Spraying device and ice maker

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of ice making equipment, and provides a spraying device and an ice maker, the spraying device comprises a device body, the device body is provided with a water storage cavity and spraying holes, and the spraying holes penetrate through the outer wall of the device body; the flow guide structure is arranged on the device body and comprises a flow guide part and a flow guide column, the flow guide part is provided with a flow guide cavity, the flow guide column is arranged in the flow guide cavity, a flow guide channel is formed between the outer wall of the flow guide column and the cavity wall of the flow guide cavity, the flow guide column is provided with a mixed flow channel, and the two ends of the flow guide channel communicate with the water storage cavity and the mixed flow channel correspondingly. The mixed flow channel is communicated with the spraying holes; wherein the mixed flow channel comprises a first inner wall and a second inner wall which are oppositely arranged and extend in the axial direction of the spraying hole, at least one of the first inner wall and the second inner wall extends in the tangential direction of the outer side wall of the flow guide column, and when water flow is sprayed out through the spraying hole, the spraying effect similar to a conical shape can be formed; the impact force of the water flow sprayed from the spraying holes is reduced, so that the depth of the pit in the central area of the prepared ice block is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of ice-making equipment technology, and more particularly to a spray device and an ice maker. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, ice makers in related technologies typically use spray nozzles to spray water into the ice grid during ice making. Due to the continuous scouring of the water, gas is prevented from freezing inside the ice during the freezing process, thus ensuring the transparency of the ice.

[0003] However, during the spray ice-making process, the water flow from the spray nozzles is concentrated and has a strong impact, resulting in deep pits in the center of the ice after ice making, which affects the quality of the ice. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the related art. To this end, the present invention proposes a spraying device that can reduce the impact force of the water jet from the spray nozzle, thereby effectively reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of ​​the ice block and improving the ice-making quality.

[0005] The present invention also proposes an ice maker.

[0006] A spraying device according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: The device body has a water storage chamber and a spray hole, the spray hole penetrating the outer wall of the device body; A flow guiding structure is provided on the device body. The flow guiding structure includes a flow guiding component and a flow guiding column. The flow guiding component has a flow guiding cavity. The flow guiding column is disposed in the flow guiding cavity. A flow guiding channel is formed between the outer wall of the flow guiding column and the cavity wall of the flow guiding cavity. The flow guiding column has a mixing channel. The two ends of the flow guiding channel are respectively connected to the water storage cavity and the mixing channel. The mixing channel is connected to the spray hole. The mixing channel includes a first inner wall and a second inner wall that are disposed opposite to each other and extend axially along the spray hole, and at least one of the first inner wall and the second inner wall extends tangentially along the outer side wall of the guide column.

[0007] According to the spraying device of the present invention, since at least one of the first inner wall and the second inner wall extends tangentially along the outer wall of the guide column, the water flow in the guide channel flows in tangentially along the outer wall of the guide column when entering the mixing channel. After rotating inside the guide column, it is sprayed out through the spray hole. Due to the effect of spiral centrifugal force, when the water flow is sprayed out through the spray hole, it forms a cone-shaped spray effect, reducing the impact force of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole, thereby effectively reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of ​​the ice block and improving the ice-making quality. Moreover, since the water flow sprayed from the spray hole is a cone-shaped spray, the spray range of the water flow is increased, which is beneficial to improving ice-making efficiency and shortening ice-making time.

[0008] Furthermore, the water entering the storage chamber first flows through the guide channel before entering the mixing channel, and finally is sprayed out through the spray holes. By setting up the guide channel, the water flow before entering the mixing channel can be stabilized and guided, ensuring that the water flows in the set direction.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the flow guide column further includes: A mixing chamber is arranged along the axial direction of the spray hole, opposite to the spray hole. The mixing channel is located on the outer periphery of the mixing chamber and communicates with the spray hole through the mixing chamber.

