Dual-mode synergistic sterilization ice-making system, control method and refrigeration appliance

Abstract

The application provides a dual-mode synergistic sterilization ice-making system, a control method and a refrigeration appliance, and belongs to the technical field of sterilization of refrigeration appliances. The ice-making system provided by the application comprises a water storage assembly, an ice-making assembly, an ultraviolet sterilization module and a waterway heat sterilization module. The ultraviolet sterilization module is arranged in the water storage assembly and / or the ice-making assembly to perform static irradiation sterilization on the internal space of the water storage assembly and / or the ice-making assembly, thereby solving the problem of microbial breeding of static water in the water storage assembly and residual water film in the ice-making assembly. The waterway heat sterilization module is connected with the water storage assembly, water is circulated between the water storage assembly and the waterway heat sterilization module, and the water is heated to a target temperature, so that the high-temperature water continuously acts on the inner wall of the water conveying pipeline during the circulation, thereby solving the problem of inactivation of the biofilm on the inner wall of the pipeline.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of sterilization technology for refrigeration appliances, specifically relating to an ice-making system, control method, and refrigeration appliance with dual-mode synergistic sterilization. Background Technology

[0002] Ice-making systems are widely used in refrigeration appliances to provide users with edible ice. An ice-making system typically includes a water tank, water supply lines, and an ice-making container. Water flows sequentially through these components before freezing into ice. However, the components of an ice-making system are often in a damp or waterlogged environment, making them highly susceptible to the growth of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms, forming a biofilm. This problem is particularly pronounced when the ice-making function has not been used for an extended period or when the ambient temperature is high. Once a biofilm forms, it is not only difficult to remove through regular rinsing but also continuously releases microorganisms into the water, seriously affecting the hygiene and safety of the ice and threatening the health of users.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, some existing technologies have proposed sterilization solutions for ice-making systems. For example, some existing technologies install ultraviolet (UV) germicidal lamps at the water outlet of the ice-making system to periodically irradiate and sterilize the outlet. However, this method only sterilizes the outlet and cannot effectively inactivate microorganisms in water that has been stagnant for a long time in the storage tank, biofilms adhering to the inner walls of the water pipes, or residual water films on the surface of the ice-making box. Furthermore, because the UV germicidal lamps are installed in a concentrated location, the light cannot cover the complex internal structure of the water pipes, thus failing to achieve end-to-end sterilization.

[0004] Another existing technology heats the flowing water through a heating element, so that the high-temperature water flows through the ice-making tank and related pipes to achieve sterilization. However, the water only flows through the heating zone once, which cannot create a continuous high temperature effect on the inner wall of the water supply pipe. It is difficult to effectively kill the biofilm attached to the inner wall of the pipe, and it cannot produce a continuous and effective inactivation effect on the water film and biofilm remaining in the ice-making box after ice making.

[0005] In summary, existing technologies cannot simultaneously cover the water storage box, ice-making box, and water supply pipeline of an ice-making system, and cannot achieve end-to-end sterilization from water storage to ice making. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this application is to address the shortcomings of the above-mentioned technologies by proposing a dual-mode synergistic sterilization ice-making system, control method, and refrigeration appliance. This aims to solve the problem that the sterilization devices of existing ice-making systems cannot simultaneously cover the water storage box, ice-making box, and water supply pipeline of the ice-making system, thus failing to achieve end-to-end sterilization from water storage to ice making.

[0007] This application provides an ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization, including a water storage component, an ice-making component, an ultraviolet sterilization module, and a water-based thermal sterilization module; The ice-making component is connected to the water storage component; The ultraviolet sterilization module is disposed in the water storage component and / or the ice making component, and is used to perform static irradiation sterilization on the internal space of the water storage component and / or the ice making component; The water circuit thermal sterilization module is connected to the water storage component, and is used to circulate water between the water storage component and the water circuit thermal sterilization module, and to heat the water inside to the target temperature.

[0008] Furthermore, the water-based thermal sterilization module includes a heating element, an inlet pipe, and a return pipe; The water inlet pipe, the heating body, the return water pipe, and the water storage component are connected in sequence; The water circuit thermal sterilization module has an internal circulation state. In the internal circulation state, the water in the water storage component flows into the heating body through the water inlet pipe, and after being heated, it flows back to the water storage component through the water return pipe.

[0009] Furthermore, the water circuit thermal sterilization module also includes a three-way solenoid valve and a water outlet pipe; The inlet of the three-way solenoid valve is connected to the drain end of the heating body, and the two outlets of the three-way solenoid valve are respectively connected to the return water pipe and the outlet water pipe. The ice-making assembly includes an ice-making box and a drain pipe, wherein the water outlet pipe and the drain pipe are respectively connected to the ice-making box; The water-based thermal sterilization module also has a drainage flushing state, in which water in the water storage component flows sequentially through the water inlet pipe, the heating body, the three-way solenoid valve, the water outlet pipe, the ice maker, and the drain pipe.

[0010] Accordingly, this application also provides a sterilization method applied to the above-mentioned ice-making system, the sterilization method comprising: The water circuit thermal sterilization module is activated to allow water to circulate between the water storage component and the water circuit thermal sterilization module, and to heat the water in the water circuit thermal sterilization module. The heating time of the water flow in the heating module is greater than or equal to a first time threshold, and the drainage temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold. When the drainage temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, and the inlet water temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, and the maintenance time reaches the second time threshold, heating is stopped; Water is injected into the ice-making assembly; After water filling is completed, the ultraviolet sterilization module is activated to perform static irradiation sterilization on the internal space of the water storage component and / or the ice-making component.

[0011] Accordingly, this application also provides a refrigeration appliance, including the ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization as described above.

[0012] By adopting the above technical solution, this application has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art: (1) By placing the ultraviolet sterilization module inside the water storage component and / or ice-making component, static irradiation sterilization is performed on the internal space of the water storage component and / or ice-making component, solving the problem of microbial growth in the static water body inside the water storage component and the residual water film inside the ice-making component; by connecting the water circuit thermal sterilization module to the water storage component, water circulates between the water storage component and the water circuit thermal sterilization module and is heated to the target temperature. During the circulation process, the high-temperature water continuously heats the inner wall of the water supply pipeline, solving the problem of biofilm inactivation on the inner wall of the pipeline. Thus, the ultraviolet sterilization module and the water circuit thermal sterilization module act on different parts of the ice-making system, overcoming the deficiency of the existing technology that can only perform single-point sterilization, and realizing full-link sterilization coverage from the water storage component to the ice-making component.

