Ice discharging structure and ice maker

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of ice making equipment, and discloses an ice outlet structure and an ice maker, the ice outlet structure comprises an ice outlet channel, an ice inlet, an ice outlet and an ice outlet, the blocking piece is provided with a first position for communicating the ice block inlet with the ice block outlet and a second position for separating the ice block inlet from the ice block outlet; the power output end of the driving mechanism is connected with the plugging piece, and the driving mechanism can drive the plugging piece to be switched between the first position and the second position; the acquisition module is used for acquiring an ice output signal and / or an ice output stopping signal; and the control module is in communication connection with the acquisition module and the driving mechanism and can control the driving mechanism to drive the plugging piece to be switched between the first position and the second position according to signals acquired by the acquisition module. According to the ice outlet structure provided by the embodiment of the utility model, the situation that part of ice blocks remain at the ice outlet structure and leak from the ice outlet structure after a user finishes taking the ice blocks, and additional cleaning burden is brought to the user can be avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of ice-making equipment, and particularly relates to an ice discharging structure and an ice maker. Background Art

[0002] An ice maker includes an ice-making mechanism, an ice conveying mechanism, and an ice discharging structure. The ice-making mechanism is used to make ice cubes. When a user needs to obtain ice cubes, the ice conveying mechanism can convey the ice cubes output by the ice-making mechanism to the ice discharging structure, and the ice discharging structure is used to output the ice cubes. However, after the user finishes obtaining ice cubes, often some ice cubes remain at the ice discharging structure and leak from the ice discharging structure, bringing an extra cleaning burden to the user. Summary of the Utility Model

[0003] In view of this, the utility model provides an ice discharging structure and an ice maker to solve the defect that in the related art, after the user finishes obtaining ice cubes, often some ice cubes remain at the ice discharging structure and leak from the ice discharging structure, bringing an extra cleaning burden to the user.

[0004] In a first aspect, the utility model provides an ice discharging structure, including:

[0005] An ice discharging channel, having an ice cube inlet and an ice cube outlet;

[0006] A blocking member, having a first position where the ice cube inlet and the ice cube outlet are communicated, and a second position where the ice cube inlet and the ice cube outlet are blocked;

[0007] A driving mechanism, with a power output end connected to the blocking member, capable of driving the blocking member to switch between the first position and the second position;

[0008] A collecting module, used for collecting an ice discharging signal and / or a stop ice discharging signal;

[0009] A control module, communicatively connected to the collecting module and the driving mechanism, capable of controlling the driving mechanism to drive the blocking member to switch between the first position and the second position according to the signal collected by the collecting module.

[0010] Advantageous Effects: When the collecting module of the ice discharging structure according to the embodiment of the utility model collects an ice discharging signal, or does not collect a stop ice discharging signal, the control module can control the driving mechanism to switch the blocking member to the first position, thereby communicating the ice cube inlet and the ice cube outlet of the ice discharging channel, so as to facilitate the ice cubes made by the ice maker to be output by the ice discharging structure.

[0011] When the ice collection module fails to collect the ice output signal or collects the signal to stop ice output, the control module can control the driving mechanism to switch the blocking member to the second position, thereby blocking the ice inlet and the ice outlet. Even if some ice remains at the ice output structure after the user finishes taking ice, it will be blocked by the blocking member, preventing the remaining ice from leaking out of the ice output structure after the user finishes taking ice and bringing an extra cleaning burden to the user.

[0012] In addition, the above ice output structure is simple in structure, easy to assemble, safe and reliable in use, and convenient for implementation and popularization.

[0013] In an alternative embodiment, the driving mechanism includes:

[0014] A rotation source;

[0015] A gear sleeved on the output shaft of the rotation source, with a rack provided on the blocking member, and the rack meshes with the gear.

[0016] Beneficial effects:

[0017] The gear can cooperate with the rack and convert the rotational motion output by the rotation source into a linear motion, thereby driving the blocking member to switch between the first position and the second position. The transmission through the cooperation of the gear and the rack has the advantages of high efficiency, high precision, reliability and adaptability.

[0018] In an alternative embodiment, the blocking member is provided at the ice inlet of the ice output channel; and / or,

[0019] The blocking member extends in the vertical direction.