[0010] By incorporating a mixing chamber, when water flows into the mixing chamber from the guide channel, it flows tangentially along the outer wall of the guide column. After rotating within the mixing chamber, it is ejected through the spray holes above. Due to the centrifugal force of the spiral, the water creates a cone-shaped spray effect when ejected through the spray holes, effectively reducing the impact force of the water jet and thus decreasing the depth of the pit in the center of the ice block.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first inner wall includes: The first wall surface extends along the tangential direction of the outer side wall of the guide column; The second wall is located further away from the inlet of the mixing channel than the first wall. One end of the second wall is connected to the first wall, and the other end of the second wall bends and extends toward the side where the mixing cavity is located.

[0012] Since one end of the second wall is connected to the first wall, and the other end of the second wall bends and extends towards the side where the mixing chamber is located, it can guide the water flow entering the mixing channel. This allows the water flow to rotate in the mixing chamber while tending to move towards the side where the central axis of the spray hole is located. This ensures that the water flow can mix in the middle position after rotation, and then be quickly sprayed out through the spray hole above. This achieves a spray effect while improving ice-making efficiency and shortening ice-making time.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there are multiple mixing channels, which are arranged circumferentially along the spray hole, and each mixing channel is connected to the guide channel and the spray hole at both ends.

[0014] By setting up multiple mixing channels, the flow rate of the spray from the self-spraying nozzles can be increased, which is beneficial to further improve ice-making efficiency and shorten ice-making time.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the flow guide further includes an opening, through which the water storage chamber communicates with the flow guide channel; The flow channel includes a first channel and a second channel. The first channel is closer to the opening than the second channel, and the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel is larger than that of the second channel.

[0016] In other words, when the water flows in the guide channel, the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide channel changes from large to small, which can pressurize the water entering the guide channel, so that the spray sprayed through the spray hole has a certain pressure and ensures the spray height.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the side of the guide column away from the spray hole includes a guide wall, the guide wall forming a portion of the channel wall of the first channel; At least a portion of the guide wall is arc-shaped.

[0018] In other words, at least a portion of the guide wall is constructed as an arc-shaped wall, which can pressurize the water flow entering the guide channel while guiding the water flow, reducing the flow resistance of the water flow in the guide channel, improving the spraying efficiency, and thus helping to improve the ice-making efficiency and shorten the ice-making time.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the guide column further includes a baffle wall, which is disposed opposite to the opening along the axial direction of the spray hole, and there is a gap between the baffle wall and the opening.

[0020] Because the barrier wall and the opening are spaced apart along the axial direction of the spray hole, more water can enter through the opening and then flow into the guide channel, increasing the flow rate of water entering the guide channel. This increases the flow rate of the spray from the spray hole, which is beneficial for further improving ice-making efficiency and shortening ice-making time.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the diameter of the spray hole is d, wherein 2mm≤d≤4mm.

[0022] By limiting the diameter of the spray nozzles to between 2mm and 4mm, it is possible to ensure that the water flow from the spray nozzles reaches the ice grid smoothly for ice making while reducing the depth of the pit in the center of the formed ice, thus ensuring the ice making effect.

[0023] An ice maker according to a second aspect of the present invention includes the above-described spraying device.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice maker further includes: An ice tray is located on top of the spray device and is positioned opposite to the spray holes; A partition is provided on the side of the ice tray facing the spray device.

[0025] By installing a partition at the bottom of the ice tray, the circulating water is separated from the bottom surface of the ice tray. During ice making, this effectively solves the problem of circulating water freezing directly in contact with the bottom surface of the ice tray, causing multiple ice cubes to stick together and become impossible to separate after ice making. This facilitates quick and easy ice removal, reducing ice making time. Moreover, after ice removal, the individual ice cubes are clearly separated, making it easier for users to remove ice and improving the user experience.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the partition comprises a plastic component.

