Air pressure balancing device for refrigerator and refrigerator

Abstract

The application provides a pressure balance device for a refrigerator and the refrigerator. The pressure balance device is arranged in a second chamber and comprises a cover body with a first side wall, a base with a second side wall extending towards the cover body, the first side wall extending towards the base, the base being fixedly connected with the cover body through the first side wall and the second side wall, and an arc-shaped film layer fixedly arranged between the cover body and the base, the arc-shaped film layer having an arc-shaped convex direction towards the base, the arc-shaped film layer and the base having a first space communicating with the first chamber, the arc-shaped film layer and the cover body having a second space communicating with the second chamber, the first space and the second space being separated from each other, and the arc-shaped film layer being capable of deforming towards the cover body under the action of a pressure difference. The application can solve the problems of the opening suction sound and the large opening force of the refrigerator in the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigerator technology, and more particularly to a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in French-door multi-door refrigerators, the freezer drawer door experiences a sudden increase in internal volume and pressure difference due to the sealing effect of the door seal when opened. As the door opens until a small gap forms between the seal and the frame, air is instantly drawn into the refrigerator through this gap, creating a noticeable suction sound. Furthermore, the increased pressure difference and force required to open the door at that moment also contribute to the increased internal volume and pressure difference.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, existing technologies have employed several solutions, such as a door-releasing negative pressure mechanism. This involves designing a connection between the bottom of the door and the outside of the freezer. However, this requires a thicker foam layer on the door to prevent condensation at this mechanism. Current refrigerator development trends favor thinner doors with larger capacities, making this mechanism unsuitable for thinner doors. Another approach is a tilting door opening mechanism. This tilts the door open, balancing the air pressure inside and outside, and then pulls it out horizontally to avoid creating negative pressure upon opening. However, this results in a noticeable rotational feel when the drawer door is opened. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a pressure balancing device and a refrigerator, which can solve the problems of draft noise and excessive force required to open the door in existing refrigerators.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator, the refrigerator having a first compartment and a second compartment, the pressure balancing device being disposed in the second compartment, and the pressure balancing device comprising: a cover having a first sidewall;

[0006] A base having a second sidewall extending toward the cover, the first sidewall extending toward the base, the base and the cover being fixedly connected by the first sidewall and the second sidewall; and

[0007] An arc-shaped membrane layer is fixedly disposed between the cover and the base, with the arc-shaped protrusion of the membrane layer facing the base. There is a first space between the arc-shaped membrane layer and the base that connects to the first chamber, and a second space between the arc-shaped membrane layer and the cover that connects to the second chamber. The first space and the second space are isolated from each other, and the arc-shaped membrane layer can deform towards the cover under the action of the air pressure difference between the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0008] As an optional technical solution, the cover includes a frame and a plate. The frame has a first surface and a second surface facing each other, and the second surface faces the base. The frame has a first opening that penetrates the first surface and the second surface. The plate is detachably fixed to the frame and covers the first opening.

[0009] As an optional technical solution, a first fixing part is provided on the inner periphery of the first opening of the frame, and a second fixing part is provided on the periphery of the plate. The first fixing part and the second fixing part cooperate to position the plate on the frame in a first direction and a second direction, wherein the first direction is the planar direction of the plate and the second direction is the thickness direction of the plate.

[0010] As an optional technical solution, the first fixing part includes a first U-shaped structure and at least one pressure block, the at least one pressure block is located on the side of the first U-shaped structure away from the base, and the first U-shaped structure is provided with at least one notch;

[0011] The second fixing part further includes a second U-shaped structure, a first groove, and at least one hook. The first opening direction of the first U-shaped structure is opposite to the second opening direction of the second U-shaped structure. The first groove is recessed from the third surface of the plate. The first U-shaped structure and the second U-shaped structure are interlocked. The at least one hook is engaged with the at least one notch and abuts against the second surface. The at least one pressing block presses against the first groove. The third surface of the plate faces away from the base.