[0013] (2) The water storage component and the ice making component are irradiated and sterilized by the ultraviolet sterilization module, and the water supply pipeline is circulated and sterilized by the water circuit heat sterilization module. This overcomes the defect that the single sterilization method in the existing technology cannot cover the water storage box, the water supply pipeline and the ice making box at the same time, and realizes the comprehensive sterilization of the static area (water storage component and ice making component) and the flowing area (water supply pipeline).

[0014] (3) The water is circulated between the water storage component and the water heat sterilization module through the water circuit heat sterilization module, so that the water is repeatedly heated and the water in the entire pipeline can reach the effective sterilization temperature. This overcomes the problems of water only flowing through the heating zone once in the existing technology, which cannot form a continuous high temperature effect on the inner wall of the pipeline and the sterilization effect is unreliable. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0016] The following will provide further explanation of this application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the ice-making system provided in this application; Figure 2 A side sectional view of the ice-making system provided in this application; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the water-based thermal sterilization module provided in this application; Figure 4 A bottom sectional view of the water storage component provided in this application; Figure 5 A bottom sectional view of the ice-making component provided in this application; Figure 6 A top sectional view of the ice-making component provided in this application; Figure 7 A flowchart of the control method provided in this application; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of the refrigeration appliance provided in this application.

[0017] In the picture: 1. Water storage component; 2. Ice making component; 3. Ultraviolet sterilization module; 4. Water circuit thermal sterilization module. 11 water storage boxes; 21 Ice maker, 22 Drain pipe, 23 Ice tray, 24 Temperature sensor, 25 Rotating shaft, 26 Ice storage box; 31 First UV sterilization unit; 32 Second UV sterilization unit; 41 Inlet pipe, 42 Return pipe, 43 Three-way solenoid valve, 44 Outlet pipe, 45 Housing, 46 Water pump, 47 Heating module; 231 Ice tray, 232 Flow guide, 233 Water inlet. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0019] Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms will have at least the meaning explicitly associated herein, unless the context otherwise requires. The meanings defined below are not intended to limit the terms, but are merely illustrative examples.

[0020] In the description of this application, the phrase "in one embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may refer to the same embodiment. Similarly, the phrase "in some embodiments," as used herein, does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment when used multiple times, although it may refer to the same embodiment. As used herein, the term "or" is an inclusive "or" operator and is equivalent to the term "and / or," unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. The term "based on" is not exclusive and allows for reliance on additional factors not described, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. The word "exemplary" herein means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as superior to or better than other embodiments. The scope of this application is limited only by the scope of the appended claims, and any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to be limiting, but merely to illustrate some of the many possible embodiments of the claimed application. The various embodiments provided in this application should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application.

[0021] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used 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.

[0022] Furthermore, 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. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0023] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0024] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0025] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown in the figure, this application provides a dual-mode synergistic sterilization ice-making system, which includes a water storage component 1, an ice-making component 2, an ultraviolet sterilization module 3, and a water-based thermal sterilization module 4.

[0026] The water storage component 1 is used to store water for ice making. The top of the water storage component 1 is equipped with a water inlet, through which users can add water to the water storage component 1.

[0027] The ice-making component 2 is connected to the water storage component 1 via a pipeline and is used to receive ice-making water from the water storage component 1 and to make ice.

[0028] An ultraviolet (UV) sterilization module 3 is installed within the water storage component 1 and / or the ice-making component 2 to perform static irradiation sterilization on the internal space of the water storage component 1 and / or the ice-making component 2. The UV sterilization module 3 includes UV LED beads and a light-transmitting window. The ultraviolet rays emitted by the UV LED beads enter the corresponding internal space through the light-transmitting window. The ultraviolet rays emitted by the UV LED beads can destroy the DNA or RNA molecular structure of microorganisms, thereby achieving efficient sterilization. When the UV sterilization module 3 is working, the ultraviolet rays irradiate the surface and inner wall of the static water in the water storage component 1 and the residual water film on the inner wall of the ice-making component 2, effectively killing bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms attached to the surface.

[0029] The water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 is connected to the water storage component 1, which is used to circulate water between the water storage component 1 and the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4, and to heat the water inside it to the target temperature.

[0030] In one embodiment, the water-cooled thermal sterilization module 4 is installed on the pipeline between the water storage component 1 and the ice-making component 2, and sterilizes the inside of the pipeline by heating the circulating water.

[0031] This embodiment achieves comprehensive sterilization of the entire ice-making system (water storage component 1, ice-making component 2, and connecting pipelines) through the dual-mode synergistic effect of the ultraviolet sterilization module 3 and the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4, effectively solving the technical problems of incomplete sterilization and inability to cover the entire chain in existing ice-making systems.

[0032] like Figures 2-6 As shown, the water-based thermal sterilization module 4 includes a heating body, an inlet pipe 41, and a return pipe 42.

[0033] One end of the inlet pipe 41 is connected to the outlet of the water storage component 1, and the other end is connected to the inlet of the heating body. The outlet of the heating body is connected to one end of the return pipe 42, and the other end of the return pipe 42 is connected to the return port of the water storage component 1. Thus, the inlet pipe 41, the heating body, the return pipe 42, and the water storage component 1 are connected in sequence to form a closed loop that allows water to circulate.

[0034] The water-based thermal sterilization module 4 has an internal circulation mode. In this mode, water in the water storage component 1 flows into the heating element through the inlet pipe 41, is heated within the heating element, and then flows back to the water storage component 1 through the return pipe 42. This cycle repeats, gradually increasing the water temperature in the water storage component 1 and the entire pipeline until the target sterilization temperature is reached. In one embodiment, both the inlet pipe 41 and the return pipe 42 are food-grade silicone tubes, possessing good heat resistance and flexibility, facilitating pipework arrangement within the refrigeration appliance. The outer walls of the inlet pipe 41 and the return pipe 42 can be covered with an insulation layer to reduce heat loss during circulation and improve heating efficiency.

