Liquid storage box, automatic liquid supplementing system, air adjusting device and refrigerator

Abstract

The invention discloses a liquid storage box, an automatic liquid supplementing system, an air adjusting device and a refrigerator, the liquid storage box comprises a box body, the box body is provided with a first wall and a second wall which are oppositely arranged, and a liquid storage space is defined between the first wall and the second wall; the liquid supplementing opening is formed in the side where the first wall is located; the air hole is formed in the second wall; the two ends of the balance air channel communicate with the air hole and the liquid storage space correspondingly, and one section of the balance air channel is located on the side, away from the second wall, of the plane where the inner surface of the first wall is located; based on the structure of the liquid storage box, when the liquid storage box is applied to a specific scene of an automatic liquid supplementing system, an air adjusting device and a refrigerator, a user aligns the liquid supplementing opening of the liquid supplementing box to a target liquid adding opening, liquid supplementing operation can be rapidly achieved, excessive participation of operators is not needed, operation is easy, and cost is low.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of food preservation and storage, and more particularly to a liquid storage box, an automatic liquid replenishment system, a controlled atmosphere device, and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Modified atmosphere storage (MAP), an advanced technology that effectively extends the shelf life of food by adjusting the composition of ambient gases, is increasingly widely used, making refrigeration and freezing equipment with this function highly sought after in the market. The requirements for the MAP environment vary depending on the type of food. For example, fruits and vegetables experience accelerated respiration in high-oxygen environments, leading to reduced organic matter content and nutrient loss; therefore, they are better suited for storage in low-oxygen environments. Conversely, for meats, low-oxygen environments may affect their color and texture, so they require high-oxygen environments to maintain optimal quality.

[0003] Existing controlled atmosphere devices typically consist of a cathode, an anode, and an electrolyte filling the space between them. These devices facilitate the reduction of oxygen at the cathode by allowing contact between the cathode and the surrounding air; the specific reaction is: O₂ + 2H₂O + 4e⁻. - →4OH - Meanwhile, an oxidation reaction occurs at the anode, producing oxygen, with the reaction equation: 4OH⁻. - →O2 + 2H2O + 4e - In practical applications, as the electrochemical reaction continues, the electrolyte in the controlled atmosphere device gradually decreases. When the electrolyte level drops to a certain point, it not only affects the efficiency of the electrochemical reaction but may even prevent the reaction from proceeding. Therefore, timely replenishment of electrolyte is crucial for maintaining the normal operation of the controlled atmosphere device. Current technologies either use powered delivery for electrolyte replenishment or rely on manual operation. Powered delivery is costly, while manual replenishment requires excessive human intervention and offers a poor user experience.

[0004] In view of this, it is necessary to provide an improved technical solution to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to solve the technical problems existing in the prior art described above. In order to achieve the above-mentioned objective, the present invention provides a liquid storage box, the specific design of which is as follows.

[0006] A liquid storage box includes: a box body, with interconnected liquid storage spaces and a balancing gas passage inside;

[0007] A liquid replenishment port is provided on the box body, and the liquid replenishment port connects the liquid storage space with the outside of the box body;

[0008] An air vent is provided on the box body, and the air vent connects the balance air passage to the outside of the box body;

[0009] The balancing airway has a first end communicating with the air hole and a second end communicating with the liquid storage space;

[0010] The box has a liquid discharge state with the liquid inlet facing downwards and a liquid replenishment state with the liquid inlet facing upwards. In the liquid discharge state, the first highest liquid level line of the liquid storage space is not higher than the air hole. In the liquid replenishment state, the second highest liquid level line of the liquid storage space is not higher than the second end of the balance air channel.

[0011] Furthermore, the box body is connected by a connecting rib that at least partially separates the liquid storage space and the balance air passage, and the liquid replenishment port and the air hole are located on opposite sides of the connecting rib.

[0012] Furthermore, the box body has a first wall, a second wall opposite to the first wall, and a side wall surrounding the first wall and the second wall, the first wall, the second wall and the side wall forming the inner cavity of the box body; the connecting rib extends from the second wall toward the first wall, and the connecting rib and the side wall form a channel communicating with the air hole.

[0013] Furthermore, the liquid replenishment port is located on the first wall, and the vent is located on the second wall.

[0014] Furthermore, the box body also has a groove recessed from the inner surface of the first wall toward the direction away from the second wall; one end of the connecting rib away from the second wall extends into the interior of the groove and forms a gap with the bottom wall of the groove, and the channel and the interior space of the groove together constitute the balance air passage.

[0015] Furthermore, the first wall has an opening, and the liquid storage box also has a cover assembly disposed at the opening position, with the liquid replenishment port disposed on the cover assembly.

[0016] Furthermore, the cover assembly includes a main body and a deformable part located in the middle region of the main body. The main body is detachably connected to the box body, and the deformable part is fixedly connected to the main body. The deformable part has a first state of opening the liquid inlet and a second state of closing the liquid inlet.

[0017] Furthermore, the deformable part is made of an elastic material and has a slit in a certain area. In the first state, the slit is open to connect the liquid inlet and the outside of the box. In the second state, the slit is closed to block the liquid inlet from the outside of the box.

