Ice maker and refrigeration equipment

Abstract

The utility model relates to the field of ice making, and provides an ice maker and refrigeration equipment. The ice maker comprises a shell, an ice mold assembly used for forming an ice making space in a surrounding mode is arranged in the shell, and a water inlet and a water outlet which are in fluid communication with the ice making space are formed in the ice mold assembly; the water supply assembly comprises a water tank and a water pump which are in fluid communication, and the water pump is in fluid communication with the water inlet through a water inlet pipe and in fluid communication with the water tank through a water return pipe. The ice maker can ensure that water enters the ice making space of the ice mold assembly at proper flow and speed, so that the ice making process is optimized, and the ice making efficiency is improved; the waste of water resources can be reduced, and the use cost is reduced. Meanwhile, when the water inlet pipe is frozen, water pumped out by the water pump can flow into the water return tank through the water return pipe, and overload of the water pump is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the field of ice making and provides an ice making machine and refrigeration equipment. Background Art

[0002] In the related art, when the water tank in the ice maker fills water into the ice making chamber, the water inlet pipe in the water tank is easily frozen due to the relatively low ambient temperature around the ice making chamber. Long-term use will cause the water pump to overload, affecting the service life of the ice maker. Utility Model Content

[0003] The embodiment of the utility model provides an ice maker, which is used to solve the defect of water pump overload caused by freezing of the water inlet pipe in the related art.

[0004] The embodiment of the present utility model also provides a refrigeration device.

[0005] The first embodiment of the present invention provides an ice making machine, comprising:

[0006] a housing, wherein an ice mold assembly is provided in the housing for enclosing an ice-making space, and the ice mold assembly is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet in fluid communication with the ice-making space;

[0007] The water supply assembly comprises a water tank and a water pump which are in fluid communication. The water pump is in fluid communication with the water inlet through a water inlet pipe, and the water pump is in fluid communication with the water tank through a water return pipe.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in the vertical direction, the height of the water inlet is lower than the height of the water outlet.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice mold assembly includes a first ice mold and a second ice mold that can be separated or snapped together. The water outlet is opened at the top of the first ice mold, and in the vertical direction, the water inlet and the water outlet are staggered.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a water collecting box is further included. The water collecting box is connected above the first ice-making mold and is fluidically connected to the water outlet and the water tank respectively.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of ​​the water outlet gradually decreases from the first ice-making mold toward the water collecting box.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the water collecting box and the water tank is provided with a water heating element and a temperature detecting element, the temperature detecting element is used to detect the water temperature of at least one of the water collecting box and the water tank, and the water heating element is suitable for starting and stopping based on the water temperature.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the utility model, the water collecting box is provided with a lap joint edge, and the water collecting box is installed on the first ice making mold through the lap joint edge.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the utility model, the water outlet is provided with a sealing element, the sealing element is provided with an overflow port in fluid communication with the water collecting box and the water outlet, the water collecting box is provided with a water collecting port, and the sealing element is sealingly connected between the water outlet and the water collecting port.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the utility model, the water inlet pipe is provided with a heating element.

[0016] The second aspect embodiment of the utility model provides a refrigeration equipment, comprising a refrigeration chamber, and the refrigeration chamber is provided with the ice maker.

[0017] According to the ice maker provided by the first aspect embodiment of the utility model, the accurate control of the water pump can ensure that water enters the ice making space of the ice mold assembly at appropriate flow rate and speed, thereby optimizing the ice making process and improving the ice making efficiency. The design of the water return pipe enables the used water in the ice making process to conveniently flow back to the water tank, thereby reducing the waste of water resources and lowering the use cost. Meanwhile, when the water inlet pipe is frozen, the water pumped out by the water pump can flow back to the water tank through the water return pipe, thereby avoiding the overload of the water pump. The design of the whole water supply system (including the water tank, the water pump, the water inlet pipe and the water return pipe) is simple, and it is convenient for users to perform daily operation and maintenance. The ingenious combination of the shell and the water supply assembly enables the ice maker to have compact overall structure and small floor area, and is suitable for various space environments. By optimizing the water flow path and recycling water resources, the ice maker provided by the first aspect embodiment of the utility model also meets the requirements of energy saving and environmental protection.

