Water tank component and ice maker

By introducing a condensation tank and an overflow channel into the water tank of the ice maker, steam condensation and water recirculation are achieved, solving the problem of the water tank's single function, improving its practicality and saving resources.

CN223499865UActive Publication Date: 2025-10-31FOSHAN SHUNDE MIDEA WATER DISPENSER MFG +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422953975.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-11-29
Publication Date
2025-10-31
Estimated Expiration
2034-11-29

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The water tanks in existing ice makers have limited functionality and are not very practical, failing to effectively recycle water resources.

Method used

Design a water tank component comprising a room temperature water zone and a condensation tank. The condensation tank is used to condense the steam generated during the heating process of the ice maker and to return the water to the room temperature water zone. The water is connected to the room temperature water zone through an overflow channel to achieve water recycling.

Benefits of technology

This enriches the functions of the water tank, improves its practicality, realizes water recycling, and saves resources.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to the field of ice making, and provides a water tank component and an ice maker, the ice maker comprises the water tank component, the water tank component comprises a tank body, and the tank body is provided with a normal-temperature water area; wherein the box body is provided with a condensation tank, the condensation tank is used for receiving steam generated during heating of the ice maker, the condensation tank is communicated with the normal-temperature water area, and water in the condensation tank flows back to the normal-temperature water area. After water in the normal-temperature water area is heated, generated steam is conveyed to the condensation tank and condensed through the condensation tank, water flows back to the normal-temperature water area, functions are enriched, practicability is improved, water can be recycled, and resources are saved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of ice making, and in particular to a water tank component and an ice maker. Background Technology

[0002] An ice maker is a device that provides water at different temperatures and produces ice. In related technologies, water is supplied to the outside via a water tank. However, this water tank has a limited function, serving only as a water storage tank and thus having low practicality. Utility Model Content

[0003] This utility model aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in related technologies. To this end, this utility model proposes a water tank component that enriches its functions, improves its practicality, and enables water recycling, thus saving resources.

[0004] This utility model also proposes an ice maker.

[0005] The water tank component according to the first aspect of the present invention includes:

[0006] The enclosure is equipped with a room temperature water zone;

[0007] The box is equipped with a condensation tank, which is used to collect the steam generated by the ice maker during heating. The condensation tank is connected to the room temperature water zone, and the water in the condensation tank flows back to the room temperature water zone.

[0008] According to the water tank component of this utility model embodiment, after heating water in the normal temperature water zone, the generated steam is transported to the condensation tank, condensed in the condensation tank, and the water is returned to the normal temperature water zone, which enriches the function, improves the practicality, and enables water recycling, thus saving resources.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the housing is provided with an overflow channel, which is located between the condensation tank and the ambient temperature water zone, and the condensation tank is connected to the ambient temperature water zone through the overflow channel.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the bottom wall of the overflow channel is lower than the upper edge of the other side walls of the condensation tank.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the side wall of the room temperature water zone is provided with a flow guiding structure, which is connected to the overflow channel to guide the liquid into the room temperature water zone.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the flow guiding structure is a flow guiding channel, and the width of the flow guiding channel is adapted to the width of the overflow channel.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the condensation tank is located outside the ambient temperature water zone.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the bottom wall of the ambient temperature water zone is provided with an ambient temperature water outlet, and the condensation tank is located at the upper part of the ambient temperature water zone, wherein the condensation tank is disposed away from the ambient temperature water outlet.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a steam inlet pipe is provided on the side wall of the condensation tank, and the steam inlet pipe is connected to the interior of the condensation tank, wherein the steam inlet pipe is located on the side of the condensation tank away from the room temperature water zone.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the steam inlet pipe is arranged horizontally.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the width of the longitudinal section of the condensation tank is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ambient temperature water zone and the condensation tank are both integrally formed with the housing.

[0019] An ice maker according to a second aspect of the present invention includes the water tank component described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0020] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the tank structure of the water tank component provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the tank body of the water tank component provided in this utility model.

[0024] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the middle section.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the water tank component provided in an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0026] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the water tank component provided in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water tank component provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the water circuit provided by this utility model, wherein the ice maker has a heating tank.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the water circuit provided by this utility model, wherein the ice maker has no heating tank.