[0018] Furthermore, the cover assembly also has a fixing part that engages with the main body, and the deformable part is fixed to the main body by the fixing part.

[0019] Furthermore, the liquid storage box also has a limiting guide mechanism for guiding the installation of the liquid storage box.

[0020] The present invention also provides an automatic fluid replenishment system, which includes a fluid replenishment tank and a storage box as described in any one of the claims, which is detachably installed on the fluid replenishment tank. The fluid replenishment tank has a filling port for docking with the fluid replenishment port, and in the dispensing state, the fluid replenishment port is connected to the filling port.

[0021] Furthermore, the replenishment tank includes a tank body, the tank body having a liquid storage chamber, a liquid control chamber, and a liquid control assembly. The liquid control assembly has an isolation plate and a liquid control tube. The isolation plate separates the liquid storage chamber from the liquid control chamber and has an inlet hole communicating between the liquid storage chamber and the liquid control chamber. The first end of the liquid control tube extends into the liquid control chamber, and the second end of the liquid control tube extends into the outside of the liquid control chamber. At least a portion of the lumen of the liquid control tube is higher than the third highest liquid level line of the liquid storage chamber.

[0022] The present invention also provides a modified atmosphere device, which includes an electrolysis module for preparing oxygen-modified gas, the electrolysis module having an electrolyte container cavity; the modified atmosphere device further includes the above-described automatic liquid replenishment system, the liquid replenishment tank having a liquid outlet, and the automatic liquid replenishment module being connected to the electrolyte container cavity through the liquid outlet.

[0023] The present invention also provides a refrigerator having the above-described controlled atmosphere device.

[0024] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: Based on the structure of the liquid storage box provided by the present invention, when it is applied to specific scenarios such as automatic liquid replenishment system, controlled atmosphere device and refrigerator, the user can quickly realize the liquid replenishment operation by aligning the liquid replenishment port of the liquid replenishment box with the target liquid filling port, without the need for excessive intervention by the operator, and the operation is simple and low cost. Attached Figure Description

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

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 The figure shown is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of one embodiment of the modified atmosphere device of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 As shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the separation of the liquid storage box from other structures in a controlled atmosphere device;

[0029] Figure 3 As shown Figure 2 Another angle view of the structure shown;

[0030] Figure 4 The diagram shows the liquid storage box in a separated state from the lid assembly.

[0031] Figure 5 As shown Figure 4 The diagram shows a partial view of the liquid storage box after it has been cut by a plane passing through a balancing air passage.

[0032] Figure 6 As shown Figure 5 A plan view of the structure at the cross-section location;

[0033] Figure 7 The image shows the direction Figure 6 The diagram shows the state of the liquid storage tank when the solution is replenished to the highest level.

[0034] Figure 8 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of one embodiment of the cover assembly.

[0035] Figure 9 As shown Figure 8 The diagram shows a partial view of the cover assembly after it has been cut through a plane passing through the liquid inlet.

[0036] Figure 10 As shown Figure 9 An exploded view of the structure shown.

[0037] Figure 11 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the liquid storage box of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 12 The image shows the direction Figure 11 The diagram shows the state of the liquid storage tank when the solution is replenished to the highest level.

[0039] Figure 13 The diagram shown is an exploded view of an automatic fluid replenishment system.

[0040] Figure 14 The diagram shown is an explosion diagram of the replenishment tank;

[0041] Figure 15 The diagram shows a partial view of the replenishment tank after it has been cut by a plane passing through the axis of the hydraulic control tube.

[0042] Figure 16 As shown Figure 15 Planar schematic diagram of the enlarged cross-section.

[0043] Figure 17 The diagram shows a possible combination of the replenishment tank and the electrolysis module.

[0044] In the picture,

[0045] 10 is the liquid storage box, 11 is the first wall, 12 is the second wall, 13 is the balancing airway, 130 is the connecting rib, 1300 is the gap, 131 is the groove, 132 is the channel, 133 is the external tube, 14 is the side wall, 141 is the first protrusion, 142 is the second protrusion, 15 is the cover assembly, 151 is the main body, 1510 is the inner protrusion, 1511 is the peripheral wall, 1512 is the inner side wall, 1513 is the connecting wall, 1514 is the flange, 152 is the deformation part, 1520 is the cut, 1521 is the locking area, 153 is the first fixing part, 1530 is the slot, 1531 is the outer protrusion, 150 is the liquid replenishment port, and 100 is the liquid storage space.

[0046] 20 is the replenishment tank, 201 is the storage chamber, 202 is the hydraulic control chamber, 203 is the gas chamber, 21 is the base, 210 is the outlet, 211 is the wall of the storage chamber, 212 is the wall of the hydraulic control chamber, 22 is the top cover, 220 is the protrusion, 221 is the filling port, 23 is the hydraulic control assembly, 231 is the isolation plate, 2311 is the main body, 2312 is the second fixing part, 232 is the hydraulic control pipe, 233 is the sealing ring, and 230 is the inlet hole;

[0047] 30 is the electrolysis module, 300 is the housing, 301 is the liquid inlet, and 302 is the cathode;

[0048] 41 is the upper shell, 42 is the lower shell, 411 is the clearance hole, 412 is the guide wall, 4121 is the first guide groove, and 4122 is the second guide groove. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0050] The liquid storage box 10 involved in this invention includes a box body, a liquid replenishment port 150, an air hole 120, and a balance air channel 13.