[0027] Understandably, plastic parts have a low thermal conductivity. This means that installing low thermal conductivity plastic parts under the ice tray prevents water from contacting the metal surface of the ice tray during the circulating water spraying process and freezing, which would cause multiple ice cubes to stick together and become inseparable, thus ensuring that the ice cubes are distinct.

[0028] The above-described one or more technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention have at least one of the following technical effects: Because at least one of the first and second inner walls extends tangentially along the outer wall of the guide column, the water flow in the guide channel enters the mixing channel along the tangential direction of the outer wall of the guide column. After rotating inside the guide column, it is sprayed out through the spray holes. Due to the centrifugal force, when the water is sprayed out through the spray holes, it forms a cone-shaped spray effect, reducing the impact force of the water flow from the spray holes. This effectively reduces the depth of the pit in the center of the ice block, improving ice-making quality. Moreover, because the water flow from the spray holes is a cone-shaped spray, the spray range is increased, which helps to improve ice-making efficiency and shorten ice-making time.

[0029] Furthermore, the water entering the storage chamber first flows through the guide channel before entering the mixing channel, and finally is sprayed out through the spray holes. By setting up the guide channel, the water flow before entering the mixing channel can be stabilized and guided, ensuring that the water flows in the set direction.

[0030] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the spraying device provided by the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of the spray device of the illustrated embodiment at point A.

[0034] Figure 3 This is the second structural schematic diagram of the spraying device provided by the present invention.

[0035] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged view of the spray device in the illustrated embodiment at point B.

[0036] Figure 5 This is the third schematic diagram of the spraying device provided by the present invention.

[0037] Figure 6 This is one of the partial structural schematic diagrams of the ice maker provided by the present invention.

[0038] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the partition provided by the present invention.

[0039] Figure 8 This is the second partial structural schematic diagram of the ice maker provided by the present invention.

[0040] Figure 9 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the ice maker provided by the present invention.

[0041] Figure 10 This is the second structural schematic diagram of the ice maker provided by the present invention.

[0042] Figure label: 1: Spraying device; 10: Device body; 12: Water storage chamber; 14: Spray hole; 20: Flow guiding structure; 22: Flow guiding component; 222: Flow guiding cavity; 224: Opening; 24: Flow guiding column; 241: Mixing channel; 242: First inner wall; 243: Second inner wall; 244: Outer wall; 245: Mixing cavity; 246: First wall surface; 247: Second wall surface; 248: Flow guiding wall; 249: Baffle wall; 26: Flow guide channel; 262: First channel; 264: Second channel; 27: Inlet; 3: Ice maker; 30: Water receiving device; 32: Water receiving chamber; 34: De-icing port; 40: Ice grid; 50: Partition plate; 52: Plate body; 54: Baffle plate; 56: Flow interruption column; 58: Extension plate; 60: Machine body; 62: Water storage chamber; 70: Ice storage bin; 80: Evaporator. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0044] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0045] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0046] In embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0047] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0048] The following is combined Figures 1 to 10 The spray device 1 and ice maker 3 provided in this embodiment of the invention will be described in detail through specific embodiments and application scenarios.

[0049] Firstly, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a spraying device 1, which includes a device body 10 and a flow guiding structure 20. The device body 10 has a water storage chamber 12 and spray holes 14, with the spray holes 14 penetrating the outer wall of the device body 10. The flow guiding structure 20 is disposed on the device body 10. The flow guiding structure 20 includes a flow guiding member 22 and a flow guiding column 24. The flow guiding member 22 has a flow guiding cavity 222, and the flow guiding column 24 is disposed within the flow guiding cavity 222. A flow guiding channel 26 is formed between the outer wall of the flow guiding column 24 and the cavity wall of the flow guiding cavity 222. The flow guiding column 24 has a mixing channel 241, with both ends of the flow guiding channel 26 communicating with the water storage chamber 12 and the mixing channel 241, respectively. The mixing channel 241 communicates with the spray holes 14. The mixing channel 241 includes a first inner wall 242 and a second inner wall 243 that are arranged opposite to each other and extend along the axial direction of the spray holes 14. At least one of the first inner wall 242 and the second inner wall 243 extends along the tangential direction of the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24.

