Water supply unit, water purification device and refrigeration equipment
By designing a rotatable switching component and a sealing component to seal the machined opening of the connector, the problem of water leakage at the connector was solved, achieving reliable sealing of water flow and improving filtration efficiency, while reducing manufacturing difficulty and cost.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HEFEI HUALING CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-04-08
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-30
Smart Images

Figure CN122298096A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigeration equipment technology, and more specifically, to a connector, a water purification device, and refrigeration equipment. Background Technology
[0002] Currently, the connectors used to connect filters in water systems are equipped with inlet and outlet channels. To facilitate the processing of the inlet channel, processing openings are provided in related technologies. However, the connectors in these technologies are prone to leakage through the processing openings, which affects the filtration effect. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related art.
[0004] Therefore, a first aspect of the present invention provides a connector.
[0005] A second aspect of the present invention also provides a water purification device.
[0006] A third aspect of the present invention also provides a refrigeration device.
[0007] In view of the above, a first aspect of the present invention provides a connector for a water purification device, the water purification device including a filter, the connector including: a base body having an inlet and an outlet, the filter being connected to the base body; a switching member rotatably disposed within the base body such that the switching member has at least a first position and a second position, the switching member including a body and a sealing member, the body having an inlet channel, an outlet channel and a bypass structure, the inlet channel having a processing opening located at the end of the body away from the filter along the axial direction of the switching member, the sealing member being disposed at the processing opening to seal the processing opening; when the switching member is in the first position, the inlet is connected to the outlet through the bypass structure; when the switching member is in the second position, the inlet is connected to the filter through the inlet channel, and the filter is connected to the outlet through the outlet channel.
[0008] The connector provided by the present invention includes a base and a switching component. The base is provided with an inlet and an outlet. The filter is connected to the base, thereby allowing the filter to be connected to the water circuit through the connector to filter the water flow. The switching element is rotatably mounted within the base, allowing it to rotate between a first position and a second position. The switching element includes a main body and a sealing element. The main body has an inlet channel, an outlet channel, and a bypass structure. When the switching element rotates to the first position, neither the inlet nor the outlet channel is connected to the inlet or outlet. Water flows directly from the inlet through the bypass structure to the outlet, forming an unfiltered bypass mode. When the switching element rotates to the second position, the inlet connects to the inlet channel, and the outlet connects to the outlet channel. Water flows from the inlet channel to the filter, and then from the filter to the outlet through the outlet channel, achieving water filtration. In other words, by switching the switching element, the unfiltered bypass flow path and the filtered purified flow path are switched, thus achieving water flow without the need for a filter and preventing leakage at the connection point. The water inlet channel has a processing opening located at the end of the body away from the filter along the axial direction. A sealing component is installed at the processing opening. On the one hand, the processing opening allows for the processing of the water inlet channel, reducing manufacturing difficulty and cost. On the other hand, the processing opening is located at the end of the body away from the filter, that is, at the top of the body, reducing the possibility of leakage at the processing opening. At the same time, the processing opening is sealed by the sealing component, improving the sealing reliability at the processing opening and ensuring the top sealing of the water inlet channel.
[0009] In some embodiments, the water inlet channel may optionally include a first port and a second port, which are spaced apart along the axial direction. The first port is used to connect to the water inlet, and the second port is used to connect to the filter. The first port and the second port are both located on the side wall of the body, or the first port is located on the side wall of the body.
[0010] In this embodiment, the water inlet channel is further provided with a first port and a second port arranged axially at intervals. When the switching member rotates to the first position, neither the first port nor the water outlet channel is connected to the water inlet or outlet. When the switching member rotates to the second position, the water inlet connects with the first port, and the water flows into the water inlet channel through the first port, then flows to the filter through the second port, and then flows from the filter to the outlet through the water outlet channel, thus achieving water filtration. The first port is located on the side wall of the body, or both the first and second ports are located on the side wall of the body, to facilitate the connection between the first port and the water inlet. Furthermore, the axially spaced arrangement of the first and second ports ensures that at least a portion of the water inlet channel extends axially, thereby providing a machining opening at the axial end of the body. This allows for direct machining of the water inlet channel from the end of the body, reducing the difficulty of machining the water inlet channel.
[0011] In some embodiments, the water inlet channel may optionally include: a first channel, one end of which has a processing opening and the other end of which is located inside the body; a second channel, one end of which has a first port and the other end of which is located inside the body and connected to the other end of the first channel; and a third channel, one end of which has a second port and the other end of which is located inside the body and connected to the first channel, wherein the second channel is located on the side of the third channel away from the filter along the axial direction.
[0012] In this embodiment, the water inlet channel includes a first channel, a second channel, and a third channel. The upper end of the first channel has a machined opening and is sealed by a sealing member, while its lower end terminates inside the main body. One end of the second channel forms a first port, and the other end is connected to the first channel inside the main body. One end of the third channel forms a second port, and the other end is connected to the first channel inside the main body. The second channel is located axially above the third channel, i.e., further away from the filter. This split channel design allows complex internal flow channels to be achieved through step-by-step processing. For example, the first channel can be machined from the upper opening first, and then the second and third channels, which communicate with the first channel, can be machined from the side walls respectively, significantly reducing the difficulty of one-time forming of deep holes and intersecting holes. When the switching member is in the second position, the water flows from the first port into the second channel, merges into the first channel, flows downward, then enters the third channel and flows out from the second port to the filter.
[0013] In some embodiments, optionally, the first channel extends axially; and / or the second channel extends radially along the switching element; and / or the third channel extends radially along the switching element.
[0014] In this embodiment, the first channel is configured to extend axially along the switching member, and optionally, the second and / or third channel is configured to extend radially along the switching member. This reduces the processing difficulty between the first, second, and third channels, while also ensuring the reliability of the communication between the first, second, and third channels.
[0015] In some embodiments, optionally, at least a portion of the plug extends into the water inlet channel through a machined opening.
[0016] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the sealing element extends into the interior of the water inlet channel through the processing opening. This allows the sealing element to not only cover the processing opening from the outside but also directly contact and engage with the inner wall of the water inlet channel through its extended portion. This better resists the impact of water pressure fluctuations or vibrations, effectively preventing water leakage or loosening of the sealing element at the joint between the sealing element and the processing opening. This ensures that the water inlet channel is completely sealed when it needs to be closed, guaranteeing strict isolation between the filtered water path and the bypass water path, and improving the long-term stability of the connection operation.
[0017] In some embodiments, optionally, a first sealing ring is provided on the periphery of the sealing member, the first sealing ring being used to seal the gap between the sealing member and the inner surface of the water inlet channel.
[0018] In this embodiment, a first sealing ring is provided on the periphery of the sealing component. When the sealing component is inserted into the water inlet channel through the machining opening, the first sealing ring surrounds the periphery of the sealing component and is pressed between the peripheral surface of the sealing component and the inner surface of the water inlet channel, thereby filling and sealing the assembly gap between the two. This can effectively compensate for the machining tolerances and assembly errors of the parts. Even if the parts are slightly worn or deformed after long-term use, the first sealing ring can continue to maintain close contact, thereby improving the sealing durability and stability at the machining opening.
