Refrigerator

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application relates to the refrigeration technical field, and particularly relates to a refrigerator. The refrigerator of the present application is provided with a damper mechanism at the air inlet of the air duct, the damper mechanism comprises a damper and at least two memory metal springs, the at least two memory metal springs are deformed to drive the damper to move relative to the air inlet in response to the temperature change of the evaporating cavity. When the evaporator defrosts, the damper closes the air inlet to block the defrosting heat from entering the storage compartment, thereby reducing the influence of the defrosting heat on the temperature of the storage compartment. The at least two memory metal springs are arranged at the same horizontal height, so that the memory metal springs can simultaneously sense the temperature, improve the consistency of the deformation of the memory metal springs, and further improve the smoothness of the movement of the damper and reduce the possibility of the damper being stuck.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigeration technology, and more particularly to a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] During refrigerator use, the food stored in the storage compartment and the air contain moisture, causing frost to form when the air passes through the evaporator. When the frost reaches a certain thickness, it affects the smooth flow of air through the evaporator, thus impacting cooling efficiency. Therefore, regular defrosting is necessary.

[0003] In related technologies, a heater is typically installed below the evaporator to melt frost. However, because the evaporator chamber is connected to the storage chamber, the heat generated during defrosting enters the storage chamber through the air duct, causing the temperature inside the storage chamber to rise and affecting the quality of the stored goods. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a refrigerator that reduces the amount of heat entering the storage compartment during defrosting.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, which includes:

[0006] The box is constructed to form a receiving cavity with an opening for taking out and putting in.

[0007] An air duct component is installed within the receiving cavity, dividing the receiving cavity into an evaporation chamber and a storage compartment along the depth direction of the refrigerator. An evaporator is installed in the evaporation chamber. The storage compartment is located on one side of the access port. The air duct component is constructed to form an air duct and an air inlet. The air duct is connected to the storage compartment and to the evaporation chamber through the air inlet. A cooling fan is installed within the air duct, and the cooling fan drives cold air from the evaporator to enter the air duct through the air inlet and then into the storage compartment.

[0008] A damper mechanism is located within the evaporation chamber and is opposite to the air inlet along the depth direction; the damper mechanism includes:

[0009] The damper is configured to either shield or open the air inlet;

[0010] At least two shape memory metal springs are connected to the damper and the air duct component respectively; the shape memory metal springs are configured to deform in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber, so as to drive the damper to move axially along the air inlet;

[0011] The at least two memory metal springs are located at the same horizontal height.

[0012] This embodiment of the application uses a damper at the air inlet, with a shape memory metal spring that deforms to sense temperature changes in the evaporator chamber, driving the damper to move relative to the air inlet. During evaporator defrosting, the damper blocks the air inlet, preventing defrosting heat from entering the storage compartment and helping to maintain a stable temperature in the storage compartment. Blocking the air inlet also seals the top of the evaporator chamber, helping defrosting heat to accumulate within the chamber and act on the evaporator, thus improving defrosting efficiency. During evaporator cooling, the damper opens the air inlet, allowing cold air passing through the evaporator to enter the storage compartment through the inlet and duct, lowering the temperature in the storage compartment. At least two shape memory metal springs are at the same vertical height from the bottom of the housing, allowing them to simultaneously sense temperature changes in the evaporator chamber, thus improving the consistency of deformation across all springs. This helps to improve the consistency of the force exerted by the multiple shape memory metal springs on the damper, thereby improving the smoothness of damper movement and reducing the possibility of damper jamming. In addition, it can reduce the possibility of damper warping and deformation, which helps to improve the reliability and stability of the damper mechanism.

[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the memory metal spring is a cylindrical helical spring; the axial direction of the memory metal spring is parallel to the horizontal plane of the refrigerator; wherein the width direction and the depth direction of the refrigerator determine the horizontal plane of the refrigerator.

[0014] In this embodiment, the memory metal spring is a cylindrical helical spring, which has a simple structure, is easy to manufacture, and can stretch and deform along its axial direction. In this embodiment, compared to a conical helical spring, the memory metal spring uses a cylindrical helical spring with the same diameter at the spring coil. The axial direction of the memory metal spring is parallel to the horizontal plane, so that the memory metal spring is at the same horizontal height along its axial direction, further improving the consistency of the temperature sensed by the memory metal spring.

[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the at least two memory metal springs are arranged at intervals along the horizontal centerline of the damper; wherein the horizontal centerline passes through the center of the damper and extends in a horizontal direction.

[0016] With the memory metal springs at the same horizontal height, the force on the damper is balanced along the height of the refrigerator, further improving the smoothness of damper movement and reducing the possibility of damper jamming. The horizontal center line H is parallel to the width of the refrigerator.

[0017] In some embodiments of this application, the at least two memory metal springs are arranged symmetrically about the vertical centerline of the damper; wherein the vertical centerline of the damper passes through the center of the damper and is perpendicular to the horizontal centerline of the damper.

[0018] With the memory metal springs at the same horizontal height, the force on the damper is balanced along the height of the refrigerator, further improving the smoothness of damper movement and reducing the possibility of damper jamming. The horizontal center line H is parallel to the width of the refrigerator.

[0019] In some embodiments of this application, the memory metal spring is configured to extend and retract axially in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber, and to independently drive the damper to move axially along the air inlet.

[0020] In this embodiment, the damper mechanism uses a memory metal spring to sense the temperature change of the evaporation chamber and extend or shorten along the axial direction of the memory metal spring, driving the damper to move relative to the air duct component, thereby shielding and opening the air inlet. No additional components, drivers, or auxiliary devices are required, which not only makes the damper mechanism simple in structure and highly reliable, but also helps to reduce the cost of the damper mechanism.

[0021] In some embodiments of this application, the damper mechanism further includes: a biasing elastic member configured to elastically extend and retract along a first direction, the first direction being parallel to the axial direction of the air inlet; the biasing elastic member is connected to the damper and the duct component respectively;

[0022] The combined force of the memory metal spring and the biased elastic element drives the damper to move axially along the air inlet.

[0023] In some embodiments of this application, the damper mechanism utilizes a biased elastic element and the combined force of the biased elastic element and the shape memory metal spring to drive the damper to move, thereby achieving the shielding and opening of the air inlet. The biased elastic element provides additional force for the opening of the damper, which helps to increase the opening speed of the component and makes the damper action more sensitive.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, both the biasing elastic element and the memory metal spring are cylindrical helical springs, and the axial direction of the biasing elastic element is parallel to the axial direction of the memory metal spring.

[0025] The biasing elastic element is arranged coaxially with the memory metal spring.

[0026] The above settings ensure that the elastic force of the bias elastic element and the elastic force of the memory metal spring are in the same direction, with no torque between the two forces. This helps to reduce the deformation of the damper, making the movement of the damper smoother and further improving the sensitivity of the damper in opening and blocking the air inlet.

[0027] In some embodiments of this application, both the biasing elastic element and the memory metal spring are cylindrical helical springs, and the axial direction of the biasing elastic element is parallel to the axial direction of the memory metal spring.

[0028] The biasing elastic element is not coaxially arranged with the memory metal spring.

[0029] With the above configuration, the elastic force of the biased elastic element and the elastic force of the shape memory metal spring are parallel, facilitating the formation of a resultant force to drive the damper. The biased elastic element and the shape memory metal spring are offset circumferentially along the damper, making the connection structure between them simpler and more stable. Utilizing the resultant force of the biased elastic element and the shape memory metal spring to drive the damper, the elastic force of the biased elastic element is unaffected by temperature changes, which helps improve the opening and closing sensitivity of the damper, thereby improving the defrosting efficiency of the evaporator and reducing the temperature rise in the storage compartment.

[0030] In some embodiments of this application, the damper includes:

[0031] The plate body, which is opposite to the air inlet along the axial direction of the memory metal spring, is configured to open or cover the air inlet;

[0032] A connecting seat is provided at the edge of the plate body;

[0033] A guide structure is provided on the connecting seat; the guide structure is sleeved on the outside of the memory metal spring, or passes through the inside of the memory metal spring;

[0034] The air duct component is provided with a receiving groove on the side facing the evaporation chamber, and the receiving groove cooperates with the guide structure;

[0035] The two ends of the memory metal spring are respectively connected to the guide structure and the air duct component.

[0036] In this embodiment, the two ends of the shape memory metal spring are connected to a guide structure and an air duct component, respectively. The shape memory metal spring has two ends extending along its axial direction. One end of the shape memory metal spring is connected to the guide structure, and the other end of the shape memory metal spring is connected to the rear cover plate of the air duct component. When the shape memory metal spring extends or contracts in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber, the end of the shape memory metal spring connected to the guide structure moves relative to the air duct component, thereby causing the damper to move relative to the air duct component.

