Ice-making module, ice-making device waterway system, control method and controller

Abstract

This application relates to the field of ice-making equipment technology, and discloses an ice-making module and a water circuit system for an ice-making device. The ice-making module includes: a base; an ice-making cylinder disposed on the base, the ice-making cylinder forming an ice-making cavity; and a continuous spiral extrusion structure disposed in the ice-making cavity for extruding ice blocks; wherein, the side wall of the base is provided with an independent water inlet and an outlet for the ice-making cavity. This application realizes automatic cleaning of the ice-making cavity and connecting pipes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of ice-making equipment technology, specifically to an ice-making module, an ice-making equipment water system, an ice-making equipment control method, and a controller. Background Technology

[0002] Spiral extrusion ice makers, also known as continuous ice makers or chewing ice makers, use refrigeration to freeze the inner wall of the ice-making chamber, and then use internally rotating spiral ice blades to scrape the ice layer and continuously extrude ice blocks.

[0003] Scale easily accumulates in the ice-making chamber, water tank, and connecting pipes of spiral extrusion ice makers. This scale buildup can clog the pipes, reduce ice-making efficiency, and affect ice quality. Furthermore, the ice-making chamber and internal pipes are difficult to clean manually, making maintenance inconvenient. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an ice-making module, an ice-making equipment water circuit system, an ice-making equipment control method, and a controller to solve the problem of scale buildup and blockage inside the water circuit system of a spiral extrusion ice maker in the prior art.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this application, an ice-making module is provided, comprising: a base; an ice-making cylinder disposed on the base, wherein an ice-making cavity is formed inside the ice-making cylinder; and a continuous spiral extrusion structure disposed in the ice-making cavity for extruding ice blocks; wherein, the side wall of the base is provided with an independent water inlet and a water outlet for the ice-making cavity.

[0006] In this embodiment, by providing independent ice-making chamber water inlet and ice-making chamber water outlet on the side wall of the ice-making module base, water can enter from the ice-making chamber water inlet during ice making or cleaning, flush the inside of the ice-making chamber, and then flow out from the ice-making chamber water outlet, thereby cleaning the ice-making chamber and connecting pipes and reducing the deposition of scale in the chamber.

[0007] In some embodiments, the relative positions of the water inlet and the water outlet of the ice-making chamber are configured such that the main rotation direction of the water flow in the ice-making chamber is the same as or opposite to the spiral direction of the continuous spiral extrusion structure.

[0008] In some embodiments, the flow area of ​​the water outlet of the ice-making chamber is larger than the flow area of ​​the water inlet of the ice-making chamber.

[0009] In some embodiments, the water inlet and the water outlet of the ice-making chamber are arranged close to each other in the outer circumferential direction of the side wall of the base.

[0010] In some embodiments, the water inlet of the ice-making chamber includes a first pipe section extending outward from the side wall of the base, and the water outlet of the ice-making chamber includes a second pipe section extending outward from the side wall of the base, wherein both the first pipe section and the second pipe section are in communication with the ice-making chamber.

[0011] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of this application, a water circuit system for an ice-making device is provided, comprising: a first water tank; a second water tank with a capacity smaller than that of the first water tank; a water pump; a switching valve; and an ice-making module as described in any of the above embodiments; wherein the inlet end of the water pump is connected to the first water tank, and the outlet end is connected to the water inlet of the ice-making chamber through the switching valve; the bottom of the second water tank is provided with a second water tank inlet, and the water outlet of the ice-making chamber is connected to the second water tank through the second water tank inlet; the second water tank is also provided with a second water tank outlet, the height of which is higher than the bottom of the second water tank.

[0012] In this embodiment, by constructing a water path that flows from the first water tank through the ice-making chamber and finally to the second water tank, the traditional water path direction (the water flow direction is opposite to the traditional design) is changed. This allows the water flow to flush the ice-making chamber during ice making or cleaning, and to flush the high-concentration water in the ice-making chamber towards the second water tank. Furthermore, the outlet of the second water tank is positioned at a high position. When the water level in the second water tank exceeds the height of the outlet, the high-concentration water can automatically overflow, achieving the cleaning function during ice making or cleaning, and effectively preventing scale buildup throughout the water system.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second water tank is further provided with a water level detection device, and the ice-making equipment water circuit system further includes a controller electrically connected to the water level detection device, the water pump, and the switching valve. The controller is configured to: in ice-making mode, control the water pump and the switching valve to open, pumping water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber; and in response to the water level detection device detecting that the water level in the second water tank has reached a set height, control the water pump to continue running for a first preset time and then shut it off, and control the switching valve to close, wherein during the first preset time during which the water pump continues to run... Water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank; or, the water circuit system of the ice-making equipment further includes a controller electrically connected to the water pump and the switching valve, the controller being used to: in ice-making mode, control the switching valve to open and control the water pump to open for a second preset duration to pump water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber, and then control the water pump and the switching valve to close, wherein the second preset duration is configured to be greater than the pumping time required to make the water level in the second water tank reach a set height, so that water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second water tank is provided with a water flow guiding structure located at the water inlet of the second water tank.

[0015] In some embodiments, at least one baffle is provided inside the second water tank, and the at least one baffle is located on the water flow path from the inlet of the second water tank.

[0016] In some embodiments, a removable filter box is provided inside the second water tank. The bottom of the filter box is connected to the second water tank. A second ramp is provided at the water inlet of the second water tank, and the water flowing out of the water inlet of the second water tank is guided to the filter box through the second ramp.