[0020] Beneficial effects: By setting it in this way, it can prevent some ice from remaining in the ice output channel after the user finishes taking ice, resulting in water seeping out from the ice output channel after the ice melts.

[0021] In an alternative embodiment, the ice output structure further includes:

[0022] A cup pusher, hinged to the ice output channel, the cup pusher has a third position blocking below the ice outlet and a fourth position exposing the ice outlet, and the ice collection module can collect the ice output signal when the cup pusher is switched to the fourth position.

[0023] Beneficial effects: By setting it in this way, when the user places a water cup below the ice output channel to obtain ice, the water cup can push the cup pusher and switch the cup pusher to the fourth position, so that the ice collection module can collect the ice output signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism to switch the blocking member to the first position to allow the ice made by the ice maker to be output outward through the ice output channel.

[0024] After the user finishes obtaining ice cubes, they can remove the water cup, and the cup pusher can be switched to the third position so that the collection module cannot collect the ice output signal. The control module can control the driving mechanism to switch the blocking member to the second position, thereby blocking the ice inlet and ice outlet of the ice output channel, so as to prevent some ice cubes from leaking out from the ice output channel after the user's operation is completed.

[0025] Therefore, the ice output structure of the embodiment of the present application can automatically control the driving mechanism to drive the blocking member to switch between the first position and the second position when the user is obtaining ice cubes and after finishing obtaining ice cubes, avoiding the user forgetting to control the driving mechanism, resulting in some ice cubes leaking out, bringing an additional cleaning burden to the user, and improving the automation degree of the ice output structure.

[0026] In an optional implementation manner, the collection module includes a proximity switch provided at the ice outlet of the ice output channel, and a metal part is provided on the cup pusher.

[0027] Beneficial effects:

[0028] With such a setting, when the user places the water cup below the ice output channel to obtain ice cubes, the cup pusher can rotate around its hinge point with the ice output channel, so that the metal part moves closer to the collection module and enters the sensing range of the proximity switch. The collection module can collect the ice output signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism to switch the blocking member to the first position.

[0029] When the user removes the water cup from below the ice output channel, the cup pusher can rotate in the reverse direction, so that the metal part moves away from the collection module and exits the sensing range of the proximity switch. At this time, the collection module cannot collect the ice output signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism to switch the blocking member to the second position.

[0030] In an optional implementation manner, a first abutting portion is formed on the cup pusher, and a second abutting portion is formed at the ice outlet of the ice output channel. The ice output structure further includes:

[0031] An elastic member, supported between the first abutting portion and the second abutting portion, capable of switching the cup pusher from the fourth position to the third position.

[0032] Beneficial effects: With such a setting, when the user places the water cup below the ice output channel to obtain ice cubes, the cup pusher can rotate around its hinge point with the ice output channel, and the first abutting portion moves closer to the second abutting portion and compresses the elastic member, so that the collection module collects the ice output signal.

[0033] When the user finishes obtaining ice cubes and removes the water cup from below the ice output channel, the elastic member can support the first abutting portion through its own elastic restoring force, so that the first abutting portion moves away from the second abutting portion, and the collection module cannot collect the ice output signal.

[0034] In an alternative embodiment, the cup pusher includes:

[0035] A connecting portion, with an avoidance opening formed thereon, and the ice outlet passage passes through the avoidance opening;

[0036] A cup pusher main body, connected below the avoidance opening.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment, the connecting portion includes a first plate body and a second plate body connected at an angle, the avoidance opening includes a first avoidance opening and a second avoidance opening, the first avoidance opening is formed on the first plate body, the second avoidance opening and a first abutting portion are formed on the second plate body, and the ice outlet passage can sequentially pass through the first avoidance opening and the second avoidance opening.

[0038] Beneficial effects: By setting it like this, the first plate body and the second plate body can be sleeved on the ice outlet passage and play a role in restricting the movement trajectory of the cup pusher to a certain extent. In addition, the second plate body can also be used to set the first abutting portion.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, the ice outlet passage includes a passage main body and an ice outlet nozzle detachably connected below the passage main body, and an ice block outlet is formed on the ice outlet nozzle.