[0030] Figure label:

[0031] 100. Container body; 110. Room temperature water zone; 111. First flow guide groove; 120. Cold water zone; 121. Second flow guide groove; 130. Partition; 131. Overflow groove; 141. Cold water outlet; 142. Cold water drain pipe; 150. First filter structure; 151. First grid; 161. Room temperature water outlet; 162. Room temperature water drain pipe; 170. Second filter structure; 171. Second grid; 180. Blocking structure; 181. Blocking spacing; 182. Baffle; 190. Condensation tank; 191. Overflow channel; 192. Flow guide structure; 193. Steam inlet pipe; 200. Ice making mechanism; 300. Ice storage component; 400. Container lid; 500. Water tank; 600. Hot water tank; 700. Diaphragm pump; 810. First liquid level switch; 820. Second liquid level switch. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The embodiments of this utility model will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this utility model.

[0033] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this utility model. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0034] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0035] In this embodiment of the utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0036] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0037] The following is combined Figures 1-8 The water tank component and ice maker according to embodiments of the present invention will be described. It will be understood that, in embodiments of the present invention, the ice maker includes the aforementioned water tank component.

[0038] Reference Figures 1 to 5 According to the first aspect of the present invention, a water tank component includes a tank body 100, the tank body 100 having a normal temperature water zone 110; wherein, the tank body 100 has a condensation tank 190, the condensation tank 190 being used to receive steam generated during the heating of the ice maker, the condensation tank 190 being connected to the normal temperature water zone 110, and the water in the condensation tank 190 flowing back to the normal temperature water zone 110.

[0039] According to the water tank component of this utility model embodiment, after heating the water in the normal temperature water zone 110, the generated steam is transported to the condensation tank 190, where it is condensed, and the water is returned to the normal temperature water zone 110. This enriches the function, improves the practicality, and enables water recycling, thus saving resources.

[0040] Understandably, referring to Figures 1 to 5 In this embodiment of the invention, the housing 100 is provided with an overflow channel 191, which is located between the condensation tank 190 and the ambient temperature water zone 110. The condensation tank 190 is connected to the ambient temperature water zone 110 through the overflow channel 191. With this arrangement, the overflow channel 191 creates liquid communication between the condensation tank 190 and the ambient temperature water zone 110. When the liquid level in the condensation tank 190 is too high, excess condensate will flow into the ambient temperature water zone 110 through the overflow channel 191, thus achieving liquid level regulation and balance.

[0041] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 5 In this embodiment of the invention, the bottom wall of the overflow channel 191 is lower than the upper edge of the other side walls of the condensation tank 190. With this structure, since the bottom wall of the overflow channel 191 is lower than the upper edge of the other side walls of the condensation tank 190, the overflow direction is defined. Condensate can flow along the overflow channel 191 to the ambient temperature water zone 110, guiding the condensate into the ambient temperature water zone 110. This effectively removes condensate and prevents it from stagnating in the condensation tank 190, structurally improving stability.

[0042] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 5 In this embodiment of the invention, the sidewall of the room temperature water zone 110 is provided with a flow guiding structure 192, which is connected to the overflow channel 191 to guide the liquid into the room temperature water zone 110. With this design, condensate flows into the room temperature water zone 110 through the overflow channel 191 and the flow guiding structure 192. Through the flow path of the flow guiding structure 192, the liquid can be guided to the room temperature water zone 110 in an orderly manner, ensuring that the liquid can enter the required location. Furthermore, it can also promote the mixing of the liquid with the room temperature water.

[0043] Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the flow guiding structure 192 is a flow guiding channel, the width of which is adapted to the width of the overflow channel 191. Through this design, since the width of the flow guiding channel is adapted to the width of the overflow channel 191, condensate can smoothly flow into the room temperature water zone 110 through the flow guiding channel without encountering excessive resistance, achieving uniform liquid distribution and ensuring that the liquid maintains a certain speed and direction during flow.

[0044] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 5In this embodiment of the utility model, the condensation tank 190 is located outside the room temperature water zone 110, which helps to avoid heat exchange between the condensation tank 190 and the room temperature water zone 110 and achieves spatial separation.