[0017] According to a third aspect of the embodiments of this application, an ice-making equipment control method is provided for controlling the operation of the water circuit system of the ice-making equipment described in any of the above embodiments. The second water tank is further provided with a water level detection device. The method includes: in ice-making mode, controlling the water pump and the switch valve to open, pumping water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber, and responding to the water level detection device detecting that the water level in the second water tank has reached a set height, controlling the water pump to continue running for a first preset time and then shutting it off, and controlling the switch valve to close, wherein during the first preset time during which the water pump continues to run, water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank; or, the method includes: in ice-making mode, controlling the switch valve to open and controlling the water pump to open for a second preset time, pumping water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber, and then controlling the water pump and the switch valve to close, wherein the second preset time is configured to be greater than the pumping time required to make the water level in the second water tank reach the set height, so that water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank.

[0018] This application provides two control methods for automatic overflow cleaning during the ice-making process. The first method is based on water level feedback control. A water level detection device senses the fullness of the second water tank, and the controller triggers the water pump to extend its operation for a certain period (a first preset duration) to ensure that the high-concentration water is fully replaced and overflows. The second method is based on time control. A fixed pumping time (a second preset duration) is set, which is sufficient to fill the second water tank and continue to overflow, eliminating the need for the water level detection device and reducing cost and complexity.

[0019] According to a fourth aspect of the embodiments of this application, a controller is provided for executing the ice-making equipment control method described in the above embodiments.

[0020] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an ice-making module according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of an ice-making module according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal water flow state of the ice-making module shown; Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an ice-making module according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the internal water flow state of the ice-making module shown; Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an ice-making module according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 7 This is a structural block diagram of the water system of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 9 This is a side view of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 11 This is a top view schematic diagram of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 12 This is a top view schematic diagram of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 13 This is a top view schematic diagram of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 14 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 15This is an exploded structural diagram of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 16 This is a schematic flowchart of an ice-making equipment control method according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 17 This is a schematic flowchart of an ice-making equipment control method according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a controller according to some embodiments of this application.

[0022] The reference numerals in the detailed embodiments are as follows: 100 - Water system for ice-making equipment; 110 - First water tank; 120-Second water tank; 121-Second water tank outlet; 122-Water level detection device; 123-Water flow guiding structure; 124-Baffle; 125-Filter box; 1251-Filter box body; 1252-Filter box cover; 126-Second water tank inlet; 127-First ramp; 128-Second ramp; 129-Mounting groove; 130 - Water pump; 140 - Switch valve; 150 - Ice-making module; 151 - Base; 1511 - Base plate; 1512 - Fixing seat; 152 - Ice-making cylinder; 1521 - Refrigerant inlet; 1522 - Refrigerant outlet; 153 - Continuous spiral extrusion structure; 1531 - Extrusion rod; 1532 - Ice scraper; 154 - Water inlet of ice-making chamber; 154a - First pipe section; 155 - Water outlet of ice-making chamber; 155a - Second pipe section; 160-Controller; 170 - Compressor. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0025] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0026] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0027] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, representing any combination of the listed objects. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three possibilities: A exists, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0028] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0029] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0030] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0031] A spiral extrusion ice maker typically includes a lower water tank, an upper water tank, a water pump, and connecting pipes. The lower water tank, also known as a storage tank or large water tank, has a larger capacity and is used to store the raw water for ice making. The upper water tank, also known as a supply tank or small water tank, usually has a smaller water storage capacity than the lower water tank and provides water to the ice-making chamber during the ice-making process.

[0032] Since the ice-making process is essentially an extraction process, the ion concentration in the unfrozen water continuously increases, resulting in highly concentrated water. This highly concentrated water lingers in the ice-making chamber, upper water tank, and connecting pipes, easily precipitating and depositing scale. Scale buildup clogs small pipes, reducing ice-making efficiency, affecting ice quality, and makes manual cleaning of the ice-making chamber and internal pipes extremely inconvenient.

[0033] In some spiral extrusion ice makers, the upper water tank is connected to the lower water tank and the ice-making chamber via a T-joint. A water pump draws water from the lower water tank to the upper water tank, and gravity forces the water into the ice-making chamber. During ice making, the water remains almost stagnant within the ice-making chamber. Only after ice making is complete is the water in the ice-making chamber and the upper water tank drained manually using a drain plug located on the T-joint. This drainage method, a one-time manual drain after ice making, cannot solve the problem of real-time scale buildup during the ice-making process. Over time, scale accumulates, first clogging narrow parts such as the ice-making chamber outlet and the thin bend connecting to the upper water tank, which are extremely difficult to clean manually.

[0034] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a structure that can clean the water circuit of a spiral extrusion ice maker to solve the problem of scale buildup and blockage.

[0035] To address the aforementioned issues, this application improves the ice-making module by establishing independent water inlets and outlets for the ice-making chamber. As water flows from the inlet into the ice-making chamber and out the outlet, it effectively flushes the interior of the ice-making chamber. Furthermore, the water supply path of the ice maker is configured as "lower water tank → ice-making chamber → upper water tank," with an outlet on the upper water tank positioned higher than its bottom. Thus, when the water pump operates, the water flowing from the lower water tank into the ice-making chamber flushes the chamber and its connecting pipes before entering the upper water tank. Once the water level in the upper water tank reaches the height of the outlet, the pumped water overflows from the outlet (the overflowing water typically flows back to the lower water tank or overflows into other containers, such as an auxiliary water tank, wastewater tank, or outside the ice-making equipment), thereby cleaning the ice maker's water system.

[0036] The technical solutions provided in this application are mainly applied to ice-making equipment that requires continuous production of chewing ice. The ice-making equipment can be a stand-alone ice maker, such as a spiral extrusion ice maker for commercial beverage shops, fast food restaurants, hotels, or homes, or it can be an ice-making module integrated into other household appliances such as refrigerators and water dispensers.