[0035] In this embodiment, the water inlet pipe 41, the heating body, the return water pipe 42 and the water storage component 1 are connected in sequence to form a circulation loop, so that the water can be repeatedly circulated and heated in the closed pipeline, ensuring that the water in the entire pipeline can reach the sterilization temperature, thereby achieving the full-link thermal sterilization effect.

[0036] Furthermore, such as Figures 2-6 As shown, in one embodiment, the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 further includes a three-way solenoid valve 43 and a water outlet pipe 44.

[0037] The inlet of the three-way solenoid valve 43 is connected to the drain end of the heating unit, and the two outlets of the three-way solenoid valve 43 are connected to the return water pipe 42 and the outlet water pipe 44, respectively. By switching the three-way solenoid valve 43, the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 can switch between internal circulation mode and water supply mode. When the three-way solenoid valve 43 is switched to the return water pipe 42 passage, the system is in internal circulation mode; when the three-way solenoid valve 43 is switched to the outlet water pipe 44 passage, the system is in water supply mode.

[0038] The ice-making component 2 includes an ice-making box 21 and a drain pipe 22.

[0039] The water outlet pipe 44 is connected to the ice maker 21 and is used to fill the ice maker 21 with water. In one embodiment, the water outlet pipe 44 spans all the ice trays 231 inside the ice maker 21, and the bottom surface of the water outlet pipe 44 has water inlet holes at positions corresponding to each ice tray 231. Water flows into each ice tray 231 through the water outlet pipe 44 and the water inlet holes. The drain pipe 22 is connected to the ice maker 21 and is used to drain residual water inside the ice maker 21.

[0040] In one embodiment, a drain pipe 22 is disposed at the bottom of the ice maker 21, and a drain valve is provided on the drain pipe 22. The drain valve is kept closed in the ice making or internal circulation state and is opened in the draining state.

[0041] The water-based thermal sterilization module 4 also has a drainage flushing mode. In the drainage flushing mode, the three-way solenoid valve 43 switches to the outlet pipe 44 passage, and the water in the water storage component 1 flows sequentially through the inlet pipe 41, the heating body, the three-way solenoid valve 43, the outlet pipe 44, the ice maker 21, and the drain pipe 22, discharging residual hot water and any biofilm residue that may detach from the pipes out of the system. In one embodiment, the water flow velocity in the drainage flushing mode is greater than the water flow velocity during normal ice making to produce a flushing effect.

[0042] In this embodiment, the three-way solenoid valve 43 enables flexible switching between internal circulation and water supply modes, and the residual water and biofilm residue after sterilization are discharged from the system through the drainage flushing mode, ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of the ice-making system.

[0043] Furthermore, such as Figures 3-6 As shown, in one embodiment, the heating body includes a housing 45, a water pump 46, and a heating module 47. The housing 45 is the external protective structure of the heating body, used to house and protect the internal components.

[0044] In one embodiment, the housing 45 has good thermal conductivity and structural strength. A water flow channel is formed inside the housing 45, and the two ends of the water flow channel are connected to the water inlet pipe 41 and the three-way solenoid valve 43, respectively.

[0045] A water pump 46 is housed within the housing 45 and is used to drive water flow. The water pump 46 is a miniature magnetic pump or diaphragm pump, with an adjustable flow rate range of 0.15 L / min to 1.2 L / min. When the water pump 46 is running, it draws water from the water storage assembly 1 into the housing 45 through the inlet pipe 41, and then pushes the water through the heating module 47 before flowing out of the housing 45.

[0046] The heating module 47 is disposed inside the housing 45. The heating module 47 has a heating area connected to the water flow channel for heating the water inside (the heating area).

[0047] In one embodiment, the heating module 47 is a membrane heater with a rated heating power of 400W. The heating module 47 is attached to the outer wall of the water flow channel inside the housing 45. When current passes through the heating module 47, the heating module 47 generates heat, which is transferred to the water flowing through the water flow channel through the wall of the housing 45, thereby heating the water.

[0048] In one embodiment, temperature sensors are provided at the inlet and outlet of the heating module 47 to detect the inlet and outlet water temperatures in real time.

[0049] This embodiment integrates the water pump 46 and the heating module 47 into the housing 45, realizing the miniaturization and integration of the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4, which is convenient for installation and arrangement inside the refrigeration appliance, while improving heating efficiency and water flow drive reliability.

[0050] like Figures 3-6 As shown, the ice box 21 contains an ice tray 23, which is a plate structure made of a material with good thermal conductivity to facilitate the transfer of cold energy. The ice tray 23 has multiple ice grids 231, which are recessed grooves on the upper surface of the ice tray 23, used to hold water and form ice blocks in a freezing environment.

[0051] In one embodiment, multiple ice trays 231 are arranged in a matrix on the ice-making tray 23 and are evenly distributed.

[0052] A water outlet pipe 44 spans all ice trays 231 and is fixed above the ice maker 21. One end of the water outlet pipe 44 is connected to the outlet of the three-way solenoid valve 43, and the other end is closed. Water inlet holes are provided on the bottom surface of the water outlet pipe 44 at positions corresponding to each ice tray 231, with the diameter and position of the holes corresponding one-to-one with each ice tray 231. When water flows in through the water outlet pipe 44, water simultaneously flows out from each water inlet hole, injecting into the corresponding ice tray 231, ensuring uniform and consistent water filling of each ice tray 231.

[0053] In this embodiment, the water outlet pipe 44 spans all the ice trays 231 and water inlet holes are opened at corresponding positions in each ice tray 231, so as to realize the simultaneous water injection of each ice tray 231, ensuring the uniformity of water volume in each ice tray 231, thereby improving the ice-making quality.

[0054] Furthermore, such as Figure 6 As shown, a temperature sensor 24 is installed on the ice tray 23. The temperature sensor 24 is used to detect the water temperature or freezing status in the ice compartment 231 in real time and provide a temperature feedback signal to the control module.

[0055] Temperature sensor 24 is embedded in the bottom groove of ice tray 231, and the detection surface of temperature sensor 24 is flush with the bottom surface of ice tray 231.

