Refrigerator

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a refrigerator, belongs to the technical field of household appliances, and aims to solve the technical problem that the actual ice storage amount of an ice storage box is reduced due to the fact that ice blocks are stored in the ice storage box for a long time due to freezing or clamping and other factors in the prior art. The refrigerator comprises an ice maker and an ice storage box, the ice storage box comprises an ice storage structure and a bottom plate, the ice storage structure is provided with an ice inlet and a lower opening, the ice inlet faces the ice maker, and the ice inlet receives ice blocks from the ice maker; the bottom plate is connected with the ice storage structure and seals a lower opening of the ice storage structure; an ice outlet is formed in the bottom plate and is used for discharging ice blocks; a plurality of supporting ribs are arranged on the bottom plate and used for bearing ice blocks. The supporting ribs of the refrigerator can reduce the friction force between the ice blocks and the surface of the bottom plate, can reduce the contact area between the ice blocks and the bottom plate, can play a role in guiding the ice blocks, and can reduce the ice blocks adhering to the bottom plate, so that the ice blocks stored in the ice storage box for a long time are reduced, and the actual ice storage amount of the ice storage box is increased.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of household appliances, and in particular to a refrigerator. Background Art

[0002] A refrigerator is a common household appliance that can keep food or other items at a constant low temperature. An ice maker and an ice storage box may be provided in the door or body of the refrigerator to meet the user's need for ice cubes.

[0003] The ice storage bin receives ice cubes from the ice maker and provides them to users through the ice outlet. However, since the ice storage bin must be placed in a refrigerated environment and its structure is limited, ice cubes are prone to freezing or getting stuck in corners of the bin for a long time. The long-term storage of these ice cubes reduces the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage bin. Utility Model Content

[0004] The embodiment of the present application provides a refrigerator that can solve the technical problem that ice cubes are easily stored in an ice storage box for a long time due to factors such as freezing or jamming, resulting in a reduction in the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage box.

[0005] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a refrigerator, comprising:

[0006] A box body having a refrigeration compartment;

[0007] The door body is rotatably connected to the cabinet body and is used to open or close the refrigeration compartment;

[0008] A refrigeration system is provided in the box body and is used to provide cooling for the refrigeration compartment;

[0009] An ice maker, which is installed on the box or door and is used to make ice;

[0010] Ice storage box, including:

[0011] The ice storage structure is provided with an ice inlet and a lower opening, the ice inlet faces the ice maker, and receives ice cubes from the ice maker;

[0012] A bottom plate is connected to the ice storage structure, and the bottom plate closes the lower opening of the ice storage structure;

[0013] The bottom plate is provided with an ice outlet for discharging ice cubes;

[0014] The bottom plate is provided with a plurality of supporting ribs, and the supporting ribs are used to bear ice cubes.

[0015] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the bottom plate is provided with a plurality of support ribs, which can reduce the friction between the ice cubes and the surface of the bottom plate, making it easier for the ice cubes to slide down; the support ribs can reduce the contact area between the ice cubes and the bottom plate, so that there is a gap between the ice cubes and the bottom plate. When the ice cubes are stirred, the ice cubes are easier to move, which can effectively reduce the adhesion of the ice cubes to the bottom plate; the support ribs can guide the ice cubes, so that the ice cubes slide down along the support ribs; some liquid water on the ice cubes can also flow into the grooves between the support ribs, reducing the adhesion of the ice cubes to the bottom plate, which can reduce the amount of ice cubes stored for a long time in the ice storage box, so that the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage box can be increased.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present application, the bottom plate includes at least one inclined portion; the at least one inclined portion is used to enclose an ice outlet;

[0017] The first end of the inclined portion is connected to the ice storage structure, the second end of the inclined portion faces the ice outlet, and the height of the first end of the inclined portion is higher than the height of the second end of the inclined portion.

[0018] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: there is a height difference between the first end of the inclined portion and the second end of the inclined portion, and the height of the first end of the inclined portion is higher than the height of the second end of the inclined portion, which facilitates the ice cubes to slide from the first end of the inclined portion to the second end of the inclined portion and finally slide out of the ice outlet.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present application, the number of inclined portions is set to be multiple; and at least one inclined portion is provided with a supporting rib.

[0020] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: one or more inclined portions are provided with support ribs on the side facing the ice maker, and the provision of the support ribs can reduce the amount of ice cubes stored for a long time in the ice storage box, thereby increasing the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage box.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present application, on the same inclined portion, the number of support ribs is set to be multiple, and the multiple support ribs are sequentially spaced apart;

[0022] The first end of the support rib faces the first end of the inclined portion, and the second end of the support rib faces the second end of the inclined portion;

[0023] The extending direction of the supporting rib is parallel to the connecting direction of the first end and the second end of the supporting rib.