[0012] As an optional technical solution, a plurality of first protrusions are provided on the outer periphery of the first sidewall of the cover, and a plurality of second openings are provided on the second sidewall of the base, the plurality of second openings and the plurality of first protrusions are combined to fix the cover and the base; or, a plurality of third openings are provided on the outer periphery of the first sidewall of the cover, and a plurality of second protrusions are provided on the second sidewall of the base, the plurality of third openings and the plurality of second protrusions are combined to fix the cover and the base.

[0013] As an optional technical solution, the connecting pipe includes a first connector, a second connector, and a third connector connected and communicating in sequence. The first end of the first connector has a first annular groove, and the first end of the third connector has a second annular groove. The first end of the second connector is inserted into the first annular groove, and the second end of the second connector is inserted into the second annular groove. The second end of the first connector is fixedly connected to the third side wall of the first compartment and communicates with the first compartment. The second end of the third connector communicates with the first space.

[0014] As an optional technical solution, the third connector includes a vertical part and a horizontal part that are connected. The vertical part is connected to the second end of the second connector. A third protrusion is provided on the outer periphery of the second sidewall corresponding to the second side of the connecting channel. The third protrusion has a first through hole. The first through hole passes through the third protrusion and the second side of the second sidewall and is connected to the first space. The third protrusion is inserted into the second end of the third connector, and the first through hole connects the third connector and the first space.

[0015] Furthermore, a protruding structure is provided on the inner sidewall of the transverse portion, and a groove structure is provided on the outer sidewall of the third protrusion corresponding to the protruding structure. The third protrusion and the third connector are fixedly connected by the protruding structure and the groove structure.

[0016] As an optional technical solution, a third U-shaped structure is provided inside the base, with the third opening of the third U-shaped structure facing the cover. A fourth U-shaped structure is provided on the periphery of the arc-shaped film layer, with the fourth opening of the fourth U-shaped structure facing the base. The third U-shaped structure and the fourth U-shaped structure are interlocked and fixed to the arc-shaped film layer on the base.

[0017] Furthermore, the first straight arm of the third U-shaped structure is provided with at least one fourth opening, and the first straight arm of the fourth U-shaped structure is provided with at least one fourth protrusion. The at least one fourth protrusion engages with the at least one fourth opening. After the third U-shaped structure and the fourth U-shaped structure are interleaved, the first straight arm of the third U-shaped structure is adjacent to the first straight arm of the fourth U-shaped structure.

[0018] As an optional technical solution, the second straight arm of the third type structure is inserted into the U-shaped bottom of the fourth U-shaped structure, the first straight arm of the fourth U-shaped structure is inserted into the U-shaped bottom of the third U-shaped structure, and a sealing element is also provided between the second straight arm of the third type structure and the U-shaped bottom of the fourth U-shaped structure.

[0019] In addition, the present invention also provides a refrigerator, the refrigerator including the pressure balancing device for the refrigerator as described above.

[0020] Compared to existing technologies, this invention utilizes a pressure balancing device installed within the refrigerator's compartments. When the door of the second compartment begins to open, the sealing effect of the door seal (e.g., the door seal can expand and contract by 3-5mm, maintaining a tight seal with the U-shaped shell of the refrigerator within this expansion and contraction range) causes the volume of the second compartment to gradually increase. The pressure difference between the first and second compartments causes the arc-shaped membrane layer to move upwards (towards the lid), thereby balancing the volume within the second compartment and reducing the pressure difference before the door seal separates during the opening process. This solves the problem of airflow noise caused by a large amount of external air rapidly entering the second compartment through a small gap immediately after the door seal separates. Simultaneously, because this pressure balancing device balances the volume within the second compartment and reduces the pressure difference before the door seal separates during the opening process, it also reduces the opening force. In other words, this invention is applicable to ultra-thin doors without altering the door opening method; furthermore, by being placed within the second compartment, this invention achieves the function of balancing the compartment volume, thus solving the problem of air intake noise during opening and reducing the opening force, providing a better user experience when opening the compartment door. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a top view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 For along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of line AA in the diagram;

[0025] Figure 4 For along Figure 2 A sectional view of the BB line in the middle;

[0026] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Enlarged schematic diagram of region C in the middle;

[0027] Figure 6 for Figure 4 Enlarged schematic diagram of region D in the middle;

[0028] Figure 7for Figure 4 Enlarged schematic diagram of region E in the middle;

[0029] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram from another angle of an embodiment of the air pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to the present invention.