[0051] Combination Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, in this invention, the container has a first wall 11 and a second wall 12 disposed opposite to each other, and a liquid storage space 100 is defined between the first wall 11 and the second wall 12. It can be understood that when adding solution to the liquid storage box 10, the liquid storage height of the liquid storage box 10 is defined between the first wall 11 and the second wall 12, which can be referred to... Figure 7 As shown.

[0052] The fluid inlet 150 involved in this invention is disposed on the side where the first wall 11 is located. It can be understood that the fluid inlet 150 being disposed on the side where the first wall 11 is located means that the fluid inlet 150 can be directly disposed on the first wall 11; or it can be that other structures for disposing of the fluid inlet 150 are connected to the first wall 112, as described below, the first wall 11 is connected to a cover assembly 15, and the fluid inlet 150 is formed on the cover assembly 15.

[0053] The vent 120 involved in this invention is formed on the second wall 12. Based on this arrangement, when the liquid storage box 10 is inverted so that the liquid replenishment port 150 faces downward to replenish the mechanism located below it, the vent 120 is located at the highest position of the box body.

[0054] This can be understood as follows: When the liquid storage box 10 is in the dispensing state, with the replenishment port 150 facing downwards, the liquid storage box 10 has a first maximum liquid level line. This first maximum liquid level line indicates that once the liquid level in the liquid storage box 10 reaches this line, no more liquid can be added to the liquid storage box 10. When the liquid storage box 10 is in the replenishing state, with the replenishment port 150 facing upwards, the liquid storage box 10 has a second maximum liquid level line. This second maximum liquid level line refers to the liquid level height when the liquid storage box 10 is inverted.

[0055] In this invention, the two ends of the balancing airway 13 are respectively connected to the vent 120 and the liquid storage space 100, and a section of the balancing airway 13 is located on the side of the plane containing the inner surface of the first wall 11 that is away from the second wall 12. That is, the balancing airway 13 has a first end connected to the vent 120 and a second end connected to the liquid storage space 100. In the liquid discharge state, the first highest liquid level line of the liquid storage space 100 is not higher than the vent 120, and in the liquid replenishment state, the second highest liquid level line of the liquid storage space 100 is not higher than the second end of the balancing airway 13.

[0056] Combination Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, when the liquid storage box 10 is inverted so that the liquid inlet 150 faces downward to replenish the mechanism located below it, the two ends of the balancing air passage 13 are connected to the air hole 120 and the liquid storage space 100 respectively. The balancing air passage 13 can balance the air pressure inside and outside the liquid storage box 10, so that the solution inside the liquid storage box 10 flows out smoothly. Correspondingly, when the liquid storage box 10 needs to be replenished, the liquid storage box 10 is upright (i.e., the first wall on the side where the liquid inlet 150 is located faces upward). Since a section of the balancing air passage 13 is located on the side of the plane where the inner surface of the first wall 11 is located away from the second wall 12, the solution replenished to the liquid storage box 10 can be effectively prevented from flowing out of the balancing air passage 13.

[0057] refer to Figure 13 As shown, the present invention also provides an automatic fluid replenishment system, which includes a replenishment tank 20 and a storage box 10 detachably mounted on the replenishment tank 20. The replenishment tank 20 has a filling port 221 for docking with a replenishment port 150. The solution (such as electrolyte) in the storage box 10 can be added to the replenishment tank 20 through the filling port 221.

[0058] Further integration Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 As shown, the liquid replenishment tank 20 involved in the present invention includes a tank body, which has a liquid storage chamber 201 and a liquid control chamber 202.

[0059] Specifically, in this embodiment, the housing includes a base 21, and a liquid storage chamber 201 and a liquid control chamber 202 are both formed within the base 21. The liquid storage chamber 201 is formed by a liquid storage chamber constituting wall 211, and the liquid control chamber 202 is formed by a liquid control chamber constituting wall 212. The liquid storage chamber constituting wall 211 and the liquid control chamber constituting wall 212 together define the shape of the base 21. As a preferred manufacturing method, in some embodiments, the liquid storage chamber constituting wall 211 and the liquid control chamber constituting wall 212 are integrally formed, thereby avoiding defects such as leakage from the base 21.

[0060] Furthermore, in this invention, the body of the replenishment tank 20 also includes a liquid control assembly 23, which has an isolation plate 231 and a liquid control tube 232. The isolation plate 231 separates the liquid storage chamber 201 from the liquid control chamber 202 and has an inlet hole 230 connecting the two chambers. The first end of the liquid control tube 232 extends into the liquid control chamber 202, and the second end extends out of the chamber. At least a portion of the lumen of the liquid control tube 232 is higher than the third highest liquid level line of the liquid storage chamber 201. It is readily understood that the third highest liquid level line of the liquid storage chamber 201 refers to the position of the liquid surface when no further solution can be added into the liquid storage chamber 201.