[0050] The spraying device 1 provided by the present invention includes a device body 10 and a flow guiding structure 20. Specifically, the device body 10 includes a water storage chamber 12 and a spray hole 14, wherein the spray hole 14 penetrates the outer wall of the device body 10, that is, the spray hole 14 is a through hole.

[0051] The flow guiding structure 20 includes a flow guiding element 22 and a flow guiding column 24. The flow guiding element 22 includes a flow guiding cavity 222, meaning that the flow guiding element 22 is a hollow structure. The flow guiding column 24 is disposed within the flow guiding cavity 222, and the outer wall of the flow guiding column 24 and the cavity wall of the flow guiding cavity 222 form a flow guiding channel 26.

[0052] The guide column 24 includes a mixing channel 241, wherein one end of the guide channel 26 is connected to the water storage chamber 12, and the other end of the guide channel 26 is connected to the mixing channel 241, which is also connected to the spray hole 14. Specifically, during ice making, the water flowing into the water storage chamber 12 flows sequentially through the guide channel 26 and the mixing channel 241, and is then sprayed out through the spray hole 14. The sprayed water enters the ice grid 40, wetting and freezing the perimeter of the ice grid. As the ice making time increases, ice blocks are continuously added, eventually producing three-dimensional, regular ice blocks. Due to the continuous scouring of the water flow, gas is prevented from freezing inside the ice blocks during the freezing process, thus ensuring the transparency of the ice blocks.

[0053] The mixing channel 241 includes a first inner wall 242 and a second inner wall 243, which are arranged opposite to each other and both extend along the axial direction of the spray hole 14. That is, the first inner wall 242 and the second inner wall 243 are the two inner sidewalls of the mixing channel 241.

[0054] Since at least one of the first inner wall 242 and the second inner wall 243 extends tangentially to the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24, the water flow in the guide channel 26 flows tangentially to the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24 when it enters the mixing channel 241. After rotating inside the guide column 24, it is sprayed out through the spray hole 14. Due to the centrifugal force, when the water is sprayed out through the spray hole 14, it forms a cone-shaped spray effect, reducing the impact force of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 14. This effectively reduces the depth of the pit in the center of the ice block, improving the ice-making quality. Moreover, since the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 14 is a cone-shaped spray, the spray range of the water flow is increased, which helps to improve ice-making efficiency and shorten ice-making time.

[0055] Furthermore, the water entering the storage chamber 12 first flows through the guide channel 26, then enters the mixing channel 241, and finally is sprayed out through the spray hole 14. By setting the guide channel 26, the water flow before entering the mixing channel 241 can be stabilized and guided, ensuring that the water flow can flow in the set direction.

[0056] Optionally, at least a portion of the flow channel 26 extends along the axial direction of the spray hole 14. That is, the water flowing into the water storage chamber 12 first flows upward and then enters the mixing channel 241 along the tangential direction of the outer wall 244 of the flow column 24 to limit the flow trajectory of the water and ensure the ice-making effect.

[0057] Optionally, there are multiple spray holes 14, which are arranged at intervals on the device body 10. There are also multiple flow guiding structures 20, which are respectively arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the multiple spray holes 14.

[0058] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the guide column 24 also includes a mixing chamber 245, which is arranged opposite to the spray hole 14 along the axial direction of the spray hole 14. The mixing channel 241 is located on the outer periphery of the mixing chamber 245 and communicates with the spray hole 14 through the mixing chamber 245.

[0059] In this embodiment, the mixing chamber 245 is disposed opposite to the spray hole 14 along the axial direction of the spray hole 14, that is, the mixing chamber 245 is located below the spray hole 14.