[0037] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, which includes:

[0038] The enclosure includes a storage chamber and an evaporation chamber. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporator and a heater for defrosting the evaporator. An air duct is provided between the evaporation chamber and the storage chamber to allow cold air from the evaporation chamber to flow into the storage chamber.

[0039] The air inlet of the air duct is located inside the evaporation chamber; a damper is provided at the air inlet.

[0040] At least two shape memory metal springs are also provided at the air inlet; the shape memory metal springs are configured to deform when heated by the temperature rise in the evaporation chamber, and drive the damper to move to block the air inlet;

[0041] The at least two memory metal springs are at the same height from the bottom surface of the housing in the vertical direction.

[0042] This embodiment of the application uses a damper at the air inlet, with a shape memory metal spring that deforms to sense temperature changes in the evaporation chamber, driving the damper to move relative to the air inlet. During evaporator defrosting, the damper blocks the air inlet, preventing defrosting heat from entering the storage compartment and helping to maintain a stable temperature in the storage compartment. Blocking the air inlet also seals the top of the evaporation chamber, helping defrosting heat to accumulate within the evaporation chamber and act on the evaporator, thus improving defrosting efficiency. At least two shape memory metal springs are at the same vertical height from the bottom of the housing, ensuring they are at the same level within the evaporation chamber. This improves the consistency of temperature sensing by the springs, leading to more consistent deformation and a more consistent force exerted by the springs on the damper. This, in turn, improves the balance of the driving force on the damper, reducing movement obstruction due to uneven force and minimizing deformation caused by uneven force, which could affect the sealing of the air inlet. Attached Figure Description

[0043] To more clearly illustrate the implementation methods in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 This application provides structural schematic diagrams of refrigerators for some embodiments.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a refrigerator liner provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the air duct components and damper mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0047] Figure 4 Exploded views of duct components and damper mechanisms provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0048] Figure 5 Rear view of the duct components and damper mechanism provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0049] Figure 6 for Figure 5 AA section view in the middle;

[0050] Figure 7a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the air duct components and damper mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0051] Figure 7b for Figure 7a Rear view of the middle structure;

[0052] Figure 7c for Figure 7b BB section view in the middle;

[0053] Figure 7d for Figure 7c Cross-sectional view of the central air intake mechanism when the air inlet is open;

[0054] Figure 8a Force contour maps of dampers with metal springs at different horizontal heights for memory purposes;

[0055] Figure 8b for Figure 3 The force contour diagram of the damper shown in the figure;

[0056] Figure 9 A rear view showing the ductwork components and damper mechanism closing the air inlet according to other embodiments of this application;

[0057] Figure 10 for Figure 9 CC section view in the middle;

[0058] Figure 11 A rear view showing the air inlet of the duct components and damper mechanism provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0059] Figure 12 for Figure 11 DD section view in the middle;

[0060] Figure 13 A rear view of the air duct components and damper structures provided in some embodiments of this application with the air inlet open;

[0061] Figure 14 for Figure 13 EE section view;

[0062] Figure 15 A schematic diagram showing the arrangement of shape memory metal springs and biasing elastic elements provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 16 A schematic diagram showing the arrangement of memory metal springs and biasing elastic elements provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0064] Figure 17Rear view of a connector provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0065] Figure 18 for Figure 17 FF section view in the image.

[0066] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0067] 10: Cabinet body; 11: Cabinet liner; 12: Rear side wall; 13: Receiving cavity; 14: Storage compartment; 15: Evaporation chamber; 20: Door; 30: Damper mechanism; 40: Evaporator; 41: Heater;

[0068] 100: Duct component; 101: Duct; 102: Return air inlet; 110: Duct rear cover; 111: Air inlet; 112: Protrusion; 113: Receiving groove; 114: Fixing base; 1141: Limiting structure; 115: Limiting component; 116: Guide post; 117: Limiting seat; 1171: First limiting slide; 1172: Second limiting slide; 120: Duct front cover; 121: Air outlet; 130: Refrigeration fan;

[0069] 200: Damper; 210: Plate body; 211: Mating surface; 220: Connecting seat; 221: Mating hole; 230: Guide structure; 240: Connecting component;

[0070] 300: Memory metal spring; 310: Spring arm; 320: First connecting part; 330: Second connecting part;

[0071] 400: Offset elastic element. Detailed Implementation

[0072] To make the objectives, implementation methods and advantages of this application clearer, the exemplary implementation methods of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the exemplary embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described exemplary embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0073] It should be noted that the brief descriptions of terms in this application are only for the convenience of understanding the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. Unless otherwise stated, these terms should be understood in their ordinary and common meaning.

[0074] Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover but not exclusively include, for example, a product or device that includes a series of components is not necessarily limited to those that are explicitly listed, but may include other components that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such product or device.

[0075] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "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 application 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 application.

[0076] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0077] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0078] In related technologies, a heater is typically installed below the evaporator to melt frost. However, because the evaporator chamber is connected to the storage chamber, the heat generated during defrosting enters the storage chamber through the air duct, causing the temperature inside the storage chamber to rise and affecting the quality of the stored goods.

[0079] The researchers of this application utilize the deformation of shape memory metal parts to drive the movement of the damper. During defrosting, the air inlet of the chamber where the fan is located is closed, and during cooling, the air inlet is opened. This not only prevents defrosting heat from entering the storage room, but also ensures unobstructed airflow during cooling.

[0080] To ensure sufficient force for the shape memory metal components to drive the damper, multiple shape memory metal components are used, and these components are evenly spaced along the circumference of the air inlet. During the experiment, the researchers found that the damper was prone to jamming or even becoming stuck during movement, affecting its ability to block or open the air inlet.

[0081] The researchers discovered that the problem stemmed from the varying degrees of deformation among the multiple shape memory metal components. Further investigation revealed that the different heights of these components relative to the evaporator caused inconsistencies in their temperature sensing, leading to inconsistent deformation and ultimately resulting in sluggish damper movement, or even jamming.

[0082] In view of this, in the embodiments of this application, multiple shape memory metal parts are arranged at the same horizontal height to improve the consistency of their temperature sensing, promote the consistency of their deformation, improve the consistency of the force on multiple parts of the damper, thereby improving the smoothness of the damper's movement and reducing the possibility of the damper getting stuck.

[0083] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0084] This application provides a refrigerator, which includes:

[0085] The cabinet contains a storage chamber and an evaporation chamber. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporator and a heater for defrosting the evaporator. An air duct is provided between the evaporation chamber and the storage chamber to allow cold air from the evaporation chamber to flow into the storage chamber.

[0086] The air inlet of the air duct is located inside the evaporation chamber; thus, the cold air in the evaporation chamber enters the air duct through the air inlet and then enters the storage compartment through the air duct. An air damper is installed at the air inlet.

[0087] At least two memory metal springs are also provided at the air inlet. The memory metal springs are designed to deform in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber. This deformation serves as the driving force to move the damper.

[0088] Among them, the memory metal spring is constructed to deform when heated by the rising temperature inside the evaporation chamber, and drives the damper to block the air inlet.

[0089] When the evaporator is cooling, the shape memory metal spring drives the damper to open the air inlet, allowing cold air to enter the storage compartment through the air inlet and duct. When the heater is defrosting the evaporator, the shape memory metal spring drives the damper to block the air inlet.

[0090] At least two shape memory metal springs are at the same vertical height from the bottom of the housing. This ensures that the two springs are at the same horizontal level within the evaporation chamber, which improves the consistency of temperature sensing and deformation. This, in turn, improves the consistency of the force exerted by the springs on the damper, thereby enhancing the balance of the driving force on the damper. This reduces the impact of uneven force on the damper's movement and deformation caused by uneven force, which could affect the sealing of the air inlet.

[0091] The specific structure and function of the refrigerator according to the embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0092] Combination Figure 1 Some embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, which includes a cabinet 10, the cabinet 10 being configured to form a storage compartment 14 with an access opening for storing items.

[0093] Multiple storage compartments 14 can be provided to expand storage space. Depending on the storage temperature of the storage compartments 14, the storage compartments 14 may include at least one refrigerated compartment and at least one frozen compartment. The internal temperature of the refrigerated compartment can be maintained between approximately 0°C and 5°C for storing items in refrigeration mode; the internal temperature of the frozen compartment can be maintained between approximately -30°C and 0°C for storing items in freezing mode.