[0061] Combination Figure 16 As shown, referring to this specific embodiment, when both the liquid storage chamber 201 and the liquid control chamber 202 contain a solution (such as electrolyte) and the liquid level in the liquid control chamber 202 is equal to the first end of the liquid control tube 232 (i.e., Figure 4 , Figure 5 When the lower end of the liquid control tube 232 is flush with the liquid level, the first end of the liquid control tube 232 will be sealed by the solution in the liquid control chamber 202, thereby forming an air chamber on the lower side of the isolation plate 231. The solution in the storage chamber 201 cannot flow into the liquid control chamber 202 through the liquid inlet 230. When the solution in the liquid control chamber 202 decreases, the liquid level in the liquid control chamber 202 drops, the air chamber on the lower side of the isolation plate 231 increases, the liquid seal at the first end of the liquid control tube 232 is released, and the solution in the storage chamber 201 can flow into the liquid control chamber 202 through the liquid inlet 230. The air chamber on the lower side of the isolation plate 231 decreases until the first end of the liquid control tube 232 is flush with the liquid level in the liquid control chamber 202, at which point a liquid seal is formed again.

[0062] Based on the above description, it can be understood that when the replenishment tank 20 replenishes the external mechanism (such as the electrolysis module 30 mentioned later) through the liquid control chamber 202, the liquid storage chamber 201 can replenish the solution in the liquid control chamber 202 in a timely and rapid manner, so that the solution in the liquid control chamber 202 has a relatively stable liquid level, thereby ensuring that the replenishment process of the replenishment tank 20 to the external mechanism is stable and reliable.

[0063] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a modified atmosphere device, further combined with Figure 17 As shown, the controlled atmosphere device involved in this specific embodiment includes an electrolysis module 30 and an automatic replenishment system. The electrolysis module 30 includes an electrolyte container for preparing oxygen-controlled gas. In practice, the replenishment tank 20 has an outlet 210, and the automatic replenishment system is connected to the electrolyte container through the outlet 210, meaning the replenishment tank 20 replenishes electrolyte to the electrolysis module 30 through the outlet 210.

[0064] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a refrigerator including a storage compartment and having the controlled atmosphere device described above or below.

[0065] Based on the structure of the liquid storage box 10 provided by the present invention, when it is applied to specific scenarios such as automatic liquid replenishment system, modified atmosphere device and refrigerator, the user can quickly realize the liquid replenishment operation by aligning the liquid replenishment port 150 of the liquid replenishment box with the target liquid filling port 221, without the need for excessive intervention by the operator, and the operation is simple and low cost.

[0066] To better understand the present invention, some representative embodiments of the liquid storage box 10 of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, the box body involved in this embodiment also has a sidewall 14 connecting the peripheral edges of the first wall 11 and the second wall 12, and the balancing air passage 13 is disposed on the inner surface of the sidewall 14. In this specific embodiment, the sidewall 14 provides support for the balancing air passage 13, which can reduce the probability of damage to the balancing air passage 13; in the specific implementation process, the sidewall 14 can also form part of the wall of the balancing air passage 13, which can also reduce the molding material of the liquid storage box 10.

[0068] Furthermore, the liquid storage box 10 also has a groove 131, which is recessed from the inner surface of the first wall 11 toward the direction away from the second wall 12; the box body also has a connecting rib 130 extending from the second wall 12 toward the first wall 11, both sides of the connecting rib 130 are connected to the side wall 14 to form a channel 132 communicating with the air hole 120. The end of the connecting rib 130 away from the second wall 12 extends into the interior of the groove 131 and forms a gap 1300 between it and the bottom wall of the groove 131. The channel 132 and the interior space of the groove 131 together constitute the balanced air passage 13.

[0069] In this specific embodiment, the balancing airway 13 is located at a corner of the liquid storage box 10. The connecting rib 130 is bent and its two sides are respectively connected to two adjacent different side walls 14 to form a channel 132 together with the two different side walls 14.

[0070] refer to Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the first wall 11 has an opening 110, and the liquid storage box 10 also has a cover assembly 15 disposed at the opening 110, with a replenishment port 150 disposed on the cover assembly 15. It can be understood that when the liquid storage box 10 is upright, the user can replenish the liquid storage space 100 of the liquid storage box 10 through the opening 110.

[0071] Further integration Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10As shown, the cover assembly 15 involved in this embodiment includes a main body 151 and a deformable part 152 located in the middle region of the main body 151. The main body 151 is detachably connected to the box body, and the deformable part 152 is fixedly connected to the main body 151 and forms a liquid inlet 150. The liquid inlet 150 has a closed first state and an open second state. It can be understood that when the liquid inlet 150 is in the closed first state, the solution inside the liquid storage box 10 cannot be discharged from the liquid inlet 150. When the liquid inlet 150 is in the open second state, the liquid storage box 10 can replenish the external mechanism through the liquid inlet 150.

[0072] More specifically, the first wall 11 protrudes outward at the opening 110 to form a protrusion 111, and the main body 151 of the cover assembly 15 is detachably connected to the protrusion 111 of the box body by means of a threaded connection.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, the deformable part 152 is made of an elastic material and has a cut 1520 in a localized area, and the liquid inlet 150 is formed at the location of the cut 1520.