[0024] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: water grooves are formed between adjacent supporting ribs, so that some liquid water on the ice cubes can also flow into the water grooves between the supporting ribs, which can reduce the adhesion of ice cubes to the bottom plate, thereby reducing the amount of ice cubes stored for a long time in the ice storage box, so that the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage box can be increased; the first end of the supporting rib is higher than the second end of the supporting rib, and there is a height difference between the first end of the supporting rib and the second end of the supporting rib, which facilitates the ice cubes to slide from the first end of the supporting rib to the second end of the supporting rib, and finally slide out of the ice outlet.

[0025] In some embodiments of the present application, on the same inclined portion, the distance between two adjacent support ribs is less than a set distance;

[0026] The distance between two adjacent support ribs is greater than or equal to half of the set distance;

[0027] The set distance is the maximum side length of ice cubes produced by the ice maker.

[0028] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: when the distance between two adjacent support ribs on the same inclined portion is less than the maximum side length of the ice cube, the ice cube is not easily stuck between the two adjacent support ribs, which is conducive to the sliding of the ice cube; when the distance between two adjacent support ribs on the same inclined portion is greater than or equal to half of the set distance, the support ribs will not be too densely arranged, and the contact area between the support ribs and the ice cube is relatively small, which is conducive to the sliding of the ice cube.

[0029] In some embodiments of the present application, the surface of the supporting rib facing away from the inclined portion is configured as a plane or an arc surface.

[0030] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: when the surface of the support rib away from the inclined portion is set to a flat surface, the processing of the support rib is relatively convenient; when the surface of the support rib away from the inclined portion is set to a circular arc surface, the circular arc surface of the support rib contacts the ice cube, so that the contact area between the support rib and the ice cube is smaller, which is beneficial to reducing the friction between the support rib and the ice cube, and the ice cube is easier to slide down.

[0031] In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box further includes:

[0032] The ice stirring rod is rotatably arranged on the ice storage structure, and the ice stirring rod is at least used to drive the ice cubes in the ice storage structure to move.

[0033] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the ice cubes in the ice storage structure can be stirred by rotating the ice stirring rod provided in the ice storage structure. After being stirred by the ice stirring rod, the ice cubes can be broken up and are not easily stuck together.

[0034] In some embodiments of the present application, during the rotation of the ice-stirring rod, the vertical projection of the ice-stirring rod on the bottom plate is set as the stirring area;

[0035] The supporting ribs are at least arranged in the non-stirring area of ​​the bottom plate.

[0036] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the ice stirring rod can stir the ice cubes in the stirring area, reducing the ice cubes in the stirring area from sticking to the inner wall of the ice storage box or sticking to each other; the support ribs arranged in the non-stirring area can reduce the ice cubes from sticking to the bottom plate, which is conducive to the ice cubes in the non-stirring area sliding to a position that can be reached by the stirring rod.

[0037] In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box further includes:

[0038] Ice crushing knife, which can be rotatably arranged at the ice outlet;

[0039] When the ice storage box is in the first state, the ice crushing blade does not work and closes the ice outlet;

[0040] When the ice storage box is in the second state, the ice crushing blade is configured to rotate to crush ice cubes located at the ice outlet and discharge the crushed ice cubes out of the ice outlet.

[0041] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the rotating ice crushing knife can crush ice cubes; when the ice crushing knife is not working, that is, when the ice crushing knife is not rotating, the ice crushing knife can be used to close the ice outlet; when the ice crushing knife is working, that is, when the ice crushing knife rotates, the ice crushing knife can crush the ice cubes located at the ice outlet and discharge the crushed ice cubes out of the ice outlet.

[0042] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a refrigerator, comprising:

[0043] Ice maker;

[0044] Ice storage box, including:

[0045] The ice storage structure is provided with an ice inlet and a lower opening, the ice inlet faces the ice maker, and receives ice cubes from the ice maker;

[0046] A bottom plate is connected to the ice storage structure, and the bottom plate closes the lower opening of the ice storage structure;

[0047] The bottom plate is provided with an ice outlet for providing ice cubes to the user; the bottom plate is provided with a plurality of supporting ribs for reducing the contact area between the ice cubes and the bottom plate.

