Refrigerator

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model relates to the technical field of refrigeration, in particular to a refrigerator. According to the ion generator disclosed by the embodiment of the invention, the plasma is generated by arranging the opposite electrode group, so that the effect of sterilizing the refrigerating chamber can be achieved, and the plasma can also decompose peculiar smell molecules to achieve the purification effect. The third electrode is arranged outside the area of the opposite electrode set and used for generating the air negative ions, the air negative ions adsorb the planktonic bacteria in the refrigerating chamber, and the effect of removing the planktonic bacteria is achieved. According to the ion generator, the plasma can be generated, the air negative ions can also be generated, the plasma and the air negative ions are complementary, and the sterilization and odor removal effects on the refrigerating chamber are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigeration technology, and more particularly to a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] A refrigerator is a refrigeration device that maintains a constant low temperature, keeping food or other items at a constant temperature. During long-term food storage, food can produce various odors, and when these odors mix, they can create unpleasant smells, affecting the air quality inside the refrigerator. Therefore, more and more refrigerators are equipped with air purification devices to remove odors.

[0003] In related technologies, refrigerators are equipped with ion generators. The opposing electrodes of the ion generator discharge to produce plasma, which has the functions of removing attached bacteria and removing odors.

[0004] However, the existing ion generators are not effective at sterilization. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides a refrigerator to improve sterilization effects.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, which includes:

[0007] The cabinet is constructed to form a cold storage compartment with an access opening;

[0008] The door is hinged to the box body to open or close the loading / unloading port;

[0009] A refrigeration system, installed inside the cabinet, is used to reduce the air temperature in the cold storage compartment;

[0010] An ion generator is installed in the housing; the ion generator includes:

[0011] The outer shell component is configured to form a receiving cavity and a connecting port, the receiving cavity being connected to the cold storage compartment through the connecting port;

[0012] An opposing electrode assembly is located within the accommodating cavity; the opposing electrode assembly includes a first electrode and a second electrode, which are disposed opposite to each other; the first electrode and the second electrode are used together to ionize air to generate plasma;

[0013] The third electrode is used to generate negative air ions; the third electrode is located outside the region between the first electrode and the second electrode; a portion of the third electrode is located inside the accommodating cavity, and a portion of the third electrode is exposed outside the outer shell component.

[0014] The ion generator of this embodiment produces plasma by setting up a counter electrode group. This not only sterilizes the refrigerator compartment but also decomposes odor molecules, thus purifying it. A third electrode is placed outside the counter electrode group area to generate negative air ions. These negative air ions adsorb airborne bacteria in the refrigerator compartment, effectively removing them. The ion generator of this embodiment can generate both plasma and negative air ions; these two functions complement each other, improving the sterilization and odor removal effects on the refrigerator compartment.

[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the outer surface of the outer shell member opposite to the accommodating cavity is configured to form a recessed portion, and the recessed portion forms a through structure;

[0016] The third electrode is exposed to the outer casing component through the through structure.

[0017] In this embodiment, a recess is formed on the outer side of the housing component to accommodate the exposed portion of the third electrode; the through structure provided in the recess is used to fix the third electrode and ensure the stability of the third electrode position.

[0018] In some embodiments of this application, along the extending direction of the through structure and from the outer end of the through structure toward the recess, the sidewall of the recess is inclined outward away from the center of the through structure.

[0019] This design creates a diffused shape in the recessed area, providing a larger space for the diffusion of negative air ions and thus aiding in their diffusion.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, a fixing member is provided inside the accommodating cavity, and the fixing member is opposite to the through structure along the extension direction of the through structure; the end of the through structure opposite to the recessed portion extends and passes through the fixing member.

[0021] The embodiments of this application improve the stability and reliability of the third electrode installed in the through structure by setting a fixing member in the accommodating cavity, thereby increasing the axial dimension of the through structure.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, a reinforcing member is further provided inside the accommodating cavity, and the reinforcing member connects the fixing member and the outer shell component.

[0023] This design can improve the structural strength and stability of the fasteners and housing components.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, the ion generator further includes a drive circuit board, which is fixed inside the accommodating cavity;

[0025] The drive circuit board is electrically connected to the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode, respectively; the drive circuit board is configured to control the energizing state of the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode.

[0026] In this embodiment, the ion generator uses a drive circuit board to control the energizing state of the first, second, and third electrodes. The drive circuit board is fixed within the housing cavity, thus integrating the electrodes and control devices of the ion generator into the outer casing, making the ion generator more compact and easier to install.

[0027] In some embodiments of this application, the opposing electrode group and the third electrode are located on different sides of the drive circuit board.