[0032] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram from another angle of an embodiment of the air pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to the present invention;

[0033] Figure 12 This is an exploded view of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the frame of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the base of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the base of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention from another angle.

[0037] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the plate body of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the arc-shaped film layer of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 18 A schematic diagram of a crossbeam for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0041] 1. Refrigerator; 2. Cabinet; 3. Pressure balancing device; 4. First compartment; 5. Second compartment; 6. Lid; 7. Base; 8. Arc-shaped membrane layer; 10. Fourth space; 11. Second space; 12. First space; 13. Connecting pipe; 41. Third side wall; 42. First engaging part; 61. First side wall; 62. Frame; 63. Panel; 64. First U-shaped structure; 65. Pressure block; 66. Notch; 67. Second U-shaped structure; 68. 69. First groove; 71. Hook; 72. Second sidewall; 73. Third U-shaped structure; 74. First straight arm of the third U-shaped structure; 75. Fourth opening; 86. Second straight arm of the third U-shaped structure; 87. Fourth U-shaped structure; 88. First straight arm of the fourth U-shaped structure; 89. Fourth protrusion; 80. Second straight arm of the fourth U-shaped structure; 101. Sealing element; 102. First channel; 133. First connector; 134. Second connector; 135. Third connector; 136. First end of the first connector; 137. First annular groove; 138. Second end of the first connector; 139. Protrusion; 130. First end of the second connector; 131. Second end of the second connector; 132. Second end of the second connector; 133. First end of the third connector; 133. Second annular groove; 133. Second end of the second connector; 133. Vertical part; 133. Horizontal part; 1336. 200, 300, buffer; 301, second groove; 400, second engaging part; 500, crossbeam; 501, second hook; 611, first protrusion; 621, first surface; 622, second surface; 623, first opening; 624, first side; 631, third surface; 711, second opening; 712, second side of connecting channel; 713, third protrusion; 714, first through hole; 715, groove structure. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To provide a further understanding of the purpose, structure, features, and functions of the present invention, detailed descriptions are provided below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0043] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0044] Please see Figures 1-8 , Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a top view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 For along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of line AA in the diagram; Figure 4 For along Figure 2 A sectional view of the BB line in the middle; Figure 5 for Figure 3 Enlarged schematic diagram of region C in the middle; Figure 6 for Figure 4 Enlarged schematic diagram of region D in the middle; Figure 7 for Figure 4 Enlarged schematic diagram of region E in the middle; Figure 8 This is an exploded view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. The present invention provides a refrigerator 1, such as a drawer-type refrigerator, which includes a cabinet 2, a door, and a pressure balancing device 3 for the refrigerator as described in any of the following embodiments. The refrigerator 1 has a first compartment 4 and a second compartment 5, which are disposed within a storage cavity within the cabinet 2. The pressure balancing device 3 is disposed in the second compartment 5, and the pressure balancing device 5 includes a cover 6, a base 7, and an arc-shaped membrane layer 8.