[0045] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 5 as well as Figure 6 In this embodiment of the invention, the bottom wall of the ambient temperature water zone 110 is provided with an ambient temperature water outlet 161, and the condensation tank 190 is located at the upper part of the ambient temperature water zone 110, wherein the condensation tank 190 is disposed away from the ambient temperature water outlet 161. With the above structure, since the steam entering the condensation tank 190 has a certain amount of heat, in order to better provide ambient temperature water to the user, the condensation tank 190 is disposed away from the ambient temperature water outlet 161 to prevent the ambient temperature water temperature from being affected by the heat of the steam in the condensation tank 190.

[0046] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the invention, a steam inlet pipe 193 is provided on the side wall of the condensation tank 190, and the steam inlet pipe 193 is connected to the interior of the condensation tank 190. The steam inlet pipe 193 is located on the side of the condensation tank 190 facing away from the ambient temperature water zone 110. This structure avoids temperature cross-contamination between the steam and the ambient temperature water in the ambient temperature water zone 110, and the condensate overflowing from the overflow channel 191.

[0047] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 5 In this embodiment of the invention, the steam inlet pipe 193 is horizontally arranged. This design facilitates connecting one end of the connecting pipe to the steam outlet of the hot tank 600 and the other end to the steam inlet pipe 193, improving assembly convenience and production efficiency.

[0048] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 5 In this embodiment of the utility model, the width of the longitudinal section of the condensation tank 190 is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, which makes the condensation tank 190 relatively easy to demold. The contact area between the condensation tank 190 and the mold is small, which reduces the resistance during demolding and reduces the risk of possible damage or deformation. The longitudinal section shape with a wider top and narrower bottom has certain advantages in the manufacturing process, which can reduce the amount of material used, reduce manufacturing costs, and improve production efficiency.

[0049] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 5 In this embodiment of the utility model, the ambient temperature water zone 110 and the condensation tank 190 are both integrally integrated with the housing 100, which can reduce the connections and interfaces between the various structures, making the whole structure more compact, helping to save space, and simplifying the assembly and installation process.

[0050] Understandably, referring to Figures 1 to 8In this embodiment of the utility model, the ice maker includes an ice-making mechanism 200 and an ice storage component 300. The housing 100 is also provided with a cold water zone 120. The ice-making mechanism 200 is located inside the housing 100 and above the cold water zone 120. The ice storage component 300 is located inside the housing 100 and above the cold water zone 120. The ice outlet end of the ice-making mechanism 200 is connected to the ice storage component 300. The water produced by both the ice-making mechanism 200 and the ice storage component 300 can flow back to the cold water zone 120. The bottom of the room temperature water zone 110 is higher than the top of the cold water zone 120. With the above structure, the housing 100 is equipped with a normal temperature water zone 110 and a cold water zone 120. An ice-making mechanism 200 and an ice storage component 300 are located above the cold water zone 120. The cold air from both the ice-making mechanism 200 and the ice storage component 300 sinks, which facilitates the production of cold water. Furthermore, the cold water in the cold water zone 120 also helps to create a low-temperature environment for the ice-making mechanism 200 and the ice storage component 300, facilitating their operation. In addition, water used in the ice-making or ice-storage process can be returned to the cold water zone 120, improving water recycling efficiency. This ensures that the ice-making mechanism 200, the ice storage component 300, and the cold water zone 120 of the housing 100 are all functioning correctly. There is a connection between them. The ice-making mechanism 200 and the ice storage component 300 are not set up independently outside the box 100. The above structure reduces many independent components, improves the correlation of components and the rational arrangement of space, saves space, and makes the preparation of the ice maker simpler. At the same time, by making the bottom of the room temperature water zone 110 higher than the top of the cold water zone 120, there is a staggered height between the room temperature water zone 110 and the cold water zone 120, which conforms to the principle that hot air rises and cold air falls. This not only avoids the problem of temperature crossing between room temperature water and cold water, but also controls the water inlet and outlet speeds through the water level difference.