[0040] In an alternative embodiment, an installation boss is formed on the outer periphery of the ice outlet nozzle;

[0041] A second abutting portion is formed on the installation boss; and / or,

[0042] A connecting vertical plate is formed on the installation boss, a first hinge portion is formed on the connecting vertical plate, a second hinge portion is provided on the cup pusher, and the first hinge portion is used for hinging with the second hinge portion; and / or,

[0043] A first connection structure is formed on the installation boss, a second connection structure is formed on the passage main body, and the first connection structure can be detachably connected to the second connection structure.

[0044] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides an ice maker, including:

[0045] An ice making mechanism for making ice cubes;

[0046] The ice outlet structure provided in the first aspect of the present invention;

[0047] An ice delivery mechanism, arranged between the ice making mechanism and the ice outlet structure, for delivering the ice cubes made by the ice making mechanism to the ice outlet structure.

[0048] Beneficial effects:

[0049] During the use of the ice maker according to the embodiment of the present utility model, ice cubes can be made in the ice grid of the ice maker, and the made ice cubes fall into the inner tank of the ice maker. When the user needs to obtain ice cubes, the user can place a water cup under the ice outlet channel and push the cup to the fourth position. At this time, the proximity switch is turned on, the ice stirring motor can drive the ice stirring paddle wheel to work, and at the same time, the driving mechanism can switch the blocking member to the first state, so that the ice cubes slide out from the ice outlet channel along with the ice stirring paddle wheel, and sequentially pass through the channel main body and the ice outlet nozzle and fall into the water cup.

[0050] After the user finishes taking ice, the user can release the cup push. The cup push resets under the action of the elastic member, the proximity switch is turned off, the ice stirring motor and the ice stirring paddle wheel stop working, and the driving mechanism can switch the blocking member to the second state to prevent the remaining ice cubes at the ice outlet channel from continuing to slide out, bringing an extra cleaning burden to the user.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, the ice maker further includes:

[0052] A housing, on which a slide rail extending in the vertical direction is formed, and the blocking member is slidably connected to the slide rail.

[0053] Beneficial effect: The slide rail can be used to restrict the movement track of the blocking member, ensuring that the blocking member can effectively block the outlet of the ice outlet channel. Description of the Drawings

[0054] In order to more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present utility model or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for use in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the following drawings are some embodiments of the present utility model. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings.

[0055] Figure 1 It is a side sectional view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present utility model. In the figure, the blocking member is in the second position;

[0056] Figure 2 For Figure 1 The partial enlarged view at A in

[0057] Figure 3 It is a side sectional view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present utility model. In the figure, the blocking member is in the first position;

[0058] Figure 4 For Figure 3 The partial enlarged view at B in

[0059] Figure 5 It is an exploded view of the ice outlet structure of the ice maker according to the embodiment of the present utility model;

[0060] Figure 6 The front view of the ice discharging structure of the ice maker according to the embodiment of the present utility model;

[0061] Figure 7 The side sectional view of the ice discharging structure of the ice maker according to the embodiment of the present utility model;

[0062] Figure 8 The side view of the ice discharging structure of the ice maker according to the embodiment of the present utility model.

[0063] Explanation of reference numerals in the drawings:

[0064] 1. Ice discharging channel; 101. Ice block inlet; 102. Ice block outlet; 103. Channel main body; 1031. Second connection structure; 104. Ice discharging nozzle; 1041. Installation boss; 1042. Connection vertical plate; 1043. First hinge part; 1044. First connection structure; 1045. Second abutting part;

[0065] 2. Sealing member; 201. Rack;

[0066] 3. Acquisition module;

[0067] 4. Driving mechanism; 401. Rotating source; 402. Gear;

[0068] 5. Cup pusher; 501. Connection part; 5011. First plate body; 5012. Second plate body; 5013. First avoidance opening; 5014. Second avoidance opening; 502. Cup pusher main body; 503. Second hinge part; 504. First abutting part; 505. Metal part;

[0069] 6. Elastic member;

[0070] 7. Ice making mechanism; 8. Ice delivering mechanism; 9. Housing. Detailed implementation manners

[0071] To make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present utility model clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present utility model. Apparently, the described embodiments are some but not all of the embodiments of the present utility model. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present utility model without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0072] The following combines with Figures 1 to 8 , to describe the embodiments of the present utility model.

