Air duct assembly for a refrigeration appliance and refrigeration appliance

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a duct assembly for a refrigeration appliance provided with a storage space for accommodating items to be stored and a duct for conveying a gas to regulate the temperature of the storage space. The duct assembly comprises a duct cover panel for separating the storage space from the duct, the duct cover panel being provided with an insertion opening; a filter module at least partially located in the duct to filter the gas flowing through the duct, the filter module being insertable into the duct from the storage space through the insertion opening in an insertion direction; and a filter cover panel attached to the duct cover panel by magnetic attraction independently of the filter module to close the insertion opening, such that the filter cover panel is independently detachable from the duct cover panel relative to the filter module. Furthermore, the present application also provides a corresponding refrigeration appliance. According to certain embodiments of the present application, the maintenance operation of the filter module can be performed in a correct and convenient manner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of household appliances, and in particular to a duct assembly for a refrigeration appliance and a refrigeration appliance. Background Technology

[0002] Refrigeration appliances face the problem of stored items emitting odors during use. Some items have unpleasant smells and may permeate the entire storage space of the refrigeration appliance as gases circulate within it.

[0003] To address this issue, refrigeration appliances can be equipped with filters. These filters are placed within the appliance's air ducts, allowing airflow to pass through and be purified. Filters typically require regular maintenance, such as replacing the filter cartridges. Otherwise, the allowable gas flow rate will decrease over time, and the filter's efficiency will decline, leading to increased costs. Furthermore, users face operational difficulties during maintenance. Due to users' often lack of experience, refrigeration appliances may also be damaged by user errors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of embodiments of this application is to provide an improved refrigeration appliance and its duct assembly to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned deficiencies of the prior art.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this application, embodiments of this application provide a duct assembly for a refrigeration appliance, the refrigeration appliance having a storage space for accommodating stored items and a duct for conveying gas to regulate the temperature of the storage space. The duct assembly includes: a duct cover for separating the storage space from the duct, the duct cover having an insertion opening; a filter module at least partially located in the duct to filter gas flowing through the duct, the filter module being capable of being inserted into the duct from the storage space via the insertion opening in an insertion direction; and a filter cover, independently of the filter module, magnetically attached to the duct cover to close the insertion opening, such that the filter cover can be detached from the duct cover independently of the filter module.

[0006] This helps ensure that maintenance of the filter module can be performed correctly and conveniently. In particular, even inexperienced users can perform filter module maintenance correctly and conveniently.

[0007] When maintenance of the filter module is required, the filter cover can be removed independently from the duct cover relative to the filter module by releasing the magnetic connection. After the filter cover has been removed from the duct cover, the filter module can be taken out through the insertion opening. The filter module can be reinstalled after maintenance. During installation, the filter module is first inserted into the duct from the storage space through the insertion opening, and then the filter cover is attached to the duct cover independently of the filter module via the magnetic connection. By attaching the filter cover to the duct cover independently of the filter module via the magnetic connection, this series of operations can be performed conveniently and effectively prevents the filter cover from being mistakenly used for maintenance operations that are only applicable to the filter module.

[0008] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the filter module may be made of a heat-resistant material. The design of the filter cover being attached to the duct cover via a magnetic connection, independent of the filter module, is particularly suitable for embodiments where the filter module is made of a heat-resistant material. After a period of use, the function of the filter module often deteriorates or even fails. By high-temperature treatment, such as by baking the filter module in an oven for a predetermined time, the filter module can be cleaned, sterilized, and its function restored. Filter modules that have been used for a period of time can be renewed by means of high-temperature treatment for continued use without being discarded or replaced. This high-temperature treatment is both efficient in renewing the filter module and easy for the user to implement. For example, it can be done using a household oven without requiring specialized equipment or complex operations.

[0009] The filter module is particularly capable of withstanding temperatures above 200°C, optionally above 220°C, for at least 20 minutes, and optionally at least 120 minutes. Users can conveniently bake the filter module using a household oven. In particular, the filter module can withstand baking in a conventional household oven at the highest set temperature for the longest set baking time without structural changes or the generation of harmful substances.

[0010] Compared to the filter module, the filter cover does not need to be made of heat-resistant material, but can be at least partially made of plastic. This facilitates the function of the filter cover and does not increase the difficulty of maintaining the filter module. Typically, the filter module, which performs the filtering function, is installed or removed as a single unit along with the filter cover. In contrast, the design of this application appears to slightly increase the complexity of the disassembly operation, but it effectively prevents users from removing the filter cover and filter module together and mistakenly placing them together in the oven for baking, thereby preventing damage to the filter cover or filter module due to improper operation.

[0011] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the filter module may include a filter element and a container for housing the filter element. The container is made of metal.

[0012] Optionally, the filter cover includes a panel made of metal and a back panel made of plastic. The panel may be located on the side of the back panel facing the storage space and form the surface of the filter cover facing the storage space. The back panel can separate the panel from the filter module. Using the back panel, the panel can be separated from the container to impede heat transfer between the panel and the container. This prevents condensation from occurring on the surface of the filter cover facing the storage space.

[0013] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the filter module may include a filter cartridge and a container for receiving the filter cartridge. The container may include a container body and a container handle, the container body forming a container cavity for receiving the filter cartridge, and the container handle being configured to allow a user to grip the container handle to install and / or remove the filter module via an insert opening. This prevents the user's hands from becoming soiled by contact with the container body or the filter cartridge during maintenance operations of the filter module.

[0014] Optionally, the container handle may be covered by a filter cover in the direction facing the storage space.

[0015] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the container handle may extend, for example, from the container body toward the storage space. The container handle may extend at least into the recessed opening in the direction of the storage space. In particular, the container handle may extend beyond the duct cover in the direction of the storage space. This facilitates user operation during installation and removal.

[0016] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the container handle may include a first handle section extending toward the storage space and a second handle section extending downward from the first handle section. The upper surface of the first handle section extends toward the storage space, particularly in a downwardly inclined manner. This prevents condensate from flowing from the surface of the duct cover toward the storage space to the filter element. Condensate accumulating at the filter element will reduce the filtration performance of the filter module. Therefore, with this configuration of the container handle, the filtration performance of the filter module can be improved, and the frequency of maintenance required for the filter module can be reduced.

[0017] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the filter cover may have a protruding reinforcing structure and a receiving recess recessed relative to the reinforcing structure on the side facing away from the storage space. The receiving recess extends along the longitudinal direction of the filter cover and is configured to receive a container handle.

[0018] Optionally, a gap is formed between the container handle and the filter cover in the embedding direction.

[0019] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the filter cover may have a protruding reinforcing structure on the side facing away from the storage space. The reinforcing structure extends along the longitudinal direction of the filter cover and has a drainage groove that extends along the height direction of the refrigeration appliance. Thus, even if condensate flows from the surface of the duct cover facing the storage space through the gap between the duct cover and the filter cover to the rear of the filter cover, it will flow downwards through the drainage groove and not into the container.

[0020] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the container handle may include a handle wall having at least two handle openings and a handle strip located between adjacent handle openings. The container handle may also optionally include a flap that bends rearward from the edge of the handle strip adjacent to the handle opening. This type of container handle is easy for the user to grip and is easy to manufacture.

[0021] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the container may include at least two container bodies and a container handle. Each container body forms a spaced-apart container cavity for receiving a filter cartridge. The container is particularly formed by bending a single sheet of material. Therefore, the container has both a relatively complex structure capable of meeting usage requirements (including accommodating multiple filter cartridges, ease of grip, etc.) and can be manufactured in a cost-effective manner.

[0022] For example, the container cavity may have an upward-opening container opening through which the filter cartridge can enter the container cavity. Each of the at least two container bodies includes a front wall near the filter cover, a rear wall opposite the front wall in the embedding direction, and a bottom wall connecting the front and rear walls and opposite the container opening.

[0023] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the bottom walls of the at least two container bodies may be coplanar and continuous, and each has a bottom opening. At least one of the at least two container bodies may include a tab that bends upward from the edge of an adjacent container body adjacent to its bottom opening. The tab may separate the container cavity of the at least one container body from the container cavity of the adjacent container body. This provides an advantageous implementation of a container that can have a more complex structure to meet usage requirements while being manufactured in a cost-effective manner.

[0024] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the container handle may be located between two adjacent container bodies and includes a handle wall having at least two handle openings and a handle strip located between adjacent handle openings.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment of this application, the container's configuration design allows it to have both a complex structure that meets usage requirements and the ability to be bent from a single sheet. Furthermore, it reduces material waste from the sheets used in manufacturing the container.