[0060] By setting up a mixing chamber 245, when the water flow in the guide channel 26 enters the mixing channel 241, the water flows into the mixing chamber 245 along the tangential direction of the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24. After rotating inside the mixing chamber 245, it is sprayed out through the spray hole 14 above. Due to the effect of spiral centrifugal force, when the water flow is sprayed out through the spray hole 14, it forms a cone-shaped spray effect, which effectively reduces the impact force of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 14, thereby reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of ​​the ice block.

[0061] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first inner wall 242 includes a first wall surface 246 and a second wall surface 247. The first wall surface 246 extends tangentially along the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24. The second wall surface 247 is located away from the inlet 27 of the mixing channel 241 relative to the first wall surface 246. One end of the second wall surface 247 is connected to the first wall surface 246, and the other end of the second wall surface 247 bends and extends toward the side where the mixing chamber 245 is located.

[0062] In this embodiment, when the first inner wall 242 extends along the tangential direction of the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24, the first inner wall 242 includes a first wall surface 246 and a second wall surface 247, wherein the first wall surface 246 extends along the tangential direction of the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24, so that the water flowing into the mixing channel 241 flows into the mixing chamber 245 in the tangential direction.

[0063] Since one end of the second wall 247 is connected to the first wall 246, and the other end of the second wall 247 bends and extends toward the side where the mixing chamber 245 is located, it can guide the water flow entering the mixing channel 241. This allows the water flow to rotate in the mixing chamber 245 while tending to move toward the side where the central axis of the spray hole 14 is located. This ensures that the water flow can mix in the middle position after rotation and then be quickly sprayed out through the spray hole 14 above. This achieves a spray effect and helps to improve ice-making efficiency and shorten ice-making time.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, there are multiple mixing channels 241, which are arranged circumferentially along the spray hole 14. The two ends of each mixing channel 241 are connected to the guide channel 26 and the spray hole 14, respectively.

[0065] In this embodiment, the number of mixing channels 241 is limited to multiple. Specifically, when the water flow in the guide channel 26 enters the multiple mixing channels 241, the water flows in along the tangential direction of the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24. After rotating and converging inside the guide column 24, it is sprayed out through the spray hole 14. Due to the effect of spiral centrifugal force, when the water flow is sprayed out through the spray hole 14, it forms a cone-shaped spray effect, reducing the impact force of the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 14, thereby reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of ​​the ice block and improving the ice-making quality.

[0066] By setting multiple mixing channels 241, the flow rate of the spray ejected from the spray nozzle 14 can be increased, which is beneficial to further improve ice-making efficiency and shorten ice-making time.

[0067] Optionally, the number of mixing channels 241 can be 3, 4, 5 or 6.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the flow guide 22 also includes an opening 224, through which the water storage chamber 12 is connected to the flow guide channel 26. The flow guide channel 26 includes a first channel 262 and a second channel 264, with the first channel 262 being closer to the opening 224 than the second channel 264. The flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel 262 is larger than that of the second channel 264.

[0069] In this embodiment, since the first channel 262 is closer to the opening 224 than the second channel 264, and the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel 262 is larger than that of the second channel 264, the water flowing into the water storage chamber 12 first enters the first channel 262 with the larger flow cross-sectional area, then enters the second channel 264 with the smaller flow cross-sectional area, and then enters the mixing channel 241 along the tangential direction of the outer wall 244 of the guide column 24, and finally sprays out through the spray hole 14. That is, when the water flows in the guide channel 26, since the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the guide channel 26 decreases, it can pressurize the water flowing into the guide channel 26, so that the spray sprayed through the spray hole 14 has a certain pressure, ensuring the spray height.

[0070] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the side of the guide column 24 away from the spray hole 14 includes a guide wall 248, which forms part of the channel wall of the first channel 262. At least a portion of the guide wall 248 is arc-shaped.

[0071] In this embodiment, the side of the guide column 24 away from the spray hole 14 includes a guide wall 248, specifically, the guide wall 248 is the channel wall of the first channel 262.