[0018] According to the refrigeration equipment provided by the second aspect embodiment of the utility model, the ice maker is directly installed in the refrigeration chamber, without the need for additional space, thereby improving the overall space utilization rate of the refrigeration equipment and making the equipment more compact and efficient. The low-temperature environment of the refrigeration chamber provides ideal refrigeration conditions for the ice maker, which helps to improve the ice making efficiency and produce high-quality ice blocks. The control system of the refrigeration equipment can intelligently control the working state of the ice maker, meet different needs of users and provide personalized ice making experience. The refrigeration equipment integrated with the ice maker not only has more comprehensive functions, but also is easy to operate and maintain, thereby bringing users more convenient and comfortable refrigeration experience. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the present invention or the prior art, a brief introduction will be given below to the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0020] Figure 1 It is a schematic top view of the ice maker provided by the utility model.

[0021] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view along the AA direction.

[0022] Figure 3 It is a schematic three-dimensional diagram of the ice maker provided by the utility model from one angle.

[0023] Figure 4 It is a schematic three-dimensional diagram of the ice maker provided by the utility model from another angle.

[0024] Reference numerals:

[0025] 100. Shell; 102. Water inlet; 104. Water outlet; 106. Water tank; 108. Water pump; 110. Water inlet pipe; 112. Water return pipe; 114. First ice-making mold; 116. Second ice-making mold; 118. Water collecting box; 120. Temperature detection element; 122. Overlapping edge; 124. Sealing element; 126. Overflow port. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The following embodiments of the present invention are described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0027] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the first embodiment of the present invention provides an ice making machine, comprising:

[0028] The housing 100 includes an ice mold assembly for enclosing an ice-making space. The ice mold assembly includes a water inlet 102 and a water outlet 104 in fluid communication with the ice-making space.

[0029] The water supply assembly includes a water tank 106 and a water pump 108 that are in fluid communication. The water pump 108 is in fluid communication with the water inlet 102 via a water inlet pipe 110 , and the water pump 108 is in fluid communication with the water tank 106 via a water return pipe 112 .

[0030] According to the ice-making machine provided by the first embodiment of the present invention, precise control of the water pump 108 ensures that water enters the ice-making space of the ice mold assembly at an appropriate flow rate and speed, thereby optimizing the ice-making process and improving ice-making efficiency. The design of the return pipe 112 allows water used in the ice-making process to be conveniently returned to the water tank 106, reducing water waste and lowering operating costs. Furthermore, if the water inlet pipe 110 freezes, water pumped by the water pump 108 can flow back into the water tank 106 through the return pipe 112, preventing overload of the water pump 108. The entire water supply system (including the water tank 106, water pump 108, water inlet pipe 110, and water return pipe 112) is designed to be simple, making it easy for users to perform daily operations and maintenance. The ingenious combination of the housing 100 and the water supply assembly results in a compact overall structure and a small footprint, making it suitable for various spatial environments. By optimizing the water flow path and recycling water resources, the ice-making machine provided by the first embodiment of the present invention also meets energy-saving and environmental protection requirements.

[0031] Please continue to see Figures 1 to 4 The first embodiment of the present invention provides an ice maker, which is mainly composed of two parts: a shell 100 and a water supply component.

[0032] Housing 100 houses the ice mold assembly, the core component of the ice maker, enclosing and forming the ice-making space. Two openings are designed into the ice mold assembly: a water inlet 102 and a water outlet 104. These openings are in fluid communication with the interior of the ice-making space, ensuring smooth flow of water into and out of the ice-making space.

[0033] The water supply assembly is composed of two main components: a water tank 106 and a water pump 108, which are connected to each other by fluid communication. It is understandable that the water in the water tank 106 can be pumped into the ice making space by the water pump 108, and then the ice making space completes ice making.