[0019] In some embodiments, optionally, a limiting step is provided in the water inlet channel, and the sealing component cooperates with the limiting step for limiting.
[0020] In this embodiment, a limiting step is provided in the water inlet channel. When the sealing component is installed, it forms a limiting fit with the limiting step, which effectively prevents the flow channel from being blocked or the water flow from being affected due to the sealing component being inserted too deeply. It also avoids the problem of insufficient sealing surface compression due to shallow insertion.
[0021] In some embodiments, the sealing element may be detachably connected to the body.
[0022] In this embodiment, the sealing element is detachably connected to the main body, allowing it to be completely removed from the main body and improving the ease of maintenance of the connector. Furthermore, when it is necessary to inspect or clean the inside of the water inlet channel, or replace components such as the first sealing ring, the operator can easily remove the sealing element, thus providing a direct access point and avoiding maintenance difficulties caused by a non-removable structure.
[0023] In some embodiments, optionally, the filter is provided with a first limiting member, and the switching member is provided with a second limiting member; the filter and the base are detachably connected: when the filter and the base are in the installed state, the first limiting member and the second limiting member are in circumferential limiting engagement along the switching member, and the switching member is located in the second position; when the filter and the base are in the separated state, the switching member is located in the first position; wherein, the filter drives the switching member to rotate between the first position and the second position through the first limiting member and the second limiting member.
[0024] In this embodiment, a first limiting member is provided on the filter, and correspondingly, a second limiting member is provided on the switching member, forming a linkage mechanism. The filter and the base are detachably connected. When the filter is installed on the base and enters the installation state, during the tightening process, the first limiting member on the filter and the second limiting member on the switching member engage with each other circumferentially along the switching member, forming a circumferential limiting fit. This allows the filter to transmit rotational torque to the switching member, driving the switching member to rotate until it reaches the second position, at which point the filtered water circuit is connected. Conversely, when it is necessary to disassemble the filter, the filter is rotated in the opposite direction to separate it from the base. In this separated state, the filter drives the second limiting member through the first limiting member, causing the switching member to rotate and return to the first position. At this time, the water circuit automatically switches to bypass mode. In this way, when users perform the installation or replacement of the filter, there is no need to perform any additional valve switching actions. The water circuit mode can be automatically and correctly switched, avoiding the problem of water spraying or leakage at the interface caused by forgetting to close or switch the water circuit when disassembling the filter. This improves the safety and convenience of operation, while ensuring the reliable sealing and correct flow of the water circuit under various system conditions.
[0025] In some embodiments, optionally, the switching component includes a switching column and a connecting shell. Both an inlet channel and an outlet channel are located on the switching column. The outlet channel has a third port and a fourth port. The third port is located on the side wall of the switching column, and the fourth port is located at the end of the switching column away from the processing opening. The connecting shell surrounds the end of the switching column with the fourth port. The filter includes a bottle body and a filter section. The filter section is at least partially located within the bottle body. One end of the bottle body can extend into the base and connect to the base body. The connecting shell extends between the bottle body and the filter section, so that the inlet channel communicates with the bottle body through the gap between the connecting shell and the inner wall of the bottle body.
[0026] In this embodiment, the switching component includes a switching column and a connecting shell. Both an inlet channel and an outlet channel are located on the switching column. The outlet channel has a third port and a fourth port. The third port is located on the side wall of the switching column, and the fourth port is located at the end of the switching column furthest from the processing opening. The connecting shell surrounds the end of the switching column with the fourth port. Simultaneously, the filter includes a bottle body and a filter section. The filter section is at least partially located within the bottle body, and one end of the bottle body can extend into and connect to the base body. When the filter is installed on the base body, the connecting shell extends into the bottle body and is located between the inner wall surface of the bottle body and the outer peripheral surface of the filter section, thus forming an annular slit flow channel between the connecting shell and the inner wall surface of the bottle body. In filtration mode, water flowing from the inlet channel first enters the annular slit between the connecting shell and the inner wall of the bottle body. Then, the water flows along this slit and through the filter section for purification. The purified water collects and then enters the outlet channel within the switching column through the fourth port of the outlet channel, finally flowing out from the third port. The embodiments proposed in this application achieve reliable docking and transition between the switching component and the internal flow channel of the filter through the connecting shell, which enables the water flow to contact the filter part more evenly and improves the filtration efficiency. At the same time, this socket structure also facilitates alignment and sealing during assembly, ensuring the reliability of the filtration water circuit connection.
[0027] In some embodiments, the connector may optionally include a retaining ring disposed within the housing, and the switching member may also include a boss along the axial direction, the boss being disposed between the connecting shell and the switching post, the retaining ring being located on the periphery of the boss, and the switching member being rotatably connected to the housing via the retaining ring; wherein the boss has a notch that extends through the boss along the axial direction, and when the switching member is in the second position, the water inlet channel is connected to the filter via the notch.
[0028] In this embodiment, the receiving seat further includes a retaining ring disposed inside the seat body. The switching component also includes a boss disposed between the connecting shell and the switching column along the axial direction of the switching component. The switching component is rotatably connected to the seat body via the retaining ring. A notch is provided on the boss, extending through it along the axial direction of the switching component. When the switching component rotates to the second position, water flowing from the inlet channel can pass through the notch on the boss into the space between the connecting shell and the inner wall of the bottle, and then flow towards the filter. This ensures that in filtration mode, water can flow unimpeded from inside the switching component to the filter, improving the overall structural reliability and filtration efficiency.
[0029] In some embodiments, optionally, the bypass structure includes: a first sink and at least two second sinks, disposed on the outer surface of the switching member, the at least two second sinks being spaced apart circumferentially along the switching member, and the first sink being located at one end of the at least two second sinks and communicating with the at least two second sinks axially; when the switching member is in the first position, the at least two second sinks are respectively disposed opposite to the inlet and outlet, the first sink, the second sinks and the inner wall of the seat enclose a bypass channel, and the inlet is connected to the outlet through the bypass channel; when the switching member is in the second position, the at least two second sinks are respectively offset circumferentially from the inlet and outlet.
[0030] In this embodiment, the bypass structure includes a first settling tank and at least two second settling tanks spaced circumferentially. Along the axial direction of the switching member, the first settling tank is located at one end of each of the at least two second settling tanks, connecting them. When the switching member rotates to the first position, the at least two second settling tanks are aligned with the inlet and outlet on the base, respectively. At this time, the first and second settling tanks, together with the inner wall of the base, form a complete bypass channel, allowing water to flow directly from the inlet to the outlet without passing through a filter. When the switching member rotates to the second position, the switching member rotates circumferentially, causing the second settling tanks to be misaligned with the inlet and outlet, closing the bypass channel. Water can only enter the filter for filtration through the inlet channel. In the embodiment proposed in this application, the bypass structure is disposed on the surface of the switching member, eliminating the need for internal processing of the flow channel within the switching member, thus simplifying the processing difficulty.