[0026] For example, the handle wall of the container handle may be coplanar and continuous with the front walls of the two adjacent container bodies.

[0027] The width of the handle wall can be equal to or greater than twice the height of the two adjacent container bodies.

[0028] Optionally, the handle wall protrudes downwards relative to the front walls of the two adjacent container bodies by a first distance. The handle strip may have a relatively long length to facilitate user operation. The two adjacent container bodies may have inner and outer side walls connected between the front and rear walls and opposite to each other. The inner side wall is adjacent to the container handle, and the outer side wall is away from the container handle. The inner side walls of the two adjacent container bodies may be spaced from the front walls by a second distance in the embedding direction. The second distance may be equal to or greater than the first distance. This particularly helps to reduce material waste of the sheet material used to manufacture the container while meeting the usage requirements of the container.

[0029] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the filter module may include a filter element and a container for receiving the filter element. The container may include a container body and a limiting flange. The container body has a container cavity for receiving the filter element, and the limiting flange extends outward from both sides of the container body in a transverse direction to both the insertion direction and the gas flow direction. A duct cover may be provided with a first groove, into which the limiting flange can be inserted in the insertion direction to limit the filter module in the gas flow direction. This particularly helps prevent the filter module from shaking due to airflow.

[0030] The size of the first groove decreases in the gas flow direction, especially along the embedding direction. This helps to reduce the difficulty of installing the filter module.

[0031] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the filter cover may be provided with at least one first magnetic element. The duct assembly may further include a second magnetic element connected to the duct cover. The filter cover is attached to the duct cover by means of magnetic attraction between the first and second magnetic elements.

[0032] Optionally, the first magnetic body is staggered from the filter module along the embedding direction. This helps to expose the filter module as much as possible within the air duct, allowing the airflow within the duct to pass through the filter module more fully in a gas flow direction perpendicular to the embedding direction.

[0033] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, when viewed along the embedding direction, the first magnetic body may be arranged on opposite sides of the embedding opening. This helps to give the duct assembly a compact and stable structure.

[0034] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body may be arranged opposite each other across the duct cover. This helps to enhance the magnetic attraction.

[0035] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the at least one first magnetic body may include at least two end magnetic bodies located at both ends of the filter cover and an intermediate magnetic body centrally arranged relative to the filter cover. The end magnetic bodies may be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the filter cover. The intermediate magnetic body may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the filter cover. This facilitates the stable attachment of the filter cover to the duct cover.

[0036] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the filter cover may have a protruding reinforcing rib on the side facing away from the storage space. The reinforcing rib extends longitudinally between the two end magnets, with the intermediate magnet located above or below the reinforcing rib. This arrangement effectively prevents deformation of the filter cover.

[0037] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the first magnetic body may have a middle section adjacent to the second magnetic body, two bent sections extending from both ends of the middle section in a direction toward the storage space, and two foot sections extending from the ends of the two bent sections away from the middle section in mutually distancing directions. A free space may be formed between the surface of the filter cover facing the storage space and the middle section. This configuration of the first magnetic body helps to enhance the magnetic attraction effect and facilitates installation.

[0038] The first magnetic material is, for example, an iron sheet. This makes it easier to shape the first magnetic material into the desired form. Accordingly, the second magnetic material can be a magnet.

[0039] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the filter cover may have a guide protrusion on the side facing away from the storage space. The guide protrusion may correspondingly have a mounting cavity for mounting a first magnetic body on the side facing the storage space. The guide protrusion may have a guide side inclined relative to the embedding direction such that the guide protrusion narrows along the embedding direction. The guide protrusion can, on the one hand, guide the filter cover to be correctly positioned relative to the duct cover during installation, and on the other hand, it can be used to accommodate the first magnetic body and allow the first magnetic body to be closer to the second magnetic body.

[0040] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the filter cover includes a front panel and a back panel, the front panel being located on the side of the back panel facing the storage space and forming the surface of the filter cover facing the storage space, with a first magnet sandwiched between the front panel and the back panel. This helps protect the first magnet from moisture.

[0041] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the duct cover may have a protrusion at the top of the embedded opening and protruding toward the bottom of the embedded opening. The protrusion prevents condensate from flowing from the surface of the duct cover facing the storage space to the filter module, particularly the filter element.

[0042] The protrusions can extend laterally to the embedding direction and laterally to the height direction of the refrigeration appliance, thereby effectively blocking the water flow that generally flows towards the filter module, especially the filter element, along the embedding direction.

[0043] The protrusion may, for example, have a front blocking surface facing the storage space, which is perpendicular to the embedding direction. This helps guide condensate dripping downwards and prevents condensate from continuing to flow backwards.

[0044] The protrusion may, for example, have a bottom blocking surface that extends upwards at an angle from the front blocking surface of the protrusion in a direction away from the storage space. The angle of inclination of the bottom blocking surface is optionally between 0.1° and 5°, for example, 1°. This effectively prevents condensate from flowing backwards along the bottom blocking surface towards the filter element. The protrusion is particularly close to the storage space compared to the filter element of the filter module.

[0045] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the filter cover may protrude relative to the duct cover in the direction toward the storage space. This facilitates the removal of the filter cover.

[0046] Optionally, at least one side of the filter cover may extend obliquely toward the duct cover, thereby forming a gripping space between the at least one side and the surface of the duct cover facing the storage space. The gripping space may be concealed by the filter cover in the direction facing the storage space. The user's hand can enter the gripping space to remove the filter cover. In the installed state, the gripping space is not exposed to the user's view. Thus, a filter cover that is easy to remove can be provided in a structurally simple manner.

[0047] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the duct cover may have a mounting groove on the side facing the storage space. The mounting groove may include a bottom surface facing the storage space and a side surface surrounding the bottom surface. An insertion opening is formed at the bottom surface of the groove. The side surface is inclined relative to the insertion direction, in particular, such that the mounting groove narrows along the insertion direction. The inclined side surface can be used to guide the correct installation of the filter cover.

[0048] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the duct cover may have a support frame on the side facing away from the storage space. The support frame defines a receiving space for a filter module, which can be installed into the receiving space via an embedded opening. The support frame provides support and restraint for the filter module.

[0049] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the support frame may include two partitions extending from both sides of the receiving space toward the center in a transverse direction transverse to the embedding direction and the gas flow direction, such that the receiving space is divided into a central portion located between the two partitions in the transverse direction, a first groove located above the partitions, and a second groove located below the partitions. With the aid of this simple and easily moldable partition, the receiving space can be divided into various multifunctional parts. The central portion can be used to receive the container body and filter element of the filter module. The first groove can be used to limit the position of the filter module. The second groove can be used to limit the position of the duct cover. During installation, a portion of the filter cover can extend into the second groove and engage with it to provide a limiting function.

[0050] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the embedding opening has lateral spaces on both sides of the filter module in a lateral direction transverse to the embedding direction, so as to allow a hand to reach into the lateral spaces to grasp the filter module.

[0051] Optionally, the filter cover has a limiting protrusion extending in a direction opposite to the storage space, the limiting protrusion being embedded in the lateral space to limit the filter cover in the lateral direction. This versatile lateral space allows for a more compact structure.

[0052] According to an alternative embodiment of this application, the filter cover includes a heat insulation element located on the side of the filter cover facing away from the storage space and separating the filter module from the storage space. The heat insulation element is specifically attached to the air duct cover and seals the embedded opening.

[0053] According to an optional embodiment of this application, the duct assembly may include a duct insulation element located between the duct cover and the duct. The duct insulation element has an installation opening, and the filter module is at least partially located within the installation opening.

[0054] The duct insulation component may have an air guide surface adjacent to the mounting opening and facing the duct, the air guide surface being inclined towards the storage space in the direction toward the filter module. This air guide surface allows more gas to pass through the filter element.

[0055] According to a second aspect of this application, embodiments of this application provide a refrigeration appliance, wherein the refrigeration appliance includes a storage space for accommodating items to be stored, an air duct for conveying gas to regulate the temperature of the storage space, and an air duct assembly as described in embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0056] The principles, features, and advantages of this application will be better understood below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings include:

[0057] Figure 1A refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is schematically shown;

[0058] Figure 2 The passage of the refrigeration appliance is schematically shown. Figure 1 A partial sectional view of section line AA in the diagram;

[0059] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A three-dimensional view of the air duct assembly is schematically shown from different perspectives;

[0060] Figure 5 and Figure 6 An exploded view of the air duct assembly is shown schematically;

[0061] Figure 7 The duct assembly is schematically shown in... Figure 2 A magnified view of the circled portion of the air duct assembly;

[0062] Figure 8A A perspective view of a container for an air duct assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is schematically shown;

[0063] Figure 8B The illustration schematically shows a sheet used for manufacturing a container in an exemplary embodiment according to this application;

[0064] Figure 9 schematically shown Figure 7 A magnified view of the circled area;

[0065] Figure 10 A perspective view of the duct cover of an air duct assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown schematically.

