Clutch, transmission device, box equipment and refrigerator

Abstract

The invention provides a clutch, a transmission device, box equipment and a refrigerator. The clutch comprises a driving part, a driven part and a transmission assembly. The driven piece comprises a matching part, and the matching part is provided with a containing groove and a connecting part arranged on the side wall of the containing groove. The transmission assembly comprises a transmission part in transmission connection with the driving part, a clutch part in transmission fit with the transmission part and a rotating part rotationally arranged in the containing groove. The rotating piece is provided with a guide part capable of corresponding to the connecting part, and the clutch piece is in sliding connection with the guide part and has a transmission state connected with the connecting part and a separation state separated from the connecting part. The clutch part can be reset to the separation state, and the transmission part is in sliding connection with the rotating part and can rotate along with the driving part to push the clutch part from the separation state to the transmission state in an abutting mode. According to the clutch, the transmission device can be applied to meet the intelligent opening and closing requirements of the refrigerator, manual opening and closing operation of a user is not interfered, meanwhile, the structure is simple, and the production cost can be reduced.

Description

Clutch, transmission device, enclosure equipment and refrigerator Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of home appliance technology, and in particular to a clutch, transmission device, cabinet equipment, and refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of society and the economy and the improvement of people's living standards, refrigerators have gradually become an indispensable household appliance. As intelligent technology continues to expand into the home appliance field, consumers are increasingly demanding ease of use and intelligent features in their appliances. Automatic opening and closing, as a basic function of intelligent refrigerators, is becoming increasingly widespread.

[0003] In related technologies, refrigerators typically use electric drive to achieve automatic opening and closing. However, when using electric drive, a clutch is still needed to handle manual opening and closing. But the transmission method of traditional clutches is complex and the application cost is high, resulting in high production costs for this type of refrigerator. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a clutch, a transmission device, a cabinet device, and a refrigerator, which can meet the intelligent opening and closing requirements of the refrigerator without interfering with the user's manual opening and closing operation. At the same time, the structure is simple and can reduce production costs.

[0005] Specifically, this disclosure is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a clutch is provided, including a driving member, a driven member, and a transmission assembly. The driven member includes an output portion and a mating portion driveably connected to the output portion. The mating portion has a receiving groove and a connecting portion disposed on the side wall of the receiving groove. The transmission assembly includes a transmission member drively connected to the driving member, a clutch member drively engaged with the transmission member, and a rotating member rotatably disposed within the receiving groove. The rotating member has a guide portion, the clutch member slides with the guide portion, and has a driving state drively engaged with the connecting portion and a disengaged state separated from the connecting portion. The clutch member can be reset to the disengaged state, the transmission member can rotate relative to the rotating member, and can rotate with the driving member, pushing the clutch member from the disengaged state to the driving state. When the clutch member is in the driving state, the driving member can drive the transmission assembly and the driven member to rotate. When the clutch member is in the disengaged state, the driven member can rotate relative to the transmission assembly and the driving member.

[0007] The technical solution of this disclosure will be further explained below:

[0008] In one embodiment, the transmission member includes a mounting portion connected to the driving member and a transmission portion connected to the mounting portion. The rotating member has a clearance groove for the transmission portion to move within the clearance groove. The transmission portion includes a protrusion connected to the mounting portion and a recess adjacent to the protrusion. When the clutch member abuts against the protrusion, the clutch member is in a driving state. When a portion of the clutch member is inserted into the recess, the clutch member is in a disengaged state.

[0009] In one embodiment, two protrusions are provided, and each protrusion is spaced apart on both sides of the recess.

[0010] In one embodiment, the convex portion and the concave portion are configured to form a smooth transition.

[0011] In one embodiment, the clutch member has a protrusion that matches the shape of the recess. When the protrusion abuts against the recess, the clutch member is in a driving state. When the protrusion is inserted into the recess, the clutch member is in a disengaged state.

[0012] In one embodiment, the guide portion includes a guide groove communicating with the clearance groove. The driving member drives the transmission member to reciprocate within the clearance groove to push the clutch member to slide along the guide groove.

[0013] In one embodiment, the length direction of the guide groove is perpendicular to the axial direction of the active member.

[0014] In one embodiment, the connecting portion includes a groove recessed in the side wall of the receiving groove, and when the clutch is in the driving state, the groove communicates with the guide groove.

[0015] In one embodiment, the rotating member is rotatably connected to the side wall of the receiving groove, and the side of the rotating member facing the bottom wall of the receiving groove is provided with a clearance groove.

[0016] In one embodiment, the transmission assembly further includes a reset member disposed on at least one of the clutch member, the rotating member, and the mating portion, so that the clutch member can be reset to the disengaged state.

[0017] In one embodiment, the reset member includes an elastic member, and the clutch member can be elastically reset to the disengaged state by means of the elastic member.

[0018] In one embodiment, the elastic element includes a spring sheet, the clutch element has a first slot, and the rotating element also has a second slot disposed on the side wall of the guide portion. The spring sheet is inserted into the first slot and the second slot so that the clutch element can be elastically reset to the disengaged state.

[0019] In one embodiment, the second slot has a bearing surface and a limiting surface spaced apart along the length of the guide portion. The spring contacts press against the limiting surface in the driving state and against the bearing surface in the separated state.

[0020] In one embodiment, the bearing surface is set as a plane, and the limiting surface is set at an acute angle relative to the bearing surface. Alternatively, the limiting surface is set in an arc shape relative to the bearing surface.

[0021] In one embodiment, the clutch further includes a protective housing, within which the driving member, driven member, and transmission assembly are rotatably encapsulated. At least a portion of the driving member and at least a portion of the driven member are exposed outside the protective housing.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a transmission device is provided, including a carrier, a motor, a telescopic assembly, and the aforementioned clutch. The carrier includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to the first end. The motor is disposed at the first end and includes an output end that is drively connected to a driving member. The telescopic assembly includes a rotating member rotatably disposed on the carrier and a telescopic member cooperating with the rotating member, the rotating member being drively connected to a driven member. In the transmission state, the motor can drive the telescopic member to move towards or away from the second end via the clutch. In the disengaged state, the motor is disconnected from the telescopic assembly.

[0023] In one embodiment, the transmission device further includes a linkage mechanism and a drive rod. The linkage mechanism includes a first mounting member, a second mounting member, and a linkage assembly disposed between the first and second mounting members. The second mounting member swings relative to the first mounting member via the linkage assembly. The drive rod is connected to a telescopic member, and its second end has a connection notch. The drive rod passes through the connection notch and is movably connected to the linkage mechanism to drive the second mounting member to swing relative to the first mounting member.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a housing device is provided, including a housing, a door rotatably connected to the housing, and a transmission device as described in the foregoing embodiments. The housing is connected to a first mounting member, and the door is connected to a second mounting member.