[0037] The specific embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] First, this application provides an ice-making module. Please refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 ,in Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates the three-dimensional structure of an ice-making module according to some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 The exploded structure of an ice-making module according to some embodiments of this application is schematically shown. Only the necessary components required to illustrate the embodiments of this application are shown in the figure, and not all components of the ice-making module are illustrated.

[0039] As shown in the figure, the ice-making module 150 includes a base 151, an ice-making cylinder 152, and a continuous spiral extrusion structure 153. The ice-making cylinder 152 is fixed to the base 151 by means of threads or clips, forming a hollow cylindrical cavity (ice-making cavity). The continuous spiral extrusion structure 153 is also installed on the base 151 and is located inside the ice-making cylinder 152 (i.e., inside the ice-making cavity).

[0040] The base 151 includes a base plate 1511 and a fixing seat 1512 located above the base plate 1511. The base plate 1511 and the fixing seat 1512 can be integrally formed, or the fixing seat 1512 can be fixed to the base plate 1511 by welding, threading, or snap-fitting. The base plate 1511 is plate-shaped and can be fixed inside the ice-making equipment by threading or snap-fitting, thereby realizing the installation of the entire ice-making module 150 on the ice-making equipment. The shape of the fixing seat 1512 is adapted to the ice-making cylinder 152. As shown in the figure, the ice-making cylinder 152 is cylindrical, so the fixing seat 1512 is also cylindrical, and the inner diameter of the fixing seat 1512 is adapted to the outer diameter of the ice-making cylinder 152. The ice-making cylinder 152 is detachably fixed to the fixing seat 1512 by threaded connection.

[0041] In the specific embodiment shown in the figure, the ice-making cylinder 152 is a metal-jacketed cavity that also functions as an evaporator. The ice-making cylinder 152 is provided with a refrigerant inlet 1521 and a refrigerant outlet 1522. The refrigeration equipment used in the ice-making module 150 includes a refrigeration system composed of a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, etc. The refrigerant provided by the refrigeration system flows into the jacket of the ice-making cylinder 152 from the refrigerant inlet 1521. The refrigerant fills the jacket, cooling the inner metal wall of the ice-making cylinder 152 and exchanging heat with the water inside the ice-making module 150, causing the water to freeze. The evaporated refrigerant flows out from the refrigerant outlet 1522 and returns to the compressor, realizing the refrigerant circulation.

[0042] Those skilled in the art should understand that the ice-making cylinder 152 shown in the figure, which also functions as an evaporator, is merely an example. The evaporator of the ice-making module 150 can also take other forms, and this application does not limit this. For example, the evaporator can be an independent coil evaporator (usually copper or aluminum tubes). The coil is wound or welded to the outside of the ice-making cylinder of the ice-making module 150, and the refrigerant evaporates inside the coil, directly absorbing heat from the ice-making cylinder.

[0043] The cylindrical ice-making cylinder 152 shown in the figure is only an example. Those skilled in the art should understand that the ice-making cylinder of the ice-making module 150 can also be a square or other hollow columnar structure, and this application does not limit it.

[0044] The continuous spiral extrusion structure 153 is a rotating component used to scrape ice layers and extrude ice blocks, and includes an extrusion rod 1531 and an ice scraper 1532. The extrusion rod 1531 is a rotatable rod located on the central axis of the ice-making module 150. The ice scraper 1532 extends spirally around the extrusion rod 1531 and is fixed (e.g., welded, glued, etc.) to the extrusion rod 1531 or integrally formed with the extrusion rod 1531.

[0045] The refrigeration equipment used in the ice-making module 150, or the ice-making module 150 itself, also has a drive system for driving the extrusion rod 1531 to rotate. The drive system may include a motor and a gearbox. The power output from the motor is transmitted to the extrusion rod 1531 after passing through the gearbox, driving the extrusion rod 1531 and the ice scraper 1532 to rotate. During the rotation of the ice scraper 1532, the ice that has formed on the inner wall of the ice-making cylinder 152 is scraped off, and the scraped ice fragments are compacted and shaped upwards, and finally continuously extruded from the ice outlet at the top.

[0046] On the side wall of the base 151 (specifically the side wall of the fixed base 1512), there are independent ice-making chamber water inlet 154 and ice-making chamber water outlet 155, which are used to realize the entry and exit of water.

[0047] In this embodiment, compared to an ice-making module with only one inlet (which serves as both inlet and outlet), by providing an independent ice-making chamber water inlet 154 and an ice-making chamber water outlet 155 on the side wall of the base 151, water can enter through the ice-making chamber water inlet 154 during ice making or cleaning, flush the inside of the ice-making chamber, and then flow out through the ice-making chamber water outlet 155, thereby cleaning the ice-making chamber and connecting pipes and reducing the deposition of scale inside the chamber.

[0048] The specific forms of the water inlet 154 and the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber can vary. In the specific embodiment shown in the figure, both include pipe segments (first pipe segment 154a and second pipe segment 155a) extending outward from the side wall of the base 151, and each pipe segment communicates with the ice-making chamber through an opening in the side wall of the base 151. The first pipe segment 154a and the second pipe segment 155a can be welded or integrally formed on the side wall of the base 151.

[0049] By designing the water inlet 154 and water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber as pipe sections, a robust and reliable interface is provided for the connection of standard water pipe fittings (such as hoses and quick-connect fittings), facilitating the assembly of the ice-making module 150 with the external water circuit, ensuring the sealing of the connection, and preventing leakage. Simultaneously, the direction and angle of the pipe section can be pre-designed to optimize the direction of the incoming water flow and promote the formation of a rotating water flow within the chamber.