[0034] Specifically, water pump 108 is connected to the water inlet 102 of the ice mold assembly via water inlet pipe 110. It is responsible for pumping water from water tank 106 and injecting it into the ice-making space, providing the necessary water source for the ice-making process. Simultaneously, water pump 108 is also connected to water tank 106 via return pipe 112. This allows water in the ice-making space or system to flow back to water tank 106 when needed (such as for drainage, cleaning, or water recycling), achieving efficient circulation and utilization of water resources. More importantly, if water inlet pipe 110 freezes, the water pumped by water pump 108 can flow back into water tank 106 via return pipe 112, preventing pressure buildup and overload in water pump 108.

[0035] like Figure 2 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, in the vertical direction, the height of the water inlet 102 is lower than the height of the water outlet 104 .

[0036] In one embodiment of the present invention, in the vertical direction of the ice maker, the height of the water inlet 102 is designed to be lower than the height of the water outlet 104. This design detail is based on the principles of fluid dynamics and is intended to optimize the flow path of water in the ice mold assembly and ice making efficiency.

[0037] When water pump 108 pumps water from water tank 106 into the ice-making space of the ice mold assembly through water inlet pipe 110, the water naturally flows upward due to the low position of water inlet 102 and fills the entire ice-making space. This bottom-up water flow helps ensure even distribution of water within the ice-making space, avoiding problems such as irregular ice shapes and inefficient ice making caused by uneven water flow.

[0038] After water is added, the water in the ice-making space can be smoothly discharged through the water outlet 104 at the top of the ice-making module by controlling the water pump 108. Since the water outlet 104 is located at a higher position, the water in the ice-making space can flow out more smoothly by overflow, reducing residue and accumulation, which is conducive to keeping the ice-making space clean and smoothly carrying out the next ice-making process.

[0039] By optimizing the water flow path, water distribution within the ice-making space is evenly distributed, resulting in improved ice shape and quality. The high-position design of the water outlet 104 allows for smoother drainage, reducing the impact of residual water on the ice-making space and helping to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the device. Users no longer need to worry about ice-making problems caused by uneven water flow or poor drainage, thus improving user experience and satisfaction.

[0040] like Figure 2 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the ice mold assembly includes a first ice mold 114 and a second ice mold 116 that can be separated or snapped together, and the water outlet 104 is opened at the top of the first ice mold 114. In the vertical direction, the water inlet 102 and the water outlet 104 are staggered.

[0041] In one embodiment of the present invention, the ice mold assembly is designed to include a detachable or snap-fit ​​first ice mold 114 and a second ice mold 116. This design not only facilitates the removal of ice cubes, but also improves ice making efficiency through specific water flow path optimization.

[0042] The water outlet 104 is formed on the top of the first ice-making mold 114 , and the water inlet 102 and the water outlet 104 are staggered in the vertical direction.

[0043] The detachable or snap-fit ​​first and second ice molds 114, 116 allow the user to easily separate the two molds when needed to remove ice cubes or perform cleaning and maintenance. Furthermore, when the first and second ice molds 114, 116 are snapped together, they form a sealed ice-making chamber, ensuring water flow and temperature control during the ice-making process.

[0044] The water outlet 104 is arranged at the top of the first ice making mold 114, which is conducive to utilizing the overflow effect of water to promote the natural discharge of water. This design reduces residual water, helps to keep the ice mold clean and smoothly carry out the next ice making.

[0045] The water inlet 102 is designed to be vertically offset from the water outlet 104. This layout ensures effective circulation and even distribution of water within the ice-making space. The water inlet 102 is typically positioned lower to allow water to fill the entire ice-making space from bottom to top, while the water outlet 104 is positioned higher to facilitate water drainage.