[0025] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a cabinet device is provided, including a cabinet, a drawer, and the aforementioned transmission device. The cabinet has a storage cavity, and the drawer is retractably disposed within the storage cavity. A support member is fixed to the cabinet, and a telescopic member is connected to the drawer to drive the drawer to move relative to the cabinet.

[0026] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigerator is provided, including a control device and the aforementioned cabinet device. The control device is communicatively connected to a motor.

[0027] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure have at least the following beneficial effects:

[0028] In use, the clutch provided in this disclosure allows the driving element to be driven by a motor to rotate the transmission element. The rotation of the transmission element pushes the clutch element to slide relative to the rotating element along the guide portion, thus connecting and fixing the clutch element to the connection portion of the receiving groove sidewall, forming a transmission state. This achieves the connection and fixation of the driving and driven elements, enabling them to rotate synchronously. When the driving element no longer drives the transmission element to rotate, the transmission element no longer pushes against the clutch element, and the clutch element can return to its disengaged state from the connection portion of the receiving groove sidewall. This separates the driving and driven elements, discontinuing the transmission. The driven element can then rotate freely relative to the driving element under external force without needing to drag the driving element to rotate synchronously. Therefore, the clutch provided in this disclosure can achieve the linkage or disengagement of the driving and driven elements through a mechanical clutch transmission method.

[0029] When the clutch disclosed herein is applied to the transmission device between the refrigerator door and the refrigerator body, the mechanical clutch transmission between the driving component and the transmission component enables the refrigerator door to be opened and closed automatically by electric drive or manually by the user, and the two opening and closing methods do not interfere with each other. Simultaneously, when the user manually opens and closes the door, the user does not need to pull the motor to rotate synchronously, which reduces the resistance encountered when manually opening and closing the door. This reduces the load on the user when manually opening and closing the door, allowing for effortless opening and closing and improving the user experience.

[0030] The clutch disclosed herein can also be applied to the automatic opening and closing of a refrigerator's drawers and body. The driven member can be used to connect the drawer assembly, enabling automatic opening and closing of the drawers via electric drive when the driving member and driven member rotate synchronously. When the transmission between the driving member and driven member is disconnected, the drawers can be manually opened and closed by the user; this will not be elaborated upon in this disclosure.

[0031] Therefore, the clutch disclosed herein operates through a mechanical clutch transmission method, which has a simple structure and low production cost.

[0032] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this disclosure, are used to provide a further understanding of this disclosure. The illustrative embodiments of this disclosure and their descriptions are used to explain this disclosure and do not constitute an undue limitation of this disclosure.

[0034] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0035] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the clutch structure according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the clutch shown in Figure 1 along AA.

[0037] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the clutch shown in Figure 1 along BB (the clutch is in the disengaged state).

[0038] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the clutch shown in Figure 3 in the transmission state.

[0039] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the transmission component shown in one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the clutch and the reset component according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating component shown in one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of the clutch shown in Figure 1 from other perspectives.

[0043] Figure 9 is an exploded view of the clutch shown in Figure 8 from one of the perspectives.

[0044] Figure 10 is an exploded view of the clutch shown in Figure 8 from another perspective.

[0045] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a clutch mounting protective housing according to an embodiment.

[0046] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the transmission device shown in one embodiment.

[0047] Figure 13 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a refrigerator drawer and cabinet assembly forming a cabinet device according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the drawer shown in Figure 13 when it is opened relative to the box.

[0049] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the transmission device shown in another embodiment.

[0050] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator cabinet device formed by assembling the refrigerator door and cabinet body according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the transmission device shown in Figure 15 after it is encapsulated by the carrier component.

[0052] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator according to an embodiment.

[0053] Figure 19 is a half-section view of the refrigerator shown in Figure 18 at point C.

[0054] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration principle of the refrigerator shown in Figure 18.

[0055] Figure label:

[0056] 1. Refrigerator; 10. Door; 20. Cabinet; 21. Storage compartment; 211. Refrigerated compartment; 212. Freezer compartment; 30. Transmission device; 31. Bearing component; 311. First end; 312. Second end; 32. Motor; 33. Telescopic assembly; 331. Rotating component; 332. Telescopic component; 34. Linkage mechanism; 341. First mounting component; 342. Second mounting component; 343. Linkage assembly; 35. Drive rod; 36. Coupling; 40. Clutch; 41. Driving component; 42. Driven component; 421. Output part; 422. Mating part; 423. Receiving slot; 424. Connecting part; 43 44. Protective shell; 44. Transmission assembly; 441. Transmission component; 4411. Mounting part; 4412. Transmission part; 4412a. Protrusion; 4412b. Recess; 442. Clutch; 4421. Protrusion; 4422. First slot; 443. Rotating component; 4431. Guide part; 4432. Clearance groove; 4432a. Rotating part; 4432b. Sliding part; 4433. Second slot; 4433a. Bearing surface; 4433b. Limiting surface; 444. Reset component; 45. Bearing; 50. Drawer; 60. Compressor; 70. Condenser; 80. Evaporator; 90. Throttling assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The technical solutions in the embodiments (or "implementations") of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements.

[0058] If this disclosure uses terms relating to directional indications or positional relationships (e.g., up, down, left, right, front, back, inside, outside, top, bottom, center, vertical, horizontal, longitudinal, transverse, length, height, counterclockwise, clockwise, axial, radial, circumferential, etc.), such terms are only used to explain the relative positional relationships and movements between components in a specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indications or positional relationships will also change accordingly. Furthermore, terms such as "first" and "second" in this disclosure are used only for descriptive convenience and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0059] With the development of society and the economy and the improvement of people's living standards, refrigerators have gradually become an indispensable household appliance. As refrigerator functions have diversified, there are numerous types and brands available, giving consumers a wide range of choices. Simply improving the cold-keeping characteristics of refrigerators is no longer sufficient to meet people's demands. The intelligence of refrigerators has also become an important factor influencing their competitiveness. Among refrigerators with similar functions or performance, those with higher levels of intelligence are more attractive to consumers.

[0060] Automatic door opening and closing is a fundamental function of refrigerator intelligence, and its application is becoming increasingly widespread. For example, the automatic opening and closing of refrigerator doors is increasingly popular with consumers. Similarly, the automatic opening and closing of refrigerator drawers, making it convenient for users to access items, is also gaining popularity.