[0050] Those skilled in the art will understand that the ice-making chamber water inlet 154 and the ice-making chamber water outlet 155 may also be simply holes opened on the base 151, connected to the external water passage through additional connectors.

[0051] Furthermore, the relative positions of the water inlet 154 and the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber can be configured to control the water flow state inside the ice-making chamber, particularly the mainstream rotation direction. The mainstream rotation direction of the water flow refers to the overall vortex tendency formed by the water flow on the cross-section of the ice-making chamber due to the influence of the water inlet angle and the shape of the chamber. The mainstream rotation direction of the water flow inside the ice-making chamber can be set to be the same as or opposite to the spiral direction of the continuous spiral extrusion structure.

[0052] Figure 3 schematically shown Figure 1 The diagram shows the internal water flow within the ice-making chamber; the dashed arrows indicate the direction of the water flow. Figure 3 As shown, when water enters the ice-making chamber from the water inlet 154, the water flow direction at the inlet is the same as the spiral direction of the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153. The incoming water flows upward along the spiral channel, and after reaching the top, it falls back under the action of gravity and flows out from the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber. This arrangement allows the water to flow more smoothly along the surface of the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153, which helps to clean the surface of the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153 and the inner wall of the entire ice-making module 150 cavity.

[0053] Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates the three-dimensional structure of an ice-making module according to some embodiments of this application. Figure 5 schematically shown Figure 4 The diagram shows the internal water flow state of the ice-making module; the dashed arrows indicate the direction of the water flow. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 4In the embodiment shown, the relative positions of the water inlet 154 and the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber are compared. Figure 1 The illustrated embodiment has been interchanged, so that the main rotation direction of the water flow inside the ice-making module 150 is opposite to the spiral direction of the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153, and the incoming water flow is blocked by the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153 (especially the ice scraper 1532). This arrangement increases the turbulence and flow velocity of the water at the bottom of the ice-making cavity, which is particularly beneficial for flushing the area near the base 151 and preventing scale buildup at the bottom. At the same time, some water will still rise around the obstruction, but the cleaning effect on the entire inner wall of the ice-making module 150 cavity is somewhat reduced.

[0054] By configuring the relative positions of the water inlet 154 and the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber, the rotation direction of the water flow within the ice-making module 150 can be controlled. When the water flow rotation direction is the same as the spiral direction of the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153, the water flow can rise along the spiral channel, which is beneficial for thoroughly flushing and cleaning the entire inner wall of the ice-making module 150 and the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153. When the two directions are opposite, the water flow is blocked by the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153, and the flow velocity increases at the bottom, thereby strengthening the cleaning effect on the bottom of the ice-making chamber. The above two methods have different focuses on cleaning the ice-making chamber and can be selected according to cleaning needs.

[0055] For the ice-making module 150, whose main body is cylindrical, both the ice-making cylinder 152 and the base 151 (specifically, the fixing seat 1512) have cylindrical sidewalls. The water inlet 154 and the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber are arranged close to each other in the outer circumferential direction of the sidewall of the fixing seat 1512. For example, they may be located near the same generatrix of the sidewall of the fixing seat 1512, or on adjacent generatrixes (e.g., with a circumferential angle difference of 30° to 120°, preferably 30° to 90°). Those skilled in the art should understand that "close to each other" is a relative concept, intended to be distinguished from "relatively arranged" (with a circumferential angle difference of approximately 180°). As long as the water inlet 154 and the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber are not approximately opposite each other, they can be considered to fall within the category of being close to each other.

[0056] If the water inlet 154 and water outlet 155 of the cylindrical ice-making module 150 are arranged opposite each other in the outer circumferential direction, the water flow may be blocked by the continuous spiral extrusion structure 153 in the middle of the cavity after entering, preventing the water flow from smoothly passing through the cavity and flowing out from the water outlet 155, causing a water flow "short circuit". In the above embodiment, by arranging the water inlet 154 and water outlet 155 of the cylindrical ice-making module 150 close to each other in the outer circumferential direction, the water flow can travel a longer path along the cavity wall after entering (the water flow can circle almost half a circumference in the cavity) before flowing out from the outlet, thereby more thoroughly rinsing the entire inner wall of the cavity, avoiding the water flow "short circuit" phenomenon that may be caused by the opposite arrangement of the water inlet 154 and water outlet 155, achieving a better cleaning coverage rate and improving the cleaning effect.

[0057] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the flow area of ​​the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber is larger than that of the water inlet 154 of the ice-making chamber. On the one hand, the smaller water inlet 154 can maintain a certain flow rate of the incoming water, thereby enhancing the flushing force; on the other hand, the larger water outlet 155 reduces the resistance when the water flows out, reduces the risk of clogging the outlet due to the narrow outlet, and ensures the smooth flow of the circulating water path.

[0058] Figure 6 The diagram schematically illustrates the three-dimensional structure of an ice-making module according to some embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 6 As shown, this embodiment is in Figure 1 Based on the illustrated embodiment, the flow area of ​​the water outlet 155 of the ice-making cavity is further increased, making the flow area of ​​the water outlet 155 of the ice-making cavity much larger than the flow area of ​​the water inlet 154 of the ice-making module. Preferably, the ratio R of the flow area of ​​the water outlet 155 of the ice-making cavity to the flow area of ​​the water inlet 154 of the ice-making cavity can be 1 < R ≤ 8.