[0046] By optimizing the water flow path and ensuring the uniform distribution of water in the ice-making space, this embodiment significantly improves the ice-making efficiency and shortens the ice-making time. The detachable first ice-making mold 114 and the second ice-making mold 116 design enable users to easily remove ice cubes and clean the ice molds, maintaining the hygiene and long-term performance of the equipment. The high-position setting of the water outlet 104 and the staggered layout of the water inlet 102 and the water outlet 104 work together to reduce the residual moisture after ice making is completed, which helps to keep the ice mold dry and clean. The optimized ice-making efficiency, easy-to-clean design and reduced residual moisture together enhance the user's overall experience, making the ice maker of this utility model more in line with the needs of modern homes and commercial places.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a water collecting box 118 is further included. The water collecting box 118 is connected above the first ice-making mold 114 and is in fluid communication with the water outlet 104 and the water tank 106 respectively.

[0048] In one embodiment of the present invention, the ice maker includes, in addition to the housing 100 , the ice mold assembly, and the water supply assembly, a water collection box 118 .

[0049] The water collecting box 118 is connected to the upper portion of the first ice-making mold 114 and is in fluid communication with the water outlet 104 and the water tank 106 .

[0050] The water collecting box 118 is an intermediate storage and water transfer component, which is arranged above the first ice making mold 114 to facilitate the collection of water flowing out of the water outlet 104. The design of the water collecting box 118 takes into account the collection and flow of water, ensuring that the water can smoothly enter and store, and also facilitate subsequent processing or backflow.

[0051] The water collecting box 118 is connected to the water outlet 104 at the top of the first ice making mold 114, ensuring that the residual water or water that needs to be discharged after ice making can directly flow into the water collecting box 118.

[0052] The water collecting box 118 can also be connected to the water tank 106 through the water conveying groove, so that the water collected in the water collecting box 118 can be backflowed to the water tank 106 as needed, realizing the recycling of water resources. At the same time, this design also facilitates the cleaning or emptying operation of the water collecting box 118.

[0053] The design of the water collecting box 118 enables the water flowing out of the water outlet 104 to be effectively collected and backflowed to the water tank 106, reducing water waste and improving water utilization. By collecting and discharging residual water in a timely manner, the water collecting box 118 helps to keep the first ice making mold 114 and the entire ice making space clean, avoiding bacterial growth or odor generation caused by residual moisture. As an independent component, the water collecting box 118 facilitates user cleaning, emptying or replacement operations, simplifying the daily maintenance work of the ice maker.

[0054] As shown in Figure 2 According to one embodiment of the present application, the cross-sectional area of the water outlet 104 gradually decreases from the first ice making mold 114 to the water collecting box 118.

[0055] In one embodiment of the present application, the structure of the water outlet 104 is specially designed to gradually decrease in cross-sectional area from the first ice making mold 114 to the water collecting box 118. This design is based on the principles of fluid mechanics and aims to optimize the water discharge process and improve the overall performance of the ice maker.

[0056] Specifically, the opening of the water outlet 104 at the first ice making mold 114 is relatively large, which ensures that after ice making is completed, the residual water can quickly and smoothly begin to flow into the water outlet 104. As the water moves in the direction of the water collecting box 118, the cross-sectional area of the water outlet 104 gradually decreases, which forms a natural flow and acceleration effect. When the water flows through the water outlet 104, its flow rate will gradually increase due to the decrease in cross-sectional area, thereby helping to quickly discharge the water from the ice making space and send it into the water collecting box 118.

[0057] The design of the gradually decreasing cross-sectional area of the water outlet 104 significantly improves the drainage efficiency. After ice making is completed, residual water can be quickly and smoothly drained through the water outlet 104, reducing the drainage time and improving the overall working efficiency of the ice maker. Due to the improvement of drainage efficiency, the amount of water residue in the ice making space is greatly reduced. This helps to keep the ice making space clean and dry, avoiding bacterial growth and odor generation caused by water residue. The design of the water outlet 104 not only considers the drainage efficiency, but also takes into account the optimization of the water flow path. The gradually decreasing cross-sectional area allows the water flow to form a natural guiding effect when flowing through the water outlet 104, reducing water flow turbulence and energy loss.