[0061] In related technologies, refrigerators typically use electric drive to achieve automatic opening and closing. However, when using electric drive, a clutch is still needed for manual opening and closing. Traditional clutches have complex transmission methods and high application costs, leading to higher production costs for these refrigerators. For example, traditional clutches require additional power sources to disengage or deactivate, resulting in a bulky clutch structure, complex transmission methods, and high application costs. Taking an electromagnetically controlled clutch as an example, this type of clutch requires the switching of current to control engagement and disengagement, thereby transmitting or cutting off power. If the power supply fails, the clutch function is lost. Therefore, when traditional clutches are applied to refrigerators, the electric drive system requires multiple power sources to ensure effective clutch operation, resulting in higher production costs for these refrigerators.

[0062] Therefore, this disclosure provides a clutch that enables the automatic opening and closing of a refrigerator through a mechanical clutch transmission method, while not interfering with the user's manual opening and closing operations. This reduces the resistance encountered by the user during manual operation, allowing for effortless operation and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the clutch provided in this disclosure uses a mechanical clutch transmission method, which simplifies the clutch structure and transmission method, and reduces the clutch's production cost.

[0063] The clutch 40 provided in this disclosure will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0064] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a clutch according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the clutch shown in Figure 1 along AA. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the clutch shown in Figure 1 along BB (clutch in disengaged state). Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the clutch shown in Figure 3 in the transmission state. The clutch 40 provided in this disclosure includes a driving member 41, a driven member 42, and a transmission assembly 44. The driven member 42 includes an output portion 421 and a mating portion 422 that is transmissionally connected to the output portion 421. The mating portion 422 is provided with a receiving groove 423 and a connecting portion 424 disposed on the side wall of the receiving groove 423. The transmission assembly 44 includes a transmission member 441 that is transmissionally connected to the driving member 41, a clutch member 442 that is transmissionally engaged with the transmission member 441, and a rotating member 443 that is rotatably disposed in the receiving groove 423. The rotating member 443 is provided with a guide portion 4431. The clutch member 442 is slidably engaged with the guide portion 4431 and has a transmission state that is transmissionally engaged with the connecting portion 424 and a disengaged state that is separated from the connecting portion 424. The clutch 442 can be reset to the disengaged state, and the transmission member 441 can rotate relative to the rotating member 443 and rotate with the driving member 41, pushing the clutch 442 from the disengaged state to the transmission state. When the clutch 442 is in the transmission state, the driving member 41 can drive the transmission assembly 44 and the driven member 42 to rotate. When the clutch 442 is in the disengaged state, the driven member 42 can rotate relative to the transmission assembly 44 and the driving member 41.

[0065] It should be noted that the driving component 41 can be connected to the output shaft of the motor, and the driven component 42 is used to connect to a movable component that can be driven by the motor or manually by the user. For example, when it is necessary to drive the refrigerator drawer to open and close automatically, the movable component can be the refrigerator drawer assembly. Or, when it is necessary to drive the refrigerator door to open and close automatically, the movable component can be the refrigerator door assembly. The movable component can be any part that the user wishes to open or close automatically or manually, and the user can select the appropriate movable component according to actual usage needs; this disclosure does not impose any restrictions.

[0066] The transmission assembly 44 is used to intermittently connect the driving member 41 and the driven member 42. When the transmission assembly 44 connects and fixes the driving member 41 and the driven member 42, the motor can drive the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 to rotate synchronously, thereby driving the movable component to open and close automatically. When the transmission assembly 44 separates the driving member 41 and the driven member 42, the driven member 42 is no longer controlled by the motor's rotation, and the user can manually open and close the movable component.

[0067] The driving component 41 can be configured as a driving shaft extending along the X direction. The two ends of the driving shaft, spaced apart along the X direction, are respectively connected to the output shaft of the motor and the transmission component 441 to transmit the motor's power to the transmission component 441, and then to the driven component 42 via the transmission assembly 44, facilitating the automatic opening and closing of the movable components. To facilitate the transmission of the motor's power to the transmission component 441, the driving component 41 and the transmission component 441 can be integrally formed or have an interference fit; this disclosure does not impose any limitations. The driving component 41 and the motor's output shaft can be connected via a coupling 36; this disclosure does not impose any limitations.

[0068] The output portion 421 of the driven member 42 is used to connect with the moving component, and the mating portion 422 of the driven member 42 is used to mate with the clutch component 442. The driven member 42 can be coaxially arranged with the driving member 41 in the X direction to facilitate the transmission of the motor's rotational force. Simultaneously, the mating portion 422 of the driven member 42 can be provided with a receiving groove 423, and the transmission component 44 can be disposed within the receiving groove 423. This arrangement allows for the full utilization of the internal space of the clutch 40 to integrate the transmission component 44 while achieving mechanical clutch transmission, resulting in a tighter structural fit for the clutch 40 and improving its structural compactness. Furthermore, this arrangement also provides encapsulation and protection for the transmission component 44.

[0069] To achieve mechanical clutch transmission of the clutch 40, the transmission assembly 44 includes a transmission member 441 that is drively connected to the driving member 41, a clutch member 442 that is drively engaged with the transmission member 441, and a rotating member 443 that is rotatably disposed in the receiving groove 423 of the driven member 42. The clutch member 442 may be disposed between the transmission member 441 and the driven member 42.

[0070] In order to facilitate the transmission and engagement of the transmission component 441 and the clutch component 442, the transmission component 441 can be configured as a non-circular structure such as a cam, elliptical cylinder or prism, so that the rotation of the transmission component 441 can drive the clutch component 442 to slide back and forth relative to the rotating component 443, thereby enabling the clutch component 442 to have a transmission state and a disengagement state.

[0071] To facilitate the synchronous rotation of the driven member 42 by the clutch 442 in the transmission state, a connecting portion 424 is provided on the side wall of the receiving groove 423 of the driven member 42. When the clutch 442 moves towards the side wall of the receiving groove 423, the clutch 442 can connect with the connecting portion 424 to fix it to the side wall of the receiving groove 423. As an example, the connecting portion 424 includes a slot recessed in the side wall of the receiving groove 423. The clutch 442 can be inserted into the slot in the transmission state, and the clutch 442 can disengage from the slot in the disengagement state. In other embodiments, the connecting portion 424 may also include a block protruding from the side wall of the receiving groove 423. The clutch 442 can press against or side-press against the block in the transmission state, and the clutch 442 can separate from the block in the disengagement state. This disclosure does not impose any limitations.

[0072] Understandably, to facilitate the connection between the clutch 442 and the connecting part 424, the rotating part 443 is provided with a guide part 4431 corresponding to the connecting part 424. The guide part 4431 can be used to guide the clutch 442 to connect or separate from the connecting part 424. As an example, the guide part 4431 includes a guide groove recessed in the rotating part 443. The clutch 442 can be slidably connected to the guide groove. The guide groove and the slot are connected in the transmission state, so that the clutch 442 can slide along the guide groove to be inserted and fixed into the slot.