[0048] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the bottom plate is provided with a plurality of support ribs, which can reduce the friction between the ice cubes and the surface of the bottom plate, making it easier for the ice cubes to slide down; the support ribs can reduce the contact area between the ice cubes and the bottom plate, so that there is a gap between the ice cubes and the bottom plate. When the ice cubes are stirred, the ice cubes are easier to move, which can effectively reduce the adhesion of the ice cubes to the bottom plate; the support ribs can guide the ice cubes, so that the ice cubes slide down along the support ribs; some liquid water on the ice cubes can also flow into the grooves between the support ribs, reducing the adhesion of the ice cubes to the bottom plate, which can reduce the amount of ice cubes stored for a long time in the ice storage box, so that the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage box can be increased. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] In order to more clearly illustrate the implementation methods in the embodiments of the present application or related technologies, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments or related technology descriptions. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0051] Figure 2 This is another overall structural diagram of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0052] Figure 3 This is another overall structural diagram of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0053] Figure 4 This is another overall structural diagram of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0054] Figure 5 This is another overall structural diagram of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0055] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0056] Figure 7 This is a structural diagram of the bottom plate and the first shell of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0057] Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of the gear set of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0058] Figure 9 This is a schematic structural diagram of an ice storage box of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0059] Figure 10This is another schematic diagram of the internal structure of the ice storage box of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0060] Description of reference numerals:

[0061] 100 - ice storage structure; 110 - first shell; 120 - second shell;

[0062] 200- bottom plate; 210- inclined portion; 220- ice outlet;

[0063] 300-Ice cubes; 400-Support ribs; 500-Ice stirring rod;

[0064] 600-Ice Crusher; 700-Motor; 800-Rear Cover;

[0065] 900-gear set; 910-first gear; 920-second gear; 930-third gear. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] As described in the background, in related art, refrigerators may be equipped with an ice maker and an ice storage bin within the door or cabinet to meet user needs for ice. The ice storage bin receives ice from the ice maker and delivers it to the user through the ice outlet. The ice storage bin stores ice ready for use and includes an ice stirring rod. While the stirring rod can stir the layers of ice stored in the bin and cause the ice to fall by gravity to the refrigerator's ice outlet, structural limitations of the bin, such as internal protrusions, can leave some ice stuck in areas the stirring rod cannot reach. These ice blocks can become stuck in these corners and remain frozen, becoming frozen. In freezing conditions, the ice can solidify into large chunks, making it difficult to dispense ice, and affecting the proper dispensing of other ice blocks. This can easily reduce the actual ice storage capacity within the limited space of the bin and lead to hygienic issues caused by long-term ice storage.

[0067] In view of this, the refrigerator of the embodiment of the present application includes an ice maker and an ice storage box. The ice storage box includes an ice storage structure and a bottom plate. The ice storage structure is provided with an ice inlet and a lower opening. The ice inlet faces the ice maker, and the ice inlet receives ice cubes from the ice maker; the bottom plate is connected to the ice storage structure, and the bottom plate closes the lower opening of the ice storage structure; the bottom plate is provided with an ice outlet, and the ice outlet is used to discharge ice cubes; the bottom plate is provided with multiple support ribs, and the support ribs are used to support ice cubes. The support ribs can reduce the friction between the ice cubes and the surface of the bottom plate, making it easier for the ice cubes to slide down; the support ribs can reduce the contact area between the ice cubes and the bottom plate, so that there is a gap between the ice cubes and the bottom plate. When the ice cubes are stirred, the ice cubes are easier to move, which can effectively reduce the ice cubes sticking to the bottom plate; the support ribs can guide the ice cubes, allowing the ice cubes to slide down along the support ribs; some liquid water on the ice cubes can also flow into the grooves between the support ribs, reducing the ice cubes sticking to the bottom plate, thereby reducing the amount of ice cubes stored for a long time in the ice storage box, and increasing the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage box.

[0068] In order to make the purpose, implementation mode and advantages of the present application clearer, the exemplary implementation mode of the present application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the exemplary embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described exemplary embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments.

[0069] It should be noted that the brief descriptions of terms in this application are only for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. Unless otherwise specified, these terms should be understood according to their ordinary and usual meanings.

[0070] In addition, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and any variations thereof are intended to cover but not exclude inclusion, for example, a product or device comprising a list of components is not necessarily limited to those components expressly listed but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such product or device.

[0071] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship, are based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on this application.