[0074] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 13 As shown, the filling port 221 on the replenishment tank 20 is designed as an upwardly protruding tube. When it is necessary to replenish the solution to the replenishment tank 20 through the storage box 10, the inverted storage box 10 can be placed so that the cut 1520 matches the filling port 221. The storage box 10 falls under the action of gravity, causing the tube-shaped filling port 221 to open the cut 1520 and complete the docking of the replenishment port 150 and the filling port 221. After that, the solution in the storage box 10 can automatically flow into the replenishment tank 20 under its own gravity. External gas enters the interior of the storage box 10 through the balance air passage 13 to ensure the balance of air pressure inside and outside the storage box 10.

[0075] It is understandable that, since the deformable part 152 is made of an elastic material, before the tubular liquid inlet 221 is inserted into the liquid replenishment port 150, the cut 1520 remains sealed under the elastic force of the deformable part 152 itself, thus ensuring that the solution inside the inverted liquid storage box does not leak out from the cut 1520. In specific implementation, the deformable part 152 can be made of silicone.

[0076] refer to Figure 9 , Figure 10 As shown, the cover assembly 15 involved in this embodiment also has a first fixing part 153, which is snapped onto the main body part 151, and the peripheral area of ​​the deformable part 152 is engaged and fixed between the main body part 151 and the first fixing part 153 to form a fixation.

[0077] More specifically, in this embodiment, the main body 151 has a peripheral wall 1511 for threaded engagement with the protrusion 111, an inner wall 1512 located inside the peripheral wall 1511, and a connecting wall 1513 connecting the peripheral wall 1511 and the inner wall 1512. The inner wall 1512 has a through hole (not marked in the figure) in the middle that matches the area of ​​the cutout 1520 of the deformable portion 152, and the inner surface of the inner wall 1512 also has an inner protrusion 1510 extending inward. The first fixing portion 153 is generally hollow columnar and fits into the through hole of the inner wall 1512. The outer wall of the first fixing portion 153 has an outer protrusion 1531 that engages with the inner protrusion 1510. The deformable part 152 has a thickened locking area 1521 around its periphery. The thickness of 1521 can be set to be greater than the thickness of other locations, thereby making it relatively less elastic relative to the area where the cut 1520 is located. The connecting wall 1513 has a flange 1514 extending into the area where the through hole is located. The first fixing part 153 forms a groove 1530 at one end facing the flange 1514.

[0078] Based on the above configuration of the cover assembly 15, when the first fixing part 153 is engaged with the inner wall 1512 of the main body part 151 by the outer protrusion 1531 and the inner protrusion 1510, the locking area 1521 of the deformable part 152 is located in the slot 1530 and is pressed and locked by the flange 1514, thereby fixing the deformable part 152 to the main body part 151.

[0079] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the liquid storage box 10 also has a limiting guide mechanism for guiding the installation of the liquid storage box 10.

[0080] Combination Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 13 As shown, in this embodiment, the limiting and guiding mechanism is a protruding structure disposed on a pair of opposite sidewalls 14. When forming an automatic liquid replenishment system, a guide groove is fixed on the side of the liquid filling port 221 of the liquid replenishment tank 20, which cooperates with the protruding structure to guide the liquid storage box 10 to move downward. Based on the cooperation between the protruding structure and the guide groove, when specifically connecting the liquid replenishment port 150 of the liquid storage box 10 with the liquid filling port 221 of the liquid replenishment tank 20, the user only needs to place the liquid storage box 10 on the upper side of the liquid replenishment tank 20 and make the protruding structure on the outside of the liquid storage box 10 cooperate with the inside of the guide groove. The liquid storage box 10 can complete the connection between the liquid replenishment port 150 and the liquid filling port 221 under its own gravity, thereby completing the liquid replenishment action. In the entire liquid replenishment process, the user only needs to place the liquid replenishment box 10 in a suitable position without much intervention.

[0081] In some embodiments, the automatic fluid replenishment system further includes a mounting box for housing the fluid replenishment tank 20, see reference. Figure 14As shown in the figure, the mounting box involved in this specific embodiment includes an upper shell 41 and a lower shell 42. The upper shell 41 and the lower shell 42 can be connected by snap-fit ​​or other means. The interior of the mounting box forms a receiving cavity for accommodating the replenishment tank 20 (not marked in the figure).

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the replenishment tank 20 is fixedly disposed relative to the upper housing 41. The upper housing 41 is provided with a clearance hole 411 at the position corresponding to the liquid filling port 221, allowing the liquid filling port 221 to be exposed upward. The upper housing 41 extends upward on a pair of sides of the clearance hole 411 to form a guide wall 412. The guide groove involved in this embodiment is formed on the guide wall 412.

[0083] More specifically, in this embodiment, the guide groove on each guide wall includes a first guide groove 4121 and a second guide groove 4122. The protrusion structure on the corresponding side wall 14 of the liquid storage box 10 includes a first protrusion 141 and a second protrusion 142 corresponding to the first guide groove 4121 and the second guide groove 4122, respectively. It is understood that in other embodiments of the present invention, the positions of the protrusion structure and the guide groove can be interchanged, which will not be elaborated here.

[0084] It is understood that the electrolysis module 30 in the controlled atmosphere device involved in this invention can also be disposed in the mounting box.