[0094] In some possible implementations, at least one of the storage chambers 14 may also be configured as a vacuum chamber or a variable temperature chamber, etc., which will not be described in detail in the embodiments of this application.

[0095] For example, two storage compartments 14 can be provided, which can be stacked vertically or arranged side by side horizontally. One of them can be a refrigerator compartment and the other can be a freezer compartment.

[0096] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1 and Figure 2 The refrigerator body 10 may include a refrigerator liner 11 and a refrigerator shell. The refrigerator liner 11 may be configured to form a storage compartment 14 with a front opening, which serves as an access port. The refrigerator shell may be attached to the outside of the refrigerator liner 11 to form the appearance of the refrigerator.

[0097] The cabinet 10 may also include a cabinet insulation layer, which can be disposed between the cabinet liner 11 and the cabinet shell. The cabinet insulation layer can insulate the storage compartment 14 to minimize heat exchange between the storage compartment 14 and the outside of the refrigerator, which is beneficial to ensuring the cooling effect of the refrigerator.

[0098] The refrigerator in this embodiment may further include a refrigeration system for reducing the air temperature in the storage compartment 14. Exemplarily, the refrigeration system may be housed within the cabinet 10. The refrigeration system may include a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator 40 connected in a cycle.

[0099] During refrigeration system operation, the compressor compresses refrigerant vapor to generate high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, which is then transported to the condenser. The condenser liquefies the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, generating high-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant liquid, which is then transported to the expansion valve. The expansion valve reduces the pressure of the refrigerant liquid, transforming the high-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid into a low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid, which is then transported to the evaporator 40. The evaporator 40 receives the low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid and boils it under isobaric conditions, absorbing heat and vaporizing to form refrigerant vapor, thereby lowering the temperature inside the storage compartment 14.

[0100] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The refrigerator in this embodiment may further include a door 20, which is rotatably connected to the cabinet 10 to open or close the access port. Exemplarily, the door 20 is hinged to the cabinet 10.

[0101] Each storage room 14 may be provided with one door 20; or, each storage room 14 may be provided with two doors 20, which may rotate in opposite directions to open or close the storage room 14.

[0102] Of course, in some possible implementations, the storage compartment 14 is equipped with drawers, the outer ends of which are constructed to form a door 20.

[0103] In some embodiments, the door 20 may include an inner door liner. When the door 20 is closed to the refrigerator compartment, the inner door liner faces the refrigerator compartment.

[0104] The door 20 may include a door outer shell; the door outer shell may be attached to the outside of the door inner liner to form the appearance of the door 20. The door outer shell may be rotatably connected to the cabinet 10 to allow the door 20 to open or close the refrigerator compartment.

[0105] The door body 20 may also include a door insulation component, which can be disposed within the gap between the inner door liner and the outer door shell. The door insulation component can insulate the storage compartment 14 to minimize heat exchange between the storage compartment 14 and the outside of the refrigerator, thus helping to ensure the refrigerator's cooling effect. The door insulation component can be a foam layer.

[0106] In some embodiments, a door shelf is provided on the side of the door 20 facing the refrigerator compartment to increase the storage space of the refrigerator. The door shelf has an upward-opening storage cavity for storing items.

[0107] Reference Figure 2In some embodiments of this application, the inner liner 11 of the cabinet 10 is configured to form a receiving cavity 13 with an opening for taking out and putting in. The receiving cavity 13 can not only form a storage room 14, but also provide installation space for other components of the refrigerator.

[0108] In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerator may also include an air duct component 100, which is used to construct a channel for forming a flow of cold air to guide the cold air cooled by the evaporator 40 into the storage compartment 14.

[0109] The air duct component 100 is installed inside the receiving cavity 13. This can be understood as the air duct component 100 being installed inside the box liner 11. The air duct component 100 is positioned near the rear side wall 12 of the box liner 11, allowing a large storage compartment 14 to be formed on the front side of the box liner 11.

[0110] The air duct component 100 directs the accommodating cavity 13 of the refrigerator liner 11 along the depth direction of the refrigerator (corresponding to...). Figure 2 The space is divided into an evaporation chamber 15 and a storage chamber 14 along the Y-axis. Figure 2 There is a gap between the air duct component 100 and the rear side wall 12 of the box liner 11 to form an evaporation chamber 15, and the side of the air duct component 100 facing the access port forms a storage compartment 14.

[0111] The evaporator 40 of the refrigeration system is installed inside the evaporation chamber 15, and the evaporator 40 is located at the lower part of the evaporation chamber 15. A heater 41 is provided below the evaporator 40 to provide defrosting heat for defrosting the evaporator 40. Of course, this is not a limitation on the location of the heater 41, and the heater 41 can also be located at other positions on the evaporator 40.

[0112] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The air duct component 100 is constructed to form an air duct 101 and an air inlet 111. The air inlet 111 connects the air duct 101 and the evaporation chamber 15, and the air inlet 111 is located on the side of the air duct component 100 facing the evaporation chamber 15. Along the height direction of the refrigerator (corresponding to...) Figure 2 (in the Z-axis direction), the air inlet 111 is located above the evaporator 40, so that the air inlet 111 is connected to the top of the evaporation chamber 15. In this way, the cold air after heat exchange in the evaporator 40 can enter the air duct 101 through the air inlet 111.

[0113] The air duct 101 is connected to the storage compartment 14 to guide the cool air after heat exchange in the evaporator 40 into the storage compartment 14, thereby reducing the temperature of the storage compartment 14. An air outlet 121 is provided on the side of the air duct component 100 facing the storage compartment 14, and the air outlet 121 connects the air duct 101 and the storage compartment 14. Multiple air outlets 121 can be provided; some air outlets 121 can be spaced apart along the width of the refrigerator, and some air outlets 121 can be spaced apart along the height of the refrigerator to improve the temperature uniformity within the storage compartment 14.

[0114] In some embodiments, the bottom end of the air duct component 100 is spaced from the inner chamber 11 to form a return air vent 102. The return air vent 102 is located below all the air supply vents 121. The return air vent 102 connects the bottom of the storage compartment 14 and the evaporation chamber 15, and the connection point between the return air vent 102 and the evaporation chamber 15 is located below the evaporator 40, so that the cold air from the return air vent 102 can pass through the evaporator 40 and exchange heat.

[0115] In some embodiments, a cooling fan 130 is also installed in the air duct 101 to provide power for the circulation of cold air between the storage compartment 14 and the evaporation chamber 15. The cooling fan 130 is opposite to the air inlet 111, so that a negative pressure can be formed at the air inlet 111, improving the efficiency of cold air entering the storage compartment 14 from the evaporation chamber 15.

[0116] For example, the air inlet 111 is a circular opening, thus matching the shape of the cooling fan 130.

[0117] With the above configuration, under the action of the cooling fan 130, the cold air in the evaporator 15, after heat exchange with the evaporator 40, enters the air duct 101 through the air inlet 111, and then enters the storage chamber 14 through the air outlet 121; the air in the storage chamber 14 returns to the evaporator 15 through the return air outlet 102 and exchanges heat with the evaporator 40. This cycle repeats, lowering the temperature of the storage chamber 14.

[0118] In some embodiments, Figure 2 The storage compartment 14 shown is a freezer compartment. A refrigerated air duct is connected to the top of the air duct component 100, and the refrigerated air duct is connected to the refrigerated compartment to provide cold air to the refrigerated compartment.

[0119] Continue to refer to Figure 2In some embodiments, the air duct component 100 includes a rear cover plate 110 and a front cover plate 120, which are fixedly connected and enclose an air duct 101. The rear cover plate 110 is located behind the front cover plate 120, so that the rear cover plate 110 faces the evaporation chamber 15 and the front cover plate 120 faces the storage chamber 14. An air inlet 111 is located on the rear cover plate 110, and an air outlet 121 is located on the front cover plate 120.

[0120] Continue to refer to Figure 2 In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerator further includes a damper mechanism 30, which is located within the evaporation chamber 15. The damper mechanism 30 is located at the upper part of the evaporation chamber 15 and above the evaporator 40. The damper mechanism 30 and the air inlet 111 are aligned along the depth direction (corresponding to...) Figure 2 (in the Y-axis direction) relative to each other. The damper mechanism 30 is configured to open the air inlet 111 when the evaporator 40 is cooling and close the air inlet 111 when the evaporator 40 is defrosting.

[0121] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the damper mechanism 30 may include a damper 200 configured to either shield or open the air inlet 111.

[0122] The damper 200 can be generally plate-shaped to reduce the space occupied by the damper mechanism 30 along the depth direction of the refrigerator. In some embodiments, the main body of the damper 200 can be circular, and a connecting structure can be provided at the edge of the damper 200 to install a shape memory metal component.