[0072] Since at least part of the guide wall 248 is arc-shaped, that is, at least part of the guide wall 248 is constructed as an arc-shaped wall, it can pressurize the water flow entering the guide channel 26 and guide the water flow, reduce the flow resistance of the water flow in the guide channel 26, improve the spraying efficiency, and thus help improve the ice-making efficiency and shorten the ice-making time.

[0073] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the guide column 24 also includes a baffle wall 249. Along the axial direction of the spray hole 14, the baffle wall 249 is disposed opposite to the opening 224, and there is a gap between the baffle wall 249 and the opening 224.

[0074] In this embodiment, the guide column 24 is further defined as including a baffle wall 249. Specifically, since the baffle wall 249 is opposite to the opening 224 and the baffle wall 249 and the opening 224 are spaced apart in the axial direction of the spray hole 14, the water flowing into the water storage chamber 12 first enters the opening 224, and under the action of the baffle wall 249, flows into the guide channel 26, then through the mixing channel 241, and finally sprays out through the spray hole 14.

[0075] Since the barrier wall 249 and the opening 224 are spaced apart in the axial direction of the spray hole 14, more water can enter through the opening 224 and then flow into the guide channel 26, increasing the flow rate of water entering the guide channel 26. This can increase the flow rate of the spray ejected from the spray hole 14, which is beneficial to further improve the ice-making efficiency and shorten the ice-making time.

[0076] In some embodiments, the diameter of the spray hole 14 is d, where 2mm≤d≤4mm.

[0077] In this embodiment, the range of the spray hole diameter 14 is defined. Specifically, the diameter of the spray hole 14 is between 2mm and 4mm. It is understood that if the diameter of the spray hole 14 is too small, i.e., less than 2mm, the pressure of the water jet from the spray hole 14 will be too high, resulting in excessive impact force and causing the formed ice to have deep pits, affecting the ice-making effect. If the diameter of the spray hole 14 is too large, i.e., greater than 4mm, the pressure of the water jet from the spray hole 14 will be too low, preventing it from effectively entering the ice grid 40 for ice making, thus failing to guarantee an effective spray height.

[0078] By limiting the diameter of the spray hole 14 to between 2mm and 4mm, it is possible to ensure that the water flow sprayed from the spray hole 14 can reach the ice grid 40 smoothly for ice making, while reducing the depth of the pit in the center area of ​​the formed ice block, thus ensuring the ice making effect.

[0079] Optionally, the diameter of the spray hole 14 can be any one of 2mm, 2.3mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 3.5mm and 4mm.

[0080] In one specific embodiment, the tangential spray principle is as follows: The tangential spray structure (guide structure 20) has two cylindrical bodies. The outer one is a hollow cylinder (guide element 22), and the inner cylinder (guide column 24) has a slightly smaller diameter. The water enters from below the cylinder (guide element 22), is blocked by the central cylinder (guide column 24), and then flows into the interlayer between the inner and outer cylinders (guide channel 26). Four tangential water inlets (mixing channels 241) are opened around the inner cylinder (guide column 24). The water flow is divided into four paths, flowing in along the tangential direction of the cylinder (guide column 24), and then flowing out from the spray nozzle (spray hole 14) directly above the cylinder. At this time, due to the spiral centrifugal force, the fluid will form a conical spray effect at the outlet (spray hole 14).

[0081] Secondly, such as Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides an ice maker 3, including the spray device 1 of the first aspect embodiment described above. Since the ice maker 3 shown in this embodiment includes the spray device 1 of the first aspect embodiment, it possesses all the beneficial technical effects of the spray device 1, which will not be repeated here.