[0056] In one embodiment, a temperature sensor 24 is embedded in the bottom groove of the outermost ice tray 231 of the ice-making tray 23, and this position can represent the temperature status of each ice tray 231 in the ice-making tray 23.

[0057] A thermally conductive layer is provided between the temperature sensor 24 and the bottom of the ice tray 231. This thermally conductive layer is a thermally conductive silicone grease potting layer, which fills the gap between the temperature sensor 24 and the bottom of the ice tray 231. It has excellent thermal conductivity, enabling it to quickly and accurately transfer the temperature from the bottom of the ice tray 231 to the detection surface of the temperature sensor 24. Simultaneously, the thermally conductive silicone grease also serves to fix the temperature sensor 24 and seal the groove.

[0058] In one embodiment, the control module determines the freezing state based on the temperature signal detected by the temperature sensor 24. When the detected temperature is below -5°C, it is determined that the water in the ice tray 231 has been completely frozen into ice, and ice making is completed.

[0059] In this embodiment, by embedding the temperature sensor 24 into the bottom groove of the ice tray 231 and setting a heat-conducting layer, the temperature of the ice tray 231 is accurately detected, providing an accurate data basis for the control module to determine the freezing state.

[0060] like Figures 2-6 As shown, in one embodiment, the ice-making assembly 2 further includes a rotating shaft 25 and an ice storage box 26. The rotating shaft 25 is connected to the ice-making tray 23 and is used to drive the ice-making tray 23 to rotate. The rotating shaft 25 is located in the middle or at the end of the ice-making tray 23 along its length, and one end of the rotating shaft 25 is connected to a drive motor. When ice making is complete, the drive motor drives the rotating shaft 25 to rotate, and the rotating shaft 25 drives the ice-making tray 23 to rotate, causing the ice blocks in the ice tray 231 to fall out under the action of gravity.

[0061] An ice storage box 26 is located at the bottom of the ice-making tray 23 and is used to receive and store ice blocks.

[0062] In one embodiment, the ice storage box 26 has a drawer-type structure and is removably mounted below the ice-making tray 23. When the ice-making tray 23 is flipped, ice cubes fall out of the ice compartment 231 and into the ice storage box 26, which the user can then pull out to remove. In another embodiment, the ice storage box 26 is made of a transparent or semi-transparent material, allowing the user to easily observe the amount of ice stored inside. A handle is provided at the front of the ice storage box 26 for convenient pulling.

[0063] In this embodiment, the ice-making tray 23 is driven to flip by the rotating shaft 25 to achieve automatic ice removal, and the ice is received and stored by the ice storage box 26, realizing a fully automated process of ice making, ice removal and ice storage, which improves the convenience of use for users.

[0064] like Figure 6 As shown, in one embodiment, the upper surface of the ice-making tray 23 is provided with a guide groove 232 and a water inlet 233. The guide groove 232 is provided on the upper surface of the ice-making tray 23 and extends along the length or width direction of the ice-making tray 23.

[0065] Multiple water inlets 233 correspond one-to-one with multiple ice trays 231. One end of each water inlet 233 is connected to a guide channel 232, and the other end is connected to the corresponding ice tray 231. In one embodiment, the water inlet 233 is a through hole opened above the ice tray 231, with a diameter smaller than that of a water inlet hole, used to guide water from the guide channel 232 into the ice tray 231.

[0066] This embodiment achieves buffering and uniform distribution of water flow during the water injection process through the cooperation of the guide channel 232 and the water inlet 233, ensuring the balance of water volume in each ice compartment 231 and improving the uniformity and quality of ice making.

[0067] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in one embodiment, the water storage assembly 1 includes a water storage box 11. The water storage box 11 is a box structure with an open top, used to store water for ice making.

[0068] In one embodiment, the water storage box 11 is made of food-grade plastic material (such as PP material), which has good low-temperature resistance and hygiene safety. The water storage box 11 is detachably installed in the refrigerator compartment of the refrigeration appliance, and the user can remove the water storage box 11 for cleaning and adding water.

[0069] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the water storage box 11 is provided with an antibacterial material layer. The antibacterial material layer is a nano-silver ion antibacterial layer. The nano-silver ions can continuously release silver ions, which destroy the cell structure after contacting the bacterial cell membrane, thereby achieving a long-lasting antibacterial effect.

[0070] In one embodiment, a water level detection electrode is provided at the bottom of the water storage box 11. The water level detection electrode is a capacitive non-contact water level detection electrode, and its detection range includes an empty water level range, a low water level range, and a high water level range. When the water level detection electrode detects that the water level in the water storage box 11 is lower than the low water level range, the control module issues a water shortage warning signal; when the water level detection electrode detects that the water level in the water storage box 11 has reached the high water level range, the control module issues a full water warning signal.

[0071] This embodiment achieves long-lasting antibacterial properties of the water storage box 11 by setting an antibacterial material layer on the inner wall of the water storage box 11, inhibiting the growth of bacteria on the inner wall of the water storage box 11; and achieves accurate detection of the water level in the water storage box 11 by using a water level detection electrode, providing accurate water volume information for users and management systems.

[0072] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the ultraviolet sterilization module 3 includes a first ultraviolet sterilization unit 31 and a second ultraviolet sterilization unit 32.

[0073] The first ultraviolet sterilization unit 31 is disposed inside the water storage component 1 and is used to irradiate and sterilize the internal space of the water storage component 1.

[0074] In one embodiment, a first ultraviolet sterilization unit 31 is disposed on the top inner wall of the water storage box 11, including multiple ultraviolet LED beads and a light-transmitting window. The ultraviolet rays emitted by the multiple ultraviolet LED beads enter the interior of the water storage box 11 through the light-transmitting window, forming a uniform irradiation field inside the water storage box 11, covering the entire area of ​​the inner wall and water surface of the water storage box 11, effectively killing microorganisms in the water in the water storage box 11.

[0075] The second ultraviolet sterilization unit 32 is disposed inside the ice-making component 2 and is used to irradiate and sterilize the internal space of the ice-making component 2.

[0076] In one embodiment, the second ultraviolet sterilization unit 32 is disposed inside the upper cover of the ice box 21 and includes multiple ultraviolet LED beads arranged in an array to ensure that the ultraviolet irradiation range covers the entire inner wall of the ice tray 231, effectively killing microorganisms remaining in the water film on the inner wall of the ice tray 231 after ice making.