[0072] The terms "first," "second," and the like are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of this application, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0073] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0074] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0075] An embodiment of the present application provides a refrigerator, comprising a cabinet. The cabinet is configured with a refrigeration compartment. Exemplarily, there may be multiple refrigeration compartments, and at least one of the multiple refrigeration compartments may be configured as a cold storage compartment. The internal temperature of the cold storage compartment may be maintained between approximately 0°C and 5°C, and items may be stored in a refrigerated mode. At least one of the multiple refrigeration compartments may be configured as a freezer compartment, and the internal temperature of the freezer compartment may be maintained between approximately -30°C and 0°C, and items may be stored in a frozen mode. In some possible implementations, the refrigeration compartment may also be configured as a vacuum chamber or a temperature-changing chamber, etc., which will not be described in detail in the embodiment of the present application.

[0076] In some embodiments of the present application, a refrigerator may include a door. The door is rotatably connected to the refrigerator body and can be used to open and close at least the refrigeration compartment. The door can be used to form a relatively enclosed space within the refrigerator body, thereby maintaining a relatively constant temperature within the refrigerator compartment and reducing the rate of temperature increase within the refrigerator compartment.

[0077] The number of doors can be set to correspond to the number of refrigeration compartments. Multiple refrigeration compartments can be provided with one door. Alternatively, each refrigeration compartment can be provided with two doors. Alternatively, each refrigeration compartment can be provided with one door.

[0078] It should be noted that a refrigerator has a top side, a ground side, a left side, a right side, a front side, and a back side. If the door is closed, the left and right sides of the refrigerator refer to the user's left and right sides when facing the refrigerator door. Accordingly, the side with the refrigerator door is the front side, the side of the refrigerator facing away from the user is the back side, the top side of the refrigerator is the top side, and the bottom side of the refrigerator is the back side.

[0079] In some embodiments of the present application, the refrigerator may include a refrigeration system disposed within the refrigerator body and configured to provide cooling for the refrigeration compartment.

[0080] For example, a refrigeration system may include a compressor, a condenser, a throttle, and an evaporator connected in a loop. During operation, the compressor compresses refrigerant vapor, generating high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, which is then transported to the condenser. The condenser liquefies the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, generating low-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant liquid, which is then transported to the throttle. The throttle reduces the pressure of the refrigerant liquid, converting the high-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid to a low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid, which is then transported to the evaporator. The evaporator receives the low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid and causes it to boil under isobaric conditions, absorbing heat and vaporizing it to form refrigerant vapor, thereby lowering the temperature within the refrigerated room.

[0081] In some embodiments of the present application, a refrigerator may include an ice maker. The ice maker may be mounted on the refrigerator body or the door. The ice maker may be used to make ice cubes. Specifically, the ice maker cools water to below freezing through a refrigeration system, thereby forming ice cubes.

[0082] See also Figure 1-Figure 5 In some embodiments of the present application, a refrigerator may include an ice storage box. The ice storage box is usually used in conjunction with an ice maker. The ice storage box can be used to receive ice cubes from the ice maker and provide ice cubes to users.

[0083] In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box can be a plastic box or a stainless steel box. Specifically, when the ice storage box is a plastic box, it has the advantages of being light and low cost; when the ice storage box is a stainless steel box, it has the advantages of being durable and easy to clean.

[0084] See also Figure 5-Figure 6 In some embodiments of the present application, an ice storage box may include an ice storage structure 100. The ice storage structure 100 may include a first shell 110 and a second shell 120. Specifically, the first shell 110 and the second shell 120 may be fixedly connected. After the first shell 110 and the second shell 120 are fixedly connected, the first shell 110 and the second shell 120 may enclose the ice storage structure 100 with both ends open.

[0085] For example, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be fixed together by snapping. Specifically, one of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be provided with a snap-fit ​​member, and the other of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be provided with a snap-fit ​​groove. The snap-fit ​​member cooperates with the snap-fit ​​groove to achieve a fixed connection between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. The snap-fit ​​method is quick and simple to operate, and can prevent the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 from loosening or falling off, thereby improving the stability of the connection.

[0086] For example, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be fixed by bonding. Bonding simplifies the construction of components, reduces the need for auxiliary parts, and makes the connection process more convenient. Bonding eliminates the need for drilling holes in components, which can improve component strength and enhance the connection stability of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120.

[0087] For example, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be fixed by bolts or screws. The connection strength of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 is high, the reliability is good, and the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are easy to disassemble and reassemble.

[0088] See also Figure 5-Figure 6 In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage structure 100 is provided with an ice inlet and a lower opening. The ice inlet faces the ice maker and receives ice cubes 300 from the ice maker. The ice cubes 300 produced by the ice maker fall into the ice storage structure 100 through the ice inlet of the ice storage structure 100. The ice cubes 300 in the ice storage structure 100 are discharged from the ice storage structure 100 through the lower opening.