[0059] As the flow area of ​​the ice-making chamber water outlet 155 is further increased, the shape of the fixing seat 1512 is also made more adaptable and is roughly rectangular. Because the side wall area of ​​the fixing seat 1512 is limited, the ice-making chamber water inlet 154 and the ice-making chamber water outlet 155 are located on the side walls of different sides of the fixing seat 1512. In the embodiment shown in the figure, they are located on the side walls of adjacent sides of the fixing seat 1512, so that they are arranged as close to each other as possible in the outer circumferential direction of the fixing seat 1512, so that the water flow takes a longer path in the cavity and improves the cleaning effect.

[0060] The following section uses an ice maker as an example to describe the water system of an ice-making device that uses the ice-making module 150 of any of the above embodiments.

[0061] Figure 7 A schematic block diagram of the water system of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application is shown. Figure 8The diagram schematically illustrates the three-dimensional structure of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application. Figure 9 The diagram schematically illustrates a side view of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application. The components necessary for illustrating the embodiments of this application are shown below. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The outer casing of the ice-making equipment is not shown.

[0062] Please see Figure 7 and combined Figure 8 and Figure 9 This application provides a water system 100 for an ice-making device, including the aforementioned ice-making module 150. The water system 100 further includes a first water tank 110, a second water tank 120, a water pump 130, and a switching valve 140. The inlet of the water pump 130 is connected to the bottom of the first water tank 110 via a water pipe, and its outlet is connected to the inlet of the switching valve 140 via a water pipe. The outlet of the switching valve 140 is connected to the water inlet 154 of the ice-making chamber via a water pipe. The bottom of the second water tank 120 is provided with a second water tank inlet 126, and the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber is connected to the second water tank 120 via the second water tank inlet 126.

[0063] The first water tank 110 is the lower water tank, and the second water tank 120 is the upper water tank. A water pump 130 provides kinetic energy to pump water from the first water tank 110. The water pump 130 can be a centrifugal pump, gear pump, etc. A switching valve 140 is located in the water path downstream of the water pump 130 and is used to control the opening and closing of the water supply pipeline to the ice-making module 150. In some embodiments, the switching valve 140 can be controlled (e.g., electrically controlled) to open and close the water supply pipeline to the ice-making module 150; specifically, it can be a solenoid valve, electric ball valve, etc. In other embodiments, the switching valve 140 can also be a mechanical check valve, which opens under the pumping force of the water pump 130 when the water pump 130 is turned on, and returns to the closed state when the water pump 130 is turned off.

[0064] Figure 10 The diagram schematically illustrates the three-dimensional structure of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application. Figure 11 A partial top view of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application is schematically shown. The components required for illustrating the embodiments of this application are shown for convenience. Figure 10 The top cover of the ice-making equipment is not shown.

[0065] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 10 and Figure 11The second water tank 120 has a second water tank outlet 121 on the upper part of its side wall. The lower edge of the outlet 121 is higher than the bottom of the second water tank 120, so that the second water tank 120 can overflow naturally when the water level exceeds the lower edge. The height of the lower edge of the second water tank outlet 121 can be set as the full water height of the second water tank 120.

[0066] By constructing a water path that flows from the first water tank 110 through the ice-making module 150 and finally to the second water tank 120, specifically “first water tank 110 → water pump 130 → switch valve 140 → water inlet 154 of ice-making chamber → ice-making module 150 → water outlet 155 of ice-making chamber → second water tank 120”, the traditional water path direction (the water flow direction is opposite to the traditional design) is changed, so that during the ice-making or cleaning process, the water flow can flush the ice-making module 150 and flush the high-concentration water in the ice-making chamber to the second water tank 120.

[0067] Furthermore, the outlet 121 of the second water tank is set at a high position. When the water level of the second water tank 120 exceeds the height of the outlet 121, the high-concentration water can automatically overflow (for example, it can usually flow back to the first water tank through the outlet 121; or in other schemes, it can flow to another water storage container or outside the ice-making equipment), realizing the cleaning function in the ice-making or cleaning process, and effectively preventing the deposition of scale in the entire water system.

[0068] The second water tank 120 is also equipped with a water level detection device 122, which is used to detect the water level in the second water tank 120. It can be a mechanical float switch (using a float to drive a magnet to control the opening and closing of a reed switch), a capacitive liquid level sensor, a photoelectric liquid level sensor, etc.

[0069] The ice-making equipment water system 100 also includes a controller 160. The controller 160 is an electronic control unit capable of receiving input signals, processing them according to a preset program, and outputting control signals (such as controlling the start and stop of the water pump and valve). It can be a microcontroller unit (MCU), programmable logic controller (PLC), digital signal processor (DSP), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), system-on-chip (SoC), etc. The controller 160 is electrically connected to the water pump 130, the on / off valve 140, the water level detection device 122, etc., and is used to execute predetermined control logic.

[0070] The following describes several control logics for the controller 160 to achieve automatic overflow cleaning during the ice-making process.

[0071] In some embodiments, in ice-making mode, the controller 160 controls the water pump 130 and the switching valve 140 to turn on, pumping water from the first water tank 110 into the second water tank 120 through the ice-making chamber. In response to the water level detection device 122 detecting that the water level in the second water tank 120 has reached a set height, the controller controls the water pump 130 to continue running for a first preset time before turning it off, and controls the switching valve 140 to close. During the first preset time during which the water pump 130 continues to run, water in the second water tank 120 overflows from the outlet 121. The set height can be the lower edge height of the outlet 121 (e.g., the full water level of the second water tank 120), and the first preset time can be several seconds or other durations, specifically set according to actual needs.