[0123] Continue to refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments of this application, the damper mechanism 30 may further include a shape memory metal element configured to deform in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber in order to drive the damper 200 to move and open or close the air inlet 111.

[0124] Shape memory metal parts can be shape memory alloy parts, such as nickel-titanium alloys.

[0125] In some embodiments, the shape memory metal element is configured to deform axially along the air inlet 111 in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber 15, thereby driving the damper 200 to move axially along the air inlet 111 to open or close the air inlet 111.

[0126] When the air inlet 111 is arranged in the vertical plane of the refrigerator, the axis of the air inlet 111 is parallel to the depth direction of the refrigerator. The width direction and the height direction of the refrigerator determine the vertical plane of the refrigerator.

[0127] In other embodiments, the shape memory metal element is configured to deform in a vertical plane in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber 15, thereby driving the damper 200 to move in the vertical plane of the refrigerator, such that the damper 200 is opposite to the air inlet 111 and blocks the air inlet 111, or that the damper 200 is offset from the air inlet 111 and opens the air inlet 111.

[0128] Of course, the damper 200 can move in a straight line or a curve within the vertical plane of the refrigerator.

[0129] In some other embodiments, the shape memory metal element can be configured to deform in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber 15, with the deformation direction of the shape memory metal element forming a certain angle relative to the axial direction of the air inlet 111. Thus, the damper 200 moves along the deformation direction of the shape memory metal element to open or close the air inlet 111. As the shape memory metal element drives the damper 200 to move, the distance between the damper 200 and the air duct component 100 along the axial direction of the air inlet 111 changes; furthermore, the relative positions of the damper 200 and the air inlet 111 in the vertical plane of the refrigerator also change.

[0130] In some possible implementations of this application, the memory metal component is a memory metal spring 300, which is configured to extend or contract along the depth direction of the refrigerator in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber 15.

[0131] In some embodiments, during evaporator 40 cooling, the temperature inside evaporator cavity 15 can reach -18°C to -20°C, causing the shape memory spring 300 to undergo an austenitic-to-martensite phase transformation and elongate along the depth direction of the refrigerator. During evaporator 40 defrosting, the temperature inside evaporator cavity 15 can reach 2°C to 5°C, causing the shape memory spring 300 to undergo a martensite-to-austenite phase transformation and contract along the depth direction of the refrigerator.

[0132] In some implementations, the material of the memory metal spring 300 is designed so that the memory metal spring 300 contracts along the depth direction of the refrigerator when the evaporator 40 is cooling, and extends along the depth direction of the refrigerator when the evaporator 40 is defrosting.

[0133] Since the shape memory spring 300 needs to deform in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber 15, at least a portion of the shape memory spring 300 is exposed in the evaporation chamber 15, thereby improving the sensitivity of the shape memory spring 300 in sensing temperature changes.

[0134] In some embodiments of this application, the shape memory metal spring 300 is connected to the damper 200 and the duct component 100, respectively. Specifically, the shape memory metal spring 300 is connected to both the damper 200 and the duct rear cover plate 110.

[0135] Thus, during the defrosting of the evaporator, combined with Figure 5 and Figure 6 The shape memory metal spring 300 is configured to drive the damper 200 to block the air inlet 111. This prevents defrosting heat from entering the storage compartment 14 via the air inlet 111 and the air duct 101, thus avoiding any impact on the temperature of the storage compartment 14. Furthermore, blocking the air inlet 111 seals the top of the evaporator chamber, helping to concentrate defrosting heat within the evaporator chamber and direct it to the evaporator, thereby improving defrosting efficiency. During evaporator cooling, the damper 200 is driven by at least the shape memory metal spring 300, moving away from the air duct component 100 to open the air inlet 111. Thus, the cold air, after heat exchange in the evaporator, enters the air duct 101 via the air inlet 111 and then enters the storage compartment 14 via the air outlet 121, lowering the temperature of the stored items and ensuring the normal operation of the refrigerator's cooling function.

[0136] Continue to refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments of this application, at least two memory metal springs 300 are provided, for example, two, three, four, etc.

[0137] For example, two memory metal springs 300 are provided, which can provide sufficient driving force for the damper 200 and avoid increasing costs by setting too many memory metal springs 300.

[0138] In the embodiments of this application, the memory metal spring 300 is a cylindrical helical spring, which has a simple structure, is easy to process, and the spring can stretch and deform along its axial direction.

[0139] In this embodiment, the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300 is parallel to the horizontal plane of the refrigerator, wherein the width direction of the refrigerator (corresponding to...) Figure 5 The horizontal plane of the refrigerator is determined by the X-axis direction and the depth direction of the refrigerator.

[0140] In this embodiment, the memory metal spring 300 is a cylindrical helical spring, with the same diameter at the spring coil, and the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300 is parallel to the horizontal plane, so that the memory metal spring 300 is at the same horizontal height along its axial direction, which further improves the consistency of the temperature sensed by the memory metal spring 300.

[0141] In some other possible implementations, combining Figures 7a to 7d The shape memory metal spring 300 is located at the same horizontal height, wherein the deformation direction of the shape memory metal spring 300 forms an angle with the axis of the air inlet. Combined with... Figure 7aA limiting seat 117 is provided on the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct. The limiting seat 117 is connected to one end of the memory metal spring 300 and provides guidance for the deformation of the memory metal spring 300. A connecting component 240 is provided on the damper 200. The connecting component 240 is fixedly connected to the other end of the memory metal spring 300. The connection method includes, but is not limited to, snap-fit, screw fixing, etc.

[0142] Combination Figure 7b and Figure 7c The shape memory metal spring 300 may include two spring arms 310, which are vertically opposite each other and extend at an angle. One end of each spring arm 310 is connected to a limiting seat 117, and the other end is connected to a connecting member 240. The shape memory metal spring 300 is configured to sense changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15, causing a change in the angle between the two spring arms 310, which in turn moves the damper 200 axially along the air inlet to open or close the air inlet.

[0143] Combination Figure 7a and Figure 7c During defrosting of the evaporator, the air temperature in the evaporation chamber rises under the action of the heater, and the hot air rises. The memory metal spring 300 senses the rise in air temperature, and the two spring arms 310 deform toward each other, making the included angle between the two spring arms 310 smaller. Under the guidance of the limit seat 117, it drives the damper 200 to move toward the air inlet along the axial direction of the air inlet to block the air inlet and prevent defrosting heat from entering the storage compartment 14 through the air inlet and the air duct 101.

[0144] Combination Figure 7a and Figure 7d When the evaporator is cooling, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber decreases due to the action of the evaporator. The memory metal spring 300 senses the decrease in air temperature, and the two spring arms 310 deform away from each other, making the included angle between the two spring arms 310 larger. Under the guidance and restriction of the limiting seat 117, it drives the damper 200 to move away from the air inlet along the axial direction of the air inlet, so as to open the air inlet and allow the cold air in the evaporation chamber to enter the storage chamber 14 through the air inlet and the air duct 101.

[0145] Continue to refer to Figures 7a to 7d The memory metal spring 300 may also include a first connecting part 320, which connects one end of the two spring arms 310 and is connected to the connecting part 240.

[0146] The memory metal spring 300 may also include a second connecting part 330, which is disposed at the other end of the two spring arms 310 and is connected to the limiting seat 117.

[0147] In some embodiments, the limiting seat 117 is configured to form a first limiting slide 1171 and a second limiting slide 1172, the first limiting slide 1171 extending axially along the air inlet and the second limiting slide 1172 extending vertically along the refrigerator.

[0148] The first connecting part 320 is located inside the first limiting slide 1171. Through the cooperation between the first connecting part 320 and the first limiting slide 1171, the movement direction of the damper 200 is guided.

[0149] The second connecting part 330 is slidably installed in the second limiting slide 1172, which can not only connect the limiting seat 117 and the memory metal spring 300, but also limit the deformation direction of the spring arm 310.

[0150] exist Figures 7a to 7b In the illustrated scheme, the two spring arms 310 of the memory metal spring 300 are configured to elastically deform, such that the included angle between the two spring arms 310 changes, thereby driving the damper 200 to move along the axial direction of the fan.

[0151] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 5 and Figure 6 The shape memory metal spring 300 has its axis parallel to the depth direction of the refrigerator. This means the direction of the shape memory metal spring 300's expansion and contraction is the same as the direction of movement of the damper 200. This ensures that the deformation of the shape memory metal spring 300 can effectively affect the movement stroke of the damper 200, increasing its movement speed. Furthermore, this design helps reduce the resistance to movement of the damper 200, making its movement smoother and reducing the possibility of it jamming.