[0066] Figure 11 An exploded view of a duct cover according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is schematically shown;

[0067] Figure 12 and Figure 13 The passage of the air duct assembly according to exemplary embodiments of this application is schematically illustrated. Figure 1 A partial sectional view of section lines BB and CC in the diagram;

[0068] Figure 14 An exploded view of an air duct assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is schematically shown;

[0069] Figure 15 A partial cross-sectional view of an air duct assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is schematically shown;

[0070] Figure 16AThe container of an air duct assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is schematically shown;

[0071] Figure 16B The illustration schematically depicts a sheet used for manufacturing a container in an exemplary embodiment according to this application; and

[0072] Figure 17 An exploded view of the filter cover of an air duct assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown schematically.

[0073] Figure 18 and Figure 19 An exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the air duct assembly according to this application is shown schematically from different perspectives;

[0074] Figure 20 A partial cross-sectional view of the air duct assembly is shown schematically.

[0075] Figure 21 A portion of the air duct assembly is shown schematically;

[0076] Figure 22 Another partial cross-sectional view of the duct assembly is schematically shown; and

[0077] Figure 23 and Figure 24 A perspective view and an exploded view of the filter cover of an air duct assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application are schematically shown.

[0078] List of reference numerals

[0079] 100 Air duct assembly 2225 Handle bar

[0080] 10. Air duct cover 2226. Blade

[0081] 11 Embedded opening 2227 Folded edge

[0082] 111 Lateral space 223 Limiting flange

[0083] 12 ribbed 30 filter cover plate

[0084] 121 Front blocking surface 31 Panel

[0085] 122 Bottom blocking surface 32 Back plate

[0086] 13 Mounting slots 33 Reinforced structure

[0087] 131 Drainage channel bottom surface 331

[0088] 132 groove side 332 reinforcing rib

[0089] 14 Support frame 34 Receiving recess

[0090] 141 Accommodation space 35 First magnetic body

[0091] 1411 Middle section 351 End magnetic body

[0092] 1412 First slot 352 Intermediate magnetic body

[0093] 1413 Second slot 353 Middle section

[0094] 20 filter modules, 354 bends.

[0095] 21 Filter Cartridge 355 Foot Section

[0096] 22 containers, 350 free space

[0097] 221 Container body 36 Guide protrusion

[0098] 2211 Container cavity 361 Guide side

[0099] 2212 Container opening; 362 Mounting cavity

[0100] 2213 Front wall 37 Grip space

[0101] 2214 Rear wall 38 Adhesive component

[0102] 2215 Bottom wall 39 Thermal insulation component

[0103] 2216 Bottom opening 391 Through hole

[0104] 2217 Protrusion 301 Limiting Protrusion

[0105] 2218 Inner wall 40 Second magnetic body

[0106] 2219 Outer wall 50 Air duct insulation component

[0107] 222 Container handle 51 Installation opening

[0108] 2221 First-in-command section 52 air guide surface

[0109] 2222 Second-in-command section 200 storage space

[0110] 2223 Handle wall 300 air duct

[0111] 2224 Open the handle Detailed Implementation

[0112] To make the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial technical effects of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and several exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for explaining this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0113] First, to make it easier to understand, let's go back to the description in the background section. Existing refrigeration appliances have problems such as increased costs due to odor elimination, inconvenience for users, and easy damage.

[0114] To address at least one of the aforementioned technical problems or other possible technical problems, an exemplary embodiment of this application provides a duct assembly for a refrigeration appliance, the refrigeration appliance having a storage space for accommodating items to be stored and an air duct for conveying gas to regulate the temperature of the storage space. The duct assembly includes: an air duct cover for separating the storage space from the air duct, the air duct cover having an insertion opening; a filter module at least partially located in the air duct to filter gas flowing through the air duct, the filter module being capable of being inserted into the air duct from the storage space via the insertion opening in an insertion direction; and a filter cover, independently of the filter module, magnetically attached to the air duct cover to close the insertion opening, such that the filter cover can be detached from the air duct cover independently of the filter module.

[0115] To better understand this application, exemplary embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0116] Before proceeding with the detailed description, it should be noted that the directional terms used in the description refer to the conventional use of the refrigeration appliance for ease of description and should not be construed as absolute limitations on the corresponding features. In some of the accompanying drawings, arrows are used to schematically indicate the mutually perpendicular directions of height (H), width (W), and depth (D).

[0117] Figure 1 A refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is schematically illustrated. Figure 2 The passage of the refrigeration appliance is schematically shown. Figure 1 A partial sectional view of section line AA in the figure. In this embodiment, the refrigeration appliance may be implemented, for example, as a combined refrigerator with a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment. Those skilled in the art will understand that this application is also applicable to other types of refrigerators, such as standalone refrigerators or freezers. In addition, this application may also be applied to other refrigeration appliances besides refrigerators, such as wine cabinets, as needed. This application is particularly applicable to household refrigeration appliances.

[0118] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the refrigerator has a storage space 200 for accommodating items to be stored, which can be enclosed by the body of the refrigeration unit. The storage space 200 can be used as a refrigerator compartment, freezer compartment, or variable temperature compartment, etc.

[0119] The refrigerator also includes an air duct 300 and an air duct assembly 100 for conveying gas to regulate the temperature of the storage space 200. For example, the air duct 300 can be used to supply cooling gas to the storage space 200, thereby reducing the temperature within the storage space 200. Alternatively, the air duct 300 can be used as a return air duct.

[0120] In this embodiment, the air duct assembly 100 is arranged adjacent to the rear wall of the housing and is generally perpendicular to the depth direction D. The air duct assembly 100 may also be arranged in other locations, such as adjacent to the side wall of the housing.

[0121] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A perspective view of the air duct assembly 100 is schematically shown from different angles; Figure 5 and Figure 6 An exploded view of the air duct assembly 100 is shown schematically.

[0122] As can be seen, the air duct assembly 100 includes: an air duct cover 10 for separating the storage space 200 from the air duct 300, the air duct cover 10 having an embedded opening 11; and a filter module 20, which is at least partially located in the air duct 300 to filter the gas flowing through the air duct 300, the filter module 20 being capable of filtering the gas flowing through the air duct 300 along the embedded direction D. IN The filter module 20 is inserted into the air duct 300 through the insertion opening 11 from the storage space 200; and the filter cover 30 is attached to the air duct cover 10 by magnetic connection independently of the filter module 20 to close the insertion opening 11, so that the filter cover 30 can be removed from the air duct cover 10 independently of the filter module 20.

[0123] During disassembly, firstly, the filter cover 30 is removed independently from the duct cover 10 relative to the filter module 20 by releasing the magnetic connection. After the filter cover 30 has been removed from the duct cover 10, the filter module 20 is then removed through the insertion opening 11. The filter module 20 can be reinstalled after individual maintenance operations. During installation, the filter module 20 is first inserted from the storage space 200 into the duct 300 through the insertion opening 11, and then the filter cover 30 is attached to the duct cover 10 independently of the filter module 20 via a magnetic connection.

[0124] This helps ensure that maintenance of the filter module 20 can be performed correctly and conveniently. In particular, even inexperienced users can perform maintenance on the filter module 20 correctly and conveniently.

[0125] This design is particularly suitable for embodiments where the filter module 20 is made of heat-resistant material. "The filter module is made of heat-resistant material" means that the filter module 20 will not undergo structural changes or generate harmful substances under high temperatures. However, it should be understood that this does not mean the filter module 20 is a single piece made of the same heat-resistant material. Rather, the filter module 20 may include at least one component that is heat-resistant. In other words, the filter module 20 only includes heat-resistant components.

[0126] After a period of use, the function of the filter module 20 often deteriorates or even fails. By high-temperature treatment, such as baking the filter module 20 in an oven for a predetermined time, the filter module 20 can be cleaned, sterilized, and its function restored. The filter module 20 can withstand temperatures of, for example, 120°C to 300°C, optionally 150°C to 300°C, for 20 to 120 minutes, optionally 30 to 90 minutes, to restore its function. The filter module 20, after a period of use, can be renewed through high-temperature treatment for continued use without being discarded or replaced.

[0127] The filter module 20 is particularly capable of withstanding temperatures above 200°C, optionally above 220°C, for at least 20 minutes, and optionally at least 120 minutes. Therefore, users can conveniently bake the filter module 20 using a household oven. In particular, the filter module 20 can withstand baking in a conventional household oven at the highest set temperature for the longest set time without structural changes or the generation of harmful substances.