[0072] The above control logic is based on water level feedback. The water level detection device 122 accurately senses the full state of the second water tank 120. Based on this, the controller 160 triggers the water pump 130 to extend its operation for a first preset time (e.g., the water pump 130 pumps for several more seconds) to ensure that the high-concentration water entering the second water tank 120 from the ice-making module 150 is fully replaced and overflows.

[0073] In other embodiments, automatic overflow cleaning during ice making can be achieved by controlling the total operating time of the water pump 130, without the need for the water level detection device 122. In ice-making mode, the controller 160 controls the opening of the switching valve 140 and the operation of the water pump 130 for a second preset time, pumping water from the first water tank 110 through the ice-making chamber into the second water tank 120. Then, the controller controls the water pump 130 and the switching valve 140 to close. The second preset time is configured to be greater than the pumping time required for the water level in the second water tank 120 to reach a set height, so that water in the second water tank 120 overflows from the outlet 121.

[0074] The above control logic is based on time control. A fixed pumping time (second preset time) is set according to experience or calculation. This time is sufficient to fill the second water tank 120 with water and continue to overflow, eliminating the need for the water level detection device 122 to work, thus reducing cost and control complexity.

[0075] Both control methods, whether triggered by a water level signal or a timer, can ultimately cause the water level in the second water tank 120 to exceed its outlet 121, forming an active overflow that discharges the high-concentration water remaining in the ice-making chamber and pipeline.

[0076] The first water tank 110 is located to the side and below the outlet 121 of the second water tank. Water overflowing from the outlet 121 of the second water tank flows into the first water tank 110. Because the first water tank 110 has a large capacity, it is easy for users to clean. This is equivalent to transferring the limescale problem from the difficult-to-clean internal pipes to the easy-to-clean large water tank, which is convenient for operation and improves the cleaning effect.

[0077] Please continue reading. Figure 7 To further improve the cleaning effect, a water flow guiding structure 123 is provided at the water inlet 126 of the second water tank 120 (i.e., the interface connecting to the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber). In the specific embodiment shown in the figure, the water flow guiding structure 123 is a guide shroud with a guiding surface. The structure of the water flow guiding structure 123 is not limited to that shown in the figure; for example, it can also be a guide plate or other structures.

[0078] The water flow guiding structure 123 can guide the water flow from the water outlet 155 of the ice-making chamber, increase its flow rate and / or change its direction, thereby enhancing the water flow's ability to flush the inner wall of the second water tank 120, especially the area near the inlet 126, which helps prevent impurities and scale from accumulating there and keeps the inside of the second water tank 120 clean.

[0079] Please refer to it again. Figure 11 A first ramp 127 is also provided on the water flow path from the inlet 126 of the second water tank to the outlet 121 of the second water tank. The water flow guiding structure 123 is set towards the bottom of the first ramp 127, and the top of the first ramp 127 is connected to the outlet 121 of the second water tank. The water flow guiding structure 123 can also guide the water flow to the outlet 121 of the second water tank, which is located above the first ramp 127.

[0080] Figure 12 A partial top view of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application is schematically shown. Please refer to... Figure 12 One or more baffles 124 are installed inside the second water tank 120. The baffles 124 are located on the water flow path from the water inlet 126 of the second water tank, and can be perpendicular to the water flow direction or tilted at a certain angle. The baffles 124 can intercept and slow down the water flow. After the water flow hits the baffles 124, the speed is reduced and the direction is changed. Impurities carried in the water are easily settled on the surface of the baffles 124, preventing impurities from entering the subsequent circulation or backflow process with the water flow. For example, it prevents impurities from re-entering the ice-making chamber or flowing back to the first water tank 110 with the water flow.

[0081] In the specific embodiment shown in the figure, multiple baffles 124 are arranged at intervals and in an alternating manner, which further enhances the sedimentation effect on scale.

[0082] This application also provides a filtration solution that replaces the natural overflow method through the outlet 121 of the second water tank during the ice-making process. Figure 13 A partial top view of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application is schematically shown. Figure 14 The partial three-dimensional structure of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application is schematically shown. Figure 15 A partial exploded view of an ice-making apparatus according to some embodiments of this application is schematically shown.

[0083] Please see Figures 13 to 15 An installation groove 129 is provided inside the second water tank 120, and a removable filter box 125 is embedded in the installation groove 129. The filter box 125 includes a filter box body 1251 and a filter box cover 1252. The filter box cover 1252 has multiple water flow holes (such as honeycomb holes). The filter box body 1251 is filled with filter media such as ion exchange resin. An upward second ramp 128 is provided at the water inlet 126 of the second water tank 120. Water flowing out of the ice-making module 150 is lifted by the second ramp 128 and flows into the filter box 125 through the filter box cover 1252. When the water flows through the filter media, scale-forming ions in the water are adsorbed, and the purified water flows back to the second water tank 120 through the bottom of the filter box 125 for recycling, without overflowing into the first water tank 110.

[0084] In this solution, the ice-making process does not require triggering an overflow via controller 160. Water pump 130 simply pumps water normally until the second water tank 120 is full, and water purification is achieved by filter box 125. Since no additional water pumping for overflow is needed for each ice-making cycle, water consumption is saved. Furthermore, users only need to replace filter box 125 periodically, avoiding frequent cleaning of the first water tank 110, thus improving user experience and maintenance convenience.

[0085] This application also provides an ice-making equipment control method for controlling the working process of the ice-making equipment water system 100 in the above embodiments.

[0086] Figure 16 The flowchart of an ice-making equipment control method according to some embodiments of this application is illustrated schematically. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 16 The method includes the following steps: S110: In ice-making mode, control the water pump and switch valve to open, and pump the water in the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber. S120: In response to the water level detection device detecting that the water level in the second water tank has reached the set height, the water pump is controlled to continue running for a first preset time and then shut off, and the switch valve is controlled to close.