[0152] In other embodiments, the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300 can be tilted relative to the depth direction of the refrigerator. When the memory metal spring 300 extends or retracts along its axial direction, the damper 200 moves along the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300. That is, the direction of movement of the damper 200 is tilted relative to the depth direction of the refrigerator. This allows the damper 200 to be offset relative to the air inlet 111 in the vertical plane, reducing the wind resistance of cold air entering the air inlet 111. The vertical plane is... Figure 5 The plane defined by the X-axis and Z-axis directions.

[0153] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 6In some embodiments of this application, at least two shape memory metal springs 300 are located at the same horizontal height. This can be understood as at least two shape memory metal springs 300 having the same vertical distance from the bottom surface of the housing 10. Since all shape memory metal springs 300 are at the same horizontal height, all shape memory metal springs 300 can simultaneously sense temperature changes in the evaporation chamber, thereby improving the consistency of deformation of all shape memory metal springs 300. This helps to improve the consistency of the force exerted by the multiple shape memory metal springs 300 on the damper 200, thereby improving the smoothness of the damper 200's movement and reducing the possibility of the damper 200 getting stuck. Furthermore, it can also reduce the possibility of the damper 200 warping, which is beneficial to improving the reliability and stability of the damper mechanism 30.

[0154] Combination Figure 5 In some embodiments, at least two shape memory metal springs 300 are arranged at intervals along the horizontal centerline H of the damper 200, which passes through the center O of the damper 200 and extends horizontally. This arrangement of the shape memory metal springs 300 at the same horizontal height ensures balanced force distribution on the damper 200 along the height of the refrigerator, further improving the smoothness of the damper 200's movement and reducing the likelihood of the damper 200 jamming. The horizontal centerline H is parallel to the width direction of the refrigerator.

[0155] Continue to refer to Figure 5 In some embodiments, at least two shape memory metal springs 300 are symmetrically arranged about the vertical centerline V of the damper 200. This improves the balance of force on both sides of the vertical centerline of the damper 200, contributing to smoother movement of the damper 200. The vertical centerline V of the damper 200 is parallel to the height direction of the refrigerator and passes through the center O of the damper 200. The vertical centerline V is perpendicular to the horizontal centerline H.

[0156] In some specific implementations, four shape memory metal springs 300 are provided, all spaced apart along the horizontal centerline H; and two shape memory metal springs 300 are arranged on each side of the vertical centerline V. The four shape memory metal springs 300 are symmetrically arranged about the vertical centerline V. This arrangement helps to ensure that the damper 200 has sufficient driving force.

[0157] In some specific implementation methods, such as Figure 5As shown, two shape memory metal springs 300 are provided, both spaced apart along the horizontal centerline H; and one shape memory metal spring 300 is arranged on each side of the vertical centerline V. The two shape memory metal springs 300 are symmetrically arranged about the vertical centerline V. This ensures the balance of the damper 200 driven by the two shape memory metal springs 300, avoids increased costs due to the use of more shape memory metal springs 300, and also avoids poor deformation consistency caused by using too many shape memory metal springs 300.

[0158] In some embodiments, the damper mechanism has at least two shape memory metal springs at different horizontal heights. For example, three shape memory metal springs are evenly spaced along the circumference of the damper, with an angle of 120° between adjacent shape memory metal springs along the circumference of the damper. The two upper shape memory metal springs are at the same horizontal height, namely the shape memory metal springs at points B and C; a shape memory metal spring is provided at point A below, which is lower than the positions at points B and C.

[0159] During evaporator cooling, cold air rises from the evaporator. Due to the different horizontal positions of the three shape memory springs, the spring at the bottom A senses the cold air first and undergoes a phase change, causing the damper at A to move. At this time, the cold air has not yet risen to points B and C, and the shape memory springs at these two points have not yet come into contact with the cold air and remain in a constant state. Thus, the damper at point A begins to move, while points B and C remain stationary, causing the damper to deflect. This increases the friction of the damper, increasing the risk of it jamming. With prolonged use, uneven force on the damper can lead to warping and deformation. (Refer to...) Figure 8a This affects the airtightness of the damper covering the air inlet. The hot and humid air from defrosting will enter the air inlet through the gap between the damper and the air duct component 100, affecting the temperature of the storage compartment.

[0160] In this embodiment, at least two memory metal springs 300 are at the same horizontal height, enabling both springs 300 to simultaneously sense temperature changes. Taking the example of two memory metal springs 300, refer to... Figure 8b During evaporator cooling, two memory metal springs simultaneously sense temperature changes, ensuring uniform force and synchronized movement of the damper, minimizing damper deformation, reducing the risk of damper jamming, reducing the risk of damper warping, and improving the reliability of the damper mechanism.

[0161] In some embodiments of this application, the shape memory spring 300 is made of two-way shape memory alloy. Two-way shape memory alloy is a material that can automatically change shape during heating and cooling. When heated, the two-way shape memory alloy returns to a preset high-temperature shape, and when cooled, it automatically transforms into another low-temperature shape. This bidirectional shape change can be achieved without external force.

[0162] In some embodiments, the shape memory metal spring 300 is configured to extend or contract along the axial direction of the evaporation chamber 15 in response to temperature changes, and independently drive the damper 200 to move axially along the air inlet 111. Here, "independent" can be understood as: the driving force of the damper 200 is solely the deformation force of the shape memory metal spring 300, without any other auxiliary driving force.

[0163] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 6 During evaporator defrosting, the shape memory metal springs 300 are configured to drive the damper 200 toward the air inlet 111 and abut against the duct component 100 to shield the air inlet 111. Exemplarily, during evaporator defrosting, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber rises under the action of the heater, and the hot air rises. All shape memory metal springs 300 sense the increase in air temperature in the evaporation chamber, undergo a phase change synchronously, and extend, driving the damper 200 toward the duct component 100 and abutting against the duct rear cover 110 of the duct component 100 to shield the air inlet 111.

[0164] During evaporator cooling, the shape memory metal springs 300 are configured to drive the damper 200 away from the air inlet 111 to open the air inlet 111. Exemplarily, during evaporator cooling, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber decreases due to the action of the evaporator. All the shape memory metal springs 300 sense the decrease in air temperature in the evaporation chamber, simultaneously undergo a phase change and contract, driving the damper 200 away from the air duct component 100, creating a gap between the damper 200 and the air duct rear cover 110, thus opening the air inlet 111. In this way, the cold air inside the evaporation chamber can enter the storage compartment via the air duct 101 and the air outlet 121 under the action of the cooling fan.

[0165] In this embodiment, the damper mechanism 30 uses a memory metal spring 300 to sense the temperature change of the evaporation chamber 15 and extend or shorten along the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300, driving the damper 200 to move relative to the air duct component 100, thereby shielding and opening the air inlet 111. No additional components, drivers, or auxiliary devices are required, which not only makes the structure of the damper mechanism 30 simple and highly reliable, but also helps to reduce the cost of the damper mechanism 30.

[0166] In other embodiments of this application, the memory metal spring 300 is made of one-way shape memory alloy. The one-way shape memory alloy can "remember" a shape at a specific temperature. For example, when the one-way shape memory alloy is cooled below its phase transition temperature, it can be plastically deformed; when the temperature rises to the phase transition temperature, the one-way shape memory alloy will return to a pre-set shape.

[0167] In some embodiments, the shape memory metal spring 300 has a first state and a second state, and the expansion force of the shape memory metal spring 300 in the first state is greater than the expansion force in the second state. For example, the expansion force of the shape memory metal spring 300 in the first state is more than three times the expansion force of the shape memory metal spring 300 in the second state. Taking a helical spring as an example, the first state of the shape memory metal spring 300 is an extended state, and the second state of the shape memory metal spring 300 is a contracted state.

[0168] For example, during evaporator defrosting, the memory metal spring 300 senses the increase in air temperature in the evaporator chamber and extends to its first state. During evaporator cooling, the memory metal spring 300 senses the decrease in air temperature in the evaporator chamber, the expansion force of the memory metal spring 300 decreases, and it contracts to its second state under the action of other forces.

[0169] Combination Figures 9 to 12 In some embodiments, the damper mechanism 30 may further include a biasing elastic member 400 configured to elastically extend and retract along a first direction parallel to the axial direction of the air inlet 111. The biasing elastic member 400 is connected to the damper 200 and the duct rear cover plate 110 of the duct component 100, respectively.

[0170] exist Figure 10 and Figure 12 In this example, the biasing elastic element 400 is shown as a cylindrical helical spring, but this is not limiting. The biasing elastic element 400 can also be a conical helical spring, or other elastic elements that can stretch or contract in the first direction.