[0031] In some embodiments, the receiving seat may optionally include a second sealing ring disposed on the outer side wall of the switching member, along the axial direction, the second sealing ring being located at the end of the second recess away from the first recess and sealingly connected to the inner wall surface of the seat body.
[0032] In this embodiment, the connector also includes a second sealing ring, which is disposed on the outer wall of the switching member and located at the end of the second sink away from the first sink along the axial direction, thereby forming a reliable seal for the bypass channel and ensuring that the water flow in the bypass channel will not leak from the axial end in the bypass mode.
[0033] According to a second aspect of the invention, a water purification device is also provided, comprising: a filter; and a connector as described in any of the above embodiments.
[0034] The water purification device provided in the second aspect of the present invention, having included the connector proposed in any of the above embodiments, has all the beneficial effects of the connector.
[0035] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a refrigeration device is also provided, comprising: a connector as described in any of the above embodiments; or a water purification device as described in any of the above embodiments.
[0036] The refrigeration equipment provided in the third aspect of the present invention, having all the beneficial effects of the receiving or water purification device proposed in any of the above embodiments, has all the beneficial effects of the receiving or water purification device.
[0037] In some embodiments, the refrigeration equipment may optionally include: a water outlet; and an ice-making section, wherein the water outlet may be selectively connected to either the water outlet or the ice-making section for supplying water to both the water outlet and the ice-making section.
[0038] In this embodiment, the refrigeration equipment also includes a water outlet and an ice-making section. The water outlet of the connector can be selectively connected to the water outlet or the ice-making section according to the operating mode of the refrigeration equipment or user selection, thereby supplying them with filtered purified water or unfiltered raw water (when in bypass mode).
[0039] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the following description or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description
[0040] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:
[0041] Figure 1 One of the structural schematic diagrams of a water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0042] Figure 2 A second schematic diagram of the structure of a water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0043] Figure 3 One of the structural schematic diagrams of a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0044] Figure 4 A second schematic diagram of the connector structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0045] Figure 5 The third schematic diagram of the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0046] Figure 6 The fourth schematic diagram of the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0047] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of a base according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0048] Figure 8 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the body according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0049] Figure 9 A second schematic diagram of the structure of the main body according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0050] Figure 10 The third schematic diagram shows the structure of a water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0051] Figure 11 The fourth schematic diagram shows the structure of a water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0052] Figure 12 Fifth schematic diagram of a water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0053] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the structure of a water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 6.
[0054] Figure 14 The seventh schematic diagram shows the structure of a water purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0055] Figure 15 One of the structural schematic diagrams of a filter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0056] Figure 16 A second schematic diagram of the structure of a filter according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0057] Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the bottle body according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0058] Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the end cap structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0059] Figure 19 One of the structural schematic diagrams of a refrigeration device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0060] Figure 20 The second schematic diagram shows the structure of a refrigeration device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0061] in, Figures 1 to 20 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:
[0062] 1. Filter, 10. Bottle body, 101. Bottle mouth, 102. Second boss, 103. Second notch, 104. First bottle body, 105. Second bottle body, 106. First limiting member, 1060. Third notch, 11. Filter element, 110. Connecting channel, 12. End cap, 120. Liquid outlet channel, 122. Connecting column, 124. Cover body, 126. First boss, 128. First notch, 13. Gap channel, 130. Liquid inlet channel, 132. Water-stop slit, 14. Filter channel, 15. Filter part, 2. Connector, 20. Base body, 202. Water inlet, 204. Water outlet, 21. Switching member, 22. Body, 220. Water inlet channel, 2200. First port, 2202. Second port 2203 First channel, 2204 Second channel, 2205 Third channel, 2206 Limiting step, 221 Water outlet channel, 2210 Third port, 2212 Fourth port, 222 Bypass structure, 2220 First settling tank, 2222 Second settling tank, 2224 Bypass channel, 223 Processing opening, 224 Switching column, 225 Connecting shell, 226 Boss, 2260 Notch, 227 Second limiting component, 2270 Locking block, 23 Sealing component, 230 First sealing ring, 24 Fixing ring, 25 Second sealing ring, 26 Third sealing ring, 27 Water inlet pipe, 28 Water outlet pipe, 3 Water outlet section, 4 Ice making section, 5 Distributor, 6 Door body. Detailed Implementation
[0063] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.
[0064] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, the invention may also be practiced in other ways different from those described herein, and therefore the scope of protection of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.
[0065] The following reference Figures 1 to 20 The present invention describes a connector 2, a water purification device, and a refrigeration device according to some embodiments thereof.
[0066] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a connector 2 is provided for a water purification device. The water purification device includes a filter 1. The connector 2 includes: a base 20, which has an inlet 202 and an outlet 204, and the filter 1 is connected to the base 20; and a switching member 21, which is rotatably disposed within the base 20 so that the switching member 21 has at least a first position and a second position. The switching member 21 includes a body 22 and a sealing member 23. The body 22 has an inlet channel 220, an outlet channel 221, and a bypass structure 22. 2. The water inlet channel 220 is provided with a processing opening 223. The processing opening 223 is located at the end of the body 22 away from the filter 1 along the axial direction of the switching member 21. The sealing member 23 is provided at the processing opening 223 to seal the processing opening 223. When the switching member 21 is in the first position, the water inlet 202 is connected to the water outlet 204 through the bypass structure 222. When the switching member 21 is in the second position, the water inlet 202 is connected to the filter 1 through the water inlet channel 220, and the filter 1 is connected to the water outlet 204 through the water outlet channel 221.
[0067] The connector 2 provided by this invention includes a base 20 and a switching element 21. The base 20 is provided with an inlet 202 and an outlet 204. A filter 1 is connected to the base 20, thereby allowing the filter 1 to be connected to the water circuit through the connector 2 to filter the water flow. The switching element 21 is rotatably disposed within the base 20, allowing the switching element 21 to rotate between a first position and a second position. The switching element 21 includes a body 22 and a sealing element 23. The body 22 is provided with an inlet channel 220, an outlet channel 221, and a bypass structure 222. When the switching element 21 rotates to the first position, neither the inlet channel 220 nor the outlet channel 221 is connected to the inlet 202 and the outlet 204. The water flows directly from the inlet 202 through the bypass structure 222 to the outlet 204, forming an unfiltered bypass. When the switching element 21 is rotated to the second position, the inlet 202 is connected to the inlet channel 220, and the outlet 204 is connected to the outlet channel 221. The water flows from the inlet channel 220 to the filter 1, and then from the filter 1 to the outlet 204 through the outlet channel 221, thus achieving water filtration. That is, by switching the switching element 21, the unfiltered bypass flow path and the filtered purified flow path are switched, so that even without the filter 1 installed, the water can flow smoothly and the leakage at the connector 2 can be avoided. The water inlet channel 220 is provided with a processing opening 223, which is located at the end of the body 22 away from the filter 1 along the axial direction. At the same time, a sealing element 23 is provided at the processing opening 223. On the one hand, the processing opening 223 can be used to process the water inlet channel 220, reducing the manufacturing difficulty and cost. On the other hand, the processing opening 223 is located at the end of the body 22 away from the filter 1, that is, at the upper end of the body 22, which reduces the possibility of leakage at the processing opening 223. At the same time, the processing opening 223 is sealed by the sealing element 23, which improves the sealing reliability at the processing opening 223 and ensures the top sealing of the water inlet channel 220.