[0028] In this way, the third electrode is located outside the area of ​​the opposing electrode group, which can prevent discharge between the third electrode and the first and second electrodes. Moreover, it can also ensure sufficient electrical connection space between the electrode and the drive circuit board.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, the housing component includes two first side plates, which are opposite to each other and spaced apart along a first direction; the dimensions of the two first side plates along a second direction and along a third direction are both greater than the spacing between the two first side plates along the first direction.

[0030] The drive circuit board is arranged between the two first side plates and parallel to the first side plates;

[0031] Wherein, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0032] This arrangement of the drive circuit board allows for a larger area for arranging electrical components, while also making the ion generator as a whole flat and more compact.

[0033] In some embodiments of this application, the opposing electrode group is located on one side of the driving circuit board along the third direction; the first electrode is electrically connected to the driving circuit board, and the second electrode is grounded; the second electrode is opposite to and spaced from the first electrode along the third direction, and the second electrode is opposite to and spaced from the driving circuit board along the third direction.

[0034] The portions of the two first side plates located between the second electrode and the driving circuit board are provided with first through holes;

[0035] The communication port includes the first through hole.

[0036] In this embodiment, the first electrode and the second electrode are disposed on one side of the drive circuit board along a third direction, so that there is sufficient space for the arrangement of the first electrode and the second electrode; and, a first through hole is provided in the interval between the two first side plates located between the drive circuit board and the second electrode, so that the plasma generated by the discharge of the first electrode and the second electrode can quickly enter the air supply duct through the first through hole, reduce the residence path of the plasma in the accommodating cavity, help improve the diffusion efficiency of the plasma, and thus help improve the sterilization and deodorization effect of the ion generator.

[0037] In some embodiments of this application, the third electrode is located on one side of the driving circuit board along the second direction, and the two first side plates are respectively provided with second through holes on both sides of the third electrode along the third direction; the communication port further includes the second through holes.

[0038] In this embodiment, the third electrode is located on one side of the driving circuit board along the second direction, and is located on a different side of the driving circuit board from the opposing electrode group, thus avoiding mutual interference between the two. By providing second through holes on both sides of the third electrode along the third direction, the area of ​​the communication port is further increased, and convection is formed between the first and second through holes, which is more conducive to plasma entering the air supply duct from the accommodating cavity.

[0039] In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerator further includes an air duct structure installed in the refrigerator compartment. The air duct structure is configured to form an air outlet. The air duct structure and the rear cavity wall of the refrigerator compartment together form an air supply duct. The air supply duct is connected to the air outlet. The air supply duct is configured to introduce cold air passing through the evaporator of the refrigeration system into the refrigerator compartment through the air outlet.

[0040] The outer casing component is installed on the air duct structure and is located near one end of the air outlet;

[0041] The accommodating cavity is connected to the air supply duct through the connecting port.

[0042] In this embodiment, the accommodating component is installed on the air duct structure and near the air outlet, thereby allowing the ion generator to be installed on the air duct structure and near the air outlet, which helps ions to quickly enter the cold storage compartment.

[0043] In some embodiments of this application, the air duct structure is configured to form an installation groove, the opening of which faces the rear cavity wall of the cold storage compartment;

[0044] The outer casing component is accommodated in the mounting groove and engages with the air duct structure.

[0045] This embodiment of the application constructs an installation groove in the air duct structure to accommodate the outer shell component, thereby reducing the installation space occupied by the outer shell component in the depth direction of the refrigerator. The outer shell component is snapped into the air duct structure, and the connection method is stable and reliable.

[0046] In some embodiments of this application, there is a gap between the side of the outer shell component where the third electrode is disposed and the rear cavity wall of the cold storage compartment.

[0047] The negative air ions generated by this third electrode can quickly enter the air supply duct through the gap, and enter the cold storage compartment under the action of the airflow in the air supply duct, which helps to improve the diffusion rate of negative air ions.

[0048] In some embodiments of this application, the mounting slot has an opening on one side along the width direction of the refrigerator, and the mounting slot communicates with the air supply duct through the opening; the outer casing component is exposed in the air supply duct through the opening; and the third electrode is disposed on the side of the outer casing component facing the opening.

[0049] With this setup, the third electrode is exposed in the air supply duct. In this way, the negative air ions generated by the third electrode can quickly enter the cold storage compartment under the influence of the airflow in the air supply duct, shortening the residence time of the negative air ions in the air supply duct, improving the sterilization rate of the negative air ions, and also reducing the problem of electrostatic dust collection in the cold storage compartment.

[0050] In some embodiments of this application, the third electrode is exposed inside the cold storage room.

[0051] This allows the negative air ions generated by the third electrode to directly enter the cold storage compartment, improving the sterilization effect.

[0052] In some embodiments of this application, the third electrode is a carbon brush electrode.