[0171] The combined force of the memory metal spring 300 and the biased elastic element 400 drives the damper 200 to move axially along the air inlet 111. At this time, the damper 200 is subjected to the combined force of the memory metal spring 300 and the biased elastic element 400.

[0172] Combination Figure 9 and Figure 10During evaporator defrosting, the shape memory metal springs 300 are configured to deform the bias elastic element 400 and drive the damper 200 to move toward the air inlet 111 to block the air inlet 111. Exemplarily, during evaporator defrosting, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber rises under the action of the heater, and the hot air rises. All shape memory metal springs 300 sense the increase in air temperature in the evaporation chamber, undergo a phase change simultaneously, and elongate. The shape memory metal springs 300 cause the bias elastic element 400 to elastically deform, driving the damper 200 to move toward the duct component 100 and abut against the duct rear cover plate 110 of the duct component 100 to block the air inlet 111.

[0173] At this time, the elastic force of the memory metal spring 300 is greater than the elastic force of the bias elastic element 400, causing the bias elastic element 400 to deform elastically. The elastic force of the memory metal spring 300 and the elastic force of the bias elastic element 400 are in opposite directions. The resultant force F1 of the elastic force of the memory metal spring 300 and the elastic force of the bias elastic element 400 is directed towards the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct, and this resultant force F1 overcomes the friction of the damper 200, driving the damper 200 to move towards the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct to block the air inlet 111.

[0174] Combination Figure 11 and Figure 12 During evaporator cooling, the biased elastic element 400 is configured to recover its deformation, causing the shape memory metal spring 300 to contract and drive the damper 200 to move away from the air inlet 111, thereby opening the air inlet 111. Exemplarily, during evaporator cooling, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber decreases under the action of the evaporator. All the shape memory metal springs 300 sense the decrease in air temperature in the evaporation chamber and undergo a phase change simultaneously. The elastic force of the shape memory metal springs 300 decreases, contracting under the action of the biased elastic element 400, and driving the damper 200 to move away from the air duct component 100, creating a gap between the damper 200 and the air duct rear cover 110, thus opening the air inlet 111. In this way, the cold air inside the evaporation chamber 15 can enter the storage compartment via the air duct 101 and the air outlet under the action of the cooling fan.

[0175] At this time, the elastic force of the shape memory metal spring 300 is less than the elastic force of the bias elastic element 400, and the bias elastic element 400 recovers its deformation. The elastic force of the shape memory metal spring 300 and the elastic force of the bias elastic element 400 are in opposite directions. The resultant force F2 of the elastic force of the shape memory metal spring 300 and the elastic force of the bias elastic element 400 is away from the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct and toward the rear side wall of the box. This resultant force F2 overcomes the friction of the damper 200 and drives the damper 200 to move toward the rear side wall of the box to open the air inlet 111.

[0176] exist Figure 10In this process, the shape memory metal spring 300 elongates, causing the bias elastic element 400 to be compressed and elastically deformed. This is not a limitation on the bias elastic element 400. In some possible implementations, the shape memory metal spring 300 elongates, driving the bias elastic element 400 to stretch and elastically deform.

[0177] In some possible implementations of this application, when the damper 200 opens the air inlet 111, the biased elastic member 400 is in an elastically deformed state, rather than a free state. Thus, under the action of the elastic force of the biased elastic member 400, the damper 200 is kept open by force, preventing the damper 200 from moving relative to the air duct rear cover 110 due to the action of cold air, which would affect the entry of cold air into the storage compartment.

[0178] In some embodiments of this application, the damper mechanism uses a biased elastic element 400 to drive the damper 200 to move by the combined force of the biased elastic element 400 and the memory metal spring 300, thereby achieving the shielding and opening of the air inlet 111. The biased elastic element 400 provides additional force for the opening of the damper 200, which helps to increase the opening speed of the component and makes the damper 200 more sensitive to movement.

[0179] Reference Figures 9 to 12 In some embodiments of this application, both the biasing elastic element 400 and the memory metal spring 300 are cylindrical helical springs, and the axial direction of the biasing elastic element 400 is parallel to the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300. Exemplarily, both the axial direction of the biasing elastic element 400 and the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300 are parallel to the depth direction of the refrigerator.

[0180] The biasing elastic element 400 and the shape memory metal spring 300 are arranged coaxially. This can be understood as the biasing elastic element 400 and the shape memory metal spring 300 being arranged side-by-side along the axial direction of the shape memory metal spring 300. Figure 10 and Figure 12 In the orientation, the bias elastic element 400 and the memory metal spring 300 are arranged side by side in the depth direction of the refrigerator.

[0181] With the above settings, the elastic force of the bias elastic element 400 and the elastic force of the memory metal spring 300 are in the same direction, and there is no torque between the two forces. This helps to reduce the deformation of the damper 200, making the movement of the damper 200 smoother and further improving the sensitivity of the damper 200 in opening and blocking the air inlet 111.

[0182] In this embodiment, the number of biasing elastic elements 400 is the same as the number of shape memory metal springs 300, with one biasing spring corresponding to each shape memory metal spring 300. This arrangement helps to ensure the balanced force on all parts of the shape memory metal spring 300.

[0183] Continue to refer to Figure 10 and Figure 12 Along the depth direction of the refrigerator, the memory metal spring 300 is closer to the evaporation chamber than the bias elastic element 400, so that the memory metal spring 300 is located behind the bias elastic element 400. This arrangement can facilitate the design of a simple structure, allowing the memory metal spring 300 to have a larger area exposed in the evaporation chamber, thereby improving the sensitivity of the memory metal spring 300 to sensing changes in the air temperature in the evaporation chamber.

[0184] Of course, this is not a limitation on the positions of the memory metal spring 300 and the biasing elastic element 400. In some possible implementations, the memory metal spring 300 is located in front of the biasing elastic element 400 along the depth direction of the refrigerator. By setting a hollow structure, at least a portion of the memory metal spring 300 is still exposed in the evaporation chamber 15 when it is in the contracted state, so as to sense changes in the air temperature in the evaporation chamber.

[0185] Reference Figures 13 to 14 In other embodiments of this application, both the biasing elastic element 400 and the memory metal spring 300 are cylindrical helical springs, and the axial direction of the biasing elastic element 400 is parallel to the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300. Exemplarily, both the axial direction of the biasing elastic element 400 and the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300 are parallel to the depth direction of the refrigerator.

[0186] It should be noted that, in Figures 13 to 14 The image shows only a portion of the structure of the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct.

[0187] The biasing elastic element 400 and the shape memory metal spring 300 are not coaxially arranged. This can be understood as the biasing elastic element 400 and the shape memory metal spring 300 being spaced apart along the circumference of the damper 200. Along the circumference of the damper 200, the angle A between adjacent biasing elastic elements 400 and shape memory metal springs 300 satisfies 0° < A < 180°. Figure 13 In the orientation, the angle A between the adjacent bias elastic element 400 and the memory metal spring 300 is 90°.

[0188] With the above configuration, the elastic force of the biased elastic element 400 and the elastic force of the shape memory metal spring 300 are parallel in direction, facilitating the formation of a resultant force to drive the damper 200 to move. The biased elastic element 400 and the shape memory metal spring 300 are offset circumferentially along the damper 200, making the connection structure between the biased elastic element 400 and the shape memory metal spring 300 simpler and more stable. Using the resultant force of the biased elastic element 400 and the shape memory metal spring 300 to drive the damper 200, the elastic force of the biased elastic element 400 is unaffected by temperature changes, which helps improve the opening and closing sensitivity of the damper 200, thereby helping to improve the defrosting efficiency of the evaporator and reduce the temperature rise in the storage compartment.

[0189] In some embodiments, a plurality of biasing elastic elements 400 are provided, and the plurality of biasing elastic elements 400 are evenly spaced along the circumference of the damper 200, thereby improving the uniformity of the force exerted by the biasing elastic elements 400 on the circumference of the damper 200.

[0190] In other embodiments, combined with Figure 13 and Figure 14 Multiple biasing elastic elements 400 are provided, and these elements are arranged at intervals along the vertical centerline V of the damper 200. All the shape memory metal springs 300 are arranged symmetrically about the vertical centerline V of the damper 200. This arrangement ensures that the damper 200 is subjected to balanced forces on both sides of the vertical centerline V, reduces the deflection torque on the damper 200, minimizes the deformation of the damper 200, and improves the smoothness of the damper 200's movement.