[0077] In one embodiment, the UV LED beads of the first UV sterilization unit 31 emit light at a wavelength of 270nm to 280nm, which is within the absorption peak band of microbial DNA / RNA, enabling highly efficient sterilization. The UV LED beads of the second UV sterilization unit 32 emit light at a wavelength that is the same as or similar to that of the first UV sterilization unit 31.

[0078] This embodiment achieves full-coverage ultraviolet sterilization of the water storage component 1 and the ice-making component 2 by setting the first ultraviolet sterilization unit 31 and the second ultraviolet sterilization unit 32 respectively, effectively eliminating the risk of microbial contamination of the two key static components in the ice-making system.

[0079] In one embodiment, the ice-making system further includes a control module. The control module is electrically connected to the water pump 46, the heating module 47, the three-way solenoid valve 43, and various temperature sensors, and is used to control the operation of each component of the ice-making system according to preset logic.

[0080] The control module is configured to activate the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4, causing water to circulate between the water storage component 1 and the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4, and heating the water within the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4. During the thermal sterilization process, the heating time of the water flow within the heating module 47 is greater than or equal to a first time threshold, and the drainage temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold.

[0081] In one implementation, the first time threshold is 60 seconds and the first temperature threshold is 85°C.

[0082] When the drainage temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, and the inlet water temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, and the maintenance time reaches the second time threshold, the control module controls the heating module 47 to stop heating. In one embodiment, the second temperature threshold is 82°C, and the second time threshold is 60 seconds. At this time, it is determined that the water in the entire pipeline has maintained a sufficient sterilization time at the effective sterilization temperature, and the thermal sterilization cycle is completed.

[0083] In one implementation, the control module is a microcontroller or single-chip microcomputer, which integrates a timing unit and a judgment unit. The timing unit is used to record the on-time and temperature maintenance time of the heating module 47, and the judgment unit is used to compare the detected temperature with various temperature thresholds and output corresponding control commands based on the comparison results.

[0084] In one embodiment, the control module is further configured to: confirm that the ice-making component 2 is not in the ice-making state before starting the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4; if the ice-making component 2 is in the ice-making state, wait for the current ice-making to be completed before starting the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4.

[0085] In one embodiment, the control module is further configured to confirm that the top cover of the ice box 21 is closed before the control water circuit heat sterilization module 4 is started.

[0086] In one embodiment, the control module is further configured to: close the refrigeration damper of the refrigeration appliance before the control water circuit heat sterilization module 4 is started, so as to prevent the heat generated during the heat sterilization process from entering the freezer compartment; and open the refrigeration damper after sterilization is completed.

[0087] In this embodiment, the precise control of the thermal sterilization process by the control module ensures that the heating time and outlet water temperature of the water flow in the heating module 47 meet the effective sterilization requirements, thereby achieving sufficient high-temperature sterilization of the pipeline system.

[0088] Please refer to Figure 7 As shown, this application also provides a sterilization method applied to the ice-making system described in any of the above claims. The sterilization method includes the following steps: S1: The water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 is activated, causing water to circulate between the water storage component 1 and the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4, and heating the water in the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4. During the thermal sterilization process, the heating time of the water flow in the heating module 47 is greater than or equal to a first time threshold, and the drainage temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold.

[0089] In one implementation, the first time threshold is 60 seconds and the first temperature threshold is 85°C.

[0090] S2: When the drainage temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, and the inlet water temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, and the maintenance time reaches the second time threshold, control the heating module 47 to stop heating.

[0091] In one implementation, the second temperature threshold is 82°C and the second time threshold is 60 seconds.

[0092] S3: Add water to the ice-making component 2.

[0093] In one embodiment, the water injection process adopts a variable speed water injection method. First, water is injected at a low speed to wet the surface of the ice tray 23, then water is injected at a medium speed to bring the water level to a preset height, and finally water is injected at a low speed to finish, so as to ensure that the water level in each ice compartment 231 is uniform and free of air bubbles.

[0094] S4: After water filling is completed, the ultraviolet sterilization module 3 is activated to perform static irradiation sterilization on the internal space of the water storage component 1 and / or the ice making component 2.

[0095] In one embodiment, the irradiation time of the ultraviolet sterilization module 3 is 10 minutes to ensure that the internal space of the water storage component 1 and the ice-making component 2 is sufficiently sterilized by ultraviolet irradiation.

[0096] The sterilization method in this embodiment achieves a full-chain, full-process sterilization effect by first performing a thermal sterilization cycle and then performing ultraviolet sterilization, so that the two sterilization mechanisms act on the water system (dynamic pipeline) and static components (water storage components and ice-making components) respectively.

[0097] In one embodiment, the method of circulating water between the water storage component 1 and the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4, and heating the water in the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4, includes the following steps: Obtain the current inlet water temperature at the inlet of the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4.

[0098] In one embodiment, the current inlet water temperature is detected in real time by a first temperature sensor located at the inlet of the water circuit thermal sterilization module 4 and transmitted to the control module.

[0099] Based on the current inlet water temperature and a first temperature threshold, the maximum allowable flow rate that causes the outlet water temperature to reach the first temperature threshold is calculated. In one embodiment, the maximum allowable flow rate is calculated based on the difference between the first temperature threshold and the current inlet water temperature, the heating power, and the heat exchange efficiency.

[0100] The required flow rate is calculated based on the first time threshold and the heating zone volume of the water thermal sterilization module 4. In one embodiment, the required flow rate is calculated based on the first time threshold and the heating zone volume.

[0101] Select the smaller value between the maximum allowed flow and the required flow as the target flow.

[0102] In one implementation, the control module compares the calculated maximum allowable flow rate with the required flow rate and selects the smaller one as the target flow rate. In another implementation, when the current inlet water temperature is lower than the set temperature (e.g., 60°C), the maximum allowable flow rate is less than the required flow rate, and the target flow rate is equal to the maximum allowable flow rate; when the current inlet water temperature is higher than the set temperature, the maximum allowable flow rate is greater than the required flow rate, and the target flow rate is equal to the required flow rate.