[0089] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 3 and Figure 5 In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box may include a bottom plate 200. The bottom plate 200 is connected to the ice storage structure 100. The bottom plate 200 closes the lower opening of the ice storage structure 100. Specifically, the bottom plate 200 may be connected to the first shell 110 and the second shell 120. The first shell 110, the second shell 120, and the bottom plate 200 may enclose a chamber for accommodating ice cubes 300.

[0090] For example, the base plate 200 can be integrally formed with the first housing 110. This integrated molding process simplifies the production process, reduces the number of parts and assembly steps, and significantly improves production efficiency and reduces production costs. This integrated molding process can enhance the overall mechanical properties of the product, increase structural strength, and thus improve product safety and durability.

[0091] The base plate 200 can be connected to the first housing 110 by bonding. Bonding simplifies component construction, reduces the need for auxiliary parts, and makes the connection process more convenient. Bonding eliminates the need for drilling holes in components, improving component strength and enhancing the stability of the connection between the base plate 200 and the first housing 110.

[0092] For example, the base plate 200 and the second housing 120 can be secured together by a snap-fit ​​connection. Specifically, one of the base plate 200 and the second housing 120 can be provided with a snap-fit ​​member, and the other can be provided with a snap-fit ​​groove. The snap-fit ​​member cooperates with the snap-fit ​​groove to connect the base plate 200 and the second housing 120. This snap-fit ​​connection is quick and easy to operate, preventing the base plate 200 and the second housing 120 from loosening or falling off, and improving the stability of the connection.

[0093] The bottom plate 200 and the second housing 120 can be connected by bolts or screws, so that the connection strength between the bottom plate 200 and the second housing 120 is high, the reliability is good, and the bottom plate 200 and the second housing 120 are easy to disassemble and reassemble.

[0094] See also Figure 7 、 Figure 9-10 In some embodiments of the present application, the bottom plate 200 is provided with an ice outlet 220. The ice outlet 220 may be rectangular or circular in shape. Ice cubes 300 in the ice storage structure 100 may be discharged through the ice outlet 220 of the bottom plate 200, so that the ice outlet 220 can provide ice cubes 300 to the user.

[0095] See also Figure 7 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, the base plate 200 is provided with a plurality of support ribs 400. Specifically, the plurality of support ribs 400 can be provided on the base plate 200 by integral molding, bonding, or plugging. The plurality of support ribs 400 are provided on the end surface of the base plate 200 facing the ice maker. Ice cubes 300 falling from the ice storage structure 100 onto the base plate 200 may come into contact with the support ribs 400, which are used to support the ice cubes 300.

[0096] See also Figure 6-Figure 7 and Figure 9In some embodiments of the present application, the bottom plate 200 includes at least one inclined portion 210. The at least one inclined portion 210 is used to enclose an ice outlet 220. The inclined portion 210 may include a first end and a second end. The heights of the first end and the second end may be different. The first end of the inclined portion 210 may be connected to the ice storage structure 100, and the second end of the inclined portion 210 may face the ice outlet. After the ice cubes 300 in the ice storage structure 100 fall into the bottom plate 200, the ice cubes 300 may slide from the first end of the inclined portion 210 to the second end of the inclined portion 210, and finally slide out of the ice outlet.

[0097] It should be noted that the inclined portion 210 is usually located at a corner area of ​​the bottom plate 200 close to the ice storage structure 100. When the ice cubes 300 are at the inclined portion 210, they are easily stuck at these locations and exist for a long time.

[0098] See also Figure 7 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, along the height direction of the refrigerator, the first end of the inclined portion 210 is higher than the second end of the inclined portion 210. The height difference between the first end of the inclined portion 210 and the second end of the inclined portion 210 facilitates the ice cubes 300 to slide from the first end of the inclined portion 210 to the second end of the inclined portion 210 and finally slide out of the ice outlet.

[0099] See also Figure 6-Figure 7 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, the number of the inclined portions 210 can be set to multiple. At least one inclined portion 210 is provided with a support rib 400. Specifically, the number of the inclined portions 210 can be set to 2, 3, or 4, etc.

[0100] The ice outlet of the ice maker faces the interior of the ice storage structure 100. Ice cubes 300 produced by the ice maker fall into the ice storage structure 100 through the ice inlet of the ice storage structure 100. Support ribs 400 are provided on the side of one or more inclined portions 210 facing the ice maker. These ribs 400 can reduce the amount of ice cubes stored for a long time in the ice storage bin, thereby increasing the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage bin.