[0051] It should be noted that, referring to Figures 4 to 6 In some embodiments of this utility model, the ice maker further includes a lid 400. The interior of the housing 100 has a recessed chamber with an upper opening. Part of the chamber forms a room temperature water zone 110 and a cold water zone 120, while the other part forms an ice-making zone for installing the ice-making mechanism 200 and an ice-storage zone for installing the ice-storage component 300. The lid 400 covers the opening of the chamber in the housing 100 and is detachably connected to the housing 100. With this structure, the chamber has an upper opening, allowing the operator to easily arrange the water tank components and install the parts, improving operational convenience. Because the lid 400 is detachably connected to the housing 100, the operator can easily open the lid 400 for cleaning or maintenance, maintaining the hygiene and good condition of the water tank components. This ensures a secure and reliable connection between the lid 400 and the housing 100, preventing accidental detachment or leakage.

[0052] Specifically, in some embodiments of this utility model, the connection between the lid 400 and the body 100 is a combination of snap-fit ​​connection and bolt connection; of course, in some embodiments, the connection between the lid 400 and the body 100 may be only a snap-fit ​​connection or only a bolt connection, etc., which is not limited here.

[0053] It should also be noted that, referring to Figures 1 to 8 In this embodiment of the utility model, after the ice-making mechanism 200 finishes making ice, it is transported to the ice storage component 300. The water generated during the ice-making process of the ice-making mechanism 200 and the water generated in the ice storage component 300 are both returned to the cold water zone 120 under the action of gravity, thereby improving the water recycling rate.

[0054] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 8 In this embodiment of the invention, the ice-making mechanism 200 is located horizontally between the ice storage component 300 and the room temperature water zone 110. With this arrangement, when both the ice storage component 300 and the ice-making mechanism 200 are in use, the room temperature water zone 110 is separated from the ice storage component 300 by the ice-making mechanism 200, thus preventing heat exchange between the room temperature water and the stored ice.

[0055] Specifically, refer to Figures 1 to 8 In this embodiment of the invention, the normal temperature water zone 110 and the cold water zone 120 are arranged with their orthographic projections on the horizontal plane staggered. This staggered arrangement allows for full utilization of space and improves ease of use while ensuring the stability of the water tank.

[0056] It is understood that in this embodiment of the invention, the ambient temperature water zone 110 is connected to the cold water zone 120 so as to replenish water to the cold water zone 120 through the ambient temperature water zone 110. With the above structure, the replenishment of water to the cold water zone 120 is achieved through the ambient temperature water zone 110, so that the replenishment pipelines of the ambient temperature water zone 110 and the cold water zone 120 are the same, which reduces the amount of materials used, lowers the cost, and simplifies the procedure.

[0057] It should also be noted that, referring to Figures 1 to 8 In this embodiment of the utility model, the ambient temperature water zone 110 and the cold water zone 120 are arranged adjacent to each other, making it easier and faster to replenish the cold water zone 120, improving the water replenishment efficiency, and the spatial layout is reasonable and saves space.

[0058] Specifically, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 5 to 8In this embodiment of the invention, the housing 100 is provided with a partition 130, which is located between the ambient temperature water zone 110 and the cold water zone 120. The top of the partition 130 has an overflow groove 131, allowing water in the ambient temperature water zone 110 to overflow into the cold water zone 120. With this structure, the partition 130 separates the ambient temperature water zone 110 and the cold water zone 120, providing physical isolation and ensuring that ambient temperature water and cold water do not mix directly. The overflow groove 131 allows water in the ambient temperature water zone 110 to flow into the cold water zone 120 after the zone is full, thus replenishing the cold water zone 120. Simultaneously, the design of the partition 130 also helps improve the structural stability and strength of the housing 100. Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the overflow groove 131 is located at the end of the partition 130 furthest from the condensate tank 190. Understandably, the above design is adopted to prevent heat exchange between water and the medium in the condensation tank 190, and to avoid temperature cross-contamination that would cause room temperature water to overflow into the cold water zone 120 at an excessively high temperature, which would be detrimental to users obtaining cold water and ice making machines.