[0053] The third electrode can be a carbon brush electrode, which not only has good conductivity but also reduces the generation of electrical sparks.

[0054] In some embodiments of this application, the voltage of the third electrode is a negative voltage, and the voltage value of the third electrode is greater than 1.5kV and less than 5kV.

[0055] Thus, a negative voltage is applied to the third electrode, with a value greater than 1.5kV and less than 5kV. This setting reduces the probability of electrostatic dust collection by using a relatively small voltage value for the third electrode. Attached Figure Description

[0056] To more clearly illustrate the implementation methods in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 2 Exploded views of the box liner, air duct structure, and ion generator provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0059] Figure 3 Exploded views of the box liner, air duct structure, and ion generator provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0060] Figure 4 Exploded views of the air duct structure and ion generator provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0061] Figure 5 Rear view of the box liner, air duct structure, and ion generator provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 6 for Figure 5 AA section view in the middle;

[0063] Figure 7 for Figure 6 An enlarged schematic diagram of region P in the diagram;

[0064] Figure 8 A rear view of the air duct structure and the ion generator provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0065] Figure 9 A rear view of the housing component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 10 for Figure 9 BB section view in the middle;

[0067] Figure 11 Exploded view of the outer casing component provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0068] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ion generator cover plate removal part provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 13 for Figure 12 Exploded view of the middle structure;

[0070] Figure 14 A front view of the housing portion provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 15 for Figure 12 Front view of the structure.

[0072] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0073] 10: Cabinet body; 11: Refrigerated compartment; 12: Cabinet liner; 13: Rear wall; 14: Recessed structural part; 20: Door; 30: Ion generator;

[0074] 100: Outer shell component; 101: Receiving cavity; 102: Connecting opening; 1021: First through hole; 1022: Second through hole; 103: Recessed portion; 104: Through structure; 110: Fixing member; 120: Reinforcing member; 130: First side plate; 131: Protruding ridge; 140: Second side plate; 150: Third side plate; 160: Shell portion; 161: Partition plate; 162: Fixing groove; 163: Limiting plate; 170: Cover portion; 171: Second buckle;

[0075] 200: Opposite electrode group; 210: First electrode; 220: Second electrode;

[0076] 300: Third electrode;

[0077] 400: Driver circuit board;

[0078] 500: Duct structure; 501: Air outlet; 502: Air supply duct; 5021: First section of duct; 5022: Second section of duct; 503: Mounting groove; 504: Cable tray; 505: Return air duct; 506: Return air outlet; 510: Duct component; 511: Boss; 520: Duct cover; 521: First clip. Detailed Implementation

[0079] To make the objectives, implementation methods and advantages of this application clearer, the exemplary implementation methods of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the exemplary embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described exemplary embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0080] It should be noted that the brief descriptions of terms in this application are only for the convenience of understanding the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. Unless otherwise stated, these terms should be understood in their ordinary and common meaning.

[0081] Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover but not exclusively include, for example, a product or device that includes a series of components is not necessarily limited to those that are explicitly listed, but may include other components that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such product or device.

[0082] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They 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, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0083] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0084] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" 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; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0085] Refrigerators generate various odors during food storage, especially from stale or spoiled food, which emits a rotten and unpleasant smell. When these odors mix, they can create unpleasant smells, affecting the air quality within the refrigerator and consequently impacting the storage of other items. More importantly, rotten food breeds a large number of bacteria, compromising food safety. The unpleasant odors emanating from the refrigerator after opening the door severely impact the user experience.

[0086] In related technologies, an ion generator is installed in the refrigerator. The two opposing electrodes of the ion generator discharge at high voltage, ionizing the gas between the two electrodes to form plasma. This plasma then removes attached bacteria and odors.

[0087] However, microorganisms can also suspend in the air using fine dust particles and aerosols as carriers, forming airborne bacteria that move with air circulation. Experiments have shown that existing ion generators struggle to achieve high removal efficiency for airborne bacteria in a short time, resulting in poor removal performance. For example, ion generators in related technologies do not achieve a removal rate of over 99% in a 400L container after 40 minutes. The main reason is that the concentration of negative ions generated by existing ion generators is not high enough; for example, the concentration of negative ions generated by ion generators in related technologies is less than 500,000 ions / cm³.

[0088] There are multiple technologies for removing airborne bacteria, such as filtration, heating, radiation, chemicals, and electrostatic adsorption.

[0089] Filtration is an effective method for removing microorganisms from the air. Through high-efficiency filters, airborne microorganisms and dust particles are captured, and due to the lack of suitable living conditions, the microorganisms cannot survive or reproduce.