[0073] According to an embodiment of the present utility model, on the one hand, an ice discharging structure is provided, which includes an ice discharging channel 1, a blocking member 2, a driving mechanism 4, a collecting module 3 and a control module. Among them, the ice discharging channel 1 has an ice block inlet 101 and an ice block outlet 102. The blocking member 2 has a first position connecting the ice block inlet 101 and the ice block outlet 102, and a second position separating the ice block inlet 101 and the ice block outlet 102. The power output end is connected to the blocking member 2 and can drive the blocking member 2 to switch between the first position and the second position. The collecting module 3 is used to collect an ice discharging signal and / or a signal for stopping ice discharging. The control module is communicatively connected to the collecting module 3 and the driving mechanism 4, and can control the driving mechanism 4 to drive the blocking member 2 to switch between the first position and the second position according to the signal collected by the collecting module 3.

[0074] When the collecting module 3 of the ice discharging structure according to the embodiment of the present utility model collects an ice discharging signal, or does not collect a signal for stopping ice discharging, the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the first position, so as to connect the ice block inlet 101 and the ice block outlet 102 of the ice discharging channel 1, facilitating the output of the ice blocks produced by the ice maker through the ice discharging structure.

[0075] When the collecting module 3 does not collect an ice discharging signal, or collects a signal for stopping ice discharging, the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the second position (as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 ), thus separating the ice block inlet 101 and the ice block outlet 102. Even if some ice blocks remain at the ice discharging structure after the user's operation of taking ice blocks ends, they will be blocked by the blocking member 2, thereby avoiding the situation that some ice blocks remain at the ice discharging structure and leak out from the ice discharging structure after the user finishes taking ice blocks, which brings an extra cleaning burden to the user.

[0076] In addition, the above-mentioned ice discharging structure has a simple structure, is easy to assemble, is safe and reliable in use, and is convenient to implement and popularize.

[0077] Among them, the control module may include a programmable logic control component (such as a PLC or a CPU), a memory and electronic components connected to the programmable logic control component, etc., which are well-known to those skilled in the art and will not be elaborated herein.

[0078] Among them, the blocking member is preferably but not limited to a shielding plate or a shielding cover, etc. The shape of the blocking member can be selected as rectangular, or can be set according to the cross-sectional shape of the ice discharging channel 1.

[0079] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the terms "first", "second", etc. are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. In the description of the present utility model, the meaning of "a plurality" is more than two, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0080] In one embodiment, the driving mechanism 4 includes a rotating source 401 and a gear 402. Among them, the gear 402 is sleeved on the output shaft of the rotating source 401, and a rack 201 is provided on the plugging member 2. The rack 201 meshes with the gear 402.

[0081] The gear 402 can cooperate with the rack 201 and convert the rotational motion output by the rotating source 401 into a linear motion, thereby driving the plugging member 2 to switch between the first position and the second position. The transmission through the cooperation of the gear and the rack has the advantages of high efficiency, high precision, reliability and adaptability.

[0082] As a transformable implementation manner, the rotating source 401 can be directly connected to the plugging member 2 and can drive the plugging member 2 to rotate.

[0083] The rotating source 401 can be selected as a device capable of outputting rotation, such as a motor, an engine, a hydraulic motor or a combination of one of them and a speed reducer, etc.

[0084] As another transformable implementation manner, the driving mechanism 4 includes a linear driving device, and the linear driving device is connected to the plugging member 2, thereby driving the plugging member 2 to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0085] The linear driving device can be selected as a device capable of outputting linear motion, such as a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder or an electric cylinder, etc.

[0086] In one embodiment, the plugging member 2 is arranged at the ice block inlet 101 of the ice outlet channel 1.

[0087] When the plugging member 2 is arranged at the ice block inlet 101, it can prevent some ice blocks from remaining in the ice outlet structure after the user's ice-taking operation is completed, and further prevent water from seeping out from the ice outlet channel 1 after the ice blocks melt, thereby reducing the cleaning burden on the user.

[0088] As a transformable implementation manner, the plugging member 2 can also be selected to be arranged in the middle of the ice outlet channel 1 or at the ice outlet of the ice outlet channel 1.

[0089] In one embodiment, the plugging member 2 extends in the vertical direction.