[0101] See also Figure 7 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, a plurality of support ribs 400 are provided on the same inclined portion 210, and the plurality of support ribs 400 are arranged in a sequentially spaced relationship. Specifically, the plurality of support ribs 400 on the same inclined portion 210 can be arranged in parallel. The plurality of support ribs 400 arranged in parallel can collectively support the ice cube 300, allowing the ice cube 300 to slide down the plurality of support ribs 400 more smoothly.

[0102] In some embodiments of the present application, water troughs are formed between adjacent support ribs 400, and some liquid water on the ice cubes 300 can also flow into the water troughs between the support ribs 400, which can reduce the adhesion of the ice cubes 300 to the bottom plate, thereby reducing the amount of ice cubes stored for a long time in the ice storage box, thereby increasing the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage box.

[0103] See also Figure 7 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, the first end of the support rib 400 faces the first end of the inclined portion 210, and the second end of the support rib 400 faces the second end of the inclined portion 210. That is, the first end of the support rib 400 is higher than the second end of the support rib 400. The height difference between the first end and the second end of the support rib 400 facilitates the ice cube 300 to slide from the first end of the inclined support rib 400 to the second end of the support rib 400 and ultimately slide out of the ice outlet.

[0104] In some embodiments of the present application, the extension direction of the support rib 400 is parallel to the direction of the line connecting the first end and the second end of the support rib 400, so that the ice cube 300 can slide smoothly along the support rib 400.

[0105] See also Figure 7 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, the distance between two adjacent support ribs 400 on the same inclined portion 210 is less than a set distance. The set distance is the maximum side length of ice cubes 300 produced by the ice maker. When the distance between two adjacent support ribs 400 on the same inclined portion 210 is less than the maximum side length of ice cubes 300, ice cubes 300 are less likely to get stuck between the two adjacent support ribs 400, which facilitates the sliding of ice cubes 300.

[0106] If the distance between two adjacent support ribs 400 on the same inclined portion 210 is greater than or equal to the maximum side length of the ice cube 300, the ice cube 300 can be easily stuck between the two adjacent support ribs 400, which is not conducive to the sliding of the ice cube 300.

[0107] See also Figure 7 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, on the same inclined portion 210, the distance between two adjacent support ribs 400 is greater than or equal to half of the set distance. The set distance is the maximum side length of the ice cubes 300 made by the ice maker. When the distance between two adjacent support ribs 400 on the same inclined portion 210 is less than half of the set distance, the support ribs 400 are arranged more densely, and the contact area between the support ribs 400 and the ice cubes 300 is relatively large, which is not conducive to the sliding of the ice cubes 300. When the distance between two adjacent support ribs 400 on the same inclined portion 210 is greater than or equal to half of the set distance, the support ribs 400 are not arranged too densely, and the contact area between the support ribs 400 and the ice cubes 300 is relatively small, which is conducive to the sliding of the ice cubes 300.

[0108] In some embodiments of the present application, the surface of the support rib 400 away from the inclined portion 210 is set to a plane or an arc surface. Specifically, when the surface of the support rib 400 away from the inclined portion 210 is set to a plane, the processing of the support rib 400 is more convenient.

[0109] When the surface of the support rib 400 away from the inclined portion 210 is set to a circular arc surface, the circular arc surface of the support rib 400 contacts the ice cube 300, so that the contact area between the support rib 400 and the ice cube 300 is smaller, which is beneficial to reducing the friction between the support rib 400 and the ice cube 300, and the ice cube 300 is easier to slide.

[0110] See also Figure 3-Figure 4 and Figure 6 In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box further includes a motor 700. The motor 700 can be disposed at the bottom of the base plate 200. The motor 700 can provide power for the ice storage box.

[0111] In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box further includes a gear set 900. The gear set 900 can be rotatably connected to the bottom plate 200 and the first housing 110. The gear set 900 is connected to the output shaft of the motor 700. The motor 700 can drive the gears of the gear set 900 to rotate.

[0112] Specifically, the gear set 900 may include a first gear 910, a second gear 920, and a third gear 930. The second gear 920 may be meshed with both the first gear 910 and the third gear 930. The first gear 910 may be located above the third gear 930.

[0113] For example, the output shaft of the motor 700 is connected to the first gear 910, and the first gear 910 drives the third gear 930 to rotate through the second gear 920. Alternatively, the output shaft of the motor 700 is connected to the third gear 930, and the third gear 930 drives the first gear 910 to rotate through the second gear 920.

[0114] In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box further includes a rear cover 800. The rear cover 800 is mounted on the end surface of the first housing 110 facing away from the second housing 120. The rear cover 800 is used to at least enclose the gear set 900. The gear set 900 is located in the space enclosed by the rear cover 800 and the first housing 110.