[0087] During the first preset time period during which the water pump continues to run, water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank.

[0088] The ice-making chamber can be rinsed during the ice-making process using the methods described above.

[0089] Figure 16 In this embodiment, automatic overflow cleaning during the ice-making process is achieved based on water level feedback. The following details the working process of a possible ice-making mode of the water circuit system 100 of the ice-making equipment under this control method: Step a1: Ice-making mode begins. Controller 160 controls switch valve 140 to open and starts water pump 130.

[0090] Step a2: Water pump 130 pumps water from the first water tank 110 into the ice-making chamber, and then the water flows into the second water tank 120.

[0091] Step a3: The controller 160 queries the status of the water level detection device 122 in real time or intermittently.

[0092] Step a4: When the water level detection device 122 detects that the water level in the second water tank 120 has reached the set height, the controller 160 receives the water full signal generated by the water level detection device 122. At this time, the controller 160 does not immediately stop the water pump 130.

[0093] Step a5: Controller 160 starts a timer to control water pump 130 to continue running for a first preset duration (e.g., 3-5 seconds).

[0094] Step a6: During the first preset time period, the continuously pumped water causes the water level in the second water tank 120 to continue to rise and eventually overflow from the outlet 121 of the second water tank. The overflowing high-concentration water flows back to the first water tank 110.

[0095] Step a7: After the first preset time ends, the controller 160 controls the water pump 130 to stop and closes the switch valve 140.

[0096] Afterward, the controller 160 starts the refrigeration system, including the compressor 170, and the ice-making module 150 begins to refrigerate and freeze. After ice making is completed, the controller 160 can reopen the switch valve 140 (the water pump 130 does not work), allowing the remaining water in the ice-making chamber and the second water tank 120 to flow back to the first water tank 110 under the action of gravity, thus completing the drainage.

[0097] Figure 17 The flowchart of an ice-making equipment control method according to some embodiments of this application is illustrated schematically. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 17 The method includes the following steps: S210: In ice-making mode, control the opening of the switch valve and control the water pump to start for a second preset time, pumping water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber. S220: Controls the water pump and shut-off valves.

[0098] The second preset duration is configured to be longer than the pumping time required to bring the water level in the second water tank to a set height, so that the water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank.

[0099] The ice-making chamber can be rinsed during the ice-making process using the methods described above.

[0100] Figure 17 In this embodiment, automatic overflow cleaning during the ice-making process is achieved based on time control. The following details the working process of a possible ice-making mode of the water circuit system 100 of the ice-making equipment under this control method: Step b1: Ice-making mode begins. Controller 160 controls switch valve 140 to open and starts water pump 130, while simultaneously starting the timer.

[0101] Step b2: The water pump 130 continues to operate for a second preset duration. This second preset duration is pre-set through experiments or calculations, and its length is greater than the theoretical time required to pump the second water tank 120 from empty to a set height (full of water).

[0102] Step b3: During the second preset time period, the first period is used to fill the second water tank 120, and the second period (i.e., the part that exceeds the above theoretical time period) is used to generate overflow and discharge the high-concentration water.

[0103] Step b4: After the second preset time ends, the controller 160 controls the water pump 130 to stop and closes the switch valve 140.

[0104] Subsequently, the controller 160 starts the refrigeration system, including the compressor 170, and the ice-making module 150 begins refrigeration and freezing. The drainage process after ice making is the same as the drainage process in the automatic overflow cleaning during ice making based on water level feedback, and will not be described again here.

[0105] The following section uses the example of setting up filter box 125 to detail the working process of a possible ice-making mode of the water circuit system 100 of the ice-making equipment: Step c1: Ice-making mode begins. Controller 160 controls switch valve 140 to open and starts water pump 130.

[0106] Step c2: Water pump 130 pumps water from the first water tank 110 into the ice-making module 150, and then into the second water tank 120. Guided by the ramp 128 at the inlet 126 of the second water tank, the water is directed to the filter box 125. The water purified by the filter box 125 flows back to the main body of the second water tank 120 from the bottom of the filter box 125.

[0107] Step c3: The controller 160 queries the status of the water level detection device 122 in real time or intermittently.

[0108] Step c4: When the water level detection device 122 detects that the water level in the second water tank 120 has reached the set height required for normal ice making, the controller 160 receives the water full signal generated by the water level detection device 122. At this time, the controller 160 controls the water pump 130 to stop and closes the switch valve 140.

[0109] Subsequently, the controller 160 starts the refrigeration system, including the compressor 170, and the ice-making module 150 begins refrigeration and freezing. The drainage process after ice making is the same as the drainage process in the automatic overflow cleaning during ice making based on water level feedback, and will not be described again here.

[0110] The cleaning during ice-making mode is a brief, preventative rinse. In addition to automatic cleaning during ice-making, the water system 100 of the ice-making equipment of this application also supports an independent cleaning mode. This cleaning mode allows for prolonged, high-flow-rate circulating rinsing to remove deposited scale and impurities, achieving a thorough deep cleaning of the ice-making module 150, the second water tank 120, and connecting pipes. For example, the cleaning mode can be executed after the ice-making equipment has been used for a period of time. During this mode, a special cleaning agent (such as a diluted citric acid solution) can be added to the first water tank 110 to improve the cleaning effect.

[0111] The following is a possible workflow of the water system 100 of the ice-making equipment in cleaning mode: Step d1: The user manually starts the cleaning mode through the operation interface. Alternatively, it can be set to run automatically at regular intervals.