[0068] Optionally, Figure 11 The diagram shows the structure when the switching element 21 is in the second position, where the arrows indicate the direction of water flow. Figure 5 and Figure 6 A structural diagram is shown when the switching element 21 is in the first position, where the arrow indicates the direction of water flow.
[0069] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the water inlet channel 220 is further provided with a first port 2200 and a second port 2202, the first port 2200 and the second port 2202 are spaced apart along the axial direction, the first port 2200 is used to connect to the water inlet 202, and the second port 2202 is used to connect to the filter 1; wherein, the first port 2200 and the second port 2202 are both provided on the side wall of the body 22, or the first port 2200 is provided on the side wall of the body 22.
[0070] In this embodiment, the water inlet channel 220 is further provided with a first port 2200 and a second port 2202 arranged axially at intervals. When the switching member 21 rotates to the first position, neither the first port 2200 nor the water outlet channel 221 is connected to the water inlet 202 and the water outlet 204. When the switching member 21 rotates to the second position, the water inlet 202 connects with the first port 2200, and the water flows into the water inlet channel 220 through the first port 2200, flows to the filter 1 through the second port 2202, and then flows from the filter 1 to the water outlet 204 through the water outlet channel 221, thus achieving water filtration. The first port 2200 is located on the side wall of the body 22, or both the first port 2200 and the second port 2202 are located on the side wall of the body 22, to facilitate the connection between the first port 2200 and the water inlet 202. Meanwhile, the axial spacing of the first port 2200 and the second port 2202 ensures that at least a portion of the water inlet channel 220 extends axially, thereby providing a machining opening 223 at the axial end of the body 22. This allows the water inlet channel 220 to be directly machined from the end of the body 22, thus reducing the difficulty of machining the water inlet channel 220.
[0071] Optionally, at least a portion of the water inlet channel 220 extends axially, which may be parallel to the axial direction, inclined relative to the axial direction, or at least a portion of the water inlet channel 220 may extend in a curved manner along the axial direction.
[0072] like Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the water inlet channel 220 includes: a first channel 2203, one end of which is provided with a processing opening 223, and the other end of which is located inside the body 22; a second channel 2204, one end of which is provided with a first port 2200, and the other end of which is located inside the body 22 and connected to the other end of the first channel 2203; a third channel 2205, one end of which is provided with a second port 2202, and the other end of which is located inside the body 22 and connected to the first channel 2203, wherein the second channel 2204 is located on the side of the third channel 2205 away from the filter 1 along the axial direction.
[0073] In this embodiment, the water inlet channel 220 includes a first channel 2203, a second channel 2204, and a third channel 2205. The upper end of the first channel 2203 has a machining opening 223 and is sealed by a sealing member 23, while its lower end terminates inside the body 22. One end of the second channel 2204 forms a first port 2200, and the other end communicates with the first channel 2203 inside the body 22. One end of the third channel 2205 forms a second port 2202, and the other end communicates with the first channel 2203 inside the body 22. The second channel 2204 is located axially above the third channel 2205, i.e., further away from the filter 1. This split channel design allows complex internal flow channels to be achieved through step-by-step machining. For example, the first channel 2203 can be machined from the upper opening 223, and then the second channel 2204 and the third channel 2205, which communicate with the first channel 2203, can be machined from the side wall, significantly reducing the difficulty of one-time forming of deep holes and intersecting holes. When the switching element 21 is in the second position, the water flows from the first port 2200 into the second channel 2204, merges into the first channel 2203 and flows downward, then turns into the third channel 2205 and flows out from the second port 2202 to the filter 1.
[0074] In some embodiments, optionally, the first channel 2203 extends axially; and / or the second channel 2204 extends radially along the switching member 21; and / or the third channel 2205 extends radially along the switching member 21.
[0075] In this embodiment, the first channel 2203 is configured to extend axially along the switching member 21. Optionally, the second channel 2204 and / or the third channel 2205 are configured to extend radially along the switching member 21. This reduces the processing difficulty between the first channel 2203, the second channel 2204 and the third channel 2205, while also ensuring the reliability of the communication between the first channel 2203, the second channel 2204 and the third channel 2205.
[0076] In some embodiments, optionally, at least a portion of the plug 23 extends into the water inlet channel 220 through the processing opening 223.
[0077] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the sealing member 23 extends into the interior of the water inlet channel 220 through the processing opening 223. This allows the sealing member 23 to not only cover the processing opening 223 from the outside, but also to directly contact and cooperate with the inner wall of the water inlet channel 220 through its extended portion. This can better resist the impact of water pressure fluctuations or vibrations, effectively preventing water leakage from the joint between the sealing member 23 and the processing opening 223 or the sealing member 23 from becoming loose. This ensures that the water inlet channel 220 is completely sealed when it needs to be closed, ensuring strict isolation between the filtered water path and the bypass water path, and improving the long-term stability of the connector 2.
[0078] Optionally, the portion of the sealing element 23 extending into the water inlet channel 220 can be fixed and sealed to the inner wall of the water inlet channel 220 by means of interference fit, threaded connection or nested sealing ring.
[0079] Optionally, the plug 23 can be a plug or have a protruding structure, and the external dimensions of the plug or the protruding structure are adapted to the inner wall contour of the water inlet channel 220 near the machined opening 223.
[0080] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, a first sealing ring 230 is provided on the periphery of the sealing member 23, the first sealing ring 230 being used to seal the gap between the sealing member 23 and the inner surface of the water inlet channel 220.
[0081] In this embodiment, a first sealing ring 230 is provided on the periphery of the sealing member 23. When the sealing member 23 extends into the water inlet channel 220 through the machining opening 223, the first sealing ring 230 surrounds the periphery of the sealing member 23 and is pressed between the peripheral surface of the sealing member 23 and the inner surface of the water inlet channel 220, thereby filling and sealing the assembly gap between the two. This can effectively compensate for the machining tolerance and assembly error of the parts. Even if the parts are slightly worn or deformed after long-term use, the first sealing ring 230 can continue to maintain close contact, thereby improving the sealing durability and stability at the machining opening 223.
[0082] Understandably, the sealing component 23 seals the machined opening 223 through the first sealing ring 230, which improves the sealing effect compared to welding the sealing component 23 to the machined opening 223.
[0083] Alternatively, the first sealing ring 230 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber, for example, an O-ring.
[0084] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, a limiting step 2206 is provided in the water inlet channel 220, and the sealing member 23 is limited and cooperates with the limiting step 2206.
[0085] In this embodiment, a limiting step 2206 is provided in the water inlet channel 220. When the sealing member 23 is installed, it forms a limiting fit with the limiting step 2206, which effectively prevents the flow channel from being blocked or the water flow from being affected due to the sealing member 23 being inserted too deeply, and also avoids the problem of insufficient sealing surface compression due to shallow insertion.