[0128] Compared to filter module 20, filter cover 30 does not need to be made of heat-resistant material. Filter cover 30 may be made of plastic, for example, at least in part. Alternatively, filter cover 30 may contain insulating foam.

[0129] Because the filter cover 30 is attached to the duct cover 10 independently of the filter module 20 via a magnetic connection, the filter cover 30 and the filter module 20 must be removed from the duct cover 10 separately. This prevents users from removing the filter cover 30 and filter module 20 together and mistakenly placing them together in the oven for baking. Normally, the filter module 20, which performs the filtering function, is installed or removed as a single unit with the filter cover 30. In comparison, the design of this application appears to slightly increase the complexity of the disassembly operation, but it effectively prevents damage to the filter cover 30 or filter module 20 due to incorrect operation.

[0130] In another embodiment, the filter module 20 can be updated using other operations, such as by ultraviolet irradiation or by immersion in a disinfectant solution.

[0131] like Figure 5As shown, the duct cover 10 may have a mounting groove 13 on the side facing the storage space 200. The mounting groove 13 includes a bottom surface 131 facing the storage space 200 and a side surface 132 surrounding the bottom surface 131. An insertion opening 11 may be formed at the bottom surface 131. The duct cover 10 may, for example, have two insertion openings 11. Two filter modules 20 may be respectively inserted through the two insertion openings 11 along the insertion direction D. IN It is inserted from the side of the air duct cover 10 facing the storage space 200 so as to be installed within the air duct 300. Insertion direction D IN The principal plane is approximately perpendicular to the duct cover 10. The two embedded openings 11 can be closed by the same filter cover 30. In this case, the filter cover 30 may have a longer longitudinal dimension. In this document, the term "principal plane" specifically refers to the plane parallel to the largest surface of the smallest geometric parallelepiped that exactly completely encloses the object.

[0132] like Figure 6 As shown, the duct cover 10 may have a support frame 14 on the side facing away from the storage space 200, the support frame 14 defining a receiving space 141 for the filter module 20. The filter module 20 can be installed into the receiving space 141 via an insertion opening 11. The support frame 14 can support the filter module 20 from below and limit the filter module 20 from above and sides. In this embodiment, the support frame 14 is integrally formed with the body of the duct cover 10.

[0133] The following is combined with Figure 7 A duct assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is further described. Figure 7 The air duct assembly 100 is schematically shown in... Figure 2 A magnified view of the circled area.

[0134] In this embodiment, the filter module 20 may include a filter element 21 and a container 22 for housing the filter element 21. The container 22 may optionally be made of metal, such as stainless steel, particularly 304 stainless steel.

[0135] The filter cover 30 may include a panel 31 made of metal and a back panel 32 made of plastic. The panel 31 is located on the side of the back panel 32 facing the storage space 200 and forms the surface of the filter cover 30 facing the storage space 200. The back panel 32 separates the panel 31 from the filter module 20. Thus, the panel 31 and the filter module 20 do not come into contact with each other. The plastic back panel 32 separates the panel 31 from the container 22, thereby hindering heat transfer between the panel 31 and the container 22. This prevents condensation from occurring on the surface of the filter cover 30 facing the storage space 200.

[0136] In other embodiments, the filter cover 30 may have other configurations. For example, the panel 31 may be made of plastic. Alternatively, the filter cover 30 may also be formed as a single piece.

[0137] In the installed state, the filter module 20 can contact the filter cover 30. The filter cover 30 prevents the filter module 20 from moving toward the storage space 200. However, the filter module 20 is not integrated with the filter cover 30 as a whole by means of welding, bonding, threaded connection or snap-fit ​​connection.

[0138] In another embodiment, the filter module 20 may be neither connected to nor in contact with the filter cover plate 30.

[0139] Figure 8A A perspective view of the container 22 of the air duct assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown schematically.

[0140] like Figure 8A As shown, container 22 may include a container body 221 and a container handle 222. The container body 221 forms a container cavity 2211 for receiving the filter element 21. The container handle 222 is configured to allow a user to grip the container handle 222 to install and / or remove the filter module 20 via the insert opening 11. Thus, during maintenance operations of the filter module 20, the user's hands can be prevented from becoming dirty by contact with the container body 221 or the filter element 21.

[0141] Combination Figure 7 and Figure 8A It can be seen that the container handle 222 is blocked by the filter cover 30 in the direction toward the storage space 200.

[0142] The container handle 222 can extend from the container body 221 toward the storage space 200. Optionally, the container handle 222 extends toward the storage space 200 at least into the embedded opening 11. This makes the filter module 20 easier to remove.

[0143] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the container handle 222 can extend beyond the duct cover 10 in the direction of the storage space 200. This further facilitates the easy removal of the filter module 20.

[0144] Figure 9 schematically shown Figure 7 A magnified view of the circled area.

[0145] Combination Figure 8A and Figure 9As can be seen, the container handle 222 may include a first handle section 2221 extending toward the storage space 200 and a second handle section 2222 extending downward from the first handle section 2221. The upper surface of the first handle section 2221 extends toward the storage space 200 in a downwardly inclined manner. This prevents condensate from flowing from the surface of the duct cover 10 toward the storage space 200 to the filter element 21. Condensate accumulating at the filter element 21 will reduce the filtration performance of the filter module 20. Therefore, by means of this configuration of the container handle 222, the filtration performance of the filter module 20 can be improved, and the frequency of maintenance required for the filter module 20 can be reduced.

[0146] The downward tilt angle of the upper surface of the first handle section 2221 is optionally between 0.1° and 6°, for example, 5°.

[0147] Optionally, the duct cover 10 may be provided with a protruding rib 12 located at the top of the embedded opening 11 and protruding toward the bottom of the embedded opening 11. The protruding rib 12 can prevent condensate from flowing from the surface of the duct cover 10 facing the storage space 200 to the filter module 20, especially the filter element 21.

[0148] The protrusion 12 can be transverse to the embedding direction D IN It extends laterally to the height direction H of the refrigeration appliance. The protrusion 12 effectively blocks interference approximately along the embedding direction D. IN The water flows to the filter module 20, especially the filter element 21.

[0149] The protrusion 12 may have a front blocking surface 121 and / or a bottom blocking surface 122. The front blocking surface 121 may face the storage space 200 and be perpendicular to the embedding direction D. IN The bottom blocking surface 122 extends upward at an angle from the front blocking surface 121 toward the direction away from the storage space 200. The angle of inclination of the bottom blocking surface 122 is optionally between 0.1° and 5°, for example, 1°. This effectively prevents condensate from flowing backward toward the filter element 21 along the bottom blocking surface 122. The protrusion 12 is particularly close to the storage space 200 compared to the filter element 21 of the filter module 20.

[0150] In particular, the protruding ridge 12 may be located directly above the downward-sloping first handle section 2221. See also Figure 7 Even if condensate flows backward from the surface of the duct cover 10 facing the storage space 200 through the gap between the duct cover 10 and the filter cover 30, it can only flow downward along the front blocking surface 121 of the protrusion 12 and drip onto the first handle section 2221, and then flow forward along the first handle section 2221. Finally, the condensate can flow out through the lower gap between the duct cover 10 and the filter cover 30 without flowing to the filter module 20.

[0151] According to an exemplary embodiment of this application, the filter cover 30 may have a protruding reinforcing structure 33 and a receiving recess 34 recessed relative to the reinforcing structure 33 on the side facing away from the storage space 200. The receiving recess 34 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the filter cover 30 and is configured to receive a container handle 222. In this document, the “longitudinal direction” of an object should be understood in particular as the direction parallel to the longest edge of the smallest geometric parallelepiped that just completely surrounds the object.

[0152] See Figure 9 The container handle 222 and the filter cover 30 can be positioned, for example, in the embedding direction D. IN A gap is formed on top.

[0153] Back Figure 8A The container 22 may include, for example, at least two container bodies 221 and a container handle 222. Each container body 221 may form a spaced-apart container cavity 2211 for receiving the filter element 21. The container handle 222 may be configured to allow a user to grip the container handle 222 to install and / or remove the filter module 20 via the insert opening 11. The container 22 may be formed by bending a single sheet. A sheet with a specific shape can be formed through stamping and / or cutting processes. A sheet can be bent through a pre-designed bending process to form a container 22 including at least two container bodies 221 and a container handle 222. Therefore, the container 22 has both a more complex structure that meets usage requirements and can be manufactured in a cost-effective manner.