[0090] Heating method: Spores suspended in the air can be killed by holding them at 218°C for 24 seconds. This method is suitable for killing microorganisms in high-temperature environments.

[0091] Radiation method: This method uses radiation energy to kill microorganisms in the air. It is effective under certain conditions, but the radiation dose needs to be strictly controlled to avoid harm to the environment and human body.

[0092] Chemical method: Use chemical agents, such as peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide complex or hydrogen peroxide silver ions, as sterilizing agents. These chemicals can effectively kill various microorganisms, including bacterial spores.

[0093] Electrostatic adsorption method: This method effectively removes airborne bacteria by adsorbing microorganisms and particulate matter through electrostatic attraction. Negative ion generators can produce high concentrations of negative ions, for example, exceeding 2 million ions / cm³, and even reaching over 5 million ions / cm³. Negative ions are negatively charged oxygen molecules that can combine with positively charged dust and microorganisms, effectively causing airborne bacteria to settle.

[0094] Therefore, considering the characteristics of refrigerators, the researchers of this application used a negative ion generator to produce negative ions in order to improve the removal of airborne bacteria and enhance the deodorizing effect of the refrigerator.

[0095] In order to ensure the existing odor removal effect, the researchers of this application added a third electrode to the ion generator, which has two opposing electrodes. A negative voltage is applied to the third electrode, and a large number of electrons are released at the third electrode. The electrons attach to oxygen molecules in the air and form a large number of negative air ions, which adsorb and settle airborne bacteria in the refrigerator, thereby improving the odor removal and sterilization effects.

[0096] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0097] Combination Figure 1 Some embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, which includes a cabinet 10, the cabinet 10 being configured to form a storage compartment with an access opening for storing items.

[0098] Multiple storage compartments can be provided to expand storage space. Depending on the storage temperature of the storage compartments, the storage compartments may include at least one refrigerated compartment 11 and at least one frozen compartment. The internal temperature of the refrigerated compartment 11 can be maintained between approximately 0°C and 5°C for storing items in refrigeration mode; the internal temperature of the frozen compartment can be maintained between approximately -30°C and 0°C for storing items in freezing mode.

[0099] In some possible implementations, at least one of the storage compartments may also be configured as a vacuum chamber or a variable temperature chamber, etc., which will not be described in detail in the embodiments of this application.

[0100] For example, there may be two storage compartments, which may be stacked vertically or arranged side by side horizontally. One of them may be a refrigerator compartment 11, and the other may be a freezer compartment.

[0101] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1 and Figure 2 The refrigerator body 10 may include a refrigerator liner 12 and a refrigerator shell. The refrigerator liner 12 may be configured to form a storage compartment with a front opening. The refrigerator shell may be attached to the outside of the refrigerator liner 12 to form the appearance of a refrigerator.

[0102] The cabinet 10 may also include a heat insulation layer, which can be disposed between the inner cabinet 12 and the outer cabinet. The heat insulation layer can keep the storage compartment warm, so as to minimize the heat exchange between the storage compartment and the outside of the refrigerator, which helps to ensure the cooling effect of the refrigerator.

[0103] The refrigerator in this embodiment may further include a refrigeration system for reducing the air temperature in the storage compartment. Exemplarily, the refrigeration system may be housed within the cabinet 10. The refrigeration system may include a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator connected in a cycle.

[0104] During refrigeration system operation, the compressor compresses refrigerant vapor, generating high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, and delivers it to the condenser. The condenser liquefies the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, generating high-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant liquid, which is then delivered to the expansion valve. The expansion valve reduces the pressure of the refrigerant liquid, transforming it from a high-pressure, low-temperature liquid into a low-pressure, low-temperature liquid, which is then delivered to the evaporator. The evaporator receives the low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid and boils it under isobaric conditions, absorbing heat and vaporizing to form refrigerant vapor, thereby lowering the temperature inside the storage compartment.

[0105] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The refrigerator in this embodiment may further include a door 20, which is rotatably connected to the cabinet 10 to open or close the storage compartment. Exemplarily, the door 20 is hinged to the cabinet 10.

[0106] Each storage room may be equipped with one door 20; or, each storage room may be equipped with two doors 20, which may rotate in opposite directions to open or close the storage room.

[0107] Of course, in some possible implementations, the storage room is equipped with drawers, and the outer ends of the drawers form a door 20.

[0108] In some embodiments, the door 20 may include an inner door liner. When the door 20 is closed, the inner door liner faces the refrigerator compartment 11.

[0109] The door 20 may include a door shell; the door shell may be attached to the outside of the door liner to form the appearance of the door 20. The door shell may be rotatably connected to the cabinet 10 to allow the door 20 to open or close the refrigerator compartment 11.