[0086] Optionally, the limiting step 2206 can be a raised shoulder or a recessed annular groove surrounding the inner wall of the water inlet channel 220. When the sealing member 23 extends into the channel from the machining opening 223, its lower end or a specific structure abuts against the limiting step 2206, thereby preventing it from moving further into the channel. For example, if the sealing member 23 is plunger-shaped, its bottom end face can contact the upper surface of the limiting step 2206; or the sealing member 23 has a flange on its outer periphery that engages with the step surface.
[0087] Optionally, the water inlet channel 220 includes an upper channel with a larger cross-sectional area and a lower channel with a relatively smaller cross-sectional area. The upper channel is provided with a processing opening 223, and the lower channel connects the first port 2200 and the second port 2202. A limiting step 2206 is formed between the lower channel and the upper channel.
[0088] In some embodiments, the sealing element 23 may be detachably connected to the body 22.
[0089] In this embodiment, the sealing element 23 is detachably connected to the body 22, allowing the sealing element 23 to be completely removed from the body 22, thus improving the maintenance convenience of the connector 2. Furthermore, when it is necessary to inspect or clean the inside of the water inlet channel 220, or replace components such as the first sealing ring 230, the operator can easily remove the sealing element 23, thereby providing a direct access point and avoiding maintenance difficulties caused by a non-removable structure.
[0090] Alternatively, the sealing element 23 is not welded to the machined opening 223 of the body 22, but is connected by a separable mechanical structure to ensure a sealing effect.
[0091] like Figure 14 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the filter 1 is provided with a first limiting member 106, and the switching member 21 is provided with a second limiting member 227; the filter 1 and the base 20 are detachably connected: when the filter 1 and the base 20 are in the installed state, the first limiting member 106 and the second limiting member 227 are engaged in a circumferential limiting cooperation along the switching member 21, and the switching member 21 is located in a second position; when the filter 1 and the base 20 are in a separated state, the switching member 21 is located in a first position; wherein, the filter 1 drives the switching member 21 to rotate between the first position and the second position through the first limiting member 106 and the second limiting member 227.
[0092] In this embodiment, a first limiting member 106 is provided on the filter 1, and correspondingly, a second limiting member 227 is provided on the switching member 21, forming a linkage mechanism. The filter 1 and the base 20 are detachably connected. When the filter 1 is installed on the base 20 and enters the installation state, during the tightening process, the first limiting member 106 on the filter 1 will engage with the second limiting member 227 on the switching member 21 along the circumference of the switching member 21, forming a circumferential limiting fit. This allows the filter 1 to transmit rotational torque to the switching member 21, driving the switching member 21 to rotate until it reaches the second position, at which point the filtered water path is connected. Conversely, when it is necessary to disassemble the filter 1, the filter 1 is rotated in the opposite direction to separate it from the base 20. In this separated state, the filter 1 drives the second limiting member 227 through the first limiting member 106, causing the switching member 21 to rotate and return to the first position. At this time, the water path automatically switches to bypass mode. In this way, when users perform the installation or replacement of filter 1, there is no need to perform any additional valve switching actions. The water circuit mode can be automatically and correctly switched, avoiding the problem of water spraying or leakage at the interface caused by forgetting to close or switch the water circuit when disassembling filter 1. This improves the safety and convenience of operation, while ensuring the reliable sealing and correct flow of the water circuit under various conditions.
[0093] Optionally, the first limiting member 106 and the second limiting member 227 may be in the form of mutually engaging protrusions and grooves, claws and slots, etc.
[0094] like Figure 6 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the switching component 21 includes a switching post 224 and a connecting shell 225. Both the water inlet channel 220 and the water outlet channel 221 are located on the switching post 224. The water outlet channel 221 has a third port 2210 and a fourth port 2212. The third port 2210 is located on the side wall of the switching post 224, and the fourth port 2212 is located at the end of the switching post 224 away from the processing opening 223. The connecting shell 225 surrounds the end of the switching post 224 where the fourth port 2212 is located. The filter 1 includes a bottle body 10 and a filter section 15. The filter section 15 is at least partially located inside the bottle body 10. One end of the bottle body 10 can extend into the base 20 and connect to it. The connecting shell 225 extends between the bottle body 10 and the filter section 15, so that the water inlet channel 220 communicates with the bottle body 10 through the gap between the connecting shell 225 and the inner wall of the bottle body 10.
[0095] In this embodiment, the switching component 21 includes a switching post 224 and a connecting shell 225. Both the inlet channel 220 and the outlet channel 221 are located on the switching post 224. The outlet channel 221 has a third port 2210 and a fourth port 2212. The third port 2210 is located on the side wall of the switching post 224, and the fourth port 2212 is located at the end of the switching post 224 away from the processing opening 223. The connecting shell 225 surrounds the end of the switching post 224 with the fourth port 2212. Meanwhile, the filter 1 includes a bottle body 10 and a filter section 15. The filter section 15 is at least partially disposed within the bottle body 10, and one end of the bottle body 10 can extend into and connect to the base 20. When the filter 1 is installed on the base 20, the connecting shell 225 extends into the bottle 10, and the connecting shell 225 is located between the inner wall surface of the bottle 10 and the outer peripheral surface of the filter section 15, thereby forming an annular slit flow channel between the connecting shell 225 and the inner wall surface of the bottle 10. In this way, in the filtration mode, the water flowing out from the inlet channel 220 first enters the annular slit between the connecting shell 225 and the inner wall of the bottle 10, and then the water flow spreads along this slit and flows through the filter section 15 for purification. The purified water is collected and then enters the outlet channel 221 in the switching column 224 through the fourth port 2212 of the outlet channel 221, and finally flows out from the third port 2210. In the embodiment proposed in this application, the connecting shell 225 realizes a reliable docking and transition between the switching component 21 and the internal flow channel of the filter 1, which enables the water flow to contact the filter section 15 more evenly, improves the filtration efficiency, and at the same time, this socket structure facilitates alignment and sealing during assembly, ensuring the reliability of the filtration water circuit connection.
[0096] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the receiving seat 2 further includes a fixing ring 24 disposed within the seat body 20, and the switching member 21 further includes a boss 226 along the axial direction. The boss 226 is disposed between the connecting shell 225 and the switching post 224, and the fixing ring 24 is located on the periphery of the boss 226. The switching member 21 is rotatably connected to the seat body 20 through the fixing ring 24. The boss 226 is provided with a notch 2260, which penetrates the boss 226 along the axial direction. When the switching member 21 is in the second position, the water inlet channel 220 is connected to the filter 1 through the notch 2260.
[0097] In this embodiment, the receiving seat 2 further includes a fixing ring 24, which is disposed inside the seat body 20. The switching member 21 also includes a boss 226, which is disposed between the connecting shell 225 and the switching post 224 along the axial direction of the switching member 21. The switching member 21 is rotatably connected to the seat body 20 through the fixing ring 24. A notch 2260 is provided on the boss 226, which penetrates the boss 226 along the axial direction of the switching member 21. When the switching member 21 is rotated to the second position, the water flowing out from the water inlet channel 220 can pass through the notch 2260 on the boss 226 and enter the space between the connecting shell 225 and the inner wall of the bottle body 10, and then flow to the filter 1. This ensures that the water can flow unimpeded from the inside of the switching member 21 to the filter 1 in the filtration mode, improving the reliability and filtration efficiency of the overall structure.