[0045] Please continue reading Figures 9-17 , Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram from another angle of an embodiment of the air pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to the present invention. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram from another angle of an embodiment of the air pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 12 This is an exploded view of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the frame of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the base of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the base of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention from another angle. Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the plate body of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the arc-shaped film layer of a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 18This is a schematic diagram of a crossbeam for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cover 6 has a first sidewall 61 extending toward the base 7. The base 7 has a second sidewall 71 extending toward the cover 6, and the base 7 and the cover 6 are fixedly connected by the first sidewall 61 and the second sidewall 71. An arc-shaped film layer 8 is fixedly disposed between the cover 6 and the base 7, with the arcuate convex direction of the film layer 8 facing the base 7. A first space 12 connecting the arcuate film layer 8 and the base 7 communicates with the first compartment 4, and a second space 11 connecting the arcuate film layer 8 and the cover 6 communicates with the second compartment 5. The first space 12 and the second space 11 are separated from each other, and the arcuate film layer 8 can deform toward the cover 6 under the pressure difference between the first compartment 4 and the second compartment 5, thereby increasing the volume of the first space 12. The arcuate film layer 8 is, for example, a PET film. However, the arcuate film layer disposed within the compartment is easily affected by the usage environment, leading to the problem of failure. To solve this problem, prevent component failure, and ensure long-term functional stability, the present invention designs the air pressure balancing device into three parts: a cover 6, an arc-shaped membrane layer 8, and a base 7, from top to bottom. The key moving parts (i.e., the arc-shaped membrane layer) are located inside the device, with components protecting the upper, lower, and surrounding parts to prevent any external forces or impurities from affecting its function.

[0047] In this embodiment, a third space is formed between the base 7 and the cover 6, and a fourth space 10 is located outside the third space. The fourth space 10 is connected to the second chamber 5. Specifically, for example, a first channel 101 connecting the fourth space 10 and the second chamber 5 is provided in the fourth space 10. The arc-shaped membrane layer 8 is fixedly disposed in the third space. The portion of the third space located between the cover 6 and the arc-shaped membrane layer 8, together with the fourth space 10, forms the second space 11. The first space 12 is a sealed space, which is isolated from both the second space 11 and the fourth space 10, and the first space 12 is connected to the first chamber 4 through a connecting pipe 13.

[0048] Specifically, the first compartment 4 may have a refrigeration function, and the second compartment 5 may have a freezing function; that is, the first compartment 4 is a refrigeration compartment and the second compartment 5 is a freezing compartment. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In another embodiment, the first compartment 4 may have a freezing function, and the second compartment 5 may have a refrigeration function; that is, the first compartment 4 is a freezing compartment and the second compartment 5 is a refrigeration compartment.

[0049] Specifically, such as Figure 10 and 11As shown, in actual operation, when the refrigerator drawer or door is opened, the volume of the second compartment 5 increases and the air pressure decreases. At this time, the air pressure in the first compartment 4 is greater than that in the second compartment 5. That is, the air pressure in the first space 12 connected to the first compartment 4 is greater than that in the second space 11 connected to the second compartment 5. Under the action of the air pressure difference, the arc-shaped membrane layer 8 deforms towards the cover 6, the volume of the first space 12 increases, and the volume of the second space 11 decreases. Since the first space 12 is connected to the first compartment 4, the volume of the first compartment is indirectly increased. Thus, when the refrigerator door or drawer is opened, the airflow noise caused by a large amount of external air rapidly entering the second compartment through the small gap when the door seal is just separated can be resolved. At the same time, because this air pressure balancing device balances the volume inside the second compartment, it reduces the pressure difference before the door seal separates during the opening process of the second compartment, thereby also reducing the opening force.

[0050] Moreover, in this invention, the first space 12 is a sealed space, which is connected to the first compartment 4 through the connecting pipe 13, while the second space 11 and the fourth space 10 are connected and communicate with the second compartment 5. That is, by setting the structure of the air pressure balancing device 3, the arc-shaped membrane layer 8 is divided so that the air in the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment is not interconnected, that is, there is no air convection between the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment, thus avoiding the problem of cross-contamination of odors between compartments caused by solving the problem of door opening sound.