[0058] As Figure 1 shown, according to an embodiment of the present application, at least one of the water collecting box 118 and the water tank 106 is provided with a water body heating member (not shown in the figure) and a temperature detection member 120. The temperature detection member 120 is used to detect the water temperature of at least one of the water collecting box 118 and the water tank 106, and the water body heating member is suitable for starting and stopping based on the water temperature.

[0059] In an embodiment of the present application, the ice maker integrates a water body heating member and a temperature detection member 120 on at least one component of the water collecting box 118 and the water tank 106. This design aims to realize real-time monitoring and intelligent adjustment of the water temperature to meet the use requirements in specific scenarios.

[0060] The temperature detection member 120 is installed at at least one position of the water collecting box 118 and the water tank 106 for accurately detecting the water temperature at that position. This data is an important basis for subsequent control of the start and stop of the water body heating member. The temperature detection member 120 can be selected from high-precision and high-reliability temperature sensors such as thermocouples, etc., to ensure the accuracy of temperature measurement.

[0061] The water body heating member is installed at the corresponding position of the water collecting box 118 and the water tank 106 for heating the water. When the water temperature detected by the temperature detection member 120 is lower than the preset threshold, the water body heating member will automatically start to heat the water; when the water temperature reaches or exceeds the preset threshold, the water body heating member will automatically stop working. This intelligent control method helps to maintain the stability of the water temperature, avoiding the problem of freezing or affecting the normal operation of the ice maker due to too low temperature.

[0062] By real-time monitoring and intelligently adjusting the water temperature, the ice maker provided by the embodiment of the present invention can effectively prevent the water in the water tank 106 and / or the water collection box 118 from freezing due to excessively low temperatures, and prevent the freezing of the water from affecting the normal operation of the equipment, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the equipment. During the ice-making process, maintaining a stable water temperature helps to optimize the ice-making effect. By intelligently controlling the start and stop of the water heating element, it can be ensured that the water temperature in the ice-making space is always maintained within the optimal ice-making range, thereby improving the molding quality of the ice cubes and the ice-making efficiency. Intelligently controlling the start and stop of the water heating element can also achieve the effect of energy saving and consumption reduction. When the water temperature does not need to be heated, the heating element will automatically stop working, avoiding unnecessary energy waste.

[0063] Through intelligent temperature control and stable equipment operation, the ice maker of this utility model can provide users with a more stable and efficient ice making experience. At the same time, the intelligent design also makes the maintenance and management of the equipment more convenient.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the water collecting box 118 is provided with an overlapping edge 122 , and the water collecting box 118 is mounted on the first ice-making mold 114 via the overlapping edge 122 .

[0065] In one embodiment of the present invention, water collection box 118 is designed with an overlapping edge 122. This overlapping edge 122 not only enhances the structural strength of water collection box 118 but also provides a convenient and stable connection between overlapping edge 122 and first ice-forming mold 114. Specifically, this overlapping edge 122 allows water collection box 118 to be tightly mounted above or at a specific location on first ice-forming mold 114, ensuring fluid communication and stable fit between the two.

[0066] The overlapping edge 122 can be a portion extending from the edge of the water collection box 118, and its shape and size match the corresponding portion of the first ice mold 114. During installation, simply align the overlapping edge 122 with the corresponding position of the first ice mold 114 and securely attach the water collection box 118 using fasteners (such as screws, clips, etc.) or simple physical snap-fitting. This installation method is not only simple and easy, but also ensures a tight seal and reliable fluid communication between the water collection box 118 and the first ice mold 114.