[0098] like Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the bypass structure 222 includes: a first sink 2220 and at least two second sinks 2222, disposed on the outer surface of the switching member 21. The at least two second sinks 2222 are spaced apart circumferentially along the switching member 21. Axially, the first sink 2220 is located at one end of the at least two second sinks 2222 and communicates with the at least two second sinks 2222. When the switching member 21 is in the first position, the at least two second sinks 2222 are respectively disposed opposite to the inlet 202 and the outlet 204. The first sink 2220, the second sinks 2222 and the inner wall of the seat 20 enclose a bypass channel 2224. The inlet 202 communicates with the outlet 204 through the bypass channel 2224. When the switching member 21 is in the second position, the at least two second sinks 2222 are respectively misaligned with the inlet 202 and the outlet 204 circumferentially.
[0099] In this embodiment, the bypass structure 222 includes a first sink 2220 and at least two second sinks 2222 distributed circumferentially. Along the axial direction of the switching member 21, the first sink 2220 is located at one end of the at least two second sinks 2222 and connects the at least two second sinks 2222. When the switching member 21 rotates to the first position, the at least two second sinks 2222 are aligned with the inlet 202 and outlet 204 on the seat 20, respectively. At this time, the first sink 2220, the second sinks 2222, and the inner wall of the seat 20 together form a complete bypass channel 2224, allowing water to flow directly from the inlet 202 to the outlet 204 without passing through the filter 1. When the switching element 21 rotates to the second position, it rotates circumferentially, causing the second settling tank 2222 to be misaligned with the inlet 202 and outlet 204. The bypass channel 2224 is closed, and water can only enter the filter 1 for filtration through the inlet channel 220. In the embodiment proposed in this application, the bypass structure 222 is provided on the surface of the switching element 21, eliminating the need for internal processing of the flow channel within the switching element 21 and simplifying the processing difficulty.
[0100] Alternatively, the bypass structure 222 can also be a flow channel disposed inside the body 22.
[0101] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the receiving seat 2 may optionally include a second sealing ring 25, disposed on the outer side wall of the switching member 21, along the axial direction, the second sealing ring 25 is located at one end of the second recess 2222 away from the first recess 2220 and is sealed to the inner wall surface of the seat body 20.
[0102] In this embodiment, the receiving seat 2 also includes a second sealing ring 25, which is disposed on the outer wall of the switching member 21 and located at the end of the second sink 2222 that is axially away from the first sink 2220, thereby forming a reliable seal on the bypass channel 2224 and ensuring that the water flow in the bypass channel 2224 will not leak from the axial end in the bypass mode.
[0103] Optionally, the first port 2200 and the third port 2210 are arranged opposite each other along a first direction, and at least two second sinks 2222 are arranged opposite each other along a second direction of the switching member 21, with the first direction intersecting the second direction. Optionally, the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other.
[0104] Optionally, the first settling tank 2220 is arranged in a ring around the circumference of the switching member 21.
[0105] like Figure 3As shown, optionally, the connector 2 also includes at least two third sealing rings 26, respectively disposed at the first port 2200 and the third port 2210; when the switching member 21 is in the first position, the third sealing rings 26 are in contact with the inner wall surface of the seat body 20 to seal the water inlet channel 220 and the water outlet channel 221; when the switching member 21 is in the second position, at least one third sealing ring 26 is located at the connection between the first port 2200 and the water inlet 202, and at least one third sealing ring 26 is located at the connection between the third port 2210 and the water outlet 204.
[0106] Optionally, the water purification device also includes an inlet pipe 27 and an outlet pipe 28, with the inlet pipe 27 connected to the inlet 202 and the outlet pipe 28 connected to the outlet 204.
[0107] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a water purification device is also provided, comprising: a filter 1; and a connector 2 as described in any of the above embodiments.
[0108] The water purification device provided by the present invention, because it includes the connector 2 proposed in any of the above embodiments, has all the beneficial effects of the connector 2.
[0109] Optionally, such as Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the filter 1 includes a bottle body 10 and a filter section 15, the filter section 15 including a filter element 11 and an end cap 12. The bottle body 10 has a bottle opening 101; the filter element 11 is disposed inside the bottle body 10; the end cap 12 is disposed inside the bottle body 10 and located at the end of the filter element 11 near the bottle opening 101. The end cap 12 has a liquid outlet channel 120, and at least a portion of the outer surface of the end cap 12 has a gap channel 13 between it and the bottle body 10. The gap channel 13 includes a liquid inlet channel 130 and at least two layers of water-stopping slits 132. The width of the water-stopping slits 132 is smaller than the width of the liquid inlet channel 130. The gap channel 13 communicates with the liquid outlet channel 120 via the filter element 11. At least two layers of water-stopping slits 132 are spaced apart along the height direction of the bottle body 10, and any one layer of water-stopping slits 132 is arranged circumferentially along the periphery of the end cap 12.
[0110] Optionally, the width of the water-stop slit 132 is greater than 0 mm and less than or equal to 1.5 mm.
[0111] Optionally, at least two layers of water-stop slits 132 divide the liquid inlet channel 130 into at least two sub-channels, or at least two layers of water-stop slits 132 are respectively provided at both ends of the liquid inlet channel 130.
[0112] Optionally, such as Figure 18As shown, the end cap 12 includes: a connecting post 122, a liquid outlet channel 120 disposed on the connecting post 122, one end of the connecting post 122 extending into the filter element 11, and the other end of the connecting post 122 extending toward the bottle mouth 101; a cap 124 surrounding the connecting post 122 and located at the end of the filter element 11 near the bottle mouth 101; at least one of the connecting post 122 and the cap 124 together with the inner surface of the bottle body 10 to form a water-stopping slit 132.
[0113] Optionally, the outer surface of the connecting post 122 is provided with at least one first protrusion 126, the first protrusion 126 surrounds the connecting post 122, and at least a portion of the first protrusion 126 and the inner surface of the bottle body 10 enclose at least one layer of water-stopping slit 132.
[0114] Optionally, the first protrusion 126 is provided with a plurality of first notches 128 on the side facing the inner surface of the bottle body 10. The plurality of first notches 128 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first protrusion 126, and the first notches 128 and the inner surface of the bottle body 10 enclose at least one layer of water-stopping slits 132.
[0115] Optionally, the inner surface of the first notch 128 is arc-shaped.
[0116] Optionally, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the inner surface of the bottle body 10 is provided with at least one second protrusion 102, the second protrusion 102 is arranged around the connecting post 122, and at least a portion of the second protrusion 102 and the connecting post 122 enclose at least one layer of water-stopping slit 132.
[0117] Optionally, the second boss 102 is provided with a plurality of second notches 103 on the side facing the connecting post 122. The plurality of second notches 103 are spaced apart along the circumference of the second boss 102, and the second notches 103 and the connecting post 122 enclose a water-stopping slit 132.