[0154] The container cavity 2211 may have an upwardly opening container opening 2212 through which the filter element 21 can enter the container cavity 2211. Each of the at least two container bodies 221 includes a front wall 2213 near the filter cover plate 30, extending along the embedding direction D. IN The container 2211 includes a rear wall 2214 opposite to the front wall 2213 and a bottom wall 2215 connecting the front wall 2213 and the rear wall 2214 and opposite to the container opening 2212. In this embodiment, the front walls 2213 of the at least two container bodies 221 are coplanar and continuous, and the rear walls 2214 of the at least two container bodies 221 are coplanar and continuous. This configuration of the container 22 satisfies both usage requirements and is suitable for bending from a single sheet.

[0155] In particular, the bottom walls 2215 of the at least two container bodies 221 may be coplanar and continuous, and each has a bottom opening 2216. At least one of the at least two container bodies 221 may include a tab 2217 that bends upward from the edge of an adjacent container body 221 with respect to its bottom opening 2216. The tab 2217 may separate the container cavity 2211 of the at least one container body 221 from the container cavity 2211 of the adjacent container body 221. This provides an implementation of the container 22 that allows for a more complex structure to meet usage requirements while being manufactured in a cost-effective manner.

[0156] Figure 8B A sheet for manufacturing container 22 is schematically illustrated in an exemplary embodiment according to this application. The sheet can be bent along the contour shown by the dashed lines. By bending, the sheet can be formed as shown... Figure 8A Container 22 is shown. Figure 8B In the diagram, 2213', 2214', 2215', and 2217' are designated as the sheet portions that will serve as the front wall 2213, rear wall 2214, bottom wall 2215, and tab 2217 in container 22, respectively. 2221' and 2222' are designated as the first handle section 2221 and the second handle section 2222 in container 22, respectively. Through the structural design of container 22, the sheet material used to manufacture container 22 can have a more regular shape. This helps simplify the manufacturing process and reduces material waste.

[0157] The following is combined with Figures 10 to 13 Further description of the air duct assembly 100 according to exemplary embodiments of the present application, particularly its air duct cover 10. Figure 10 A perspective view of the duct cover 10 of the duct assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown schematically. Figure 11 An exploded view of the duct cover 10 is shown schematically. Figure 12 and Figure 13 The passage of the air duct assembly 100 is schematically shown. Figure 1 Partial sectional views of section lines BB and CC in the diagram.

[0158] from Figures 10 to 13 As can be seen, the filter cover 30 may be provided with at least one first magnetic body 35. The air duct assembly 100 may also include a second magnetic body 40 connected to the air duct cover 10. The filter cover 30 is attached to the air duct cover 10 by means of the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic body 35 and the second magnetic body 40. The first magnetic body 35 and the second magnetic body 40 may both be formed of magnets, for example, or may be formed of a magnet and a metal that can be attracted by a magnet, respectively.

[0159] In this embodiment, the filter cover 30 may include a front panel 31 and a back panel 32, the front panel 31 being located on the side of the back panel 32 facing the storage space 200 and forming the surface of the filter cover 30 facing the storage space 200. As an example, the filter cover 30 may also include an adhesive 38 for bonding the front panel 31 to the back panel 32.

[0160] The first magnet 35 can be sandwiched between the panel 31 and the back plate 32. This helps protect the first magnet 35 from moisture.

[0161] The filter cover 30 may have a guide protrusion 36 on the side facing away from the storage space 200, and the guide protrusion 36 correspondingly has a mounting cavity 362 for mounting the first magnet 35 on the side facing the storage space 200. The guide protrusion 36 may have a guide side 361, the guide side 361 being such that the guide protrusion 36 is positioned along the embedding direction D. IN The narrowing method relative to the embedding direction D IN Inclined. The guide protrusion 36 can guide the filter cover 30 to be correctly positioned relative to the duct cover 10 when the filter cover 30 is installed, using the guide side 361. On the other hand, it can be used to accommodate the first magnetic body 35 and allow the first magnetic body 35 to be closer to the second magnetic body 40.

[0162] The at least one first magnetic body 35 may include at least two end magnetic bodies 351 located at both ends of the filter cover plate 30 and an intermediate magnetic body 352 centrally arranged relative to the filter cover plate 30. The end magnetic bodies 351 may be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the filter cover plate 30. The intermediate magnetic body 352 may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the filter cover plate 30.

[0163] The filter cover 30 may have a protruding reinforcing rib 332 on the side facing away from the storage space 200. The reinforcing rib 332 may extend longitudinally between the two end magnets 351. The intermediate magnet 352 may be located above or below the reinforcing rib 332. This arrangement effectively prevents deformation of the filter cover 30. Especially when a filter cover 30 is used to close more than two insertion openings 11, and the longitudinal dimension of the filter cover 30 is large, the combination of the reinforcing rib 332 with the end magnets 351 and the intermediate magnet 352 helps prevent deformation of the filter cover 30. The reinforcing rib 332 extends uninterruptedly from the front of one insertion opening 11 to the front of another insertion opening 11.

[0164] The first magnetic body 35 may have a middle section 353 adjacent to the second magnetic body 40, two bent sections 354 extending from both ends of the middle section 353 in a direction toward the storage space 200, and two foot sections 355 extending from the ends of the two bent sections 354 away from the middle section 353 in mutually distancing directions. A gap 350 is formed between the surface of the filter cover 30 facing the storage space 200 and the middle section 353. This configuration of the first magnetic body 35 helps to enhance the magnetic attraction effect and facilitates installation. As an example, the foot sections 355 can be bonded to the back plate 32 by adhesive or strips.

[0165] The first magnetic body 35 is, for example, an iron sheet. Correspondingly, the second magnetic body 40 can be formed by a magnet.

[0166] Along the embedding direction D IN The first magnetic body 35 can be staggered from the filter module 20. This helps to expose the filter module 20 as much as possible within the air duct 300, allowing the airflow within the air duct 300 to more fully travel along the direction perpendicular to the embedding direction D. IN The gas flow direction passes through the filter module 20.

[0167] Along the embedding direction D IN Observation shows that the first magnetic body 35 can be arranged on opposite sides of the embedded opening 11. This helps to give the air duct assembly 100 a compact and stable structure.

[0168] See Figure 12 and Figure 13 The first magnetic body 35 and the second magnetic body 40 can be arranged opposite each other with the air duct cover 10 between them. This helps to strengthen the magnetic attraction.

[0169] Figure 12 It is also shown that the groove side 132 of the mounting groove 13 of the duct cover 10 can be such that the mounting groove 13 is positioned along the embedding direction D. IN The narrowing method relative to the embedding direction D IN The inclined groove side 132 is used to guide the correct installation of the filter cover 30. The inclination angle of the groove side 132 is specifically matched with the inclination angle of the guide side 361 of the aforementioned guide protrusion 36. The groove side 132 can mate with the guide side 361 to guide the correct installation of the filter cover 30. In the installed state, the groove side 132 and the guide side 361 are in surface contact.

[0170] According to an exemplary embodiment of this application, the filter cover 30 may be arranged to protrude relative to the air duct cover 10 in the direction toward the storage space 200, see [link to example]. Figure 7 and Figure 9 Therefore, the filter cover 30 can be easily removed.

[0171] Optionally, at least one side of the filter cover 30 may extend obliquely toward the duct cover 10, thereby forming a gripping space 37 between the at least one side and the surface of the duct cover 10 facing the storage space 200. The gripping space 37 may be obscured by the filter cover 30 in the direction toward the storage space 200. A user's hand can enter the gripping space 37 to remove the filter cover 30. In the installed state, the gripping space 37 is not exposed to the user's view.

[0172] Figure 14 An exploded view of an air duct assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is schematically shown. Figure 15 A partial cross-sectional view of the air duct assembly 100 is shown schematically. Figure 15 and Figure 7 A portion of the air duct assembly 100 is similarly shown. Figure 16A The container 22 of the air duct assembly 100 is shown schematically. Figure 17 An exploded view of the filter cover 30 of the air duct assembly 100 is shown schematically.

[0173] Similar to the embodiments described above, in this embodiment, the air duct assembly 100 includes an air duct cover 10, a filter module 20, and a filter cover 30.

[0174] The duct cover 10 may have a support frame 14 on the side facing away from the storage space 200, the support frame 14 defining a receiving space 141 for the filter module 20. Here, the support frame 14 may be formed as a separate component. The support frame 14 may, for example, be perpendicular to the embedding direction D. IN The direction is installed onto the main body of the air duct cover 10.