[0085] In other embodiments of the present invention, the liquid storage box 10 may also be... Figure 11 , Figure 12 The structure shown. (And) Figure 6 , Figure 7 Unlike the embodiment shown, in this specific embodiment, the balancing airway 13 is composed of a pipe independent of the sidewall 14, which communicates with the air hole 120 on the second wall 12 and penetrates the first wall 11, and has an outer section 133 located on the side of the first wall 11 away from the second wall 12.

[0086] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one pair of opposing sidewalls 14 of the liquid storage box 10 have portions protruding beyond the plane containing the outer surface of the first wall 11, and the end connecting plane of the protruding portions is parallel to the outer surface of the first wall 11, with the cover assembly 15 located on the side facing the first wall 11. Based on this configuration, the liquid storage box 10 can be stably placed on a support platform with a flat upper surface after being inverted.

[0087] To better understand the present invention, some specific embodiments of the replenishment tank 200 involved in the present invention will be further illustrated below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0088] refer to Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16As shown, in this specific embodiment, the liquid control chamber 202 is located below the liquid storage chamber 201. It can be understood that in some other embodiments of the present invention, the liquid storage chamber 201 and the liquid control chamber 202 in the replenishment tank 20 may also be arranged side by side, rather than arranged vertically.

[0089] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the second end (i.e., the upper end) of the control tube 232 extends to the upper part of the third highest liquid level line of the storage chamber 201. This design can prevent the solution in the storage chamber 201 from blocking the upper end of the control tube 232, causing the control assembly 23 to fail.

[0090] In this specific embodiment, the housing has a top cover 22 located at the top, and the lower surface of the top cover 22 is recessed upward to form an air cavity 203, the upper end of the hydraulic control tube 232 extending into the air cavity 203. It is readily apparent that the air cavity 203 is located above the liquid storage cavity 201.

[0091] Combination Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 As shown, in this specific embodiment, the housing includes a base 21 and a top cover 22, wherein the top cover 22 is disposed on the top of the base 21 and covers the opening at the top of the base 21. In the specific implementation, the top cover 22 is fixed to the base 21 by means of snaps and / or screws. Further, as shown in the figure, the top cover 22 has an upwardly formed protrusion 220. In this specific embodiment, an air cavity 203 is formed on the lower surface side of the top cover 22 and corresponds to the position of the protrusion 220.

[0092] Furthermore, in this invention, reference is made to... Figure 13 , Figure 14 As shown, in this specific embodiment, the liquid inlet 221 is also provided on the top cover 22.

[0093] More preferably, the diameter of the liquid inlet 230 involved in this invention gradually decreases from the liquid storage chamber 201 toward the liquid control chamber 202. (See reference) Figure 16 As shown in the illustration, in this specific embodiment, the liquid inlet 230 on the main body 2311 gradually tapers from top to bottom. That is, in the top-to-bottom direction, the liquid inlet 230 is shaped like an inverted trumpet. This design structure can better guide the solution in the storage chamber 201 to the control chamber 202. In the specific design process, in order to avoid causing excessive resistance to the entry of the solution, the minimum diameter of the liquid inlet 230 is not less than 3 mm.

[0094] Referring to the figure, in this specific embodiment, when the liquid storage chamber 201 and the liquid control chamber 202 are arranged above and below each other, the isolation plate 231 is located at the bottom of the liquid storage chamber 201, the upper side of the isolation plate 231 is the bottom wall of the liquid storage chamber 201, and the lower side of the isolation plate 231 is the top wall of the liquid control chamber 202.

[0095] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the structure of the hydraulic control component 23 involved in this embodiment, the hydraulic control tube 232 is fixed to the isolation plate 231. In specific implementation, the hydraulic control tube 232 and the isolation plate 231 can be integrally formed; or a mounting hole can be opened on the isolation plate 231, through which the hydraulic control tube 232 is passed and fixed.

[0096] In other embodiments of the present invention, the control pipe 232 may also be separately disposed from the isolation plate 231. For example, the control pipe 232 may directly penetrate the control cavity forming wall 212 and extend to the upper space of the liquid storage cavity 201, thus there is no connecting structure between the control pipe 232 and the isolation plate 231. It is understood that although the method of separately disposing of the control pipe 232 and the isolation plate 231 can also meet the liquid control requirements, it is more complex in the manufacturing process compared to the illustrated embodiment.

[0097] More preferably, refer to Figure 16 As shown, the isolation plate 231 includes a body portion 2311 with an inlet hole 230 and a second fixing portion 2312 connected to the body portion 2311. The liquid control assembly 23 also has a sealing ring 233 disposed between the second fixing portion 2312 and the side wall of the liquid control chamber 202.

[0098] Furthermore, in this specific embodiment, the main body 2311 is flat, the second fixing part 2312 is hollow frame-shaped and integrally formed with the main body 2311, the second fixing part 2312 has a mounting groove formed on its periphery, and the sealing ring 233 is fitted into the mounting groove. The sealing ring 233 is usually made of elastic material such as rubber.

[0099] Based on the above settings, during the assembly of the replenishment tank 20, the sealing ring 233 can be first fitted into the mounting groove on the periphery of the second fixing part 2312, so that the liquid control assembly 23 forms a whole; then the liquid control assembly 23 is installed from the liquid storage chamber 201 side to the preset position, so that the sealing ring 233 and the side wall of the liquid control chamber 202 (i.e. the inner surface side of the liquid control chamber forming wall 212) form a sealing fit.