[0118] Optionally, the inner surface of the second notch 103 is arc-shaped.
[0119] Optionally, such as Figure 16 As shown, the bottle body 10 includes: a first bottle body 104, a filter element 11 disposed inside the first bottle body 104, and a cap 124 disposed inside the first bottle body 104; a second bottle body 105 disposed at one end of the first bottle body 104 and communicating with the first bottle body 104, and a bottle mouth 101 disposed at the end of the second bottle body 105 away from the first bottle body 104, wherein the cross-sectional area of the second bottle body 105 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the first bottle body 104; wherein a portion of the connecting column 122 is disposed inside the second bottle body 105 and surrounds the inner surface of the second bottle body 105 to form a water-stopping slit 132 and a liquid inlet channel 130.
[0120] Optionally, such as Figure 13 and Figure 16 As shown, the outer surface of the filter element 11 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the first bottle body 104 to enclose the filter channel 14, and the liquid inlet channel 130 is connected to the filter channel 14; the filter element 11 is provided with a connecting channel 110, one end of the connecting post 122 is inserted into the connecting channel 110, and the liquid outlet channel 120 is connected to the connecting channel 110, and the filter channel 14 is connected to the connecting channel 110 through the filter element 11.
[0121] Optionally, the bottle body 10 is provided with a second protrusion 102, at least a portion of the second protrusion 102 and the end cap 12 enclose a water-stopping slit 132; wherein, the first limiting member 106 is a third notch 1060 provided on the second protrusion 102, and the second limiting member 227 is a locking block 2270, which is locked in the third notch 1060.
[0122] like Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a refrigeration device is also provided, comprising: a connector 2 as provided in any of the above embodiments; or a water purification device as provided in any of the above embodiments.
[0123] The refrigeration equipment provided by the present invention, because it includes the connector 2 or water purification device proposed in any of the above embodiments, has all the beneficial effects of the connector 2 or water purification device.
[0124] like Figure 19 As shown, in some embodiments, the refrigeration device may optionally include: a water outlet 3; an ice-making section 4, wherein the water outlet 204 may optionally be connected to the water outlet 3 or the ice-making section 4 for supplying water to the water outlet 3 and the ice-making section 4.
[0125] In this embodiment, the refrigeration equipment also includes a water outlet 3 and an ice-making unit 4. The water outlet 204 of the connector 2 can be selectively connected to the water outlet 3 or the ice-making unit 4 according to the operating mode of the refrigeration equipment or the user's selection, thereby supplying them with filtered purified water or unfiltered raw water (when in bypass mode).
[0126] Optionally, refrigeration equipment includes refrigerators, freezers, etc.
[0127] Optionally, the refrigeration equipment also includes a cabinet and a door 6, the door 6 being rotatably connected to the cabinet, at least a portion of the water outlet 3 being located inside the cabinet or at least a portion of the water outlet 3 being located inside the door 6, and at least a portion of the ice-making part 4 being located inside the cabinet or at least a portion of the ice-making part 4 being located inside the door 6.
[0128] Optionally, such as Figure 20 As shown, the door body 6 is equipped with a distributor 5, and the water outlet 204 of the water outlet section 3 is connected to the distributor 5. Optionally, the ice outlet of the ice-making section 4 is connected to the distributor 5.
[0129] Optionally, the cabinet includes a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment, and the refrigerator compartment and / or freezer compartment is equipped with an ice-making unit 4.
[0130] Optionally, the water purification device may be located in a cold storage room.
[0131] In some embodiments, the water purification device may optionally include a connector 2 (the connector 2 includes an inlet 202 and an outlet 204) and a filter 1. The filter 1 is connected to the connector 2 by a rotatable installation.
[0132] The connector 2 includes a base 20, a rotating center rod (e.g., a switching element 21), a fixing ring 24, an inlet connector, an outlet connector, a sealing element 23, and several sealing rings, and the components are assembled using ultrasonic welding. The filter 1 includes an upper end cap (e.g., an end cap 12), a filter element 11, a lower end cap, a bottle body 10, and a tail. Optionally, the filter 1 also includes a rotating handle, and the bottle body 10 and the tail are assembled by rotational welding.
[0133] Optionally, the inlet 202 and outlet 204 are connected to the inlet connector and outlet connector respectively. The first sealing ring 230 located between the sealing member 23 and the rotating center rod forms a sealing structure to prevent water from entering between them and causing cross-contamination. The second sealing ring 25 located on the rotating center rod forms a seal between the rotating center rod and the seat 20 to prevent water from flowing between them and causing leakage when the filter 1 is not installed.
[0134] Optionally, when connector 2 is not installed with filter 1, connector 2 as follows: Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, at this time, the first port 2200 and the third port 2210 of the rotating center rod are offset from the water inlet 202 and the water outlet 204 of the base 20 by an angle (this angle can be 90°, but is not limited to this angle). The third sealing ring 26 located at the first port 2200 and the third port 2210 of the rotating center rod forms a seal with the inner wall of the base 20, ensuring that water cannot flow into the interior of the rotating center rod. At this time, the water flowing into the base 2 from the water inlet 202 enters the structural steps and gaps between the rotating center rod and the base 20 (e.g., the bypass channel 2224 formed by the first settling tank 2220 and the second settling tank 2222 and the inner wall of the base 20), and then flows to the water outlet 204, forming a water flow path.
[0135] Optionally, such as Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown, when the filter 1 and the connector 2 are assembled, the long arm at the bottom of the rotating center rod (e.g., the second limiting member 227) extends into the corresponding limiting groove (e.g., the first limiting member 106) of the upper end cover. When the filter 1 and the connector 2 are rotated and fastened, because the upper end cover and the filter 1 are fixedly connected, the filter 1 will drive the rotating center rod inside the connector 2 to rotate at a certain angle, so that the first port 2200 of the rotating center rod is connected to the inlet 202, and the third port 2210 is connected to the outlet 204. At this time, water flows in from the inlet 202, enters the first port 2200 inside the rotating center rod, and then flows down into the second port 2202 through the water channel formed by the sealing member 23 and the rotating center rod assembly. Water flowing from the second port 2202 passes through the gap between the rotating center rod and the fixed ring 24, and then flows into the outer surface of the filter element 11 of the filter 1 through the bottle mouth 101. The water passes through the pores of the filter element 11, is purified by the filter element 11, and then flows out from the center of the filter element 11, and then through the water outlet 204 of the water outlet channel 221 of the rotating center rod. The rotation angle of the rotating center rod can be adjusted by adjusting the width of the limiting groove and the width of the long arm at the bottom of the rotating center rod, so as to achieve a design where the rotation angle of the rotating center rod is the same as or different from that of the filter 1.
[0136] When filter 1 reaches the end of its service life or is disassembled midway, the limiting groove of the upper end cover drives the long arm at the bottom of the rotating center rod to rotate in the opposite direction by the same angle, thereby restoring the rotating center rod to the position that forms the bypass channel 2224.