[0090] As a transformable implementation manner, the plugging member 2 is arranged to be parallel to the plane where the ice outlet of the ice outlet channel 1 is located.

[0091] By setting it in this way, when the plugging member 2 is switched to the second position, the edge of the plugging member 2 can fit with the ice block inlet 101 of the ice outlet channel 1 to prevent some ice blocks from remaining in the ice outlet channel 1 after the user's ice-taking operation is completed.

[0092] In one embodiment, the ice discharging structure further includes a cup pusher 5. The cup pusher 5 is hinged to the ice discharging channel 1. The cup pusher 5 has a third position that blocks the lower part of the ice block outlet 102 and a fourth position that exposes the ice block outlet 102. The acquisition module 3 can acquire an ice discharging signal when the cup pusher 5 is switched to the fourth position.

[0093] With such a setting, when the user places a water cup below the ice discharging channel 1 to obtain ice blocks, the water cup can push the cup pusher 5 and switch the cup pusher 5 to the fourth position, so that the acquisition module 3 acquires an ice discharging signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the first position to allow the ice blocks made by the ice maker to be output outward through the ice discharging channel 1.

[0094] When the user finishes obtaining ice blocks, the user can remove the water cup, and the cup pusher 5 can be switched to the third position, so that the acquisition module 3 cannot acquire an ice discharging signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the second position, thereby blocking the ice block inlet 101 and the ice block outlet 102 of the ice discharging channel 1 to prevent some ice blocks from leaking out from the ice discharging channel 1 after the user's operation ends.

[0095] Therefore, the ice discharging structure of the embodiment of the present application can automatically control the driving mechanism 4 to drive the blocking member 2 to switch between the first position and the second position by the control module when the user performs the operation of obtaining ice blocks and after the user finishes obtaining ice blocks, avoiding the user forgetting to control the driving mechanism 4, causing some ice blocks to leak out, bringing an additional cleaning burden to the user, and improving the automation degree of the ice discharging structure.

[0096] As a transformable implementation manner, buttons or rockers can also be optionally provided on the ice discharging structure. After the user finishes the operation of obtaining ice blocks, the user can trigger the acquisition module 3 by pressing a button or rocking a rocker and the like, so that the driving mechanism 4 drives the blocking member 2 to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0097] In one embodiment, the acquisition module 3 includes a proximity switch arranged at the ice discharging port of the ice discharging channel 1, and a metal part 505 is arranged on the cup pusher 5.

[0098] With such a setting, when the user places a water cup below the ice discharging channel 1 to obtain ice blocks, the cup pusher 5 can rotate around the hinge point between it and the ice discharging channel 1, so that the metal part 505 moves closer to the acquisition module 3 and enters the sensing range of the proximity switch. The acquisition module 3 can acquire an ice discharging signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the first position.

[0099] When the user removes the water cup from below the ice outlet passage 1, the cup pusher 5 can rotate in the reverse direction, so that the metal part 505 moves away from the collection module 3 and exits the sensing range of the proximity switch. At this time, the collection module 3 cannot collect the ice outlet signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the second position.

[0100] As an alternative implementation, the collection module 3 can also be a microswitch, an infrared sensor, etc.

[0101] Exemplarily, when the collection module 3 is a microswitch, when the user places the water cup below the ice outlet passage 1 to obtain ice cubes, the cup pusher 5 can move closer to the collection module 3 and abut against the microswitch, so that the collection module 3 can collect the ice outlet signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the first position.

[0102] When the user removes the water cup from below the ice outlet passage 1, the cup pusher 5 can rotate in the reverse direction and separate from the microswitch. At this time, the collection module 3 cannot collect the ice outlet signal, and the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the second position.

[0103] In one embodiment, a first abutting portion 504 is formed on the cup pusher 5. A second abutting portion 1045 is formed at the ice outlet of the ice outlet passage 1. The ice outlet structure further includes an elastic member 6. The elastic member 6 is supported between the first abutting portion 504 and the second abutting portion 1045 and can switch the cup pusher 5 from the fourth position to the third position.

[0104] With such an arrangement, when the user places the water cup below the ice outlet passage 1 to obtain ice cubes, the cup pusher 5 can rotate around the hinge point between it and the ice outlet passage 1, and the first abutting portion 504 moves closer to the second abutting portion 1045 and compresses the elastic member 6, so that the collection module 3 can collect the ice outlet signal.