[0103] Adjust the water pump speed to 46 according to the target flow rate.

[0104] In one implementation, the control module calculates the water flow rate based on the target flow rate and the pipe cross-sectional area, and then adjusts the speed of the water pump 46 according to the correspondence between the flow rate and the speed of the water pump 46, so that the actual flow rate of the water in the heating area approaches the target flow rate, thereby controlling the heating time of the water in the heating area to be greater than or equal to the first time threshold.

[0105] This embodiment calculates the target flow rate based on parameters such as the current inlet water temperature, the first temperature threshold, the first time threshold, and the volume of the heating zone, and adjusts the water pump speed according to the target flow rate, thereby achieving precise control of the heating time of the water flow in the heating zone and ensuring the stability and reliability of the thermal sterilization effect.

[0106] In one embodiment, the heating process includes a heating phase, a temperature regulation phase, and a temperature maintenance phase.

[0107] When the current inlet water temperature is lower than the third temperature threshold, the heating process is in the warming-up phase. During the warming-up phase, the water flow is controlled at the target flow rate, and heating is performed at full power.

[0108] In one embodiment, the third temperature threshold is 60°C. At the beginning of the heating phase, the current inlet water temperature is low (e.g., 20°C), the target flow rate is the smaller of the maximum allowable flow rate and the required flow rate, i.e., the maximum allowable flow rate, the water pump 46 operates at a low speed, and the heating module 47 heats at full power (e.g., 400W) to make the water temperature rise rapidly.

[0109] When the current inlet water temperature is greater than or equal to the third temperature threshold and less than the second temperature threshold, the heating is in the temperature regulation phase. During the temperature regulation phase, the water flow is controlled at the target flow rate, and the heating power is adjusted to bring the outlet water temperature up to the first temperature threshold.

[0110] In one embodiment, the second temperature threshold is 82°C, and the first temperature threshold is 85°C. During this stage, the target flow rate is the smaller of the maximum allowable flow rate and the required flow rate, i.e., the required flow rate. The control module controls the heating power of the heating module 47 through PID regulation, causing the outlet water temperature to gradually approach 85°C and stabilize within the range of 85±2°C.

[0111] When the current inlet water temperature is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, heating is in the temperature maintenance phase. During the temperature maintenance phase, timing begins, and heating stops when the timing reaches the second time threshold.

[0112] In one implementation, the second time threshold is 60 seconds. During this stage, the water temperature throughout the pipeline has essentially reached the sterilization temperature. The control module maintains the current heating power to keep the outlet water temperature within the range of 85±2℃ for 60 seconds, ensuring that all parts of the pipeline have undergone sufficient sterilization time.

[0113] This embodiment divides the heating process into a heating stage, a temperature regulation stage, and a temperature maintenance stage, and adopts different control strategies in different stages to achieve precise and efficient control of the thermal sterilization process, ensuring both rapid heating and stable maintenance of the sterilization temperature.

[0114] In one implementation, the formula for calculating the maximum permissible flow rate is: ; in, The maximum allowable flow rate, in physical terms, is the maximum water flow rate that ensures the outlet water temperature reaches the target temperature under a given heating power. When the actual flow rate is greater than... If the water is heated for too short a time in the heating module 47, the outlet water temperature cannot reach the target temperature.

[0115] This refers to the heating power, which is either the rated power or the actual operating power of the heating module 47. Heat exchange efficiency represents the proportion of heat generated by the heating module 47 that is actually transferred to the water. Its value is related to the structure, material, and water flow state of the heating module 47. The density of water can be taken as 1000 kg / m³ under standard atmospheric pressure. The specific heat capacity of water can be taken as 4180 J / (kg·K) at room temperature. This is the first temperature threshold, i.e., the target sterilization temperature. The current inlet water temperature is obtained in real time by the first temperature sensor.

[0116] In one implementation, the first temperature threshold is 85°C.

[0117] In one implementation, the maximum allowed flow rate With inlet water temperature They are inversely proportional, meaning that the lower the inlet water temperature, the greater the temperature difference required to raise the water temperature, and the smaller the allowable water flow rate under the same heating power; conversely, the higher the inlet water temperature, the smaller the required temperature difference, and the greater the allowable water flow rate.

[0118] This embodiment uses the above calculation formula to accurately calculate the maximum allowable flow rate based on real-time inlet water temperature and heating power, providing an accurate data foundation for determining the subsequent target flow rate.

[0119] In one implementation, the formula for calculating demand flow is: ; in, The required flow rate, in its physical sense, is the maximum water flow rate allowed to ensure the water reaches the required sterilization residence time within the heating zone. When the actual flow rate is greater than... At that time, the water flow through the heating zone is too fast and the residence time is insufficient, which cannot meet the time requirements for effective sterilization.

[0120] The heating area volume of the water-cooled thermal sterilization module 4 is the space volume in which water is effectively heated in the water flow channel inside the heating body. Its value depends on the structural design of the heating body and the size of the water flow channel.

[0121] In one implementation, assuming the total length of the pipeline is 2.5m and the inner diameter of the pipeline is 6mm, the volume V of the heating zone is approximately 30ml.

[0122] The first time threshold, i.e. the required effective sterilization time, can be 60 seconds.

[0123] In one implementation, demand flow It is proportional to the volume V of the heating zone and the required residence time. They are inversely proportional. The larger the volume of the heating zone, the more water it can hold, and the greater the allowable flow rate under the same residence time requirement; the longer the required residence time, the smaller the allowable flow rate to meet the residence time requirement.

[0124] This embodiment uses the above calculation formula to accurately calculate the required flow rate based on the heating zone volume and the required residence time, providing an accurate data foundation for determining the subsequent target flow rate.

[0125] In one embodiment, after heating is stopped, the sterilization method further includes a drainage step. The drainage step specifically includes: Control the three-way solenoid valve 43 to switch to the outlet pipe 44, open the drain pipe 22, and control the water pump 46 to run at the first speed, the second speed and the third speed in sequence to discharge the water in the water circuit heat sterilization module 4.

[0126] In one implementation, the flow rate corresponding to the first rotation speed is 1.2 L / min, and the running time is 8 seconds; the flow rate corresponding to the second rotation speed is 0.8 L / min, and the running time is 5 seconds; the flow rate corresponding to the third rotation speed is 0.2 L / min, and the running time is 5 seconds.