[0191] Reference Figure 15 Multiple biased elastic elements 400 are symmetrically arranged about the horizontal line connecting the shape memory metal springs 300; the vertical centerline V of the damper 200 is perpendicular to the horizontal line. When the shape memory metal springs 300 are arranged along the horizontal centerline H of the damper 200, the horizontal line coincides with the horizontal centerline H. This arrangement ensures that the damper 200 is subjected to balanced forces on both sides of the horizontal line, reducing the deflection torque on the damper 200, minimizing the deformation of the damper 200, and improving the smoothness of the damper 200's movement.

[0192] In some possible arrangements, the multiple offset elastic elements 400 can also be arranged symmetrically about the vertical centerline of the damper 200, for example... Figure 16 .

[0193] In some specific implementations, two biasing elastic elements 400 and two shape memory metal springs 300 are each provided. The two shape memory metal springs 300 are arranged at intervals along the horizontal centerline H of the damper 200 and symmetrically about the vertical centerline V. The two biasing elastic elements 400 are arranged at intervals along the vertical centerline V of the damper 200 and symmetrically about the horizontal centerline H. In this way, the damper 200 is subjected to balanced forces along the horizontal centerline H and the vertical centerline V; this avoids the need for too many biasing elastic elements 400 and shape memory metal springs 300, which would complicate the structure of the damper mechanism 30 and increase costs.

[0194] In some possible embodiments, the two bias elastic members 400 and the two shape memory metal springs 300 are arranged at intervals along a certain circumference, which coincides with the center O of the damper 200. Thus, there is a first interval between the projection center of the bias elastic member 400 on the side of the damper 200 and the center O of the damper 200, and a second interval between the projection center of the shape memory metal spring 300 on the side of the damper 200 and the center O of the damper 200, the second interval being equal to the first interval. This ensures that the elastic force of the bias elastic member 400 and the elastic force of the shape memory metal spring 300 acting on the damper 200 are on the same circumference, which helps improve the force balance of the damper 200 and improves the smoothness of the damper 200's movement. Furthermore, it facilitates the formation of identical connection structures on the damper 200, connecting to the bias elastic member 400 and the shape memory metal spring 300 respectively, improving the symmetry of the damper 200 structure and facilitating processing and installation.

[0195] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The number of bias elastic elements 400 and memory metal springs 300 are the same.

[0196] In other embodiments, reference is made to Figure 15 and Figure 16 The number of bias elastic element 400 and memory metal spring 300 are different.

[0197] In some implementation methods, combined Figure 14 During evaporator defrosting, the memory metal spring 300 extends, driving the biased elastic element 400 to be compressed and elastically deformed, causing the damper 200 to close the air inlet 111. During evaporator cooling, the biased elastic element 400 extends and drives the memory metal spring 300 to contract, causing the damper 200 to open the air inlet 111. In this embodiment, along the depth direction of the refrigerator, the memory metal spring 300 is located behind the biased elastic element 400. This allows the memory metal spring 300 to be exposed in the evaporation chamber, facilitating the sensing of air temperature changes in the evaporation chamber. It also allows the biased elastic element 400 to be hidden within the closed cavity formed by the air duct rear cover 110 and the damper 200 during evaporator cooling, reducing the possibility of the biased elastic element 400 icing.

[0198] In other implementations, during evaporator defrosting, the shape memory spring 300 extends, driving the bias elastic element 400 to be stretched and elastically deformed, causing the damper 200 to close the air inlet 111. During evaporator cooling, the bias elastic element 400 contracts, driving the shape memory spring 300 to contract, causing the damper 200 to open the air inlet 111. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the bias elastic element 400 is exposed outside the evaporation chamber, and the possibility of icing on the bias elastic element 400 can be reduced by providing a hydrophobic coating or similar treatment.

[0199] Combination Figure 5 , Figure 17 as well as Figure 18 In some embodiments of this application, the damper 200 may include a plate body 210, which is axially opposite to the air inlet 111 along the shape memory metal spring 300. The plate body 210 is configured to open or block the air inlet 111.

[0200] The plate body 210 can be circular to match the shape of the air inlet 111. This ensures the reliability of shielding the air inlet 111 and avoids increasing the weight due to an excessively large plate body 210, which would affect the smooth movement of the damper 200.

[0201] Combination Figure 6 and Figure 18 In some embodiments, the damper 200 forms an annular mating surface 211 on the side facing the air inlet 111. Specifically, the plate body 210 forms a mating surface 211 on the side facing the air inlet 111. During defrosting of the evaporator 40, the mating surface 211 abuts against the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct at the edge of the air inlet 111 to shield the air inlet 111. Thus, the damper 200 and the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct form a curved abutment surface, which helps to improve the reliability of the damper 200 in shielding the air inlet 111.

[0202] In some embodiments of this application, the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct faces the damper 200, or the rear cover plate 110 faces away from the front cover plate 120 of the air duct, forming an annular protrusion 112, with the air inlet 111 located inside the annular protrusion 112. By providing the protrusion 112, the structural strength and stability around the air inlet 111 are improved, reducing the possibility of deformation at the edge of the air inlet 111.

[0203] A recessed mating surface 211 is formed on the plate body 210. The mating surface 211 and the protrusion 112 are mated together, so that a curved contact surface is formed between the damper 200 and the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct, which helps to improve the airtightness of the damper 200 in shielding the air inlet 111.

[0204] Continue to refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18 The damper 200 may also include a connecting seat 220, which is disposed on the edge of the plate body 210. The connecting seat 220 is used to install the memory metal spring 300, and the number of connecting seats 220 may be the same as the number of memory metal springs 300.

[0205] Combination Figures 4 to 6The damper 200 may further include a guide structure 230, which is disposed on the connecting seat 220. The guide structure 230 extends in the same direction as the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300, providing guidance and restraint for the deformation of the memory metal spring 300. In this embodiment, the guide structure 230 may extend along the axial direction of the memory metal spring 300 toward the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct.

[0206] For example, the guide structure 230, the connecting seat 220 and the plate body 210 are integrally formed as one piece. This arrangement helps to improve the structural strength and stability of the damper 200 and also simplifies the structure of the damper 200.

[0207] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 6 The guide structure 230 is cylindrical and is sleeved on the outside of the memory metal spring 300. Both ends of the guide structure 230 are open, which not only facilitates the connection of the memory metal spring 300, but also allows more of the memory metal spring 300 to be exposed in the evaporation chamber.

[0208] In other embodiments, the guide structure 230 can be columnar, and the guide structure 230 passes through the shape memory metal spring 300. It can be understood that the shape memory metal spring 300 is sleeved on the outside of the guide structure 230, so that more of the shape memory metal spring 300 can be exposed in the evaporation chamber.

[0209] Combination Figure 6 The air duct component 100 has a receiving groove 113 on the side facing the evaporation chamber, and the receiving groove 113 cooperates with the guide structure 230. A portion of the air duct rear cover plate 110 is recessed towards the air duct front cover plate 120 to form the receiving groove 113, which can avoid the air duct 101 from being affected by the opening in the air duct rear cover plate 110.

[0210] The receiving groove 113 cooperates with the guide structure 230, which can not only guide the movement of the damper 200, but also provide a receiving space for the extension and retraction of the memory metal spring 300.

[0211] In this embodiment, the two ends of the shape memory metal spring 300 are connected to the guide structure 230 and the air duct component 100, respectively. The shape memory metal spring 300 has two ends extending along its axial direction. One end of the shape memory metal spring 300 is connected to the guide structure 230, and the other end of the shape memory metal spring 300 is connected to the air duct rear cover plate 110 of the air duct component 100. When the shape memory metal spring 300 senses the temperature change of the evaporation chamber and elongates or contracts, the end of the shape memory metal spring 300 connected to the guide structure 230 moves relative to the air duct component 100, thereby driving the damper 200 to move relative to the air duct component 100.

[0212] In this embodiment, the damper 200, with its plate body 210 positioned opposite the air inlet 111, opens or closes the air inlet 111. The damper 200, with its connecting seat 220 and guide structure 230, provides a connection point for the shape memory metal spring 300. The guide structure 230 guides and restricts the axial deformation of the shape memory metal spring 300. The guide structure 230, in conjunction with the receiving groove 113 of the air duct component 100, guides the movement of the damper 200 and provides space for the extension and retraction of the shape memory metal spring 300.

[0213] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, a fixing seat 114 is provided on the side of the duct rear cover 110 facing the damper 200, and the fixing seat 114 is located outside the receiving groove 113. The memory metal spring 300 is connected to the fixing seat 114.

[0214] For example, a limiting structure 1141 is provided on the fixed base 114, so that one end of the memory metal spring 300 abuts against the limiting structure 1141, which is simple in structure.