[0073] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the clutch shown in Figure 1 along BB (clutch in disengaged state). Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the clutch shown in Figure 3 in the transmission state. In the examples of Figures 3 and 4, taking the connecting part 424 as a slot as an example, the clutch member 442 can be inserted into the slot to form the transmission state. In Figure 3, since the clutch member 442 is in the disengaged state, i.e., the clutch member 442 is disengaged from the slot, the driven member 42 can move counterclockwise or clockwise without interfering with the movement of the driving member 41. That is, the driven member 42 can rotate relative to the transmission assembly 44 and the driving member 41, facilitating manual operation by the user. When the transmission member 441 is driven by the driving member 41 to rotate clockwise as shown in Figure 3, the transmission member 441 can push the clutch member 442 out of the disengaged state and switch to the transmission state. That is, when the clutch member 442 is engaged with the slot, the clutch member 442 switches to the transmission state. At this time, the driving component 41 can drive the transmission assembly 44 and the driven component 42 to rotate, as shown in Figure 4. At this time, the motor drives the driving component 41, and drives the driven component 42 and the transmission assembly 44 to rotate synchronously. When the motor stops outputting torque, the clutch component 442 is disengaged from the slot due to the reset force, and resets to the disengaged state shown in Figure 3.

[0074] Therefore, when the clutch 40 provided in this disclosure is in use, the motor can drive the transmission member 441 to rotate using the driving member 41. The transmission member 441, by rotating, can push the clutch member 442 to slide relative to the rotating member 443, so that the clutch member 442 is connected to the connecting part 424 to form a transmission state, thereby realizing the synchronous rotation of the driving member 41 and the driven member 42. When the motor stops rotating, the transmission member 441 no longer pushes against the clutch member 442, and the clutch member 442 can return to the disengaged state from the connecting part 424, thereby realizing the separation of the driving member 41 and the driven member 42, and the disengagement of the driven member 42 from the motor. The user can manually open and close the clutch without dragging the motor end to rotate.

[0075] Thus, the clutch 40 provided in this disclosure can achieve the linkage or disengagement of the driving element 41 and the driven element 42 through a mechanical clutch transmission method. Therefore, when the clutch 40 is applied between the door 10 and the body 20 of the refrigerator 1, the refrigerator 1 can be opened and closed automatically by electric drive or manually by the user, and the two opening and closing methods do not interfere with each other. Simultaneously, when the user manually opens and closes the door 10, the user does not need to drive the motor to rotate synchronously, which reduces the resistance encountered when manually opening and closing the door 10. This reduces the load on the user when manually opening and closing the door, allowing the user to open and close the door 10 with less effort, thereby improving the user experience.

[0076] Furthermore, the clutch 40 of this disclosure can also be applied to the automatic opening and closing of the drawer 50 and the cabinet 20 of the refrigerator 1. The driven member can be used to connect the drawer 50 assembly. When the driving member 41 and the driven member rotate synchronously, the refrigerator 1 can automatically open and close the drawer 50 by electric drive. When the driving member 41 and the driven member are disconnected from the transmission, the user can manually operate the drawer 50 to open and close. This disclosure does not impose any limitations.

[0077] Therefore, the clutch 40 disclosed herein operates through a mechanical clutch transmission method, which has a simple structure and low production cost.

[0078] Understandably, the clutch 40 provided in this disclosure has a compact structure, occupies little installation space, reduces the space required for installation in equipment such as refrigerator 1, and is aesthetically pleasing.

[0079] Referring to Figure 5, which is a schematic diagram of the transmission component according to one embodiment, in some embodiments, to facilitate the movement of the clutch 442 by the transmission component 441, the transmission component 441 includes a mounting portion 4411 connected to the driving component 41 and a transmission portion 4412 connected to the mounting portion 4411. The transmission portion 4412 includes a protrusion 4412a connected to the mounting portion 4411 and a recess 4412b adjacent to the protrusion 4412a. When the clutch 442 abuts against the protrusion 4412a, the clutch 442 is in a transmission state. When a portion of the clutch 442 is inserted into the recess 4412b, the clutch 442 is in a disengaged state.

[0080] It should be noted that the mounting part 4411 may be provided with a socket, through which the driving member 41 can be inserted and fixed to the mounting part 4411. The socket may be a non-circular hole, and the end of the driving member 41 inserted into the socket may be shaped to fit the socket, thus preventing relative rotation between the driving member 41 and the mounting part 4411. In some embodiments, the socket may also be a circular hole, and after the driving member 41 is inserted into the circular hole, it may be fixed by means of interference fit, adhesive, or welding to prevent relative rotation between the driving member 41 and the mounting part 4411. This disclosure does not impose any limitations. In some embodiments, the driving member 41 may also be integrally formed with the mounting part 4411.

[0081] The transmission part 4412 is used to cooperate with the clutch 442. The protrusion 4412a is used to push the clutch 442 into the slot on the side wall of the receiving groove 423, so that the clutch 442 is in the transmission state. The recess 4412b is used to allow the clutch 442 to disengage from the slot on the side wall of the receiving groove 423, so that the clutch 442 is in the disengaged state. In order to enable the motor to drive the transmission part 441 to push the clutch 442 to the transmission state in both forward and reverse states, two protrusions 4412a of the transmission part 4412 can be provided, and the two protrusions 4412a are spaced apart on both sides of the recess 4412b.

[0082] In some embodiments, the transition between the protrusion 4312a and the recess 4312b is rounded. This allows the clutch 442 to switch smoothly between the driven and disengaged states.

[0083] Referring to Figure 6, which is a schematic diagram of the assembly of a clutch and a reset member according to an embodiment, in some embodiments, the clutch 442 may have a protrusion 4421 adapted to the shape of the recess 4412b. When the protrusion 4421 abuts against the protrusion 4412a, the clutch 442 is in a driving state. When the protrusion 4421 is inserted into the recess 4412b, the clutch 442 is in a disengaged state. Thus, when the clutch 442 is in a driving state, the protrusion 4412a of the driving part 4412 can abut against the protrusion 4421 of the clutch 442, thereby increasing the moving distance of the clutch 442 and enabling the clutch 442 to abut against the bottom wall of the slot, thereby increasing the connection reliability between the clutch 442 and the driven member 42. When the clutch 442 is in the disengaged state, the recess 4412b of the transmission part 4412 can accommodate the protrusion 4421 of the clutch 442, so that the clutch 442 can separate from the bottom wall of the slot, thereby disconnecting the connection with the driven part 42.