[0112] Step d2: Controller 160 controls the opening of switch valve 140 and starts water pump 130. The refrigeration system remains off.

[0113] Step d3: Water pump 130 continuously pumps water from the first water tank 110 into the ice-making module 150. After the water flows through the ice-making chamber, it enters the second water tank 120.

[0114] Step d4: As the water pump continues to operate, the water level in the second water tank 120 rises rapidly and quickly overflows from the outlet 121. Simultaneously, because the ice outlet at the top of the ice-making module 150 is free of ice blockage in cleaning mode, some water also flows out from the outlet. Both overflowing water streams flow back to the first water tank 110 below, forming a continuous cycle. The cyclical rinsing continues for a preset cleaning time (e.g., 10-30 minutes).

[0115] Step d5: After the preset cleaning time is completed, the controller 160 automatically shuts off the water pump 130 and the switch valve 140, and the cleaning mode is completed.

[0116] When the equipment is running in cleaning mode, if the filter box 125 is installed, it can be temporarily removed to prevent high concentrations of cleaning agents or large amounts of dirt washed off from damaging or clogging the filter media.

[0117] Figure 18 The structure of a controller 160 according to some embodiments of this application is schematically illustrated. For example... Figure 18As shown, this application embodiment also provides a controller 160, which stores a computer program 161. The controller 160 executes the computer program 161 to implement the ice-making equipment control method of any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0118] This application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the ice-making equipment control method of any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0119] This application provides a computer program that can be executed by a processor to implement the ice-making equipment control method of any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0120] This application provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the ice-making equipment control method of any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0121] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An ice-making module, characterized in that, include: Base; An ice-making cylinder is disposed on the base, and an ice-making cavity is formed inside the ice-making cylinder; as well as A continuous spiral extrusion structure, disposed within the ice-making chamber, is used to extrude ice blocks; wherein... The base has an independent ice-making chamber water inlet and an ice-making chamber water outlet on its side wall.

2. The ice-making module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The relative positions of the water inlet and the water outlet of the ice-making chamber are configured such that the main rotation direction of the water flow in the ice-making chamber is the same as or opposite to the spiral direction of the continuous spiral extrusion structure.

3. The ice-making module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow area of ​​the water outlet of the ice-making chamber is greater than the flow area of ​​the water inlet of the ice-making chamber.

4. The ice-making module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water inlet and water outlet of the ice-making chamber are arranged close to each other in the outer circumferential direction of the side wall of the base.

5. The ice-making module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice-making chamber water inlet includes a first pipe section extending outward from the side wall of the base, and the ice-making chamber water outlet includes a second pipe section extending outward from the side wall of the base. Both the first pipe section and the second pipe section are connected to the ice-making chamber.

6. A water circuit system for an ice-making device, characterized in that, include: First water tank; A second water tank with a smaller capacity than the first water tank; Water pump; Switch valve; as well as The ice-making module according to any one of claims 1 to 5; wherein, The water pump's inlet is connected to the first water tank, and its outlet is connected to the ice-making chamber's water inlet via the switch valve. The bottom of the second water tank is provided with a second water tank inlet, and the ice-making chamber's water outlet is connected to the second water tank via the second water tank inlet. The second water tank is also provided with a second water tank outlet, the height of which is higher than the bottom of the second water tank.

7. The water circuit system of the ice-making equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second water tank is also equipped with a water level detection device. The water circuit system of the ice-making equipment also includes a controller electrically connected to the water level detection device, the water pump, and the switching valve. The controller is used to: in ice-making mode, control the water pump and the switching valve to open, pump water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber, and in response to the water level detection device detecting that the water level in the second water tank has reached a set height, control the water pump to continue running for a first preset time and then shut it off, and control the switching valve to close, wherein, during the first preset time during which the water pump continues to run, water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank; or, The water circuit system of the ice-making equipment also includes a controller electrically connected to the water pump and the switching valve. The controller is used to: in ice-making mode, control the switching valve to open and control the water pump to open for a second preset duration to pump water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber, and then control the water pump and the switching valve to close. The second preset duration is configured to be greater than the pumping time required to make the water level in the second water tank reach a set height, so that the water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank.

8. The water circuit system of the ice-making equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second water tank is equipped with a water flow guiding structure located at the water inlet of the second water tank.

9. The water system of the ice-making equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second water tank is provided with at least one baffle, which is located on the water flow path from the inlet of the second water tank.

10. The water circuit system of the ice-making equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second water tank is equipped with a removable filter box. The bottom of the filter box is connected to the second water tank. A second ramp is provided at the water inlet of the second water tank. The water flowing out of the water inlet of the second water tank is guided to the filter box through the second ramp.

11. A method for controlling an ice-making device, used to control the operation of the water circuit system of the ice-making device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second water tank is also equipped with a water level detection device. The method includes: in ice-making mode, controlling the water pump and the switch valve to open, pumping water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber, and in response to the water level detection device detecting that the water level in the second water tank has reached a set height, controlling the water pump to continue running for a first preset time and then shutting it off, and controlling the switch valve to close, wherein, during the first preset time during which the water pump continues to run, water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank; Alternatively, the method includes: in ice-making mode, controlling the switch valve to open and controlling the water pump to open for a second preset duration, pumping water from the first water tank into the second water tank through the ice-making chamber, and then controlling the water pump and the switch valve to close, wherein the second preset duration is configured to be greater than the pumping time required to make the water level in the second water tank reach a set height, so that the water in the second water tank overflows from the outlet of the second water tank.

12. A controller, characterized in that, The controller is used to execute the ice-making equipment control method according to claim 11.

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