[0215] For example, the damper 200 may also include a snap-fit ​​component that passes through one end of the memory metal spring 300. The snap-fit ​​component is snapped or plugged into the fixing seat 114, making the connection method simple.

[0216] For example, the end riveted connector of the memory metal spring 300 and the damper 200 may also include a fixing member, which is fixedly connected to the fixing seat 114 so that the end riveted connector of the memory metal spring 300 is clamped between the fixing member and the fixing seat 114, and the connection method is stable.

[0217] In some specific implementations, two fixing seats 114 are provided, and the two fixing seats 114 are arranged opposite each other on both sides of the receiving groove 113. Each of the two fixing seats 114 is provided with an insertion hole. The damper 200 may also include an insertion strip, which is inserted into the insertion hole and passes through the spring coil of the memory metal spring 300. The connection method is simple and reliable.

[0218] In some embodiments of this application, the connection between the memory metal spring 300 and the guide structure 230 includes abutment, snap-fit, etc. The connection between the memory metal spring 300 and the guide structure 230 can refer to the connection between the memory metal spring 300 and the fixed seat 114.

[0219] Combination Figure 17 and Figure 18 In other embodiments of this application, the connector 220 is provided with a mating hole 221.

[0220] Combination Figure 10 and Figure 12The air duct component 100 has a guide post 116 on the side facing the evaporation chamber, and the guide post 116 passes through the mating hole 221. The guide post 116 is provided on the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct component 100.

[0221] A shape memory metal spring 300 is sleeved on the outside of the guide post 116. The shape memory metal spring 300 has two ends extending along its axis. One end of the shape memory metal spring 300 is connected to the connecting seat 220, and the other end of the shape memory metal spring 300 is connected to the end of the guide post 116 away from the air duct component 100. When the shape memory metal spring 300 senses the temperature change of the evaporation chamber and elongates or contracts, the end of the shape memory metal spring 300 connected to the connecting seat 220 moves relative to the air duct component 100, thereby driving the damper 200 to move relative to the air duct component 100.

[0222] exist Figure 10 In the middle, the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct is provided with a receiving groove 113, and the guide post 116 is connected to the receiving groove 113, with a portion of the guide post 116 located within the receiving groove 113. The receiving groove 113 is used to receive the biasing elastic member 400.

[0223] In other embodiments, the guide post 116 can be directly disposed on the side of the duct rear cover 110 facing the damper 200, and a spring made of two-way memory alloy is sleeved on the guide post 116 to drive the damper 200 to move. See also... Figure 14 Connection structure of medium memory metal spring 300.

[0224] In this embodiment, a guide post 116 is provided on the air duct component 100, allowing the shape memory metal spring 300 to be sleeved on the guide post 116. This not only guides and restricts the deformation of the shape memory metal spring 300, but also allows the shape memory metal spring 300 to be exposed in the evaporation chamber 15 to sense temperature, thus improving the sensitivity of the damper mechanism 30. The engagement between the guide post 116 and the mating hole 221 provides guidance for the movement of the damper 200, reducing the possibility of the damper 200 jamming.

[0225] In some embodiments, a limiting member 115 is provided at the end of the guide post 116 away from the air duct component 100, and the two ends of the memory metal spring 300 abut against the limiting member 115 and the connecting seat 220 respectively.

[0226] For example, the guide post 116 can be a hollow post with low mass.

[0227] The limiting member 115 can be snapped or threaded onto the guide post 116. The projection of the limiting member 115 in its cross-section protrudes beyond the projection of the shape memory metal spring 300 in its cross-section, thus allowing one end of the shape memory metal spring 300 to abut against the limiting member 115. The cross-section is a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the guide post 116.

[0228] The shape memory metal spring 300 extends along its axis and its projection toward the connecting seat 220 protrudes from the mating hole 221, so that the other end of the shape memory metal spring 300 abuts against the connecting seat 220.

[0229] In this embodiment, the two ends of the memory metal spring 300 abut against the limiting member 115 and the connecting seat 220 respectively, thereby realizing the connection between the memory metal spring 300 and the damper 200 and the air duct rear cover plate 110. The connection method is simple.

[0230] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 17 and Figure 18 The mating hole 221 can be an oblong hole, and the extension direction of the oblong hole is the arrangement direction of the multiple memory metal springs 300. In this way, radial deformation clearance can be provided for the memory metal springs 300, and space can also be provided for assembly errors and machining errors, so as to avoid excessive contact force between the guide post 116 and the mating hole 221, which would affect the smooth movement of the damper 200.

[0231] Combination Figure 13 and Figure 14 In other embodiments of this application, the connecting seat 220 provided on the damper 200 is also used to connect with the biasing elastic member 400. The mating hole 221 provided on the connecting seat 220 can be a circular hole.

[0232] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

[0233] For ease of explanation, the above description has been provided in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Various modifications and variations can be obtained based on the above teachings. The selection and description of the above embodiments are for the purpose of better explaining the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the described embodiments and various different variations of embodiments suitable for specific use considerations.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The box is constructed to form a receiving cavity with an opening for taking out and putting in. An air duct component is installed within the receiving cavity, dividing the receiving cavity into an evaporation chamber and a storage compartment along the depth direction of the refrigerator. An evaporator is installed in the evaporation chamber. The storage compartment is located on one side of the access port. The air duct component is constructed to form an air duct and an air inlet. The air duct is connected to the storage compartment and to the evaporation chamber through the air inlet. A cooling fan is installed within the air duct, and the cooling fan drives cold air from the evaporator to enter the air duct through the air inlet and then into the storage compartment. A damper mechanism is located within the evaporation chamber and is opposite to the air inlet along the depth direction; the damper mechanism includes: The damper is configured to either shield or open the air inlet; At least two shape memory metal springs are connected to the damper and the air duct component respectively; the shape memory metal springs are configured to deform in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber, so as to drive the damper to move axially along the air inlet; The at least two memory metal springs are located at the same horizontal height.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The memory metal spring is a cylindrical helical spring; the axial direction of the memory metal spring is parallel to the horizontal plane of the refrigerator; wherein, the width direction and the depth direction of the refrigerator determine the horizontal plane of the refrigerator.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least two memory metal springs are arranged at intervals along the horizontal centerline of the damper; wherein the horizontal centerline passes through the center of the damper and extends in the horizontal direction.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, characterized in that, The at least two memory metal springs are arranged symmetrically about the vertical centerline of the damper; wherein the vertical centerline of the damper passes through the center of the damper and is perpendicular to the horizontal centerline of the damper.

5. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The memory metal spring is configured to extend and retract along the axial direction of the evaporation chamber in response to temperature changes, and to independently drive the damper to move axially along the air inlet.

6. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The damper mechanism further includes: a biasing elastic member configured to elastically extend and retract along a first direction, the first direction being parallel to the axial direction of the air inlet; the biasing elastic member is connected to the damper and the duct component respectively; The combined force of the memory metal spring and the biased elastic element drives the damper to move axially along the air inlet.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, characterized in that, Both the biasing elastic element and the memory metal spring are cylindrical helical springs, and the axial direction of the biasing elastic element is parallel to the axial direction of the memory metal spring. The biasing elastic element is arranged coaxially with the memory metal spring.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 6, characterized in that, Both the biasing elastic element and the memory metal spring are cylindrical helical springs, and the axial direction of the biasing elastic element is parallel to the axial direction of the memory metal spring. The biasing elastic element is not coaxially arranged with the memory metal spring.

9. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The damper includes: The plate body, which is opposite to the air inlet along the axial direction of the memory metal spring, is configured to open or cover the air inlet; A connecting seat is provided at the edge of the plate body; A guide structure is provided on the connecting seat; the guide structure is sleeved on the outside of the memory metal spring, or passes through the inside of the memory metal spring; The air duct component has a receiving groove on the side facing the evaporation chamber, and the receiving groove cooperates with the guide structure; the two ends of the memory metal spring are respectively connected to the guide structure and the air duct component.

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The enclosure includes a storage chamber and an evaporation chamber. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporator and a heater for defrosting the evaporator. An air duct is provided between the evaporation chamber and the storage chamber to allow cold air from the evaporation chamber to flow into the storage chamber. The air inlet of the air duct is located inside the evaporation chamber; a damper is provided at the air inlet. At least two shape memory metal springs are also provided at the air inlet; the shape memory metal springs are configured to deform when heated by the temperature rise in the evaporation chamber, and drive the damper to move to block the air inlet; The at least two memory metal springs are at the same height from the bottom surface of the housing in the vertical direction.

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