[0084] In some embodiments, multiple clutches 442 may be provided, and the transmission member 441 may be provided with transmission parts 4412 corresponding one-to-one with the number of clutches 442, so as to push the clutches 442 to the transmission state respectively, thereby increasing the connection area between the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 and improving the reliability of synchronous rotation. As an example, one, two, three or four clutches 442 may be provided, and one transmission member 441 may be provided. One transmission member 441 may have one, two, three or four or more transmission parts 4412 corresponding to the number of clutches 442. This disclosure does not impose any limitations.

[0085] Referring to Figure 7, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating component according to an embodiment, in some embodiments, to facilitate the reciprocating movement of the clutch component 442 driven by the transmission component 441, the guide portion 4431 of the rotating component 443 is configured as a guide groove, and the rotating component 443 is also provided with a clearance groove 4432 communicating with the guide groove. The transmission component 441 is slidably disposed within the clearance groove 4432. The driving component 41 drives the transmission component 441 to reciprocate within the clearance groove 4432 to push the clutch component 442 to slide along the guide groove.

[0086] As an example, the rotating member 443 can be configured as a disc, and the clearance groove 4432 has a rotating part 4432a at the center of the disc and a sliding part 4432b communicating with the rotating part 4432a. The rotating part 4432a can be circular, and the sliding part 4432b can be fan-shaped. When the transmission member 441 is installed with the rotating member 443, the transmission member 441 can be disposed within the clearance groove 4432. The mounting part 4411 of the transmission member 441 is rotatably disposed within the rotating part 4432a of the clearance groove 4432, and the transmission part 4412 of the transmission member 441 is slidably disposed within the fan-shaped part. Furthermore, the rotating part 4432a of the clearance groove 4432 can have a connecting hole through which the driving member 41 passes, and the driving member 41 is connected to the transmission member 441 through the connecting hole.

[0087] Thus, the driving member 41 can drive the transmission member 441 to swing within the clearance groove 4432, thereby pushing the clutch member 442 to slide along the guide groove. For example, when the output shaft of the motor rotates counterclockwise, the left side wall of the transmission part 4412 abuts against the left side wall of the clearance groove 4432, and the right side protrusion 4412a of the transmission part 4412 can rotate to push the clutch member 442, causing part of the clutch member 442 to slide out along the guide groove into the slot, forming a transmission state. When the output shaft of the motor rotates clockwise, the right side wall of the transmission part 4412 abuts against the right side wall of the clearance groove 4432, and the left side protrusion 4412a of the transmission part 4412 can rotate to push the clutch member 442, causing part of the clutch member 442 to slide out along the guide groove into the slot, forming a transmission state. When the two side walls of the transmission member 441 are not pressed against the two side walls of the clearance groove 4432, the protrusion 4421 of the clutch member 442 can be positioned exactly within the recess 4412b of the transmission part 4412, allowing the clutch member 442 to disengage from the slot and retract into the guide groove, thus forming a separated state. In some embodiments, the length direction of the guide groove can be perpendicular to the axial direction of the driving member 41 to facilitate the insertion or disengagement of the clutch member 442 from the slot.

[0088] Referring to Figures 4, 6, and 7, Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the clutch shown in Figure 3 in the transmission state. Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of the clutch and reset member assembly shown in one embodiment. Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating member shown in one embodiment. In some embodiments, to facilitate the reset of the clutch 442 to the disengaged state, the transmission assembly 44 further includes a reset member 444, which is disposed in at least one of the clutch 442, the rotating member 443, and the mating portion 422, enabling the clutch 442 to be reset to the disengaged state.

[0089] In some embodiments, the reset member 444 includes an elastic member. As an example, the elastic member includes a spring sheet, the clutch member 442 has a first slot 4422, and the rotating member 443 also has a second slot 4433 recessed in the sidewall of the guide groove. The spring sheet is inserted into the first slot 4422 and the second slot 4433 to allow the clutch member 442 to elastically reset to the disengaged state. The second slot 4433 has a bearing surface 4433a and a limiting surface 4433b spaced apart along the length of the guide portion 4431. In the driving state, the spring sheet abuts against the limiting surface 4433b; in the disengaged state, the spring sheet abuts against the bearing surface 4433a.

[0090] It should be noted that the spring can undergo tensile deformation in the transmission state and can recover its deformation in the separation state. In the recovery state, the spring can be flat, so the bearing surface 4433a can be planar to increase the contact area with the spring and support the clutch 442. In the transmission state, the spring undergoes tensile deformation. To prevent breakage during deformation and maintain good recovery force, the limiting surface 4433b is inclined relative to the bearing surface 4433a, and the limiting surface 4433b and the bearing surface 4433a form an acute angle. Alternatively, the limiting surface 4433b can be arc-shaped relative to the bearing surface 4433a. In this way, the spring is in a stretched state in the transmission state, forming an arch, and the convex surface of the arch can press against the limiting surface 4433b.

[0091] Therefore, taking Figure 4 as an example, when the transmission member 441 pushes the clutch member 442 into the slot, the clutch member 442 drives the spring sheet to move and undergo tensile deformation, causing the spring sheet to form an arch shape. When the transmission member 441 no longer pushes the clutch member 442, the spring sheet returns from the arch shape to a flat shape (as shown in Figure 3), and the spring sheet can drive the clutch member 442 to disengage from the slot, so as to separate from the driven member 42. Of course, in other embodiments, the elastic element can also be a spring, and this disclosure does not limit it.

[0092] In other embodiments, the reset member 444 can also be configured as a magnetic attraction assembly, and the clutch member 442 is reset by the magnetic attraction between the magnetic attraction assemblies. For example, a portion of the sidewall of the guide groove is provided with a first magnetic attraction member, and the sidewall of the clutch member 442 is provided with a second magnetic attraction member that cooperates with the first magnetic attraction member. The first magnetic attraction member and the second magnetic attraction member are separated in the transmission state, and the first magnetic attraction member and the second magnetic attraction member are attracted to each other in the separated state. Thus, when the transmission member 441 pushes the clutch member 442 to move and engage with the slot, the clutch member 442 can overcome the magnetic force between the first magnetic attraction member and the second magnetic attraction member and slide relative to the guide groove. When the transmission member 441 no longer pushes the clutch member 442, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic attraction member and the second magnetic attraction member can drive the clutch member 442 to disengage from the slot, thereby separating the driven member 42 and the clutch member 442. Of course, in other embodiments, a magnetic repulsion assembly can also be used to generate a magnetic repulsion reset force, so that the clutch member 442 can be magnetically repulsed and reset to the separated state, which is not limited in this disclosure.

[0093] Furthermore, in the transmission and disengagement states of the clutch 40 shown in Figures 3 and 4, the driven member 42 is provided as an example on the outer ring of the driving member 41. In other embodiments, the driving member 41 may also be installed on the outer ring of the driven member 42. This disclosure does not impose any limitations.