[0100] refer to Figure 16 As shown in the illustration, in this specific embodiment, the projection of the second fixing part 2312 onto the plane containing the lower surface of the body part 2311 is located within the edge range of the lower surface, meaning that the body part 2311 has an edge protruding beyond the periphery of the second fixing part 2312; a step is provided at the periphery of the junction of the liquid storage chamber 201 and the liquid control chamber 202. Thus, during the assembly of the replenishment tank 20, when the edge of the body part 2311 of the isolation plate 231 overlaps with this step, it indicates that the liquid control assembly 23 has been installed in the appropriate position.

[0101] In some embodiments, after the liquid control assembly 23 is installed in place, the upper surface of the body portion 2311 of the isolation plate 231 is not higher than the plane of the bottom wall at other locations of the liquid storage chamber 201, thereby ensuring that the solution stored in the liquid storage chamber 201 can be utilized to the greatest extent.

[0102] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid control chamber 202 in the horizontal direction is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid storage chamber 201 in the horizontal direction. Combined with... Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 As shown, in this specific embodiment, the liquid control chamber forming wall 212 is connected to the bottom of the liquid storage chamber forming wall 211. The projection of the liquid control chamber forming wall 212 onto the plane where the bottom of the liquid storage chamber forming wall 211 is located only covers a local area of ​​the bottom of the liquid storage chamber forming wall 211. Since the liquid control chamber 202 is formed within the liquid control chamber forming wall 212 and the liquid storage chamber 201 is formed within the liquid storage chamber forming wall 211, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid control chamber 202 in the horizontal direction is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid storage chamber 201 in the horizontal direction. Based on this embodiment structure, when the solution in the liquid storage chamber 201 enters the liquid control chamber 202 to maintain the stability of the solution level in the liquid control chamber 202, the solution in the liquid storage chamber 201 has a slower liquid level drop rate, so the user does not need to frequently add liquid to the liquid storage chamber 201.

[0103] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, further illustrates some specific embodiments of the electrolysis module 30 of the present invention.

[0104] In some embodiments of the present invention, the electrolysis module 30 of the controlled atmosphere device further includes electrodes. In specific implementation, the replenishment tank 20 has a liquid outlet 210 at the bottom of the liquid control chamber 202, through which the replenishment tank 20 replenishes electrolyte to the electrolysis module 30. Specifically, the automatic replenishment system is connected to the electrolyte container cavity through the liquid outlet 210, and the first end of the liquid control pipe 232 is not lower than the highest edge of the electrode. Thus, when the liquid level in the electrolysis module 30 is about to fall below the highest edge of the electrode, the liquid in the liquid control chamber 202 will replenish the electrolyte container cavity, ensuring that the electrode is always in contact with the electrolyte.

[0105] refer to Figure 17 As shown, the electrolysis module 30 includes a housing 300, and an electrolyte receiving cavity (not shown in the figure) is formed inside the housing 300. The electrolyte receiving cavity is filled with electrolyte. An inlet 301 is provided on the housing 300. The outlet 210 of the replenishment tank 20 can be connected to the inlet 301 through a connecting pipe (not shown in the figure), thereby realizing the electrolyte replenishment operation of the replenishment tank 20 to the electrolysis module 30.

[0106] In a more specific embodiment, the electrodes of the electrolysis module 30 include a cathode 302 and an anode (not shown in the figure) spaced apart. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 300 has an opening for the cathode 302 to expose its outer surface, and the anode is disposed within the electrolyte containment cavity. When energized, the cathode 302 allows oxygen outside the housing 300 to pass through in an electrochemical reaction. At this time, oxygen in the air undergoes a reduction reaction at the location of the cathode 302, with the reaction formula being O2 + 2H2O + 4e⁻. - →4OH - This reduces the oxygen content on the outside of the casing 300; the OH generated by the cathode - An oxidation reaction can occur at the anode to produce oxygen, with the reaction formula being 4OH⁻. - →O2 + 2H2O + 4e - Oxygen generated at the anode of the electrolysis module 30 can be discharged to a specific area through an exhaust port (not shown in the figure) provided on the housing 300.

[0107] In the specific implementation process, both the cathode 302 and the anode can be configured as plates. The anode plate disposed inside the housing 300 can be further provided with multiple through holes to increase the surface area of ​​the anode and allow electrolyte or air bubbles in the electrolyte containment cavity to pass through.

[0108] In some more specific embodiments, the refrigerator of the present invention has a low-oxygen space defined in the storage compartment, and the controlled atmosphere device is configured to consume the oxygen in the low-oxygen space.

[0109] Furthermore, the storage tank can also be configured to include a high-oxygen space, and the controlled atmosphere device is configured to supply oxygen to this high-oxygen space, so that while reducing the oxygen concentration in the low-oxygen space, the controlled atmosphere device can simultaneously increase the oxygen concentration in the high-oxygen space. In specific implementation, the oxygen discharged from the exhaust port on the housing 300 of the electrolysis module 30 is used to increase the oxygen concentration in the high-oxygen space.