[0105] When the user finishes obtaining the ice cubes and removes the water cup from below the ice outlet passage 1, the elastic member 6 can support the first abutting portion 504 through its own elastic restoring force, so that the first abutting portion 504 moves away from the second abutting portion 1045, and the collection module 3 cannot collect the ice outlet signal.

[0106] Among them, the elastic member 6 is preferably but not limited to a spring.

[0107] In one embodiment, the cup pusher 5 includes a connecting portion 501 and a cup pusher main body 502. Among them, an avoidance opening is formed on the connecting portion 501, and the ice outlet passage 1 passes through the avoidance opening. The cup pusher main body 502 is connected below the avoidance opening.

[0108] In one embodiment, the connecting portion 501 includes a first plate body 5011 and a second plate body 5012 that are connected at an angle. The avoidance openings include a first avoidance opening 5013 and a second avoidance opening 5014. The first avoidance opening 5013 is formed on the first plate body 5011, and the second avoidance opening 5014 and the first abutting portion 504 are formed on the second plate body 5012. The ice outlet channel 1 can sequentially pass through the first avoidance opening 5013 and the second avoidance opening 5014.

[0109] By setting it in this way, the first plate body 5011 and the second plate body 5012 can be sleeved on the ice outlet channel 1 and play a role in restricting the movement trajectory of the cup pusher 5 to a certain extent. In addition, the second plate body 5012 can also be used to provide the first abutting portion 504.

[0110] Among them, the angle between the first plate body 5011 and the second plate body 5012 is preferably but not limited to an acute angle, an obtuse angle or a right angle, etc. Exemplarily, in Figure 5 the shown embodiment, the included angle between the first plate body 5011 and the second plate body 5012 is a right angle.

[0111] In a preferred embodiment, a reinforcing rib is further connected between the first plate body 5011 and the second plate body 5012, which can prevent the connecting portion 501 from deforming.

[0112] In one embodiment, the ice outlet channel 1 includes a channel main body 103 and an ice outlet nozzle 104 detachably connected below the channel main body 103. An ice block outlet 102 is formed on the ice outlet nozzle 104.

[0113] Setting the ice outlet nozzle 104 to be detachably connected to the channel main body 103 can facilitate the user to easily disassemble and clean the ice outlet nozzle 104 as needed, prevent the accumulation of bacteria and dirt, and keep the ice maker clean and hygienic.

[0114] Preferably, in this embodiment, as Figure 7 and Figure 8 shown, the channel main body 103 and the ice outlet nozzle 104 are connected at an angle. Specifically, the channel main body 103 can be optionally inclined to facilitate guiding the ice blocks prepared by the ice maker to be output outward, and the ice outlet nozzle 104 preferably extends in the vertical direction so that the ice blocks output by the ice outlet channel 1 can accurately fall into the user's water cup.

[0115] In one embodiment, the channel main body 103 passes through the first avoidance opening 5013 on the first plate body 5011, and the ice outlet nozzle 104 passes through the second avoidance opening 5014 on the second plate body 5012 and is detachably connected to the channel main body 103.

[0116] In one embodiment, a mounting boss 1041 is formed on the outer periphery of the ice outlet nozzle 104, and a second abutting portion 1045 is formed thereon.

[0117] A connecting vertical plate 1042 is formed on the mounting boss 1041, and a first hinged portion 1043 is formed on the connecting vertical plate 1042. A second hinged portion 503 is also provided at the connection between the connecting portion 501 and the cup pushing main body 502, and the first hinged portion 1043 is used for hinging with the second hinged portion 503.

[0118] Among them, the first hinged portion 1043 can be selected as a hinged hole, and the second hinged portion 503 can be selected as a hinged shaft.

[0119] As a transformable embodiment, the first hinged portion 1043 is a hinged shaft, and the second hinged portion 503 is a hinged hole.

[0120] As another transformable embodiment, both the first hinged portion 1043 and the second hinged portion 503 are hinged holes. The first hinged portion 1043 and the second hinged portion 503 are hinged to each other by bolts or rivets.

[0121] In one embodiment, a first connection structure 1044 is formed on the mounting boss 1041, and a second connection structure 1031 is formed on the channel main body 103. The first connection structure 1044 can be detachably connected to the second connection structure 1031.