[0094] In some embodiments, the transmission engagement between the clutch 442 and the mating part 422 can be achieved in various ways, including but not limited to meshing transmission, locking transmission, stop transmission, friction transmission, etc.

[0095] Referring to Figures 8 to 10, Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of the clutch shown in Figure 1 from other perspectives. Figure 9 is an exploded view of the clutch shown in Figure 8 from one perspective. Figure 10 is an exploded view of the clutch shown in Figure 8 from another perspective. In some embodiments, to improve the structural compactness of the clutch 40 and reduce the space occupied by the clutch 40, the rotating member 443 can be rotatably connected to the side wall of the receiving groove 423, and the rotating member 443 has a groove on the side facing the bottom wall of the receiving groove 423, that is, a part of the groove can be used as a guide groove, and a part of the groove can be used as a clearance groove 4432 communicating with the guide groove. In this way, the transmission member 441 and the clutch member 442 can be installed into the groove respectively, and the driving member 41 can pass through the rotating member 443 to extend into the groove and connect with the transmission member 441. This arrangement can improve the structural compactness of the clutch 40 and protect the transmission member 441 and the clutch member 442 through the groove.

[0096] Referring to Figure 11, which is a schematic diagram of a clutch mounting protective housing according to an embodiment, in some embodiments, the clutch 40 further includes a protective housing 43, in which the driving member 41, the driven member 42, and the transmission assembly 44 are rotatably encapsulated. For example, the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 are respectively connected to the protective housing 43 via bearings 45. Furthermore, at least a portion of the driving member 41 is exposed outside the protective housing 43 to facilitate connection to the output shaft of the motor. At least a portion of the driven member 42 is exposed outside the protective housing 43 to facilitate connection to movable components such as the door assembly 10 or the shaft assembly. Thus, the clutch 40 can utilize the protective housing 43 to protect the driving member 41, the driven member 42, and the transmission assembly 44, preventing external particles and other debris from entering the transmission structure and causing the clutch 40 to seize. Simultaneously, lubricating grease can be provided inside the protective housing 43 of the clutch 40 to lubricate the transmission structure of the clutch 40, reduce wear between the transmission structures, and improve the durability of the clutch 40.

[0097] Referring to Figure 12, which is a schematic diagram of the transmission device according to one embodiment, this disclosure also provides a transmission device 30, including a support member 31, a motor 32, a telescopic assembly 33, and the aforementioned clutch 40. The support member 31 includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to the first end. The motor 32 is disposed at the first end and includes an output end that is drively connected to the driving member 41. The telescopic assembly 33 includes a rotating member 331 rotatably disposed on the support member 31 and a telescopic member 332 cooperating with the rotating member 331, the rotating member 331 being drively connected to the driven member 42. In the transmission state, the motor 32 can drive the telescopic member 332 to move towards or away from the second end via the clutch 40. In the disengaged state, the motor 32 is disconnected from the telescopic assembly 33.

[0098] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, Figure 13 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a refrigerator cabinet assembly formed by assembling the drawer and cabinet body according to an embodiment. Figure 14 is a structural schematic diagram of the drawer shown in Figure 13 open relative to the cabinet body. To better understand the assembly relationship between the cabinet body 20 and the drawer 50, a portion of the structure of the cabinet body 20 has been omitted from Figure 13 of this disclosure, providing a partial illustration of the cabinet assembly. In this embodiment, the cabinet assembly includes the cabinet body 20, the drawer 50, and the transmission device 30 described in the above embodiment. The cabinet body 20 has a storage cavity 21, and the drawer 50 is retractably disposed within the storage cavity 21. A support member 31 is fixed to the cabinet body 20, and a telescopic member 332 is connected to the drawer 50 to drive the drawer 50 to move relative to the cabinet body 20.

[0099] It should be noted that, in use, the transmission device 30 provided in this disclosure can be installed between the drawer 50 and the cabinet 20 of the refrigerator 1 to realize the automatic and manual opening and closing of the drawer 50. The carrier member 31 is fixed to the cabinet 20, and the telescopic member 332 is connected to the drawer 50 to drive the drawer 50 to move relative to the cabinet 20. The first and second ends of the carrier member 31 can be spaced apart along the direction shown in X in the figure. When the clutch 40 is in the transmission state, the motor 32 is connected to the telescopic component 33 through the clutch 40, and the motor 32 can drive the telescopic member 332 to move towards or away from the second end, thereby realizing the electric drive automatic opening and closing of the drawer 50. When the clutch 40 is in the disengaged state, the motor 32 is disconnected from the telescopic component 33 through the clutch 40, and the user can manually open and close the drawer 50 without dragging the motor 32 to rotate. This ensures that the manual and electric opening and closing of the drawer 50 do not interfere with each other, thus reducing the manual load and allowing the user to open and close the drawer 50 with less effort, improving the user experience.

[0100] As shown in Figure 12, in some embodiments, to facilitate the conversion of the rotation of the motor 32 into a driving force for the extension and retraction of the drawer 50, the extension assembly 33 may include a rotating member 331 rotatably mounted on the support member 31 and an extension member 332 cooperating with the rotating member 331. The rotating member 331 is connected to the output shaft of the clutch 40, and the extension member 332 is connected to the drawer 50. When the clutch 40 is in the transmission state, the motor 32 is connected to the extension assembly 33 to drive the extension member 332 to reciprocate along the rotating member 331, thereby driving the drawer 50 to open and close electrically. When the clutch 40 is disengaged, the motor 32 is disconnected from the telescopic component 33, allowing the user to manually open and close the drawer 50. The drawer 50 can drive the telescopic component 332 to reciprocate along the rotating component 331. However, since the telescopic component 33 and the motor 32 are disconnected due to the clutch 40, the telescopic component 33 will not transmit motion to the motor 32. Therefore, when the user manually opens and closes the drawer 50, there is no need to drive the motor 32 to rotate, thus reducing the resistance to opening and closing.

[0101] As an example, the telescopic component 33 can be configured as a lead screw and nut kinematic pair. The rotating component 331 can be configured as a lead screw, and the telescopic component 332 can be configured as a nut threadedly connected to the lead screw. Through the threaded transmission between the lead screw and the nut, rotation is converted into linear motion, thereby converting the rotation of the motor 32 into a driving force for opening and closing the drawer 50.