[0082] Optionally, such as Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the ice maker 3 also includes a body 60, a water receiving device 30, an ice storage chamber 70, and an evaporator 80. The water receiving device 30 is located within the body 60 and has a connected water receiving chamber 32 and an ice removal port 34. A spray device 1 is located within the water receiving chamber 32 and at the bottom of the ice-making grid 40. The spray device 1 includes connected spray holes 14 and a water storage chamber 12, with the spray holes 14 facing the ice-making trough. The body 60 includes a water storage chamber 62, which is connected to the water storage chamber 12 via a pump assembly. The evaporator 80 is located on the side of the ice-making grid 40 away from the spray device 1 and encloses the ice-making grid 40 to form multiple ice-making troughs.

[0083] Specifically, during ice making, water in the water storage chamber 62 is pumped into the water storage chamber 12 by the pump assembly. After being guided by the flow guide structure 20, the water is sprayed upward through the spray nozzle 14, forming a mist that enters multiple ice-making tanks. Simultaneously, low-temperature refrigerant enters the evaporator 80, where it exchanges heat with the water in the ice-making tanks, absorbing heat and freezing the water to form ice blocks. When ice making is finished, high-temperature refrigerant enters the evaporator 80, exchanging heat with the ice blocks formed in the ice-making tanks to remove the ice. The falling ice blocks enter the ice storage chamber 70 through the de-icing port 34.

[0084] Optionally, the ice maker 3 also includes a compressor.

[0085] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the ice maker 3 also includes an ice tray 40 and a partition 50. The ice tray 40 is located on top of the spray device 1 and is positioned opposite the spray holes 14. The partition 50 is located on the side of the ice tray 40 facing the spray device 1.

[0086] In this embodiment, it is understood that the ice grid 40 is usually made of metal, such as aluminum. During the circulating water spraying process, the water will directly contact the bottom surface of the ice grid 40 and freeze. As a result, after the ice is made, multiple ice cubes stick together and cannot be separated, making it difficult to remove the ice and affecting the user experience.

[0087] By installing a partition 50 below the ice tray 40, the circulating water is separated from the bottom surface of the ice tray 40. During ice making, this effectively solves the problem of ice forming due to direct contact between the circulating water and the bottom surface of the ice tray 40, which leads to multiple ice cubes sticking together and being unable to be separated after ice making. This facilitates quick ice removal and helps shorten the ice making time. Moreover, after ice removal, the multiple ice cubes are clearly separated, making it easier for users to remove ice and improving the user experience.

[0088] Optionally, the ice grid 40 and the evaporator 80 are enclosed to form an ice-making tank, and the opening of the ice-making tank is arranged opposite to the spray hole 14.

[0089] In some embodiments, the partition 50 includes a plastic component.

[0090] In this embodiment, it is understood that the plastic parts have a low thermal conductivity. That is, by installing plastic parts with low thermal conductivity below the ice tray 40, the water is prevented from contacting the metal surface of the ice tray 40 during the circulating water spraying process and freezing, which would eventually cause multiple ice cubes to stick together and become inseparable, thus ensuring that the ice cubes produced are distinct.

[0091] Optionally, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the partition 50 includes a plate body 52 and a baffle 54. The plate body 52 is connected to the side of the ice grid 40 facing the spray device 1, and the plate body 52 has a connecting opening that communicates with the opening of the ice-making tank. The baffle 54 is located on the side of the plate body 52 near the de-icing port 34. During the spray ice-making process, as the ice freezes, the depth of the pit continuously decreases, but the flow rate of the spray water remains constant, resulting in a large amount of water splashing outwards along the perimeter of the pit. By setting the baffle 54, the outward splashing water flow can be blocked, thereby limiting the splashing direction of the water flow and reducing the risk of the ice in the ice storage tank 70 melting due to the spray water splashing into the ice storage tank 70.

[0092] Optionally, at least a portion of the baffle 54 is arc-shaped, and the end of the baffle 54 away from the plate body 52 is bent inward to further restrict the water flow and prevent spray water from splashing into the ice storage chamber 70.