[0059] It should be noted that, referring to Figure 7 In this embodiment of the invention, the ice maker further includes a water tank 500 and a heating tank 600. The water tank 500 uses a diaphragm pump 700 to deliver room temperature water to the room temperature water zone 110 of the water tank. Water overflows from the room temperature water zone 110 and replenishes the cold water zone 120. The inlet of the heating tank 600 is connected to the room temperature water zone 110 to provide hot water to the user. The cold water zone 120 uses a cold water pump to deliver cold water to the user or to the ice-making mechanism 200. The steam generated in the heating tank 600 flows back to the condenser tank 190. After the steam in the condenser tank 190 condenses, excess condensate overflows into the room temperature water zone 110, enriching the functionality, improving practicality, and enabling water recycling, thus saving resources. Of course, referring to… Figure 6 In some embodiments, the ice maker described above may also include only a water tank 500 and a heatless tank 600, which is not limited here.

[0060] Understandably, referring to Figure 2 Figures 5 to 7 In some other embodiments of this utility model, the housing 100 is provided with a cold water outlet 141, which is connected to the interior of the cold water zone 120. The overflow groove 131 is located away from the cold water outlet 141. With the above design, when room temperature water overflows into the cold water zone 120 through the overflow groove 131, since the overflow groove 131 is a certain distance from the cold water outlet 141, it takes a certain amount of time for the overflow water to flow into the cold water outlet 141. There is a mixing process between the room temperature water and the cold water in the cold water zone 120. This not only prevents room temperature water from flowing out directly through the cold water outlet 141, but also prevents the water temperature from being too high when the user uses the cold water function, thus improving the user experience.

[0061] Understandably, referring to Figure 2 Figures 5 to 7 In this embodiment of the invention, the housing 100 is provided with a cold water drain pipe 142 and a first filter structure 150. The cold water drain pipe 142 is connected to the cold water outlet 141, and the first filter structure 150 is located between the cold water outlet 141 and the cold water drain pipe 142. With the above structure and the first filter structure 150, foreign objects (e.g., bolts, debris, etc.) or small pieces of molten ice falling into the cold water drain pipe 142 during production and assembly, thus affecting the cold water output.

[0062] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the utility model, the cold water in the cold water zone 120 is only transported to the water outlet of the ice maker and to the ice-making mechanism 200 for ice making through the cold water drain pipe 142, and is spatially separated from the room temperature water zone 110, which can effectively prevent heat exchange.

[0063] Specifically, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 5 In this embodiment of the present invention, the first filter structure 150 is a first grid plate connected to the housing 100, and the first grid plate is provided with a plurality of first grid holes 151. Through the above arrangement, the presence of the first grid plate can enhance the strength and stability of the entire structure, enabling it to withstand external forces and vibrations. The structure is simple and easy to manufacture.

[0064] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the present invention, the cold water outlet 141 is located on the bottom wall of the cold water zone 120, and the first filter structure 150 is also located on the bottom wall of the cold water zone 120. The first filter structure 150, i.e., the first grid plate, is an integral structure with the housing 100. Of course, in some embodiments, the first grid plate can also be fixedly connected to the housing 100 by means of snap-fit ​​or other methods, or the first filter structure 150 can be a filter screen, which is not limited here.

[0065] Understandably, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 5 In this embodiment of the invention, the housing 100 is provided with a room temperature water pipe 162, and the room temperature water outlet 161 is connected to the interior of the room temperature water zone 110 and the room temperature water pipe 162. A second filter structure 170 is provided between the room temperature water pipe 162 and the room temperature water outlet. With the above structure and the second filter structure 170, foreign objects (such as bolts, debris, etc.) during production assembly or use can be prevented from falling into the room temperature water pipe 162 and affecting the water output effect of room temperature water.

[0066] Specifically, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 5In this embodiment of the invention, the second filter structure 170 is a second grid plate connected to the housing 100, and the second grid plate is provided with a plurality of second grid holes 171. Through the above arrangement, the presence of the second grid plate can enhance the strength and stability of the entire structure, enabling it to withstand external forces and vibrations. The structure is simple and easy to manufacture.