[0102] Referring to Figure 15, which is a schematic diagram of the transmission device according to another embodiment, the transmission device 30 further includes a linkage mechanism 34 and a drive rod 35. The linkage mechanism 34 includes a first mounting member 341, a second mounting member 342, and a link assembly 343 disposed between the first mounting member 341 and the second mounting member 342. The second mounting member 342 swings relative to the first mounting member 341 via the link assembly 343. The drive rod 35 is connected to the telescopic member 332, and has a connecting notch at its second end. The drive rod 35 passes through the connecting notch and is movably connected to the linkage mechanism 34 to drive the second mounting member 342 to swing relative to the first mounting member 341.

[0103] Referring to Figure 16, Figure 16 is a structural schematic diagram of a refrigerator cabinet assembly formed by assembling the door and cabinet body according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the cabinet assembly includes a cabinet body 20, a door 10 rotatably connected to the cabinet body, and a transmission device 30 as described in the above embodiment. The cabinet body 20 is connected to a first mounting member 341, and the door 10 is connected to a second mounting member 342.

[0104] It should be noted that, in use, the transmission device 30 provided in this embodiment allows the linkage mechanism 34 to be installed between the door 10 and the body 20. The telescopic assembly 33 drives the drive rod 35 to move the linkage mechanism 34, thereby achieving automatic opening and closing of the refrigerator door 10. The body 20 can be connected to the first mounting member 341, and the door 10 can be connected to the second mounting member 342. The linkage assembly 343 is connected between the first mounting member 341 and the second mounting member 342 and is driven by the telescopic assembly 33. The connection notch of the bearing member 31 allows the drive rod 35 to connect to the telescopic member 332. When the clutch 40 is in the transmission state, the motor 32 is connected to the telescopic assembly 33. The motor 32 drives the rotating member 331 to move the telescopic member 332. The telescopic member 332 drives the drive rod 35 to move the linkage assembly 343, causing the second mounting member 342 to swing relative to the first mounting member 341. This allows the door 10 to be opened or closed relative to the body 20 by the motor 32, achieving automatic opening and closing of the refrigerator 1. When the clutch 40 is disengaged, the motor 32 is disconnected from the telescopic assembly 33, and the user can manually open or close the door 10. The door 10 will not drag the motor 32 to rotate, thereby reducing the manual load and making it easier for the user to open and close the door 10. It also avoids the motor 32 from interfering with the user's manual opening and closing of the door.

[0105] Furthermore, to accommodate the rotatable installation between the door 10 and the housing 20, the connecting rod assembly 343 can be integrated with the hinge assembly between the door 10 and the housing 20; this disclosure does not impose any limitations. Additionally, a coupling 36 or a gear reducer can also be installed between the clutch 40 and the output shaft of the motor 32; this disclosure will not elaborate further.

[0106] Referring to Figure 17, which is a schematic diagram of the transmission device shown in Figure 15 encapsulated by the carrier, in some embodiments, to ensure the aesthetics of the transmission device 30 after installation in the housing, the carrier 31 can be configured as a shell, and the transmission device 30 can be encapsulated by the carrier 31. On the one hand, the carrier 31 can shield the various parts of the transmission device 30, making the transmission device 30 look neat. On the other hand, it also facilitates the use of the carrier 31 to protect or lubricate the internal structure of the transmission device 30.

[0107] In some embodiments, this disclosure also provides a refrigerator 1, including a control device and the aforementioned cabinet device. The cabinet device may include a cabinet 20, a drawer 50, and a transmission device 30. Alternatively, the cabinet device may include a cabinet 20, a door 10, and a transmission device 30. The control device is communicatively connected to a motor 32. Thus, the refrigerator 1 provided by this disclosure can achieve intelligent automatic opening and closing between the door 10 and the cabinet 20, or between the cabinet 20 and the drawer 50, through a mechanical clutch transmission method, while not interfering with the user's manual opening and closing of the door 10, reducing the resistance of the user's manual opening and closing of the door 10, and improving the user experience.

[0108] It should be noted that the control device includes a controller built into the refrigerator 1, such as an MCU (microcontroller unit), PLC (programmable logic controller), CPU (central controller), or microcontroller. Thus, the start and stop of the motor 32 can be linked through the controller built into the refrigerator 1, and this disclosure does not impose any limitations.

[0109] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 1 may also include other movable components such as doors 10 and drawers 50 that move relative to the cabinet 20. Thus, by installing the transmission device 30 between the cabinet 20 and the movable components, automatic and manual opening and closing of the movable components relative to the cabinet 20 can be achieved; this disclosure does not impose any limitations.

[0110] Understandably, when the clutch 442 is in the transmission state, the driving member 41 can drive the driven member 42 to rotate. When the clutch 442 is in the disengaged state, the driven member 42 can rotate relative to the driving member 41, thus enabling manual operation. Compared to other electric or electromagnetic clutches, the mechanical clutch of this application can realize automatic and manual switching of the moving member relative to the housing 20, reducing the number of power components and sensor components, which helps to reduce the cost of the refrigerator 1.

[0111] Referring to Figures 18 to 20, Figure 18 is a structural schematic diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment. Figure 19 is a half-sectional view of the refrigerator shown in Figure 18 at point C. Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration principle of the refrigerator shown in Figure 18. In some embodiments, the refrigerator 1 further includes a compressor 60, a condenser 70, an evaporator 80, and a throttling component 90. The cabinet 20 is also provided with a storage cavity 21, which includes a refrigerator compartment 211 and a freezer compartment 212. The compressor 60, condenser 70, evaporator 80, and throttling component 90 are respectively disposed in the cabinet 20, and at least a portion of the evaporator 80 is disposed within the freezer compartment 212.

[0112] As shown in Figure 20, during refrigerator 1 operation, compressor 60 outputs high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, which is then delivered to condenser 70. Condenser 70 condenses the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant into medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. This medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant then undergoes expansion and throttling by throttling component 90, further reducing its pressure and temperature. Low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant flows out from throttling component 90 to evaporator 80. The low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant evaporates into gaseous refrigerant within evaporator 80. At least a portion of evaporator 80 is located within freezer compartment 212, allowing the refrigerant to absorb a large amount of heat from freezer compartment 212 during evaporation, thereby lowering the temperature within freezer compartment 212 and facilitating the freezing of items, thus achieving refrigerator 1's cooling function. The refrigerant exiting evaporator 80 replenishes compressor 60, forming a refrigerant circuit. In this way, the refrigerant continuously circulates within the refrigerant circuit to maintain the freezing environment of freezer compartment 212 (e.g., below -1°C).

[0113] In some embodiments, an air duct is provided between the refrigerated compartment 211 and the frozen compartment 212 to facilitate the transfer of some of the cold air from the frozen compartment 212 to the refrigerated compartment 211, so as to reduce or maintain the low temperature environment (e.g., 2°C to 8°C) in the refrigerated compartment 211.