[0127] In one implementation, the first rotational speed is greater than the second rotational speed, and the second rotational speed is greater than the third rotational speed. At the beginning of drainage, the system first operates at the first rotational speed (high speed) to generate a large water flow scouring force, carrying away the water film and any biofilm residue that may detach from the inner wall of the pipe; then it operates at the second rotational speed (medium speed) for a smooth transition; finally, it operates at the third rotational speed (low speed) to completely drain the remaining water in the pipe.

[0128] In one embodiment, a drain valve is provided at the inlet of the drain pipe 22. The drain valve is controlled to open during the draining step and to remain closed during the ice-making or heat sterilization cycle.

[0129] This embodiment uses a variable-speed drainage method, which not only ensures the complete drainage of residual water in the pipeline, but also improves the cleaning effect on the inner wall of the pipeline through the high-speed flushing section, reducing the risk of biofilm residue.

[0130] In one embodiment, injecting water into the ice-making component 2 includes: The water pump 46 is controlled to inject water into the ice-making assembly 2 at a fourth, fifth, and sixth rotation speed in sequence. In one embodiment, the flow rate corresponding to the fourth rotation speed is 0.2 L / min, and the running time is 3 seconds; the flow rate corresponding to the fifth rotation speed is 0.5 L / min, and the pump runs until the water level covers the bottom of the ice-making tray 23 by 5 mm to 8 mm; the flow rate corresponding to the sixth rotation speed is 0.3 L / min, and the running time is 5 seconds.

[0131] The fourth speed is lower than the fifth speed, and the sixth speed is lower than the fifth speed. When water is poured in, the machine first runs at the fourth speed (low speed) to slowly pour water into the ice-making tray 23, so that the water forms a uniform water film on the surface of the ice-making tray 23, avoiding the formation of air bubbles by water flow impact. Then, the machine runs at the fifth speed (medium speed) to quickly pour water to the preset water level.

[0132] In one embodiment, the preset water level is determined by a sudden temperature drop in the ice grid temperature sensor 24. When the temperature sensor 24 detects a sudden temperature drop, it indicates that the water has come into contact with the temperature sensor 24 and the water level has reached the preset height. Finally, the system runs at the sixth rotation speed (low speed) to finish with a slow flow, avoiding splashing at the end of the filling process.

[0133] This embodiment uses a variable-speed water injection method, which ensures the uniformity of the water film in the ice-making tray 23, and avoids the generation of air bubbles and water splashing during the water injection process, thereby improving the ice-making quality.

[0134] In one embodiment, after activating the ultraviolet sterilization module 3 for static irradiation sterilization, the sterilization method further includes a drainage termination step. The drainage termination step specifically includes: Turn off the UV sterilization module 3 and drain the residual water from the ice-making component 2.

[0135] In one embodiment, the ultraviolet sterilization module 3 is irradiated for 10 minutes and automatically shuts off after irradiation. Residual water in the ice container 21 is drained through the drain pipe 22.

[0136] In one embodiment, the drainage step is completed using the same variable-speed drainage method as the drainage step in claim 17, that is, drainage is performed sequentially at high speed, medium speed and low speed to drain the residual water in the ice box 21 and the pipeline.

[0137] In one implementation, after the drainage step is completed, the refrigeration damper of the refrigeration appliance is opened, the counter of the ice-making system is reset to zero, and the system returns to the ice-making standby state.

[0138] This embodiment completely empties the water remaining in the ice container 21 after UV sterilization by ending the drainage step, thus preventing the residual water from lingering in the ice container 21 for a long time and causing bacterial growth, and ensuring the long-term hygiene of the ice-making system.

[0139] Please refer to Figure 8 As shown, this application also provides a refrigeration appliance, which includes the ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization as described in any of the above claims.

[0140] In one embodiment, the refrigeration appliance is a refrigerator. Figure 8 In the refrigerator, A is the refrigerator compartment and B is the freezer compartment. The refrigerator includes a cabinet, which contains a refrigerator compartment A and a freezer compartment B. The water storage component 1 of the ice-making system is located in the refrigerator compartment A, and the ice-making component 2 is located in the freezer compartment B.

[0141] This embodiment applies a dual-mode synergistic sterilization ice-making system to refrigeration appliances, enabling the refrigeration appliances to have end-to-end sterilization functionality for the ice-making system, effectively improving the hygienic and safe performance of the refrigeration appliances in ice making.

[0142] The sequence numbers or order of description of the embodiments in this application are for descriptive purposes only and do not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments.

[0143] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification.

[0144] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. An ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization, characterized in that, include: Water storage component (1); The ice-making component (2) is connected to the water storage component (1); An ultraviolet sterilization module (3) is disposed in the water storage component (1) and / or the ice making component (2) for static irradiation sterilization of the internal space of the water storage component (1) and / or the ice making component (2); The water circuit thermal sterilization module (4) is connected to the water storage component (1) and is used to circulate water between the water storage component (1) and the water circuit thermal sterilization module (4) and heat the water inside it to the target temperature.

2. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water circuit thermal sterilization module (4) includes a heating body, an inlet pipe (41), and a return pipe (42). The inlet pipe (41), the heating body, the return pipe (42), and the water storage component (1) are connected in sequence; The water circuit heat sterilization module (4) has an internal circulation state. In the internal circulation state, the water in the water storage component (1) flows into the heating body through the water inlet pipe (41) and is heated and then flows back to the water storage component (1) through the water return pipe (42).

3. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water circuit thermal sterilization module (4) also includes a three-way solenoid valve (43) and a water outlet pipe (44). The inlet of the three-way solenoid valve (43) is connected to the drain end of the heating body, and the two outlets of the three-way solenoid valve (43) are connected to the return water pipe (42) and the outlet water pipe (44) respectively. The ice-making assembly (2) includes an ice-making box (21) and a drain pipe (22), wherein the water outlet pipe (44) and the drain pipe (22) are respectively connected to the ice-making box (21); The water circuit heat sterilization module (4) also has a drainage flushing state. In the drainage flushing state, the water in the water storage component (1) flows sequentially through the water inlet pipe (41), the heating body, the three-way solenoid valve (43), the water outlet pipe (44), the ice box (21), and the drain pipe (22).

4. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heating element includes: Casing (45); A water pump (46) is disposed inside the housing (45) for driving water flow; A heating module (47) is disposed inside the housing (45) for heating the water inside.

5. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 3, characterized in that, The ice box (21) is provided with an ice tray (23), and the ice tray (23) is provided with multiple ice compartments (231). The water outlet pipe (44) spans all the ice grids (231), and the bottom surface of the water outlet pipe (44) is provided with water injection holes at positions corresponding to each of the ice grids (231).

6. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 5, characterized in that, The ice-making tray (23) is equipped with a temperature sensor (24). The temperature sensor (24) is embedded in the bottom groove of the ice tray (231), and the detection surface of the temperature sensor (24) is flush with the bottom surface of the ice tray (231). A heat-conducting layer is provided between the temperature sensor (24) and the bottom of the ice grid (231).

7. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 5, characterized in that, The ice-making component (2) also includes: A rotating shaft (25) is connected to the ice-making tray (23) and is used to drive the ice-making tray (23) to rotate. An ice storage box (26) is located at the bottom of the ice-making tray (23) and is used to receive and store ice blocks.

8. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 5, characterized in that, The upper surface of the ice-making tray (23) is provided with a guide groove (232) and a water inlet (233). The multiple water inlets (233) correspond one-to-one with the multiple ice grids (231). One end of the water inlet (233) is connected to the guide channel (232), and the other end is connected to the corresponding ice grid (231).

9. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water storage component (1) includes: Water storage box (11); An antibacterial material layer is disposed on the inner wall of the water storage box (11); A water level detection electrode is located at the bottom of the water storage box (11).

10. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultraviolet sterilization module (3) includes a first ultraviolet sterilization unit (31) and a second ultraviolet sterilization unit (32); The first ultraviolet sterilization unit (31) is disposed inside the water storage component (1) and is used to irradiate and sterilize the internal space of the water storage component (1); The second ultraviolet sterilization unit (32) is disposed inside the ice-making component (2) and is used to irradiate and sterilize the internal space of the ice-making component (2).

11. The ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a control module, which is configured to: The water circuit thermal sterilization module (4) is started, so that water circulates between the water storage component (1) and the water circuit thermal sterilization module (4), and the water in the water circuit thermal sterilization module (4) is heated. The heating time of the water flow in the heating module (47) is greater than or equal to the first time threshold, and the drainage temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module (4) is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold. When the drainage temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, and the inlet water temperature of the water circuit heat sterilization module (4) is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, and the maintenance time reaches the second time threshold, heating is stopped.

12. A sterilization method, characterized in that, The sterilization method, applied to the ice-making system according to any one of claims 1-11, comprises: The water circuit thermal sterilization module is activated to allow water to circulate between the water storage component and the water circuit thermal sterilization module, and to heat the water in the water circuit thermal sterilization module. The heating time of the water flow in the heating module is greater than or equal to a first time threshold, and the drainage temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold. When the drainage temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, and the inlet water temperature of the water circuit thermal sterilization module is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, and the maintenance time reaches the second time threshold, heating is stopped; Water is injected into the ice-making assembly; After water filling is completed, the ultraviolet sterilization module is activated to perform static irradiation sterilization on the internal space of the water storage component and / or the ice-making component.

13. The sterilization method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The method of circulating water between the water storage component and the water circuit thermal sterilization module, and heating the water in the water circuit thermal sterilization module, includes: Obtain the current inlet water temperature at the inlet of the water circuit thermal sterilization module; Based on the current inlet water temperature and the first temperature threshold, calculate the maximum allowable flow rate that will cause the outlet water temperature to reach the first temperature threshold. The required flow rate is calculated based on the first time threshold and the heating area volume of the water thermal sterilization module; The smaller value between the maximum allowed flow and the required flow is selected as the target flow. The pump speed is adjusted according to the target flow rate to control the heating time of the water flow in the heating area to be greater than or equal to the first time threshold, and the outlet water temperature to be greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold.

14. The sterilization method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The heating process includes a heating phase, a temperature regulation phase, and a temperature maintenance phase. When the current inlet water temperature is less than the third temperature threshold, the water is in the heating stage, the water flow is controlled by the target flow rate, and the water is heated at full power. When the current inlet water temperature is greater than or equal to the third temperature threshold and less than the second temperature threshold, the water is in the temperature regulation stage, the water flow is controlled by the target flow rate, and the heating power is adjusted so that the outlet water temperature reaches the first temperature threshold. When the current inlet water temperature is greater than or equal to the second temperature threshold, the system is in the temperature maintenance phase and a timer starts. When the timer reaches the second time threshold, heating stops.

15. The sterilization method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The formula for calculating the maximum allowable flow rate is: ； in, To the maximum allowed traffic, For heating power, For heat exchange efficiency, The density of water, The specific heat capacity of water, The first temperature threshold, The current inlet water temperature is [value].

16. The sterilization method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The formula for calculating the demand flow is: ； in, V represents the required flow rate, and V represents the heating area volume of the water circuit thermal sterilization module. This is the first time threshold.

17. The sterilization method according to claim 12, characterized in that, After the heating is stopped, the following is also included: Control the three-way solenoid valve to switch to the outlet pipe, open the drain pipe, and control the water pump to run at the first speed, the second speed and the third speed in sequence to discharge the water in the water circuit heat sterilization module; The first rotational speed is greater than the second rotational speed, and the second rotational speed is greater than the third rotational speed.

18. The sterilization method according to claim 12, characterized in that, Injecting water into the ice-making assembly includes: The water pump is controlled to inject water into the ice-making assembly at a fourth speed, a fifth speed, and a sixth speed in sequence, wherein the fourth speed is less than the fifth speed, and the sixth speed is less than the fifth speed.

19. The sterilization method according to claim 12, characterized in that, After activating the ultraviolet sterilization module for static irradiation sterilization, the process further includes: Turn off the ultraviolet sterilization module and drain the residual water from the ice-making component.

20. A refrigeration appliance, characterized in that, Including the ice-making system with dual-mode synergistic sterilization as described in any one of claims 1-11.

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