[0067] Specifically, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 5 In this embodiment of the invention, the ambient temperature drain outlet 161 is located on the bottom wall of the ambient temperature water zone 110, and a blocking structure 180 is provided on the bottom wall of the ambient temperature water zone 110. The blocking structure 180 is located on one side of the second filter structure 170, and the blocking structure 180 has a blocking spacing 181, the width of which is smaller than the width of the second filter structure 170. With the above design, in this embodiment, the width of the blocking spacing 181 is smaller than the width of the second filter structure 170, preventing foreign objects from flowing to the location of the second filter structure 170. It should also be noted that in this embodiment, the blocking spacing 181 is smaller than the head of the bolt. When a foreign object, such as a bolt, passes through the blocking structure 180, the head of the bolt abuts against the blocking structure 180, preventing the bolt from continuing to move, and further blocking the flow of foreign objects into the ambient temperature drain pipe 162 in conjunction with the second filter structure 170.

[0068] Specifically, refer to Figure 2 In this embodiment of the invention, the blocking structure 180 includes two baffles 182. The opposite ends of the two baffles 182 are respectively connected to the opposite side walls of the room temperature water zone 110. The two baffles 182 are spaced apart to form a blocking gap 181. With the above structure, the two sides of the head of the bolt abut against the two baffles 182 respectively, restricting the movement of the bolt. The structure is simple and easy to manufacture.

[0069] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned ambient temperature water outlet 161 is located on the bottom wall of the ambient temperature water zone 110, and the second filter structure 170 is also located on the bottom wall of the ambient temperature water zone 110. The second filter structure 170, i.e., the second grid plate, is an integral structure with the housing 100, which can reduce the connections and interfaces between components, making the entire structure more compact, helping to save space, and simplifying the assembly and installation process. Of course, in some embodiments, the second grid plate can also be fixedly connected to the housing 100 by means of snap-fit ​​or other methods, or the aforementioned second filter structure 170 can be a filter screen, which is not limited here.

[0070] Specifically, refer to Figure 2In this embodiment of the invention, the two baffles 182 are inclined, and the distance between the two baffles 182 on opposite sides along their length gradually decreases towards the second filter structure 170, so as to facilitate the flow of room temperature water to the second filter structure 170 and play a guiding role. Similarly, it should be noted that the two baffles 182 and the housing 100 are an integral structure, which can reduce the connections and interfaces between components, making the entire structure more compact, helping to save space, and simplifying the assembly and installation process.

[0071] It should be noted that, referring to Figure 6 In this embodiment, the bottom wall of the ambient temperature water zone 110 is provided with a trapezoidal first flow guide groove 111, and the two opposite ends of the first flow guide groove 111 are respectively connected to the blocking distance 181 and the ambient temperature water outlet 161; the bottom wall of the cold water zone 120 is provided with a trapezoidal second flow guide groove 121, and the end of the second flow guide groove 121 is connected to the cold water outlet 141.

[0072] Understandably, referring to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 6 to 8 In this embodiment of the utility model, a first liquid level switch 810 is provided in the room temperature water zone 110, and a second liquid level switch 820 is provided in the cold water zone 120. Reasonable selection and installation of the first liquid level switch 810 and the second liquid level switch 820 can help control the liquid level and control the water replenishment operation, and avoid the overflow of the cold water zone 120 or the leakage of both the room temperature water zone 110 and the cold water zone 120.

[0073] It should be noted that in this embodiment of the present invention, the position at which the first liquid level switch 810 detects the full water high liquid level state of the ambient temperature water zone 110 is lower than the bottom wall of the overflow groove 131, so that when the ambient temperature water zone 110 is full of water, the diaphragm pump 700 continues to work, so that the ambient temperature water zone 110 is replenished with water to the cold water zone 120.

[0074] In this embodiment of the invention, the working process of the ice maker is as follows:

[0075] Initially, the first level switch 810 of the water tank detects the liquid level in the ambient temperature water zone 110, and the second level switch 820 detects the liquid level in the cold water zone 120. When the first level switch 810 and the second level switch 820 sense a low liquid level (the circuits of both the first level switch 810 and the second level switch 820 can be either open or closed initially), the diaphragm pump 700 is started to pump water from the water tank 500 into the ambient temperature water zone 110 of the water tank. The water level continues to rise until the ambient temperature level switch senses a high liquid level (the circuit of the first level switch 810 changes from open to closed or from closed to open), and the diaphragm pump 700 continues to work. The water level in the ambient temperature water zone 110 continues to rise to the top overflow groove 131 of the baffle 130, and water overflows into the cold water zone 120 until the second level switch 820 of the cold water zone 120 senses a high liquid level (the circuit of the second level switch 820 changes from open to closed or from closed to open), at which point the diaphragm pump 700 stops.