[0051] In one embodiment, the cover 6 includes a frame 62 and a plate 63. The frame 62 has a first surface 621 and a second surface 622 facing each other, with the second surface 622 facing the base 7. The frame 62 has a first opening 623 penetrating the first surface 621 and the second surface 622. The plate 63 is detachably fixed to the frame 62 and covers the first opening 623. It should be noted that when the cover 6 includes the frame 62 and the plate 63, the first sidewall 61 of the cover 6 is the same as the first sidewall of the frame 62. Furthermore, since the plate 63 is detachably fixed to the frame 62, when the arc-shaped membrane layer 8 needs to be replaced, only the plate 63 needs to be removed, which is very convenient.

[0052] In addition, a first fixing part is provided on the inner periphery of the first opening 623 of the frame 62, and a second fixing part is provided on the periphery of the plate 63. The first fixing part and the second fixing part cooperate to position the plate 63 on the frame 62 in a first direction D1 and a second direction D2, wherein the first direction D1 is the planar direction of the plate 63, and the second direction D2 is the thickness direction of the plate 63.

[0053] The first fixing part includes a first U-shaped structure 64 and at least one pressure block 65. The at least one pressure block 65 is located on the side of the first U-shaped structure 64 away from the base 7, and the first U-shaped structure 64 is provided with at least one notch 66. The second fixing part also includes a second U-shaped structure 67, a first groove 68, and at least one hook 69. The first opening direction of the first U-shaped structure 64 is opposite to the second opening direction of the second U-shaped structure 67. The first groove 68 is recessed from the third surface 631 of the plate 63, and the third surface 631 of the plate 63 faces away from the base 7. The first U-shaped structure 64 and the second U-shaped structure 67 are interlocked to prevent the plate 63 from moving relative to the frame 62 toward the base 7, and also to prevent the plate 63 from moving relative to the frame 62 in the planar direction (i.e., the horizontal direction, including the transverse and longitudinal directions) of the plate 63. The at least one hook 69 is engaged with the at least one notch 66 and the at least one hook 69 abuts against the second surface 622. The at least one pressing block 65 presses against the first groove 68, which can prevent the plate 63 from moving away from the base 7 relative to the frame 62. At the same time, the engagement of the at least one hook 69 with the at least one notch 66 can also prevent the plate 63 from moving relative to the frame 62 in the planar direction (i.e., the horizontal direction, including the transverse and longitudinal directions) of the plate 63.

[0054] In this embodiment, the first U-shaped structure 64 and at least one pressure block 65 are both disposed on the inner periphery of the frame 62. Specifically, the first U-shaped structure 64 and the pressure block 65 can be disposed on the inner periphery of each side of the frame 62 simultaneously. Alternatively, the first U-shaped structure 64 can be disposed on the inner periphery of one, two, or three sides of the frame 62, while the pressure blocks 65 are disposed on the inner periphery of the remaining sides. This can be configured according to the actual situation, as long as there is no interference when the plate 63 is installed on or removed from the frame 62. In this embodiment, the at least one pressure block 65 is disposed on the inner periphery of the first side 624 of the frame 62, and the first U-shaped structure 64 is disposed on the inner periphery of the remaining sides of the frame 62, excluding the first side 624. The first side 624 is the side of the frame 62 opposite to the door of the refrigerator 1. Moreover, corresponding to the at least one pressure block 65 disposed on the first side 624 of the frame 62, the first groove 68 is disposed on the corresponding side of the plate 63.

[0055] In one embodiment, a plurality of first protrusions 611 are provided on the outer periphery of the first sidewall 61 of the cover 6, and a plurality of second openings 711 are provided on the second sidewall 71 of the base 7. The plurality of second openings 711 are combined with the plurality of first protrusions 611 to fix the cover 6 and the base 7; or a plurality of third openings are provided on the outer periphery of the first sidewall 61 of the cover 6, and a plurality of second protrusions are provided on the second sidewall 71 of the base 7. The plurality of third openings are combined with the plurality of second protrusions to fix the cover 6 and the base 7.