[0110] The door body 20 may also include a door insulation component, which can be disposed within the gap between the inner door liner and the outer door shell. The door insulation component insulates the storage compartment to minimize heat exchange between the storage compartment and the outside of the refrigerator, thus ensuring the refrigerator's cooling performance. The door insulation component can be a foam layer.

[0111] In some embodiments, a door shelf is provided on the side of the door 20 facing the refrigerator compartment 11 to increase the storage space of the refrigerator. The door shelf has an upward-opening storage cavity for storing items.

[0112] The refrigerator in this embodiment may also include an ion generator 30, which is installed in the cabinet 10 and configured to generate air ions to purify and sterilize.

[0113] In some embodiments, the ion generator 30 is configured to generate plasma, which is a state of matter containing a large number of high-energy particles, including electrons, ions, free radicals and excited-state molecules. These active particles can react with bacteria and odor molecules to achieve sterilization and deodorization.

[0114] The reactive oxygen species (such as ozone O3 and monatomic oxygen O) and hydroxyl radicals (-OH) generated in plasma have strong oxidizing capabilities. These reactive substances can destroy the cell walls and cell membranes of bacteria, causing them to lose activity or die, thus playing a role in sterilization.

[0115] Odors in refrigerators are typically composed of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other odor molecules. Reactive oxygen species and free radicals in plasma can oxidize these molecules, breaking them down into odorless small molecules or harmless substances such as carbon dioxide and water.

[0116] In some embodiments, the ion generator 30 is further configured to generate negative air ions, which carry a negative charge, while bacteria, viruses, dust, and other particles in the air carry a positive or neutral charge. Due to electrostatic effects, the negative air ions can be adsorbed onto the surface of bacteria, altering the charge balance of the bacteria. This adsorption can cause bacteria to aggregate, making them more prone to condensation and sedimentation, thereby reducing the amount of fine particles such as bacteria, viruses, and dust in the air. Negative oxygen ions have high chemical activity and can undergo oxidation reactions with molecules on the bacterial cell wall. This oxidation reaction can damage the bacterial cell wall and cell membrane, causing the bacteria to lose activity or die.

[0117] In some embodiments, the ion generator 30 can be installed inside the cold storage compartment 11, which facilitates the direct entry of plasma and negative air ions into the cold storage compartment 11. The short path of plasma and negative air ions helps to improve the sterilization and purification rate.

[0118] In other embodiments, the ion generator 30 can also be installed in the space between the inner liner 12 and the outer shell, so as to avoid the ion generator 30 occupying the storage space in the cold storage compartment 11.

[0119] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerator also includes an air duct structure 500 installed in the refrigerator compartment 11. The air duct structure 500 is configured to form an air outlet 501 for delivering cold air toward the refrigerator compartment 11.

[0120] The air duct structure 500 and the rear cavity wall 13 of the cold storage compartment 11 together form an air supply duct 502, which is connected to the air outlet 501. The air supply duct 502 is configured to introduce the cold air passing through the evaporator of the refrigeration system into the cold storage compartment 11 through the air outlet 501 to reduce the air temperature of the cold storage compartment 11.

[0121] In some embodiments, the ion generator 30 can be installed on the air duct structure 500. The ion generator 30 is first installed on the air duct structure 500, and then the air duct structure 500 is installed inside the box liner 12, making the installation of the ion generator 30 convenient.

[0122] The plasma and negative air ions generated by the ion generator 30 can enter the cold storage compartment 11 through the air supply duct 502 and the air outlet 501, which can play a role in sterilization and deodorization.

[0123] The ion generator 30 is located on the side of the air supply duct 502, that is, the ion generator 30 is not located inside the air supply duct 502, so as to avoid increasing the air supply resistance and affecting the air supply rate of the cold storage compartment 11.

[0124] In some embodiments, the air duct structure 500 is further configured to form a return air inlet 506 and a return air duct 505, the return air duct 505 being connected to the refrigerator compartment 11 through the return air inlet 506; the return air duct 505 is configured to return the air from the refrigerator compartment 11 to the chamber where the evaporator is located.

[0125] In some embodiments, the return air vent 506 is located below the supply air vent 501. The supply air vent 501 arranged above facilitates the downward sinking of cold air, thereby improving the temperature uniformity in the cold storage compartment 11. The return air vent 506 is located below, which helps to shorten the return air path and improve the circulation efficiency of cold air between the evaporator chamber and the cold storage compartment 11.

[0126] In some possible implementations of this application, the refrigerator may also include a cooling fan installed inside the cabinet 10. Exemplarily, the cooling fan is installed in the refrigerator's air duct. The cooling fan is configured to blow cold air passing through the evaporator of the refrigeration system into the refrigerator compartment 11. Specifically, under the action of the cooling fan, the cold air passing through the evaporator of the refrigeration system enters the refrigerator compartment 11 via the air supply duct 502 and the air outlet 501, and then returns to the evaporator via the return air outlet 506 and the return air duct 505, thus circulating repeatedly to lower the air temperature of the refrigerator compartment 11.