[0175] The filter module 20 includes a filter element 21 and a container 22 for housing the filter element 21. Figure 16A As shown, container 22 may include at least two container bodies 221 and a container handle 222. Each container body 221 forms a spaced-apart container cavity 2211 for accommodating the filter element 21.

[0176] The container handle 222 may include a handle wall 2223 having at least two handle openings 2224 and a handle strip 2225 located between adjacent handle openings 2224. Optionally, the container handle 222 may also include a flap 2226 that bends rearward from the edge of the handle strip 2225 adjacent to the handle opening 2224. This design of the container handle 222 is convenient for the user to grip and easy to manufacture.

[0177] The container cavity 2211 has an upwardly opening container opening 2212 through which the filter element 21 can enter the container cavity 2211. Each of the at least two container bodies 221 includes a front wall 2213 near the filter cover plate 30, extending along the embedding direction D. IN The container 22 includes a rear wall 2214 opposite to the front wall 2213 and a bottom wall 2215 connecting the front wall 2213 and the rear wall 2214 and opposite to the container opening 2212. The container 22 may be formed, in particular, from a single sheet bent.

[0178] The container handle 222 may be located between two adjacent container bodies 221. The handle wall 2223 of the container handle 222 is coplanar and continuous with the front wall 2213 of the two adjacent container bodies 221.

[0179] Optionally, the width of the handle wall 2223 is equal to or greater than twice the height of the two adjacent container bodies 221. This helps to reduce material waste of the sheet material used to manufacture the container 22 while meeting the usage requirements of the container 22.

[0180] In an exemplary embodiment, the handle wall 2223 may protrude downwards by a first distance d1 relative to the front walls 2213 of the two adjacent container bodies 221. The two adjacent container bodies 221 may have an inner wall 2218 and an outer wall 2219 connected between the front wall 2213 and the rear wall 2214 and opposite to each other. The inner wall 2218 is adjacent to the container handle 222, and the outer wall 2219 is away from the container handle 222. The inner wall 2218 and the front wall 2213 of the two adjacent container bodies 221 are aligned along the embedding direction D. IN A second distance d2 is provided. The second distance d2 may be equal to or greater than the first distance d1. The handle strip 2225 may have a relatively long length to facilitate user operation. While ensuring that the handle strip 2225 has a relatively long length, the front wall 2213 of the container body 221 can still have a relatively small height dimension, and the container 22 can still be made from a single sheet without complicating the shape of the required sheet. This particularly helps to reduce material waste of the sheet used to manufacture the container 22 while meeting the usage requirements of the container 22.

[0181] Optionally, the handle wall 2223 may project upward relative to the front wall 2213 of the two adjacent container bodies 221. This also allows the handle strip 2225 to have a longer length, thus facilitating user use. The container handle 222 may also include, for example, a folded edge 2227 that bends backward from the upper edge of the handle wall 2223. In mass production of containers 22, the upward projection of the handle wall 2223 and the folded edge 2227 do not substantially increase the area of ​​the required sheet material.

[0182] In an exemplary embodiment of this application, the configuration design of container 22 allows it to have both a more complex structure that meets usage requirements and the ability to be bent from a single sheet. Furthermore, it reduces material waste from the sheet used to manufacture container 22.

[0183] Figure 16B A sheet for manufacturing container 22 is schematically illustrated in an exemplary embodiment according to this application. The sheet can be bent along the contour shown by the dashed lines. By bending, the sheet can be formed as shown... Figure 16A Container 22 is shown. Figure 16B In the diagram, 2213', 2214', 2215', 2218', and 2219' respectively mark the sheet portions that will serve as the front wall 2213, rear wall 2214, bottom wall 2215, inner side wall 2218, and outer side wall 2219 in container 22. Similarly, 2223', 2225', 2226', and 2227' respectively mark the sheet portions that will serve as the handle wall 2223, handle strip 2225, flap 2226, and folded edge 2227 in container 22. Figure 16B As can be seen, the sheet portion 2223' used to form the handle wall 2223 and the sheet portion 2227' used to form the fold 2227 extend beyond the sheet portion 2213' used to form the front wall 2213. This makes the shape of the sheet less regular, but does not increase material waste. Before the sheets are separated, the sheet portions 2223' and 2227' of one sheet can extend between the sheet portions 2214' of another sheet.

[0184] like Figure 17 As shown, the filter cover 30 may include a front panel 31 and a back panel 32, the front panel 31 being located on the side of the back panel 32 facing the storage space 200 and forming the surface of the filter cover 30 facing the storage space 200.

[0185] The filter cover 30 may also include a first magnetic element 35, which is, for example, mounted on the back plate 32. The filter cover 30 may be attached to the duct cover 10 by means of the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element 35 and the second magnetic element. The second magnetic element may be mounted, for example, within the support frame 14. In this embodiment, the first magnetic element 35 is, for example, a magnet, and the second magnetic element is, for example, made of iron.

[0186] The filter cover 30 may have a protruding reinforcing structure 33 on the side facing away from the storage space 200, the reinforcing structure 33 extending along the longitudinal direction of the filter cover 30. The reinforcing structure 33 may have a drainage groove 331 extending along the height direction H of the refrigeration appliance. Thus, even if condensate flows from the surface of the duct cover 10 facing the storage space 200 through the gap between the duct cover 10 and the filter cover 30 to the rear of the filter cover 30, it will flow downwards through the drainage groove 331 and will not flow into the container 22.

[0187] Optionally, the filter cover 30 may also include a heat insulation element 39. The heat insulation element 39 may be made of a heat insulation material, such as heat insulation foam. The heat insulation element 39 may separate the front panel 31 and / or back panel 32 of the filter cover 30 from the filter module 20. The heat insulation element 39 may, for example, be attached to the side of the back panel 32 facing away from the storage space 200.

[0188] Figure 18 and Figure 19 An exploded view of the air duct assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown schematically from different perspectives. Figure 20 A partial cross-sectional view of the air duct assembly 100 is schematically shown. Figure 20 and Figure 7 and Figure 15 A portion of the air duct assembly 100 is similarly shown. Figure 21 A partial enlarged view of the duct assembly 100 is schematically shown, wherein the duct cover 10 is not shown. Figure 22 Another partial cross-sectional view of the duct assembly 100 is shown schematically.

[0189] Similar to the embodiments described above, in this embodiment, the duct assembly 100 includes a duct cover 10, a filter module 20, and a filter cover 30. The duct assembly 100 may also include a duct insulation 50 located between the duct cover 10 and the duct 300. The duct insulation 50 has an installation opening 51, and the filter module 20 is at least partially located within the installation opening 51. This design is particularly suitable for duct assemblies 100 where the duct 300 is a supply air duct.

[0190] The air duct insulation 50 may also have an air guide surface 52 adjacent to the mounting opening 51 and facing the air duct 300. The air guide surface 52 is inclined towards the storage space 200 in the direction towards the filter module 20. The air guide surface 52 allows more gas to pass through the filter element 21. See also Figure 10 Such air guide surfaces 52 can be provided above and below the installation opening 51.

[0191] The air duct 300 has a bypass portion located on the side of the filter module 20 facing away from the storage space 200, through which a portion of the gas can bypass the filter module 20. This reduces the impact of the filter module 20 on the cooling efficiency. The filter module 20 can, for example, be arranged such that the filter element 21 is along the embedding direction D. IN Basically, it does not extend beyond the rear main plane of the air duct insulation component 50.

[0192] Combination Figure 18 and Figure 21 It can be seen that the embedding opening 11 is transverse to the embedding direction D IN Horizontal direction D T The filter module 20 has lateral spaces 111 on both sides to allow a user to reach into the lateral spaces 111 to grasp the filter module 20. The lateral spaces 111 may, for example, occupy more than 10%, particularly 15%, of the width of the embedding opening 11 along the lateral spaces 111. Lateral direction D T In particular, it is transverse to the gas flow direction within the 300-degree air duct.

[0193] See Figure 20 The filter cover 30 may be provided with a limiting protrusion 301 extending in the direction opposite to the storage space 200. The limiting protrusion 301 may extend in the embedding direction D. IN Embedded in the lateral space 111, so as in the lateral direction D T The upper limit filter cover 30. Thus, in the installed state, the lateral space 111 can cooperate with the limiting protrusion 301 to provide a limiting function, and after the duct cover 10 is removed, the lateral space 111 allows the user to easily grip the filter module 20. This multifunctional lateral space 111 makes the structure more compact.

[0194] The duct cover 10 may have a support frame 14 on the side facing away from the storage space 200, the support frame 14 defining a receiving space 141 for the filter module 20.

