way solenoid valve; The ice maker also includes a controller, which is electrically connected to both the ozone generator and the three-way solenoid valve. The controller is configured to, in the third cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in working condition and control the three-way solenoid valve to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe.

5. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fluid distribution unit includes a three-way proportional flow divider valve; The ice maker also includes a controller electrically connected to both the ozone generator and the three-way proportional diversion valve. The controller is configured to, in the fourth cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in operation and control the three-way proportional diversion valve to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet to the first outlet and connecting the water inlet to the second outlet, so that a portion of the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and another portion of the disinfectant flows to the ice grid via the water supply pipe.

6. The ice maker according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, It also includes an ice storage box, which is located below the ice grid and has its opening facing upwards.

7. The ice maker according to claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: A return water pump, wherein the inlet of the return water pump is located at the bottom of the ice storage box; The return water pipeline has an inlet connected to the outlet of the return water pump and an outlet connected to the water supply assembly. The controller is configured to, in the fifth cleaning mode, control the ozone generator to be in working state, control the three-way proportional diversion valve to be in the second working position, connect the water inlet to the first outlet and connect the water inlet to the second outlet, so that a portion of the disinfectant circulates in the first loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and control the return water pump to work, so that another portion of the disinfectant circulates in the second loop formed by the water supply assembly, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe, the water supply pipe, the ice tray, the ice storage box, the return water pump and the return water pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way proportional diversion valve.

8. The ice maker according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes an ice-turning device electrically connected to the controller; The controller is also configured to, in any of the second to fifth cleaning modes, after the liquid distribution unit holds the first working position for a first duration, control the water supply component to stop pumping liquid and hold it for a second duration, and control the ice-turning device to flip the ice tray so that the disinfectant in the ice tray falls into the ice storage box.

9. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water supply components include: A water storage tank, wherein the return pipeline is connected to the water storage tank; A water pump is provided, with its inlet connected to the water storage tank and its outlet connected to the inlet of the ozone generator.

10. A household appliance, characterized in that, include: The ice maker as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The household appliance according to claim 10, characterized in that, The household appliances include refrigerators.

12. The household appliance according to claim 10, characterized in that, The household appliances include water dispensers with ice-making functions.

13. A disinfection method for an ice maker as described in any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, include: The ozone generator is controlled to be in a working state, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in a first working position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit with the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit; and / or, the ozone generator is controlled to be in a working state, and the liquid distribution unit is controlled to be in a second working position, at least connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit with the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit.

14. The disinfection method for an ice maker according to claim 13, characterized in that, Controlling the ozone generator to be in working condition and controlling the liquid distribution unit to be in the second working position, at least connecting the water inlet to the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit, includes: In the first cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet and the second outlet, so that the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way solenoid valve.

15. The disinfection method for an ice maker according to claim 14, characterized in that, In the first cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working condition, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the second working position. After connecting the water inlet and the second outlet, the system further includes: In the second cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in a non-working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe.

16. The disinfection method for an ice maker according to claim 13, characterized in that, Controlling the ozone generator to be in working condition and controlling the liquid distribution unit to be in the first working position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit to the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit, including: In the third cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way solenoid valve is controlled to be in the first working position, connecting the water inlet and the first outlet, so that the liquid in the water inlet pipe flows to the ice grid through the water supply pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way solenoid valve.

17. The disinfection method for an ice maker according to claim 13, characterized in that, Controlling the ozone generator to be in working condition and controlling the liquid distribution unit to be in the second working position, at least connecting the water inlet to the second outlet of the liquid distribution unit, includes: In the fourth cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way proportional diversion valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet with the first outlet and connecting the water inlet with the second outlet, so that a portion of the disinfectant circulates in the loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and another portion of the disinfectant flows to the ice tray through the water supply pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes the three-way proportional diversion valve.

18. The disinfection method for an ice maker according to claim 13, characterized in that, Controlling the ozone generator to be in working condition and controlling the liquid distribution unit to be in the first working position, connecting the inlet of the liquid distribution unit to the first outlet of the liquid distribution unit, including: In the fifth cleaning mode, the ozone generator is controlled to be in working state, and the three-way proportional diversion valve is controlled to be in the second working position, connecting the water inlet with the first outlet and connecting the water inlet with the second outlet, so that a portion of the disinfectant solution circulates in the first loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe and the return pipe, and the return water pump is controlled to work, so that another portion of the disinfectant solution circulates in the second loop formed by the water supply component, the ozone generator, the water inlet pipe, the water supply pipe, the ice tray, the ice storage box, the return water pump and the return water pipe; the liquid distribution unit includes a three-way proportional diversion valve.

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