[0067] The design of the overlapping edge 122 makes installation of the water collection box 118 extremely convenient. Users can easily connect the water collection box 118 to the first ice mold 114 without complicated steps or specialized tools. The overlapping edge 122 not only provides additional support for the water collection box 118 but also, by tightly fitting with the first ice mold 114, enhances the structural stability of the entire ice maker. This design helps reduce vibration and noise during operation. The tight fit between the overlapping edge 122 and the first ice mold 114 ensures that fluid flows smoothly from the first ice mold 114 into the water collection box 118 without leaks or blockages. This helps keep the ice maker clean and running efficiently. The overlapping edge 122 is also designed for easy maintenance. When cleaning, repairing, or replacing the water collection box 118, users simply disconnect the overlapping edge 122 from the first ice mold 114, eliminating the need for complex disassembly of the entire ice maker.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the water outlet 104 is provided with a seal 124, and the seal 124 is provided with an overflow port 126 that is fluidically connected to the water collecting box 118 and the water outlet 104. The water collecting box 118 is provided with a water collecting port, and the seal 124 is sealed between the water outlet 104 and the water collecting port.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present invention, a seal 124 is provided at the water outlet 104. Seal 124 not only seals and prevents water leakage, but also includes an overflow port 126 that is in fluid communication with the water collection box 118 and the water outlet 104. The water collection box 118 also includes a corresponding water collection port for receiving water flowing out of the water outlet 104. Seal 124 is installed between the water outlet 104 and the water collection port, ensuring a sealed connection between the two, thereby forming a complete and efficient water flow channel.

[0070] It is understood that the provision of the seal 124 allows the water in the first ice mold 114 to flow only through the water outlet 104 into the water collection box 118 and not to flow elsewhere. After the water flows out of the water outlet 104, it can flow out of the water collection box 118 through the overflow port 126 on the seal 124.

[0071] Seal 124 can be made of a highly elastic, water-resistant material, fitting tightly between water outlet 104 and the water collection port, effectively preventing water leakage. Overflow port 126, defined on seal 124, connects water outlet 104 and water collection box 118. This allows any remaining water after ice making, or water that needs to be drained, to flow smoothly through water outlet 104 and overflow port 126 into water collection box 118 without leaking or clogging. The water collection port on water collection box 118 aligns with overflow port 126 on seal 124, ensuring smooth water flow.

[0072] In an embodiment of the present invention, the provision of the seal 124 enhances the sealing between the water outlet 104 and the water collection port, effectively preventing water leakage and keeping the ice maker clean and dry. Through the overflow port 126 on the seal 124 and the water collection port on the water collection box 118, the remaining water after ice making is completed can be quickly and smoothly discharged, thereby improving drainage efficiency and reducing drainage time. The design of the seal 124 and the overflow port 126 optimizes the water flow path, making the water flow smoother during the discharge process, reducing water flow turbulence and energy loss. In addition, the seal 124, as an independent component, is convenient for users to clean, replace or repair, reducing the difficulty and cost of ice maker maintenance.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a heating element is wound around the water inlet pipe 110 .

[0074] In one embodiment of the present invention, a heating element is provided around the water inlet pipe 110 of the ice maker. This design is intended to ensure that the water temperature entering the ice maker can be maintained within a suitable range, thereby optimizing the ice making process and improving the quality of ice cubes.

[0075] The heating element can be a heating wire, heating tape, or heating tube, and is tightly wrapped around the exterior of the water inlet pipe 110. When the ice maker begins operating, the heating element activates according to a preset temperature control logic, heating the water in the water inlet pipe 110. By adjusting the power or operating time of the heating element, the temperature of the water inlet pipe 110, and thus the temperature of the water entering the ice maker, can be precisely controlled.

[0076] In addition, to ensure safe operation and efficient heating of the heating element, a heat preservation layer or insulation layer may be provided on the outside thereof to reduce heat loss and prevent overheating of the heating element. At the same time, the contact surface between the heating element and the water inlet pipe 110 may also be specially treated to improve heat transfer efficiency.

[0077] By preheating the water in the water inlet pipe 110 through the heating element, the water temperature entering the ice maker is maintained within an appropriate range. This helps optimize the ice-making process and improve the speed and quality of ice cube formation. In low-temperature environments, the water in the water inlet pipe 110 can easily freeze, resulting in obstructed water flow and malfunction of the ice maker. The presence of the heating element effectively prevents this from occurring, ensuring stable operation of the ice maker.