[0115] See also Figure 6 and Figure 8-Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box further includes an ice stirring rod 500. The ice stirring rod 500 can be connected to the first gear 910. The rotation of the first gear 910 drives the ice stirring rod 500 to rotate, thereby stirring the ice cubes 300 in the ice storage structure 100 and breaking up the ice cubes 300.

[0116] See also Figure 5 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, the ice stirring rod 500 is rotatably disposed on the ice storage structure 100. Specifically, the ice stirring rod 500 can be disposed in the middle of the ice storage structure 100. The ice stirring rod 500 located in the middle of the ice storage structure 100 allows the ice stirring rod 500 to significantly stir the ice cubes 300 in the ice storage structure 100, thereby improving the stirring effect.

[0117] In some embodiments of the present application, the ice stirring rod 500 is at least used to drive the ice cubes 300 in the ice storage structure 100 to move. After being stirred by the ice stirring rod 500, the ice cubes 300 are not easily adhered together.

[0118] See also Figure 5 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, during the rotation of the ice-stirring lever 500, the vertical projection of the ice-stirring lever 500 on the bottom plate 200 is configured as a stirring area. The ice-stirring lever 500 can stir the ice cubes 300 in the stirring area, thereby preventing the ice cubes 300 in the stirring area from adhering to the inner wall of the ice storage box or to each other.

[0119] Ice cubes 300 in the non-stirring area are less likely to be stirred by the ice stirring rod 500 and are more likely to stick to the inner wall of the ice storage bin or to each other. Support ribs 400 are provided at least in the non-stirring area of ​​the bottom plate 200. The provision of support ribs 400 reduces the chance of ice cubes 300 sticking to the bottom plate, facilitating the ice cubes 300 in the non-stirring area to slide down to a position accessible by the stirring rod.

[0120] See also Figure 9-10 In some embodiments of the present application, the ice storage box includes an ice crushing blade 600. The ice crushing blade 600 is rotatably disposed at the ice outlet. Specifically, the ice stirring rod 500 can be connected to the third gear 930. The rotation of the third gear 930 drives the ice crushing blade 600 to rotate, thereby crushing the ice cubes 300 that fall onto the ice crushing blade 600.

[0121] When the motor 700 rotates, it can drive the first gear 910 and the third gear 930 to rotate simultaneously. The first gear 910 drives the ice stirring rod 500 to rotate to stir the ice cubes 300. The third gear 930 drives the ice crushing blade 600 to rotate to crush the ice cubes 300.

[0122] See also Figure 8-Figure 9 In some embodiments of the present application, the ice stirring rod 500 can be located above the ice crushing blade 600. The ice stirring rod 500 first stirs the ice cubes 300, making it difficult for the ice cubes 300 to stick to the inner wall of the ice storage box or to stick to each other, making it easier for the ice cubes 300 to slide over the ice crushing blade 600, which is conducive to the ice crushing blade 600 to crush the ice cubes 300.

[0123] When the ice storage box is in the first state, the ice-crushing blade 600 does not work, that is, the ice-crushing blade 600 does not rotate. When the ice-crushing blade 600 does not rotate, the ice-crushing blade 600 can be used to close the ice outlet.

[0124] When the ice storage box is in the second state, the ice crushing blade 600 works, that is, the ice crushing blade 600 rotates. When the ice crushing blade 600 rotates, the ice crushing blade 600 can crush the ice cubes 300 located at the ice outlet 220 and discharge the crushed ice cubes 300 out of the ice outlet.

[0125] See also Figure 1-Figure 5 An embodiment of the present application provides a refrigerator, comprising an ice maker and an ice storage box. The ice storage box may include an ice storage structure 100 and a bottom plate 200. The ice storage structure 100 is provided with an ice inlet and a lower opening, the ice inlet faces the ice maker, and the ice inlet receives ice cubes 300 from the ice maker; the bottom plate 200 is connected to the ice storage structure 100, and the bottom plate 200 closes the lower opening of the ice storage structure 100; the bottom plate 200 is provided with an ice outlet, and the ice outlet is used to provide ice cubes 300 to the user; the bottom plate 200 is provided with a plurality of support ribs 400, and the support ribs 400 are used to reduce the contact area between the ice cubes 300 and the bottom plate 200.

[0126] The bottom plate 200 is equipped with multiple support ribs 400. These ribs reduce friction between the ice cubes 300 and the bottom plate 200, facilitating their sliding down. The ribs 400 reduce the contact area between the ice cubes 300 and the bottom plate 200, creating a gap between the two. This allows the ice cubes 300 to move more easily when agitated, effectively reducing the chance of the ice cubes 300 sticking to the bottom plate 200. This reduces the amount of long-term ice stored in the ice storage bin, thereby increasing the actual ice storage capacity.