[0122] Among them, the detachable connection between the first connection structure 1044 and the second connection structure 1031 is preferably but not limited to being implemented by a riveting structure, a bolt connection structure or a clamping structure.

[0123] Exemplarily, in the embodiment as Figure 5 shown, the first connection structure 1044 includes a connection column, the second connection structure 1031 includes a connection hole, and a bolt can sequentially pass through the connection column and the connection hole to reliably connect the ice outlet nozzle to the channel main body 103.

[0124] Next, in combination with Figures 1 to 4 , the embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[0125] According to an embodiment of the present invention, on the other hand, an ice maker is also provided, which includes an ice making mechanism 7, an ice outlet structure, and an ice delivery mechanism 8. Among them, the ice making mechanism 7 is used for making ice cubes. The ice outlet structure is the ice outlet structure of the first aspect of the present invention. The ice delivery mechanism 8 is arranged between the ice making mechanism 7 and the ice outlet structure, and is used for delivering the ice cubes made by the ice making mechanism 7 to the ice outlet structure.

[0126] Among them, the ice making mechanism 7 preferably but not limited to includes an ice tray. The ice delivery mechanism 8 preferably but not limited to includes a combination of an ice stirring motor and an ice stirring paddle wheel or an ice outlet screw, etc., which are well known to those skilled in the art, so details are not described herein again.

[0127] During the use of the ice maker according to the embodiment of the present utility model, the ice grid of the ice maker can produce ice cubes, and the produced ice cubes fall into the inner tank of the ice maker. When the user needs to obtain ice cubes, the user can place a water cup under the ice outlet channel 1 and push the cup pusher 5 to the fourth position. At this time, the proximity switch is turned on, the ice stirring motor can drive the ice stirring paddle wheel to work, and at the same time, the driving mechanism 4 can switch the blocking member to the first state, so that the ice cubes slide out from the ice outlet channel 1 along with the ice stirring paddle wheel and fall into the water cup through the channel main body 103 and the ice outlet nozzle 104 in sequence.

[0128] After the user finishes taking ice, he can release the cup pusher 5. The cup pusher 5 resets under the action of the elastic member 6, the proximity switch is turned off, the ice stirring motor and the ice stirring paddle wheel stop working, and the driving mechanism 4 can switch the blocking member to the second state to prevent the remaining ice cubes at the ice outlet channel 1 from continuing to slide out, bringing an extra cleaning burden to the user.

[0129] In one embodiment, the ice maker further includes a housing 9. A slide rail extending in the vertical direction is formed on the housing 9, and the blocking member is slidably connected to the slide rail.

[0130] The slide rail can be used to restrict the movement track of the blocking member to ensure that the blocking member can effectively block the outlet of the ice outlet channel 1.

[0131] In summary, when the ice outlet structure of the first aspect of the embodiment of the present utility model and the ice maker of the second aspect of the embodiment of the present utility model collect an ice outlet signal by the collection module 3, or when no stop ice outlet signal is collected, the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the first position, thereby connecting the ice cube inlet 101 and the ice cube outlet 102 of the ice outlet channel 1, so as to output the ice cubes made by the ice maker through the ice outlet structure.

[0132] When the collection module 3 does not collect an ice outlet signal, or when a signal for stopping ice outlet is collected, the control module can control the driving mechanism 4 to switch the blocking member 2 to the second position (as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 ), thereby blocking the ice cube inlet 101 and the ice cube outlet 102. Even if there are some ice cubes remaining at the ice outlet structure after the user finishes the operation of taking ice cubes, they will be blocked by the blocking member 2, thus avoiding the situation that after the user finishes taking ice cubes, some ice cubes remain at the ice outlet structure and leak out from the ice outlet structure, bringing an extra cleaning burden to the user.

[0133] In addition, the above-mentioned ice outlet structure and the ice maker have simple structures, are easy to assemble, are safe and reliable in use, and are convenient for implementation and popularization.