[0078] A second embodiment of the present invention provides a refrigeration device, comprising a refrigeration compartment, in which the above-mentioned ice maker is arranged.

[0079] A second embodiment of the present invention provides a refrigeration appliance having the aforementioned ice maker integrated within its refrigeration compartment. The refrigeration compartment is a space within the refrigeration appliance used to store and maintain low temperatures, typically used to store food, beverages, and other items that require refrigeration or freezing. The ice maker, as a key component of the refrigeration appliance, is designed to automatically produce ice cubes within the refrigeration compartment.

[0080] In this embodiment, the ice maker is installed inside the refrigeration compartment and is closely connected to the refrigeration compartment's cooling system. This allows the ice maker to fully utilize the refrigeration compartment's low temperature during ice production, improving ice-making efficiency and ensuring high-quality ice. Furthermore, since the ice maker is installed directly inside the refrigeration compartment, users do not need additional space for it, thus saving space and improving the overall utilization of the refrigeration equipment.

[0081] Furthermore, the refrigeration equipment's control system is designed to intelligently control the ice maker's operating status to meet the diverse needs of users. Users can easily set parameters such as the ice maker's start time and ice production volume through the control system's interface or remote control, achieving a personalized ice-making experience.

[0082] In other words, by installing the ice maker directly within the refrigeration room, no additional space is required, thereby improving the overall space utilization of the refrigeration equipment and making the equipment more compact and efficient. The low temperature environment in the refrigeration room provides ideal cooling conditions for the ice maker, helping to improve ice-making efficiency and produce high-quality ice cubes. The refrigeration equipment's control system can intelligently control the ice maker's operating status to meet the diverse needs of users and provide a personalized ice-making experience. Refrigeration equipment with an integrated ice maker not only has more comprehensive functions but is also simple to operate and maintain, providing users with a more convenient and comfortable cooling experience.

[0083] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are intended only to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of the present invention do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention and are intended to be encompassed by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. An ice making machine, characterized in that: include: a housing, wherein an ice mold assembly is provided in the housing for enclosing an ice-making space, and the ice mold assembly is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet in fluid communication with the ice-making space; The water supply assembly comprises a water tank and a water pump which are in fluid communication. The water pump is in fluid communication with the water inlet through a water inlet pipe, and the water pump is in fluid communication with the water tank through a water return pipe.

2. The ice making machine according to claim 1, wherein: In the vertical direction, the height of the water inlet is lower than the height of the water outlet.

3. The ice making machine according to claim 1, wherein: The ice mold assembly includes a first ice mold and a second ice mold that can be separated or fastened together. The water outlet is opened on the top of the first ice mold. In the vertical direction, the water inlet and the water outlet are staggered.

4. The ice making machine according to claim 3, wherein: It also includes a water collecting box connected to the top of the first ice-making mold, and the water collecting box is in fluid communication with the water outlet and the water tank respectively.

5. The ice making machine according to claim 4, characterized in that The cross-sectional area of ​​the water outlet gradually decreases from the first ice-making mold toward the water collecting box.

6. The ice making machine according to claim 4, characterized in that At least one of the water collecting box and the water tank is provided with a water heating element and a temperature detecting element. The temperature detecting element is used to detect the water temperature of at least one of the water collecting box and the water tank. The water heating element is suitable for starting and stopping based on the water temperature.

7. The ice making machine according to claim 4, characterized in that The water collecting box is provided with an overlapping edge, and the water collecting box is installed on the first ice-making mold through the overlapping edge.

8. The ice making machine according to claim 4, wherein: The water outlet is provided with a sealing member, and the sealing member is provided with an overflow port in fluid communication with the water collecting box and the water outlet. The water collecting box is provided with a water collecting port, and the sealing member is sealed and connected between the water outlet and the water collecting port.

9. The ice making machine according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that A heating element is wound around the water inlet pipe.

10. A refrigeration device, characterized in that: The invention comprises a refrigeration compartment, wherein the ice maker according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is arranged in the refrigeration compartment.

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