[0056] In one embodiment, the connecting pipe 13 includes a first connector 131, a second connector 132, and a third connector 133 connected and communicating in sequence. The first end 1311 of the first connector 131 has a first annular groove 1312, and the first end 1331 of the third connector 133 has a second annular groove 1332. The first end 1321 of the second connector 132 is inserted into the first annular groove 1312, and the second end 1322 of the second connector 132 is inserted into the second annular groove 1332. The second end 1313 of the first connector 131 is connected to and communicates with the third sidewall 41 of the first compartment 4. The second end 1333 of the third connector 133 communicates with the first space 12. To better seal the connection between the second end 1313 of the first connector 131 and the third side wall 41 of the first compartment 4, and to isolate the foam layer inside the refrigerator from entering the pressure balancing device and affecting its operation, a first engaging portion 42 is provided on the third side wall 41. Correspondingly, the second end 1313 of the first connector 131 is provided with a protrusion 1314 that engages with the first engaging portion 42 on the third side wall 41. Through the engagement of the first engaging portion 42 and the protrusion 1314, the second end 1313 of the first connector 131 is securely engaged with the third side wall 41 of the first compartment 4. Preferably, the first annular groove 1312 and the second annular groove 1332 are complete annular grooves, but this is not a limitation. In practical use, incomplete annular groove structures are also acceptable, as long as they allow for insertion with the corresponding connectors.

[0057] Furthermore, the third connector 133 includes a vertical portion 1334 and a horizontal portion 1335 that are connected. The vertical portion 1334 is connected to the second end 1322 of the second connector 132. The second sidewall 71 is provided with a third protrusion 713 on the outer periphery of the second side 712 of the connecting channel 13. The third protrusion has a first through hole 714. The first through hole 714 penetrates the third protrusion 713 and the second side 712 of the second sidewall 71 and communicates with the first space 12. The third protrusion 713 is inserted into the second end 1333 of the third connector 133, and the first through hole 714 communicates the third connector 133 and the first space 12.

[0058] Furthermore, a protruding structure 1336 is provided on the inner sidewall of the transverse portion 1335, and a groove structure 715 is provided on the outer sidewall of the third protrusion 713 corresponding to the protruding structure 1336. The third protrusion 713 and the third connector 133 are fixedly connected by the protruding structure 1336 and the groove structure 715.

[0059] In addition, a third U-shaped structure 72 is provided inside the base 7, with the third opening of the third U-shaped structure 72 facing the cover 6. A fourth U-shaped structure 81 is provided on the periphery of the arc-shaped film layer 8, with the fourth opening of the fourth U-shaped structure 81 facing the base 7. The third U-shaped structure 72 and the fourth U-shaped structure 81 are interlocked and fixed to the arc-shaped film layer 8 on the base 7.

[0060] Furthermore, the first straight arm 73 of the third U-shaped structure 72 is provided with at least one fourth opening 74, and the first straight arm 82 of the fourth U-shaped structure 81 is provided with at least one fourth protrusion 83. The at least one fourth protrusion 83 engages with the at least one fourth opening 74. After the third U-shaped structure 72 and the fourth U-shaped structure 81 are interleaved, the first straight arm 73 of the third U-shaped structure 72 is adjacent to the first straight arm 82 of the fourth U-shaped structure 81.

[0061] Furthermore, the second straight arm 75 of the third type structure 72 is inserted into the U-shaped bottom of the fourth U-shaped structure 81, and the first straight arm 84 of the fourth U-shaped structure 81 is inserted into the U-shaped bottom of the third U-shaped structure 72. A sealing element 100 is also provided between the second straight arm 75 of the third type structure 72 and the U-shaped bottom of the fourth U-shaped structure 81. The sealing element 100 is, for example, a sealing rubber component, which can serve a sealing function and also a cushioning function. The sealing element 100 is, for example, an annular structure, matching the overall structure of the fourth U-shaped structure 81 and the third U-shaped structure 72.