[0134] Although embodiments of the present utility model have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present utility model, and such modifications and variations fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An ice discharge structure, characterized in that: include: An ice outlet channel (1) having an ice cube inlet (101) and an ice cube outlet (102); A blocking member (2) having a first position connecting the ice cube inlet (101) and the ice cube outlet (102), and a second position separating the ice cube inlet (101) and the ice cube outlet (102); A driving mechanism (4), the power output end of which is connected to the blocking member (2), and is capable of driving the blocking member (2) to switch between the first position and the second position; A collection module (3), used for collecting ice-discharging signals and / or ice-discharging stop signals; The control module is in communication connection with the acquisition module (3) and the drive mechanism (4), and is capable of controlling the drive mechanism (4) to drive the blocking member (2) to switch between the first position and the second position according to the signal acquired by the acquisition module (3).

2. The ice discharge structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The driving mechanism (4) comprises: Rotation source (401); The gear (402) is sleeved on the output shaft of the rotation source (401), and the blocking member (2) is provided with a rack (201), and the rack (201) is meshed with the gear (402).

3. The ice discharge structure according to claim 2, characterized in that: The blocking member (2) is arranged at the ice inlet (101) of the ice outlet channel (1); and / or, The blocking member (2) extends in a vertical direction.

4. The ice discharge structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The ice-discharging structure further comprises: A cup pusher (5) is hingedly connected to the ice outlet channel (1), the cup pusher (5) having a third position shielding below the ice outlet (102) and a fourth position exposing the ice outlet (102), the collection module (3) being able to collect the ice outlet signal when the cup pusher (5) is switched to the fourth position.

5. The ice discharge structure according to claim 4, characterized in that: The collection module (3) comprises a proximity switch arranged at the ice outlet of the ice outlet channel (1), and a metal piece (505) is provided on the cup pusher (5).

6. The ice discharge structure according to claim 4, characterized in that: The cup pusher (5) is formed with a first abutment portion (504), the ice outlet of the ice outlet channel (1) is formed with a second abutment portion (1045), and the ice outlet structure further comprises: The elastic member (6) is supported between the first abutting portion (504) and the second abutting portion (1045), and is capable of switching the cup pusher (5) from the fourth position to the third position.

7. The ice discharge structure according to claim 6, characterized in that: The cup pusher (5) comprises: A connecting portion (501), wherein a relief opening is formed on the connecting portion (501), and the ice outlet channel (1) passes through the relief opening; The cup pusher body (502) is connected below the avoidance opening.

8. The ice discharge structure according to claim 7, characterized in that: The connecting portion (501) comprises a first plate body (5011) and a second plate body (5012) connected at an angle, the avoidance opening comprises a first avoidance opening (5013) and a second avoidance opening (5014), the first avoidance opening (5013) is formed on the first plate body (5011), the second avoidance opening (5014) and the first abutting portion (504) are formed on the second plate body (5012), and the ice outlet channel (1) can pass through the first avoidance opening (5013) and the second avoidance opening (5014) in sequence.

9. The ice discharge structure according to claim 7, characterized in that: The ice outlet channel (1) comprises a channel body (103) and an ice outlet nozzle (104) detachably connected below the channel body (103), and the ice outlet nozzle (104) is formed with the ice cube outlet (102).

10. The ice discharge structure according to claim 9, characterized in that: A mounting boss (1041) is formed on the outer periphery of the ice dispensing nozzle (104); The second abutment portion (1045) is formed on the mounting boss (1041); and / or, The mounting boss (1041) is formed with a connecting upright plate (1042), the connecting upright plate (1042) is formed with a first hinge portion (1043), the cup pusher (5) is provided with a second hinge portion (503), the first hinge portion (1043) is used to be hinged with the second hinge portion (503); and / or, A first connection structure (1044) is formed on the mounting boss (1041), and a second connection structure (1031) is formed on the channel body (103), and the first connection structure (1044) can be detachably connected to the second connection structure (1031).

11. An ice making machine, characterized in that: include: An ice-making mechanism (7) for making ice cubes; The ice discharge structure according to any one of claims 1 to 10; The ice delivery mechanism (8) is arranged between the ice making mechanism (7) and the ice discharging structure, and is used for delivering ice cubes made by the ice making mechanism (7) to the ice discharging structure.

12. The ice making machine according to claim 11, characterized in that Also includes: A housing (9) is formed with a slide rail extending in a vertical direction, and the blocking member is slidably connected to the slide rail.

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