[0127] In some embodiments of this application, the air duct structure 500 includes an air duct component 510, which is recessed to form an air duct groove facing the rear cavity wall 13 of the box liner 12; the air duct component 510 and the rear cavity wall 13 enclose each other to form an air supply duct 502.

[0128] For example, the air duct component 510 is a foam board, which not only forms the air supply duct 502, but also has heat insulation and heat preservation properties.

[0129] The air duct structure 500 may also include an air duct cover 520, which is fixed to the side of the air duct component 510 away from the rear cavity wall 13, serving to shield and protect the air duct component 510. The air duct cover 520 and the air duct component 510 can be snapped together, and the connection method is stable and reliable.

[0130] The air supply outlet 501 is an opening provided on the duct cover plate 520 and the duct component 510, and the return air outlet 506 can be an opening provided on the duct cover plate 520.

[0131] Combination Figure 4 The air duct structure 500 has an air duct component 510 forming a mounting groove 503, with the groove opening facing the rear cavity wall 13 of the refrigerator compartment 11. The ion generator 30 is installed in the mounting groove 503, which reduces the space occupied by the ion generator 30 in the thickness direction of the refrigerator.

[0132] For example, the ion generator 30 is interference-fitted into the mounting slot 503, and the connection method is simple.

[0133] For example, the ion generator 30 is snapped into the duct cover 520, and the connection is stable.

[0134] Continue to refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments of this application, a wiring trough 504 is also formed on the air duct component 510, and the wiring trough 504 communicates with the mounting groove 503. The wiring trough 504 is used to arrange cables, which may include power supply cables for supplying power to the ion generator 30, and may also include signal cables for communicating between the ion generator 30 and the control device of the refrigerator.

[0135] By constructing a cable tray 504 on the air duct component 510, the cables of the ion generator 30 are restricted and fixed, thereby improving the reliability of the installation of the ion generator 30.

[0136] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 5 In some possible implementations, a portion of the rear cavity wall 13 protrudes away from the ion generator 30 toward the rear side of the chamber 12, forming a recess 103 on the front side of the rear cavity wall 13; correspondingly, the recess 103 has a protruding structure on the rear side of the rear wall. The recessed structure 14 is opposite to the ion generator 30, providing installation space for the ion generator 30.

[0137] In some implementations, combined Figure 6 and Figure 7The recessed structure 14 and the ion generator 30 are located along the depth direction of the refrigerator (corresponding to...). Figure 6 The ion generator 30 has a gap (in the Y-axis direction) that communicates with the air supply duct 502. Furthermore, the ion generator 30 has a connecting port on the side facing the recessed structure 14, connecting the inner and outer sides of the ion generator 30. This allows plasma from the inner side of the ion generator 30 to enter the gap through the connecting port and then enter the cold storage compartment 11 via the gap and the air supply duct 502. The recessed structure 14 is designed to ensure sufficient gap between the ion generator 30 and the rear cavity wall 13, allowing plasma to be discharged.

[0138] Of course, the recessed structure 14 provides sufficient space between the ion generator 30 and the rear cavity wall 13, providing space for some exposed electrodes of the ion generator 30 and preventing the electrodes from contacting the rear cavity wall 13 and affecting the discharge.

[0139] In some embodiments, the ion generator 30 and the air supply duct 502 are spaced apart on all four sides in the vertical plane; guide grooves can be formed on the duct component 510 so that the gaps communicate with the air supply duct 502 through the guide grooves. Thus, the ion generator 30 is located within the duct component 510 on all four sides in the vertical plane, which helps improve the stability of the ion generator 30 installation. The vertical plane is the width direction of the refrigerator (corresponding to...). Figure 8 (in the X-axis direction) and the height direction (corresponding to) Figure 8 The plane defined by the Z-axis direction.

[0140] In other embodiments, the ion generator 30 is exposed on one side of the vertical plane within the air supply duct 502. For example, as Figure 8 As shown, the right side of the ion generator 30 is exposed inside the air supply duct 502, which facilitates the rapid entry of plasma from the ion generator 30 into the air supply duct 502, shortening the path the plasma takes to enter the air supply duct 502. Combined with... Figure 4 The mounting slot 503 is along the width direction of the refrigerator (corresponding to...) Figure 4 An opening is provided on one side (in the X-axis direction), and the mounting groove 503 is connected to the air supply duct 502 through the opening; the ion generator 30 is exposed in the air supply duct 502 through the opening.