[0195] The support frame 14 may include a transverse support in the embedding direction D. IN The transverse direction D of the gas flow direction T Two partitions 142 extending from both sides of the accommodating space 141 toward the middle divide the accommodating space 141 into two sections in the lateral direction D. TThe storage space 141 is divided into several sections: a middle section 1411 located between the two partitions 142, a first groove 1412 located above the partitions 142, and a second groove 1413 located below the partitions 142. This simple and easily moldable partition 142 allows the storage space 141 to be divided into multifunctional sections. The middle section 1411 can be used to receive the container body 221 and filter element 21 of the filter module 20. The first groove 1412 can be used to limit the position of the filter module 20. The second groove 1413 can be used to limit the position of the duct cover 10. During installation, a limiting protrusion 301 extends through the lateral space 111 into the second groove 1413 and engages with it to provide a limiting function. The openings of the middle section 1411, the first groove 1412, and the second groove 1413 all face the storage space 200.

[0196] The filter module 20 includes a filter element 21 and a container 22 for housing the filter element 21. Figure 18 , Figure 19 and Figure 21 As shown, container 22 may include a container body 221 and a limiting flange 223. The container body 221 has a container cavity 2211 for receiving the filter element 21. The limiting flange 223 is located transverse to the embedding direction D. IN The transverse direction D of the gas flow direction T The upper part extends outward from both sides of the container body 221. The air duct cover 10 is provided with a first groove 1412, and the limiting flange 223 can move along the embedding direction D. IN It is inserted into the first slot 1412 to limit the filter module 20 in the direction of gas flow.

[0197] As described above, as an example, the first groove 1412 may be formed in the support frame 14. However, it should be understood that the first groove 1412 may be provided in the duct cover 10 independently of the support frame 14.

[0198] See Figure 21 The dimensions of the first groove 1412 in the gas flow direction are particularly possible along the embedding direction D. IN This reduces the difficulty of installing the filter module 20.

[0199] The limiting flange 223 may be formed only along the embedding direction D of the container 22. IN On the latter half. This also helps to reduce the difficulty of installing filter module 20.

[0200] Optionally, container 22 may be provided with a heat-recoverable color-changing zone. The color-changing zone may change color slowly and can be restored to its original color by high-temperature treatment. The color-changing zone may be located on the side of the container body 221 facing the storage space 200.

[0201] The discoloration zone may contain a material that changes color due to oxidation, such as silver. With increased use, the silver in the discoloration zone oxidizes and turns black. This color change serves as a reminder to the user that the filter module 20 needs high-temperature treatment. During high-temperature treatment, the filter module 20 is cleaned, sterilized, and its function is restored, while the discoloration zone regains its original color. The filter module 20 can then be reinstalled into the air duct assembly 100, and the discoloration zone can continue to function until the next maintenance operation.

[0202] The color-changing area can be formed in the form of text, which becomes visible after the color change, thus displaying a reminder message to the user. Optionally, the color-changing area can be applied to container 22 as a silver coating. The outline of the silver coating can be in the shape of specific text. Alternatively, the color-changing area may include a silver coating and a silver overlay layer covering the silver coating. The overlay layer may have a cutout structure in the shape of specific text, through which the silver coating can be exposed.

[0203] Figure 23 and Figure 24 A perspective view and an exploded view of the filter cover 30 of an air duct assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application are schematically shown.

[0204] The filter cover 30 may include a front panel 31 and a back panel 32, the front panel 31 being located on the side of the back panel 32 facing the storage space 200 and forming the surface of the filter cover 30 facing the storage space 200. A first magnet 35 may be sandwiched between the front panel 31 and the back panel 32.

[0205] The filter cover 30 may also include a heat insulation element 39, which is located on the side of the filter cover 30 away from the storage space 200 and separates the filter module 20 from the storage space 200.

[0206] Combination Figure 22 As can be seen, the heat insulation element 39 can be attached to the air duct cover 10 and close the embedded opening 11. This enhances the heat insulation effect and prevents condensate from flowing from the surface of the air duct cover 10 facing the storage space 200 to the filter element 21.

[0207] The heat insulation element 39 may have a through hole 391. A limiting protrusion 301 formed on the back plate 32 may pass through the through hole 391. Along the embedding direction D IN Upon observation, the first magnetic body 35 is also located within the area of ​​the through hole 391.

[0208] Optionally, the upper side of the filter cover 30 extends obliquely toward the duct cover 10, thereby forming a gripping space 37 between the upper side and the surface of the duct cover 10 facing the storage space 200. The gripping space 37 can be shielded by the filter cover 30 in the direction toward the storage space 200. The lower edge of the upper side is particularly possible along the lateral direction D. T It extends upwards at an angle to prevent condensation from accumulating on the upper side. The lower edge of the upper side may extend at an angle relative to the upper edge of the upper side. For example, the left end of the lower edge may be higher than the right end, thereby facilitating the flow of condensation that may flow into the gripping space 37 and out of the gripping space 37.

[0209] Although specific embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of this application, even when only a single embodiment is described with respect to a particular feature. The feature examples provided in this application are intended to be illustrative and not limiting, unless otherwise stated. In practice, multiple features may be combined with each other as needed and where technically feasible. In particular, features from different embodiments may also be combined with each other. Various substitutions, modifications, and alterations are conceived without departing from the spirit and scope of this application.

Claims

1. A duct assembly for a refrigeration appliance, the refrigeration appliance having a storage space (200) for accommodating items to be stored and an air duct (300) for conveying gas to regulate the temperature of the storage space (200), wherein, The air duct assembly (100) includes: A duct cover (10) for separating the storage space (200) from the duct (300), the duct cover (10) having an embedded opening (11); A filter module (20), at least partially located in the air duct (300) to filter gas flowing through the air duct (300), the filter module (20) being capable of being inserted into the air duct (300) from the storage space (200) via an insertion opening (11) in an insertion direction; and The filter cover (30), which is attached to the duct cover (10) by magnetic connection independently of the filter module (20) to close the embedded opening (11), so that the filter cover (30) can be removed from the duct cover (10) independently of the filter module (20).

2. The air duct assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The filter module (20) is made of heat-resistant material, and in particular, the filter module (20) is able to withstand temperatures above 200°C, optionally above 220°C, for at least 20 minutes, optionally at least 120 minutes; and / or The filter cover (30) is at least partially made of plastic.

3. The air duct assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The filter module (20) includes a filter element (21) and a container (22) for housing the filter element (21), the container (22) being made of metal; and / or The filter cover (30) includes a panel (31) made of metal and a back panel (32) made of plastic. The panel (31) is located on the side of the back panel (32) facing the storage space (200) and forms the surface of the filter cover (30) facing the storage space (200). The back panel (32) separates the panel (31) from the filter module (20).

4. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The filter module (20) includes a filter element (21) and a container (22) for receiving the filter element (21). The container (22) includes a container body (221) and a container handle (222). The container body (221) has a container cavity (2211) for receiving the filter element (21). The container handle (222) is configured to allow a user to grip the container handle (222) to install and / or remove the filter module (20) via an insert opening (11).

5. The air duct assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The container handle (222) is obstructed by a filter cover (30) in the direction toward the storage space (200); and / or The container handle (222) extends from the container body (221) toward the storage space (200); and / or The container handle (222) extends at least into the embedded opening (11) toward the storage space (200); and / or The container handle (222) extends beyond the air duct cover (10) toward the storage space (200).

6. The air duct assembly according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The container handle (222) includes a first handle section (2221) extending toward the storage space (200) and a second handle section (2222) extending downward from the first handle section (2221), the upper surface of the first handle section (2221) extending toward the storage space (200) in a downwardly inclined manner.

7. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 4-6, wherein, The filter cover (30) has a protruding reinforcing structure (33) on the side facing away from the storage space (200) and a receiving recess (34) recessed relative to the reinforcing structure (33), the receiving recess (34) extending along the longitudinal direction of the filter cover (30) and configured to receive a container handle (222); and / or A gap is formed between the container handle (222) and the filter cover (30) in the embedding direction; and / or The filter cover (30) has a protruding reinforcing structure (33) on the side facing away from the storage space (200), the reinforcing structure (33) extends along the longitudinal direction of the filter cover (30) and has a drainage groove (331) extending along the height direction of the refrigeration appliance.

8. The air duct assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The container handle (222) includes a handle wall (2223) having at least two handle openings (2224) and a handle strip (2225) located between adjacent handle openings (2224), wherein the container handle (222) may optionally also include a flap (2226) that bends rearward from the edge of the handle strip (2225) adjacent to the handle opening (2224).