[0114] In some embodiments, along the height of the refrigerator 1, the freezer compartment 212 is located below the refrigerator compartment 211. The refrigerator 1 also includes a first fan (not labeled) disposed on the cabinet 20 assembly. The air inlet or outlet of the first fan is connected to an air duct for conveying a portion of the cold air from the freezer compartment 212 into the refrigerator compartment 211. Drawers 50 are disposed in the refrigerator compartment 211 and / or the freezer compartment 212, which is not limited in this disclosure.

[0115] As shown in Figure 19, the height direction of refrigerator 1 is the Z-axis direction. Other structural details of refrigerator 1 are not described in this disclosure.

[0116] It should be noted that when one component is considered to be "transmitting a connection" to another component, the connection can be either detachable or non-detachable, as long as force can be transmitted. For example, shaft connections, sleeve connections, snap-fit ​​connections, integral molding, and welding are all feasible in traditional technologies and can be flexibly selected according to the actual application requirements. For instance, one component may have a non-cylindrical part, and the other component may have a mating hole for transmission with the non-cylindrical part. Non-cylindrical parts include polygonal cylinders, elliptical cylinders, semi-cylindrical parts, etc., which will not be elaborated upon in this disclosure.

[0117] The technical solutions or features described in the above embodiments can be combined or complemented by each other without conflict. The scope of this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described in the above embodiments and shown in the accompanying drawings. All modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A clutch, characterized in that, include: Active item; The driven member includes an output portion and a mating portion that is drivenly connected to the output portion. The mating portion has a receiving groove and a connecting portion disposed on the side wall of the receiving groove. The transmission assembly includes a transmission member that is drivenly connected to the driving member, a clutch member that is drivenly engaged with the transmission member, and a rotating member that is rotatably disposed within the receiving groove. The rotating member has a guide portion, the clutch member is slidably engaged with the guide portion, and has a driving state that is drivenly engaged with the connecting portion and a disengaged state that is separated from the connecting portion. The clutch member can be reset to the disengaged state, the transmission member can rotate relative to the rotating member, and can rotate with the driving member, pushing the clutch member from the disengaged state to the driving state. When the clutch is in the transmission state, the driving member can drive the transmission assembly and the driven member to rotate; when the clutch is in the disengaged state, the driven member can rotate relative to the transmission assembly and the driving member.

2. The clutch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission component includes a mounting portion connected to the driving component and a transmission portion connected to the mounting portion. The rotating component is provided with a clearance groove for the transmission portion to move within the clearance groove. The transmission portion includes a protrusion connected to the mounting portion and a recess adjacent to the protrusion. When the clutch component presses against the protrusion, the clutch component is in the transmission state. When a portion of the clutch component is inserted into the recess, the clutch component is in the disengaged state.

3. The clutch according to claim 2, characterized in that, The protrusion is provided in two parts, and each protrusion is spaced apart on both sides of the concave part.

4. The clutch according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protrusion and the recess are provided with a smooth transition; and / or, the clutch is provided with a protrusion that matches the shape of the recess; when the protrusion abuts against the protrusion, the clutch is in the transmission state; when the protrusion is inserted into the recess, the clutch is in the disengagement state.

5. The clutch according to claim 2, characterized in that, The guide portion includes a guide groove that communicates with the clearance groove; the driving member drives the transmission member to reciprocate within the clearance groove to push the clutch member to slide along the guide groove.

6. The clutch according to claim 5, characterized in that, The length direction of the guide groove is perpendicular to the axial direction of the driving member; and / or, the connecting part includes a groove recessed in the side wall of the receiving groove, and when the clutch is in the transmission state, the groove communicates with the guide groove.

7. The clutch according to claim 2, characterized in that, The rotating component is rotatably connected to the side wall of the receiving groove, and the side of the rotating component facing the bottom wall of the receiving groove is provided with the clearance groove.

8. The clutch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission assembly further includes a reset member, which is disposed in at least one of the clutch member, the rotating member, and the mating part, so that the clutch member can be reset to the disengaged state.

9. The clutch according to claim 8, characterized in that, The reset component includes an elastic element, and the clutch component can be elastically reset to the disengaged state through the elastic element.

10. The clutch according to claim 9, characterized in that, The elastic element includes a spring sheet, the clutch element has a first slot, and the rotating element also has a second slot disposed on the side wall of the guide portion. The spring sheet is inserted into the first slot and the second slot so that the clutch element can be elastically reset to the disengaged state.

11. The clutch according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second slot is provided with a bearing surface and a limiting surface that are spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the guide portion; the spring piece abuts against the limiting surface in the transmission state and abuts against the bearing surface in the separation state.

12. The clutch according to claim 11, characterized in that, The bearing surface is set as a plane, the limiting surface is inclined relative to the bearing surface, and the limiting surface and the bearing surface are set at an acute angle; or, the limiting surface is set in an arc shape relative to the bearing surface.

13. The clutch according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The clutch further includes a protective housing, in which the driving member, the driven member, and the transmission assembly are rotatably encapsulated; at least a portion of the driving member is exposed outside the protective housing, and at least a portion of the driven member is exposed outside the protective housing.

14. A transmission device, characterized in that, The device includes a carrier, a motor, a telescopic assembly, and a clutch as described in any one of claims 1 to 13; the carrier includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; the motor is disposed at the first end and includes an output end that is drively connected to the driving member; the telescopic assembly includes a rotating member rotatably disposed on the carrier and a telescopic member cooperating with the rotating member, the rotating member being drively connected to the driven member; in the driving state, the motor can drive the telescopic member to move towards or away from the second end via the clutch; in the disengaged state, the motor is disconnected from the telescopic assembly.

15. The transmission device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The transmission device further includes a linkage mechanism and a drive rod; the linkage mechanism includes a first mounting member, a second mounting member, and a linkage assembly disposed between the first mounting member and the second mounting member, the second mounting member swinging relative to the first mounting member through the linkage assembly; the drive rod is connected to the telescopic member, the second end of which is provided with a connection notch, the drive rod passing through the connection notch and movably connected to the linkage mechanism to drive the second mounting member to swing relative to the first mounting member.

16. A box-type device, characterized in that, It includes a housing, a door rotatably connected to the housing, and the transmission device as described in claim 15; the housing is connected to the first mounting member, and the door is connected to the second mounting member.

17. A box-type device, characterized in that, The device includes a box, a drawer, and the transmission device as described in claim 14. The box has a storage cavity, the drawer is telescopically disposed in the storage cavity, the support member is fixed to the box, and the telescopic member is connected to the drawer to drive the drawer to move relative to the box.

18. A refrigerator, characterized in that, It includes a control device and the enclosure equipment as described in claims 16 and / or 17; the control device is communicatively connected to the motor.

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