[0062] like Figure 11As shown, in one embodiment, the periphery of the air pressure balancing device 3 is further provided with buffers 200 and 300, such as sponge, to solve the noise problem caused by the shaking of the air pressure balancing device 3 after installation. Specifically, for example, a second engaging part 400 can be provided on the base 7, and a corresponding engaging part can be provided on the buffer 300. The buffer 300 is fixed to the base 7 by engaging the second engaging part 400 with the engaging part.

[0063] In addition, a crossbeam 500 is fixedly connected to the side of the base 7 facing the door of the refrigerator 1. In this embodiment, the second hook 501 on the crossbeam 500 passes through the second groove 301 on the buffer 300 and is fixedly connected to the base 7.

[0064] In summary, this invention utilizes a pressure balancing device installed within the refrigerator's compartments. When the door of the second compartment begins to open, the sealing effect of the door seal (e.g., the door seal can expand and contract by 3-5mm, maintaining a tight seal with the U-shaped shell of the refrigerator within this expansion and contraction range) causes the volume of the second compartment to gradually increase. The pressure difference between the first and second compartments causes the arc-shaped membrane layer to move upwards (towards the lid), thereby balancing the volume within the second compartment and reducing the pressure difference before the door seal separates during the opening process. This solves the problem of airflow noise caused by a large amount of external air rapidly entering the second compartment through a small gap immediately after the door seal separates. Simultaneously, because this pressure balancing device balances the volume within the second compartment and reduces the pressure difference before the door seal separates during the opening process, it also reduces the opening force. In other words, this invention is applicable to ultra-thin doors without altering the door opening method; furthermore, by being placed within the second compartment, this invention achieves the function of balancing the compartment volume, thereby solving the problem of airflow noise during opening and reducing the opening force, providing a better user experience when opening the compartment door.

[0065] The present invention has been described by the above-described embodiments; however, these embodiments are merely examples for implementing the present invention. Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of the present invention described above can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other. It must be pointed out that the disclosed embodiments do not limit the scope of the present invention. On the contrary, any modifications and refinements made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention are within the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A pressure balancing device 3 for a refrigerator 16, the refrigerator 16 having a first compartment 4 and a second compartment 5, characterized in that, The pressure balancing device 3 is disposed in the second chamber 5, and the pressure balancing device 3 includes: The cover 6 has a first sidewall 61; The base 7 has a second sidewall 71 extending toward the cover 6, and the first sidewall 61 extends toward the base 7. The base 7 and the cover 6 are fixedly connected by the first sidewall 61 and the second sidewall 71. An arc-shaped membrane layer 8 is fixedly disposed between the cover 6 and the base 7, with the arc-shaped protrusion of the membrane layer 8 facing the base 7. A first space 12 connecting the arc-shaped membrane layer 8 and the base 7 communicates with the first chamber 4, and a second space 11 connecting the arc-shaped membrane layer 8 and the cover 6 communicates with the second chamber 5. The first space 12 and the second space 11 are separated from each other, and the arc-shaped membrane layer 8 can deform towards the cover 6 under the action of the air pressure difference between the first chamber 4 and the second chamber 5.

2. The pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cover 6 includes a frame 62 and a plate 63. The frame 62 has a first surface 621 and a second surface 622 facing each other, with the second surface 622 facing the base. The frame 62 has a first opening 623 that penetrates the first surface 621 and the second surface 622. The plate 63 is detachably fixed to the frame 62 and covers the first opening 623.

3. The pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The frame 62 is formed by a first fixing part on the inner periphery of the first opening 623, and a second fixing part on the periphery of the plate 63. The first fixing part and the second fixing part cooperate to position the plate 63 on the frame 62 in a first direction and a second direction, wherein the first direction is the plane direction of the plate 63 and the second direction is the thickness direction of the plate 63.