[0110] Based on the structure of the automatic electrolyte replenishment system provided by this invention, in specific applications such as modified atmosphere devices and refrigerators, the electrolyte in the electrolysis module can be replenished automatically without the need for electric components or other complex structural parts. This simplifies the process and reduces costs, bringing greater convenience and economy to the application of modified atmosphere preservation technology.

[0111] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0112] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent embodiments or modifications made without departing from the spirit of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A liquid storage box, characterized in that, include: The box body has interconnected liquid storage spaces (100) and balance air passages (13) inside; A liquid replenishment port (150) is provided on the box body, and the liquid replenishment port (150) connects the liquid storage space (100) with the outside of the box body; An air hole (120) is provided on the box body, and the air hole (120) connects the balance air passage (13) to the outside of the box body; The balance airway (13) has a first end communicating with the air hole (120) and a second end communicating with the liquid storage space (100); The box has a liquid discharge state with the liquid inlet (150) facing downward and a liquid replenishment state with the liquid inlet (150) facing upward. In the liquid discharge state, the first highest liquid level line of the liquid storage space (100) is not higher than the air hole (120). In the liquid replenishment state, the second highest liquid level line of the liquid storage space (100) is not higher than the second end of the balance air channel (13).

2. The liquid storage box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The box body is connected by a connecting rib (130) that at least partially separates the liquid storage space (100) and the balance air passage (13), and the liquid replenishment port (150) and the air hole (120) are located on opposite sides of the connecting rib (130).

3. The liquid storage box according to claim 2, characterized in that, The box body has a first wall (11), a second wall (12) disposed opposite to the first wall (11), and a side wall (14) surrounding the first wall (11) and the second wall (12). The first wall (11), the second wall (12), and the side wall (14) together form the inner cavity of the box body. The connecting rib (130) extends from the second wall (12) toward the first wall (11). The connecting rib (130) and the side wall (14) together form a channel (132) communicating with the air hole (120).

4. The liquid storage box according to claim 3, characterized in that, The liquid inlet (150) is disposed on the first wall (11), and the air hole (120) is disposed on the second wall (12).

5. The liquid storage box according to claim 3, characterized in that, The box body also has a groove (131) recessed from the inner surface of the first wall (11) toward the direction away from the second wall (12); the end of the connecting rib (130) away from the second wall (12) extends into the interior of the groove (131) and forms a gap (1300) with the bottom wall of the groove (131); the channel (132) and the interior space of the groove (131) together constitute the balance airway (13).

6. The liquid storage box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first wall (11) has an opening (110), and the liquid storage box also has a cover assembly (15) disposed at the opening (110), and the liquid replenishment port (150) is disposed on the cover assembly (15).

7. The liquid storage box according to claim 6, characterized in that, The cover assembly (15) includes a main body (151) and a deformable part (152) located in the middle region of the main body (151). The main body (151) is detachably connected to the box body, and the deformable part (152) is fixedly connected to the main body (151). The deformable part (152) has a first state of opening the liquid inlet (150) and a second state of closing the liquid inlet (150).

8. The liquid storage box according to claim 7, characterized in that, The deformable part (152) is made of elastic material and has a cut (1520) in a partial manner. In the first state, the cut (1520) is open to connect the liquid inlet (150) and the outside of the box. In the second state, the cut (1520) is closed to block the liquid inlet (150) and the outside of the box.

9. The liquid storage box according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cover assembly also has a fixing part (153) that engages with the main body part (151), and the deformable part (152) is fixed to the main body part (151) by the fixing part (153).

10. The liquid storage box according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Its features are, The liquid storage box also has a limiting guide mechanism to guide the installation of the liquid storage box.

11. An automatic fluid replenishment system, characterized in that, Includes a replenishment tank (20) and a storage box as described in any one of claims 1-10, which is detachably mounted on the replenishment tank (20). The replenishment tank has a filling port for docking with the replenishment port (150). In the dispensing state, the replenishment port (150) is connected to the filling port.

12. The automatic fluid replenishment system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The replenishment tank (20) includes a tank body, which has a liquid storage chamber (201), a liquid control chamber (202), and a liquid control assembly (23). The liquid control assembly (23) has an isolation plate (231) and a liquid control tube (232). The isolation plate (231) separates the liquid storage chamber (201) from the liquid control chamber (202) and has an inlet hole (230) that connects the liquid storage chamber (201) and the liquid control chamber (202). The first end of the liquid control tube (232) extends into the liquid control chamber (202), and the second end of the liquid control tube (232) extends into the outside of the liquid control chamber (202). At least a portion of the lumen of the liquid control tube (232) is higher than the third highest liquid level line of the liquid storage chamber (201).

13. A controlled atmosphere device, characterized in that... The device includes an electrolysis module (30) for preparing oxygen-controlled gas, the electrolysis module (30) having an electrolyte containment cavity; the controlled atmosphere device also includes the automatic replenishment system as described in claim 11 or 12, the replenishment tank having an outlet (210), the automatic replenishment module being connected to the electrolyte containment cavity through the outlet (210).

14. A refrigerator, characterized in that, The refrigerator has the controlled atmosphere device as described in claim 13.

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