9. The air duct assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The container (22) includes at least two container bodies (221) and a container handle (222), each container body (221) having a spaced-apart container cavity (2211) for receiving a filter element (21), the container handle (222) being configured to allow a user to grip the container handle (222) to install and / or remove the filter module (20) via an insert opening (11), the container (22) being particularly formed from a single sheet bent.

10. The air duct assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The container cavity (2211) has an upwardly opening container opening (2212) through which the filter element (21) can enter the container cavity (2211); each of the at least two container bodies (221) includes a front wall (2213) near the filter cover plate (30), a rear wall (2214) opposite to the front wall (2213) in the embedding direction, and a bottom wall (2215) connecting the front wall (2213) and the rear wall (2214) and opposite to the container opening (2212).

11. The air duct assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The bottom walls (2215) of the at least two container bodies (221) are coplanar and continuous, and each has a bottom opening (2216). At least one of the at least two container bodies (221) includes a tab (2217) that bends upward from the edge of the adjacent container body (221) of its bottom opening (2216), the tab (2217) separating the container cavity (2211) of the at least one container body (221) from the container cavity (2211) of the adjacent container body (221).

12. The air duct assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The container handle (222) is located between two adjacent container bodies (221) and includes a handle wall (2223), the handle wall (2223) having at least two handle openings (2224) and a handle strip (2225) located between adjacent handle openings (2224), wherein, The handle wall (2223) of the container handle (222) is coplanar and continuous with the front walls (2213) of the two adjacent container bodies (221); and / or The width of the handle wall (2223) is equal to or greater than twice the height of the two adjacent container bodies (221); and / or The handle wall (2223) protrudes downwards by a first distance relative to the front wall (2213) of the two adjacent container bodies (221), each of the two adjacent container bodies (221) having an inner wall (2218) and an outer wall (2219) connected between the front wall (2213) and the rear wall (2214) and opposite to each other, the inner wall (2218) being adjacent to the container handle (222) and the outer wall (2219) being away from the container handle (222), wherein the inner wall (2218) of the two adjacent container bodies (221) and the front wall (2213) are spaced apart by a second distance in the embedding direction, the second distance being equal to or greater than the first distance.

13. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The filter module (20) includes a filter element (21) and a container (22) for accommodating the filter element (21). The container (22) includes a container body (221) and a limiting flange (223). The container body (221) has a container cavity (2211) for accommodating the filter element (21). The limiting flange (223) extends outward from both sides of the container body (221) in a transverse direction that is transverse to the embedding direction and the gas flow direction. The duct cover (10) is provided with a first groove (1412), and the limiting flange (223) can be inserted into the first groove (1412) along the embedding direction to limit the filter module (20) in the gas flow direction, wherein the size of the first groove (1412) in the gas flow direction is particularly reduced along the embedding direction.

14. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein, The filter cover (30) is provided with at least one first magnetic body (35), and the air duct assembly (100) further includes a second magnetic body (40) connected to the air duct cover (10). The filter cover (30) is attached to the air duct cover (10) by means of the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic body (35) and the second magnetic body (40).

15. The air duct assembly according to claim 14, wherein, Along the embedding direction, the first magnetic body (35) is staggered from the filter module (20); and / or Viewed along the embedding direction, the first magnetic body (35) is arranged on opposite sides of the embedding opening (11); and / or The first magnetic body (35) and the second magnetic body (40) are arranged opposite each other across the air duct cover (10).

16. The air duct assembly according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The at least one first magnetic body (35) includes at least two end magnetic bodies (351) located at both ends of the filter cover (30) and an intermediate magnetic body (352) centrally arranged relative to the filter cover (30), wherein the end magnetic bodies (351) are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the filter cover (30) and the intermediate magnetic body (352) is arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the filter cover (30).

17. The air duct assembly according to claim 16, wherein, The filter cover (30) has a protruding reinforcing rib (332) on the side facing away from the storage space (200). The reinforcing rib (332) extends along the longitudinal direction of the filter cover (30) between the two end magnets (351), and the middle magnet (352) is located above or below the reinforcing rib (332).

18. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 14-17, wherein, The first magnetic body (35) has a middle section (353) adjacent to the second magnetic body (40), two bent sections (354) extending from both ends of the middle section (353) in a direction toward the storage space (200), and two foot sections (355) extending from the ends of the two bent sections (354) away from the middle section (353) in a mutually distancing direction, wherein a free space (350) is formed between the surface of the filter cover (30) toward the storage space (200) and the middle section (353); and / or The first magnetic body (35) is an iron sheet.

19. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 14-18, wherein, The filter cover (30) has a guide protrusion (36) on the side facing away from the storage space (200), the guide protrusion (36) having a corresponding mounting cavity (362) for mounting a first magnet (35) on the side facing the storage space (200), the guide protrusion (36) having a guide side (361) that is inclined relative to the embedding direction in such a way that the guide protrusion (36) narrows along the embedding direction.

20. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 14-19, wherein, The filter cover (30) includes a front panel (31) and a back panel (32), the front panel (31) being located on the side of the back panel (32) facing the storage space (200) and forming the surface of the filter cover (30) facing the storage space (200), and a first magnet (35) being sandwiched between the front panel (31) and the back panel (32).

21. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-20, wherein, The duct cover (10) has a protruding ridge (12) located at the top of the embedded opening (11) and protruding toward the bottom of the embedded opening (11), wherein, The protrusion (12) extends transversely to the embedding direction and transversely to the height direction of the refrigeration appliance; and / or The protrusion (12) has a front blocking surface (121) facing the storage space (200), the front blocking surface (121) being perpendicular to the embedding direction; and / or The protrusion (12) has a bottom blocking surface (122) that extends upwardly from the front blocking surface (121) of the protrusion (12) toward the direction away from the storage space (200), and the angle of inclination of the bottom blocking surface (122) is optionally between 0.1° and 5°, for example, 1°; and / or The protrusion (12) is closer to the storage space (200) than the filter core (21) of the filter module (20).

22. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-21, wherein, The filter cover (30) protrudes relative to the duct cover (10) in the direction toward the storage space (200); and / or At least one side of the filter cover (30) extends obliquely toward the duct cover (10) to form a gripping space (37) between the at least one side and the surface of the duct cover (10) facing the storage space (200), the gripping space (37) being covered by the filter cover (30) in the direction toward the storage space (200).

23. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein, The duct cover (10) has a mounting groove (13) on the side facing the storage space (200). The mounting groove (13) includes a bottom surface (131) facing the storage space (200) and a side surface (132) surrounding the bottom surface (131). An insertion opening (11) is formed at the bottom surface (131), and the side surface (132) is inclined relative to the insertion direction in such a way that the mounting groove (13) narrows along the insertion direction.

24. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-23, wherein, The duct cover (10) has a support frame (14) on the side facing away from the storage space (200), the support frame (14) defining a receiving space (141) for the filter module (20), which can be installed into the receiving space (141) via an embedded opening (11).

25. The air duct assembly according to claim 24, wherein, The support frame (14) includes two partitions (142) extending from both sides of the receiving space (141) toward the middle in a transverse direction transverse to the embedding direction and the gas flow direction, such that the receiving space (141) is divided into a middle portion (1411) located between the two partitions (142) in the transverse direction, a first groove (1412) located above the partitions (142) and a second groove (1413) located below the partitions (142).

26. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-25, wherein, The embedding opening (11) has lateral spaces (111) on both sides of the filter module (20) in a lateral direction transverse to the embedding direction, so as to allow a hand to reach into the lateral spaces (111) to grasp the filter module (20).

27. The air duct assembly according to claim 26, wherein, The filter cover (30) is provided with a limiting protrusion (301) extending in the direction opposite to the storage space, the limiting protrusion (301) being embedded in the transverse space (111) to limit the filter cover (30) in the transverse direction.

28. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-27, wherein, The filter cover (30) includes a heat insulation element (39) located on the side of the filter cover (30) facing away from the storage space and separating the filter module (20) from the storage space. The heat insulation element (39) is in particular attached to the air duct cover (10) and closes the embedded opening (11).

29. The air duct assembly according to any one of claims 1-28, wherein, The duct assembly (100) includes a duct insulation (50) located between the duct cover (10) and the duct (300), the duct insulation (50) having an installation opening (51), and the filter module (20) being at least partially located within the installation opening (51). The air duct insulation component (50) has an air guide surface (52) adjacent to the installation opening (51) and facing the air duct (300), the air guide surface (52) being inclined towards the storage space in the direction toward the filter module (20).

30. A refrigeration appliance, wherein, The refrigeration appliance includes a storage space (200) for accommodating items to be stored, an air duct (300) for conveying gas to regulate the temperature of the storage space (200), and an air duct assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1-29.

Images