[0137] Optionally, such as Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the filter bottle has an arc-shaped notch 2260 with a diameter of less than 1.5 mm at the bottle mouth 101 and on the upper cap. After the filter 1 and the connector 2 are assembled, the arc-shaped notch 2260 at the bottle mouth 101 and the straight rod part of the upper cap (e.g., connecting post 122) form a primary slit (e.g., a water-stopping slit 132), and the gap at each position of the water-stopping slit 132 does not exceed 1.5 mm. At the same time, the arc-shaped notch 2260 on the upper cap and the straight rod part of the bottle body 10 (e.g., the second bottle body 105) form a secondary slit. When the filter 1 is removed, water forms a water film in the gap of the water-stopping slit 132 due to the surface tension of the water, thereby preventing the water in the bottle body 10 from flowing out. The two-stage slits can more effectively stop water flow, thus avoiding the failure of water stop due to local shrinkage or uneven gaps caused by local shrinkage during the injection molding process. Therefore, its water-stopping effect is better than that of a primary slit.
[0138] In the embodiments proposed in this application, the switching from the bypass channel 2224 to the purification channel is achieved during the installation of the filter 1 by cooperating with the rotating central rod and the filter 1; the switching from the purification channel to the bypass channel 2224 is achieved during the disassembly of the filter 1 without additional operation. Moreover, the switching is achieved only by rotating around the axis, resulting in high utilization of the internal space of the connector 2 and eliminating the need for additional movement space. At the same time, the sealing assembly formed by the body 22 of the rotating central rod and the sealing component 23 reduces welding operations, improves the sealing effect, effectively reduces the risk of water leakage, and has a simple structural design. In addition, the water-stopping structure is simple, requires no additional action, and two water-stopping slits 132 can be formed by the cooperation of the upper end cap and the bottle body 10, improving the reliability of water stop and reducing the amount of dripping water when replacing the filter 1.
[0139] Optionally, one of the first limiting member 106 and the second limiting member 227 is a protrusion, and the other is a groove (or notch structure); optionally, the number of mating parts of the first limiting member 106 and the second limiting member 227 is greater than or equal to 1 pair.
[0140] Alternatively, the water-stop slit 132 is not limited to two.
[0141] In this invention, the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "installed," "connected," "linked," and "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connected" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "linked" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0142] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0143] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. A terminal, characterized by comprising: The connector is used in a water purification device, the water purification device including a filter, and the connector includes: A base body, the base body being provided with a water inlet and a water outlet, and the filter being connected to the base body; A switching element is rotatably disposed in the base body so that the switching element has at least a first position and a second position. The switching element includes a body and a sealing element. The body is provided with an inlet channel, an outlet channel and a bypass structure. The inlet channel is provided with a processing opening. The processing opening is located at one end of the body away from the filter along the axial direction of the switching element. The sealing element is disposed at the processing opening to seal the processing opening. When the switching element is in the first position, the inlet is connected to the outlet through the bypass structure; When the switching element is in the second position, the inlet is connected to the filter through the inlet channel, and the filter is connected to the outlet through the outlet channel.
2. The hub of claim 1, wherein, The water inlet channel is also provided with a first port and a second port, which are spaced apart along the axial direction. The first port is used to connect to the water inlet, and the second port is used to connect to the filter. Wherein, both the first port and the second port are located on the side wall of the body, or the first port is located on the side wall of the body.
3. The hub of claim 2, wherein, The water inlet channel includes: A first channel, one end of which is provided with the processing opening, and the other end of which is located inside the body; The second channel has the first port at one end and the other end of the second channel is located inside the body and connected to the other end of the first channel. The third channel has a second port at one end and the other end of the third channel is located in the body and connected to the first channel. The second channel is located on the side of the third channel away from the filter along the axial direction.
4. The hub of claim 3, wherein The first channel extends along the axial direction; and / or The second channel extends radially along the switching element; and / or The third channel extends radially along the switching element.
5. The hub of claim 1, wherein At least a portion of the sealing element extends into the water inlet channel through the machining opening.
6. The hub of claim 5, wherein, The sealing component has a first sealing ring on its periphery, which is used to seal the gap between the sealing component and the inner surface of the water inlet channel.
7. The hub of claim 5, wherein, The water inlet channel is provided with a limiting step, and the sealing component is matched with the limiting step for limiting.
8. The hub of claim 1, wherein, The sealing component is detachably connected to the main body.
9. The hub of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The filter is provided with a first limiting member, and the switching member is provided with a second limiting member; The filter is detachably connected to the base: when the filter and the base are in the installed state, the first limiting member and the second limiting member are in circumferential limiting cooperation along the switching member, and the switching member is located in the second position; when the filter and the base are in the separated state, the switching member is located in the first position. The filter drives the switching component to rotate between the first position and the second position via the first limiting member and the second limiting member.
10. The connector according to claim 9, characterized in that, The switching component includes a switching column and a connecting shell. The water inlet channel and the water outlet channel are both located on the switching column. The water outlet channel has a third port and a fourth port. The third port is located on the side wall of the switching column, and the fourth port is located at the end of the switching column away from the processing opening. The connecting shell surrounds the end of the switching column where the fourth port is located. The filter includes a bottle body and a filter section. The filter section is at least partially disposed in the bottle body. One end of the bottle body can extend into the base body and be connected to the base body. The connecting shell extends between the bottle body and the filter section so that the water inlet channel communicates with the bottle body through the gap between the connecting shell and the inner wall of the bottle body.
11. The hub of claim 10, wherein, Also includes: A fixing ring is disposed in the seat body. The switching component also includes a boss along the axial direction. The boss is disposed between the connecting shell and the switching column. The fixing ring is located on the periphery of the boss. The switching component is rotatably connected to the seat body through the fixing ring. The boss has a notch that extends through the boss along the axial direction. When the switching element is in the second position, the water inlet channel is connected to the filter through the notch.
12. The hub of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The bypass structure includes: A first sink and at least two second sinks are provided on the outer surface of the switching member. The at least two second sinks are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the switching member. Along the axial direction, the first sink is located at one end of the at least two second sinks and is connected to the at least two second sinks. When the switching component is in the first position, at least two second sinks are respectively arranged opposite to the inlet and the outlet, and the inner wall surfaces of the first sink, the second sink, and the seat form a bypass channel, through which the inlet communicates with the outlet; When the switching element is in the second position, at least two of the second settling tanks are respectively offset from the inlet and the outlet along the circumferential direction.
13. The hub of claim 12, wherein, Also includes: The second sealing ring is located on the outer wall of the switching component along the axial direction. The second sealing ring is located at the end of the second recess away from the first recess and is sealed to the inner wall surface of the seat.
14. A water quality purification device, characterized by comprising: include: Filter; and The connector as described in any one of claims 1 to 13.
15. A refrigeration appliance characterized in that, include: The connector as described in any one of claims 1 to 13; or The water purification device as described in claim 14.
16. The refrigeration appliance of claim 15, wherein, Also includes: Water outlet section; The ice-making unit has a water outlet that can be selectively connected to either the water outlet or the ice-making unit to supply water to both units.