[0093] Optionally, such as Figure 7 As shown, the baffle 50 also includes multiple flow-breaking columns 56, which are spaced apart and arranged inside the baffle 54. Because water spillage is very severe in the latter half of ice making, a water curtain will form on the baffle 54. When the water curtain converges at a certain point and falls, a large volume of water will drop into the ice storage chamber 70. By setting multiple flow-breaking columns 56, the water flow is prevented from connecting horizontally to form a water curtain. Furthermore, the flow-breaking columns 56 have downward protrusions, which further facilitate the falling of the water.

[0094] Optionally, such as Figure 7 As shown, the partition 50 also includes an extension plate 58. Along the length of the ice grid 40, the extension plate 58 is located on at least one side of the plate body 52, extending along the length of the ice grid 40 and away from the plate body 52. ​​During ice making, the water flows upwards along the wall due to the Coanda effect. At this time, there is only a thin layer of plastic (plate body 52) between the water and the metal ice grid 40, resulting in poor insulation and causing ice to form on the sides. Ultimately, this leads to an excessively large adhesion area between the ice and the partition 50, making it difficult to remove the ice.

[0095] By providing an extension plate 58 on at least one side of the plate body 52 along its length, water flow is prevented from flowing upwards along the wall due to the Coanda effect, thus preventing difficulties in ice removal due to side icing, ensuring smooth ice removal, and helping to shorten ice-making time and improve ice-making efficiency.

[0096] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only for illustrating the present invention and not for limiting the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of the present invention do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention and should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A spraying device, characterized in that, include: The device body has a water storage chamber and a spray hole, the spray hole penetrating the outer wall of the device body; A flow guiding structure is provided on the device body. The flow guiding structure includes a flow guiding component and a flow guiding column. The flow guiding component has a flow guiding cavity. The flow guiding column is disposed in the flow guiding cavity. A flow guiding channel is formed between the outer wall of the flow guiding column and the cavity wall of the flow guiding cavity. The flow guiding column has a mixing channel. The two ends of the flow guiding channel are respectively connected to the water storage cavity and the mixing channel. The mixing channel is connected to the spray hole. The mixing channel includes a first inner wall and a second inner wall that are disposed opposite to each other and extend axially along the spray hole, and at least one of the first inner wall and the second inner wall extends tangentially along the outer side wall of the guide column.

2. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow guide column also includes: A mixing chamber is arranged along the axial direction of the spray hole, opposite to the spray hole. The mixing channel is located on the outer periphery of the mixing chamber and communicates with the spray hole through the mixing chamber.

3. The spraying device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first inner wall includes: The first wall surface extends along the tangential direction of the outer side wall of the guide column; The second wall is located further away from the inlet of the mixing channel than the first wall. One end of the second wall is connected to the first wall, and the other end of the second wall bends and extends toward the side where the mixing cavity is located.

4. The spraying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of mixing channels is multiple, and the multiple mixing channels are arranged circumferentially along the spray hole. The two ends of each mixing channel are respectively connected to the guide channel and the spray hole.

5. The spraying device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The flow guide further includes an opening, through which the water storage chamber communicates with the flow guide channel; The flow channel includes a first channel and a second channel. The first channel is closer to the opening than the second channel, and the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first channel is larger than that of the second channel.

6. The spraying device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The side of the guide column away from the spray hole includes a guide wall, which forms part of the channel wall of the first channel; At least a portion of the guide wall is arc-shaped.

7. The spraying device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The guide column also includes a baffle wall, which is disposed opposite to the opening along the axial direction of the spray hole, and there is a gap between the baffle wall and the opening.

8. The spraying device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The diameter of the spray hole is d, where 2mm≤d≤4mm.

9. An ice maker, characterized in that, Includes the spraying device as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The ice maker according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: An ice tray is located on top of the spray device and is positioned opposite to the spray holes; A partition is provided on the side of the ice tray facing the spray device.

11. The ice maker according to claim 10, characterized in that, The partition includes a plastic component.

Images