[0141] Continue to refer to Figure 8In some embodiments, the air supply duct 502 includes a first section duct 5021 and a second section duct 5022 that are connected to each other. The first section duct 5021 is located below the second section duct 5022, and the bottom end of the first section duct 5021 is used to communicate with the chamber where the evaporator is located. The second section duct 5022 is connected to the air outlet 501. There may be two second section ducts 5022, which are arranged at intervals along the width of the refrigerator. Thus, each of the two second section ducts 5022 is connected to the air outlet 501, providing space for the arrangement of multiple air outlets 501 and helping to improve air supply efficiency.

[0142] A boss 511 is formed between the two second-stage air ducts 5022, and the boss 511 forms a mounting groove 503 for mounting the ion generator 30. Figure 8 In the mounting slot 503, an opening is provided on the right side to connect with the second section of the right-side air duct 5022. Alternatively, an opening can be provided on the left side of the mounting slot 503 to connect with the second section of the left-side air duct 5022. This arrangement does not increase the air resistance of the air supply duct 502, and the ion generator 30's proximity to the air outlet 501 ensures that the ions generated by the ion generator 30 have a shorter path within the air supply duct 502, allowing them to enter the cold storage compartment 11 more quickly, achieving purification and sterilization effects.

[0143] In some implementations, where sufficient installation space allows, the ion generator 30 can also be installed on the left side of the second section of the left-side air duct 5022, or on the right side of the second section of the right-side air duct 5022. That is, the ion generator 30 can also be installed on the edges of the air duct component 510 along the width direction of the refrigerator.

[0144] The structure and function of the ion generator 30 in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0145] Combination Figure 9 and Figure 10 The ion generator 30 may include: a housing component 100, which is configured to form a receiving cavity 101 and a communication port 102, and the receiving cavity 101 is connected to the cold storage compartment 11 through the communication port 102.

[0146] The outer casing 100 is installed on the air duct structure 500 and near one end of the air outlet 501, thereby allowing the ion generator 30 to be installed on the air duct structure 500 and near one end of the air outlet 501, which helps ions to quickly enter the cold storage compartment 11.

[0147] The accommodating cavity 101 is connected to the air supply duct 502 through the connecting port 102, so that the ions generated by the ion generator 30 can enter the air supply duct 502 through the connecting port 102 and enter the cold storage compartment 11 through the air supply duct 502.

[0148] When the mounting groove 503 is formed on the air duct component 510, the outer shell component 100 is accommodated in the mounting groove 503 and snapped into the air duct structure 500, thereby installing the ion generator 30 on the air duct structure 500.

[0149] Combination Figure 7 In some embodiments, a first snap-fit ​​521 is formed on the duct cover 520, and the first snap-fit ​​521 is engaged with the housing component 100. This eliminates the need for a complex connection structure on the housing component 100, which helps to reduce the volume occupied by the housing component 100 during installation.

[0150] In some embodiments, there is a gap between the outer shell member 100 and the rear cavity wall 13 of the cold storage compartment 11, which facilitates the entry of plasma in the accommodating cavity 101 into the air supply duct 502 through the communication port 102 and the gap.

[0151] For example, a protruding ridge 131 is provided on the side of the outer casing member 100 facing the rear cavity wall 13. This not only ensures a gap between the side of the outer casing member 100 facing the rear cavity wall 13 and the rear cavity wall 13, but also helps to improve the structural strength of the outer casing member 100. The protruding ridge 131 can be located at a corner of the outer casing member 100, and the protruding ridge 131 can be L-shaped, further enhancing the structural strength of the outer casing member 100. Furthermore, the protruding ridge 131 can also prevent exposed electrodes from colliding with the rear cavity wall 13.

[0152] When the mounting groove 503 has an opening on one side along the width direction of the refrigerator, a portion of the outer casing component 100 is exposed through the opening to the air supply duct 502.

[0153] In some embodiments of this application, the outer shell member 100 is flat and arranged parallel to the vertical plane, which can reduce the size occupied by the outer shell member 100 in the depth direction of the refrigerator.

[0154] Combination Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some embodiments of this application, the outer shell member 100 is a cuboid shell. The outer shell member 100 has a first dimension L1, a second dimension L2, and a third dimension L3. The first dimension L1 is the dimension of the outer shell member 100 along a first direction D1, the second dimension L2 is the dimension of the outer shell member 100 along a second direction D2, and the third dimension L3 is the dimension of the outer shell member 100 along a third direction D3. The first direction D1, the second direction D2, and the third direction D3 are perpendicular to each other.

[0155] The first dimension L1 of the outer shell component 100 is smaller than the second dimension L2, and the first dimension L1 is smaller than the third dimension L3, which makes the first dimension L1 of the outer shell component 100 smaller.