[0127] The bottom plate 200 is provided with a plurality of support ribs 400, which guide the ice cubes 300, allowing them to slide down along the ribs 400. Furthermore, some liquid on the ice cubes 300 can flow into the grooves between the ribs 400, reducing the ice cubes 300 from adhering to the bottom plate. This, in turn, reduces the amount of long-term ice in the ice storage bin and increases the actual ice storage capacity of the ice storage bin.

[0128] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

[0129] For ease of explanation, the above description has been made with reference to specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Based on the above teachings, various modifications and variations are possible. The above embodiments are selected and described to better explain the principles and practical applications, so that those skilled in the art can better utilize the embodiments and various different variations of the embodiments suitable for specific use considerations.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that: include: A box body having a refrigeration compartment; A door body, which is rotatably connected to the box body and is used to open or close the refrigeration compartment; A refrigeration system, which is arranged in the box and is used to provide cooling for the refrigeration compartment; an ice maker, mounted on the box or the door, for making ice; Ice storage box, including: An ice storage structure (100) is provided with an ice inlet and a lower opening, the ice inlet faces the ice maker, and the ice inlet receives ice cubes (300) from the ice maker; A bottom plate (200) is connected to the ice storage structure (100), and the bottom plate (200) closes the lower opening of the ice storage structure (100); The bottom plate (200) is provided with an ice outlet (220), and the ice outlet (220) is used to discharge ice cubes (300); The bottom plate (200) is provided with a plurality of supporting ribs (400), and the supporting ribs (400) are used to support ice cubes (300).

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein: The bottom plate (200) includes at least one inclined portion (210); the at least one inclined portion (210) is used to enclose an ice outlet (220); The first end of the inclined portion (210) is connected to the ice storage structure (100), the second end of the inclined portion (210) faces the ice outlet (220), and the height of the first end of the inclined portion (210) is higher than the height of the second end of the inclined portion (210).

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that The number of the inclined portions (210) is set to be multiple; at least one inclined portion (210) is provided with a supporting rib (400).

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, characterized in that On the same inclined portion (210), the number of support ribs (400) is set to be multiple, and the multiple support ribs (400) are sequentially spaced apart; The first end of the support rib (400) faces the first end of the inclined portion (210), and the second end of the support rib (400) faces the second end of the inclined portion (210); The extension direction of the support rib (400) is parallel to the direction of the line connecting the first end and the second end of the support rib (400).

5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that On the same inclined portion (210), the distance between two adjacent support ribs (400) is less than a set distance; The distance between two adjacent support ribs (400) is greater than or equal to half of the set distance; The set distance is the maximum side length of the ice cube (300) produced by the ice maker.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein: The surface of the supporting rib (400) facing away from the inclined portion (210) is configured as a plane or an arc surface.

7. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The ice storage box also includes: The ice stirring rod (500) is rotatably arranged on the ice storage structure (100), and the ice stirring rod (500) is at least used to drive the ice cubes (300) in the ice storage structure (100) to move.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that During the rotation of the ice-stirring rod (500), the vertical projection of the ice-stirring rod (500) on the bottom plate (200) is set as the stirring area; The supporting ribs (400) are at least arranged in the non-stirring area of ​​the bottom plate (200).

9. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The ice storage box also includes: An ice-crushing knife (600), the ice-crushing knife (600) is rotatably disposed at the ice outlet (220); When the ice storage box is in the first state, the ice crushing blade (600) does not work, and the ice crushing blade (600) closes the ice outlet (220); When the ice storage box is in the second state, the ice crushing blade (600) is configured to rotate to crush the ice cubes (300) located at the ice outlet (220) and discharge the crushed ice cubes (300) out of the ice outlet (220).

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that: include: Ice maker; Ice storage box, including: An ice storage structure (100), the ice storage structure (100) being provided with an ice inlet and a lower opening, the ice inlet facing the ice maker, the ice inlet receiving ice cubes (300) from the ice maker; A bottom plate (200) is connected to the ice storage structure (100), and the bottom plate (200) closes the lower opening of the ice storage structure (100); The bottom plate (200) is provided with an ice outlet (220), and the ice outlet (220) is used to provide ice cubes (300) to a user; the bottom plate (200) is provided with a plurality of support ribs (400), and the support ribs (400) are used to reduce the contact area between the ice cubes (300) and the bottom plate (200).

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