[0076] When cold water, room temperature water (without a heating tank 600), or hot water is dispensed, the first liquid level switch 810 and the second liquid level switch 820 sense the drop in the liquid level in their respective areas (the circuits of the first liquid level switch 810 and the second liquid level switch 820 change from open to closed or from closed to open), and the diaphragm pump 700 is started to replenish water.

[0077] When water is drawn from the cold water zone 120 to the ice-making mechanism 200 for ice making, the second liquid level switch 820 of the cold water zone 120 senses the drop in liquid level (the circuit of the second liquid level switch 820 changes from open to closed or from closed to open), and starts the diaphragm pump 700 to replenish water.

[0078] If the diaphragm pump 700 operates for more than the set time without water intake or ice making, the ice maker's control system will detect a leak or that the water tank 500 is empty, stop the diaphragm pump 700, and display an alarm.

[0079] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, regarding leakage determination: for example, when no room temperature water is being drawn, the flow rate of the diaphragm pump 700 is constant, and the volume of the room temperature water zone 110 is constant. Therefore, the volume of the room temperature water zone 110 is the ratio of the sum of the flow rate and the remaining capacity of the diaphragm pump 700. This ratio represents the set operating time of the diaphragm pump 700. Therefore, if the diaphragm pump 700 exceeds the set operating time and the first liquid level switch 810 has not yet indicated a high liquid level, it can be determined that leakage has occurred in the room temperature water zone 110. If the water tank is 500; or, if the cold water zone 120 is not drawing cold water or is not drawing cold water for ice making, the flow rate of the diaphragm pump 700 is constant, and the volume of the cold water zone 120 is constant. Therefore, the volume of the cold water zone 120 is the ratio of the sum of the flow rate and the remaining capacity of the diaphragm pump 700. This ratio is the working set time of the diaphragm pump 700. Therefore, if the diaphragm pump 700 exceeds the working set time and the second liquid level switch 820 has not yet indicated a high liquid level, it can be determined that there is a leak in the cold water zone 120 or that the water tank 500 is empty.

[0080] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the present utility model and are not intended to limit the present utility model. Although the present utility model has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of the present utility model do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present utility model and should be covered within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A water tank component, characterized in that, include: The enclosure is equipped with a room temperature water zone; The box is equipped with a condensation tank, which is used to collect the steam generated by the ice maker during heating. The condensation tank is connected to the room temperature water zone, and the water in the condensation tank flows back to the room temperature water zone.

2. The water tank component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing is provided with an overflow channel, which is located between the condensation tank and the ambient temperature water zone. The condensation tank is connected to the ambient temperature water zone through the overflow channel.

3. The water tank component according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bottom wall of the overflow channel is lower than the upper edge of the other side walls of the condensation tank.

4. The water tank component according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sidewall of the ambient temperature water zone is provided with a flow guiding structure, which is connected to the overflow channel to guide the liquid into the ambient temperature water zone.

5. The water tank component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The flow guiding structure is a flow guiding channel, and the width of the flow guiding channel is adapted to the width of the overflow channel.

6. The water tank component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The condensation tank is located outside the ambient temperature water zone.

7. The water tank component according to claim 6, characterized in that, The bottom wall of the ambient temperature water zone is provided with an ambient temperature water outlet, and the condensation tank is located at the top of the ambient temperature water zone, wherein the condensation tank is located away from the ambient temperature water outlet.

8. The water tank component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The side wall of the condensation tank is provided with a steam inlet pipe, which is connected to the interior of the condensation tank. The steam inlet pipe is located on the side of the condensation tank away from the room temperature water zone.

9. The water tank component according to claim 8, characterized in that, The steam inlet pipe is horizontally positioned.

10. The water tank component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The longitudinal cross-section of the condensation tank is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

11. The water tank component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ambient temperature water zone and the condensation tank are both integrally integrated with the housing.

12. An ice maker, characterized in that, Includes the water tank component as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.