4. The pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first fixing part includes a first U-shaped structure 64 and at least one pressure block 65. The at least one pressure block 65 is located on the side of the first U-shaped structure 64 away from the base 7, and at least one notch 66 is provided on the first U-shaped structure 64. The second fixing part further includes a second U-shaped structure 67, a first groove 68, and at least one hook 69. The first opening direction of the first U-shaped structure 64 is opposite to the second opening direction of the second U-shaped structure 67. The first groove 68 is recessed from the third surface 631 of the plate 63. The first U-shaped structure 64 and the second U-shaped structure 67 are interlocked. The at least one hook 69 is engaged with the at least one notch 66 and the at least one hook 69 abuts against the second surface 622. The at least one pressing block 65 presses against the first groove 68. The third surface 631 of the plate 63 faces away from the base 7.

5. The pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cover 6 has a plurality of first protrusions 611 on the outer periphery of the first sidewall 61, and the base 7 has a plurality of second openings 711 on the second sidewall 71. The plurality of second openings 711 are combined with the plurality of first protrusions 611 to fix the cover 6 and the base 7; or, the cover has a plurality of third openings on the outer periphery of the first sidewall, and the base has a plurality of second protrusions on the second sidewall, and the plurality of third openings are combined with the plurality of second protrusions to fix the cover and the base.

6. The pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting pipe 13 includes a first connector 131, a second connector 132, and a third connector 133 connected and communicating in sequence. The first end 1311 of the first connector 131 has a first annular groove 1312, and the first end 1331 of the third connector 133 has a second annular groove 1332. The first end 1321 of the second connector 132 is inserted into the first annular groove 1312, and the second end 1322 of the second connector 132 is inserted into the second annular groove 1332. The second end 1313 of the first connector 131 is fixedly connected to the third side wall 41 of the first compartment 4 and communicates with the first compartment 4. The second end 1333 of the third connector 133 communicates with the first space 12.

7. The pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The third connector 133 includes a vertical portion 1334 and a horizontal portion 1335 that are connected. The vertical portion 1334 is connected to the second end 1322 of the second connector 132. The second sidewall 71 is provided with a third protrusion 713 on the outer periphery of the second side 712 of the connecting channel 13. The third protrusion 713 has a first through hole 714. The first through hole 714 penetrates the third protrusion 713 and the second side 712 of the second sidewall 71 and communicates with the first space 12. The third protrusion 713 is inserted into the second end 1333 of the third connector 133, and the first through hole 714 communicates the third connector 133 and the first space 12. Furthermore, a protruding structure 1336 is provided on the inner sidewall of the transverse portion 1335, and a groove structure 715 is provided on the outer sidewall of the third protrusion 713 corresponding to the protruding structure 1336. The third protrusion 713 and the third connector 133 are fixedly connected by the protruding structure 1336 and the groove structure 715.

8. The pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The base 7 is provided with a third U-shaped structure 72, the third opening of the third U-shaped structure 72 faces the cover 6, and the periphery of the arc-shaped film layer 8 is provided with a fourth U-shaped structure 81, the fourth opening of the fourth U-shaped structure 81 faces the base 7. The third U-shaped structure 72 and the fourth U-shaped structure 81 are interlocked and fixed to the arc-shaped film layer 8 on the base 7. Furthermore, the first straight arm 73 of the third U-shaped structure 72 is provided with at least one fourth opening 74, and the first straight arm 82 of the fourth U-shaped structure 81 is provided with at least one fourth protrusion 83. The at least one fourth protrusion 83 engages with the at least one fourth opening 74. After the third U-shaped structure 72 and the fourth U-shaped structure 81 are interleaved, the first straight arm 82 of the third U-shaped structure 72 is adjacent to the first straight arm 82 of the fourth U-shaped structure 81.

9. The pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second straight arm 75 of the third type structure 72 is inserted into the U-shaped bottom of the fourth U-shaped structure 81, the first straight arm 82 of the fourth U-shaped structure 81 is inserted into the U-shaped bottom of the third U-shaped structure 72, and a sealing member 100 is also provided between the second straight arm 75 of the third type structure 72 and the U-shaped bottom of the fourth U-shaped structure 81.

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that, The refrigerator includes a pressure balancing device for a refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1-9.

Images