[0156] Combined with the diagram, Figure 4 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 When the outer casing component 100 is installed in the mounting groove 503, the first direction D1 is parallel to the depth direction of the refrigerator. Since the first dimension L1 is small, this installation helps to reduce the space occupied by the ion generator 30 in the depth direction of the refrigerator.

[0157] The second direction D2 can be parallel to the height direction of the refrigerator, and the second dimension L2 is larger than the third dimension L3. The outer shell component 100 is exposed to the air supply duct 502 through an opening along the third direction, so that the longer side of the outer shell component 100 is exposed to the air supply duct 502, which helps to ensure the diffusion rate of ions.

[0158] The smaller third dimension L3, and the fact that the third dimension is parallel to the width of the refrigerator, allows the ion generator 30 to have a relatively small size in the width direction of the refrigerator, which is beneficial for mounting the outer casing component 100 on the narrower boss 511.

[0159] Recombined Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some embodiments of this application, the housing member 100 includes two first side plates 130, which are opposite to each other and spaced apart along a first direction. The two first side plates 130 are parallel to a plane defined by a second direction and a third direction. The dimensions of the two first side plates 130 along the second direction and along the third direction are both greater than the distance between the two first side plates 130 along the first direction. Figure 11 As shown, a protruding ridge 131 is formed on one of the first side plates 130.

[0160] The outer casing member 100 may further include two second side plates 140, which are opposite to each other and spaced apart along a second direction. The two second side plates 140 are respectively connected to the two ends of the two first side plates 130 along the second direction. The two second side plates 140 may be parallel to a plane defined by the first direction and a third direction.

[0161] Combination Figure 11 The outer casing component 100 may further include two third side plates 150, which are opposite to each other and spaced apart along a third direction. The two third side plates 150 are respectively connected to the two ends of the two first side plates 130 along the third direction. The two third side plates 150 may be parallel to the plane defined by the first direction and the second direction.

[0162] Thus, the two first side plates 130, the two second side plates 140, and the two third side plates 150 enclose and form a rectangular shell component 100, which has a regular structure and is easy to process and install.

[0163] At least one of the two first side plates 130, the two second side plates 140, and the two third side plates 150 is provided with a communication port 102. The communication port 102 may face the gap between the outer shell member 100 and the rear cavity wall 13, and the communication port 102 may also face the opening of the mounting groove 503, so that the communication port 102 communicates with the air supply duct 502.

[0164] Continue to refer to Figure 11 In some possible implementations of this application, the outer shell member 100 may include a shell portion 160 and a cover portion 170. The shell portion 160 is configured to form a recessed cavity, and the cover portion 170 covers the shell portion 160 to form an accommodating cavity 101.

[0165] The housing portion 160 and the cover portion 170 can be snapped together, resulting in a simple and reliable connection. For example, combined with... Figure 10 A second buckle 171 is formed on the cover plate portion 170, and a slot is formed on the housing portion 160, with the second buckle 171 engaging in the slot.

[0166] Thus, the cover portion 170 forms one of the first side plates 130, and the housing portion 160 is formed by the other first side plate 130, two second side plates 140 and two third side plates 150.

[0167] In this embodiment, a housing portion 160 and a cover portion 170 are provided to form an accommodating cavity 101. The housing portion 160 forms a recessed chamber, which facilitates the installation of the internal structure of the ion generator 30 on one side of the housing portion 160, ensuring stable and reliable installation.

[0168] In some other possible implementations of this application, the outer shell component 100 may include two half-shells, each of which is configured to form a recessed cavity, and the two half-shells are fixedly connected to jointly enclose the receiving cavity 101.

[0169] Combination Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some embodiments of this application, the ion generator 30 may further include a counter electrode assembly 200 located within the accommodating cavity 101. The counter electrode assembly 200 is configured to generate plasma.

[0170] The opposing electrode assembly 200 includes a first electrode 210 and a second electrode 220, which are disposed opposite to each other. Exemplarily, the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 are disposed opposite to each other and spaced apart along a third direction. The first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 are used together to ionize air to generate plasma.

[0171] The first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 are conductors and can be made of metal, such as one or more of stainless steel, copper, aluminum, tungsten, and molybdenum; the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 can also be made of conductive non-metallic materials such as graphite and carbon fiber. The first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 can be conductors in the form of strips, rings, sheets, needles, etc.

[0172] In some embodiments, one of the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 is a needle-shaped electrode, and the other is a sheet-shaped electrode. The tip of the needle-shaped electrode is conducive to charge accumulation. When the charge accumulation on the needle-shaped electrode exceeds a certain level, discharge occurs. After discharge, the charge ionizes the surrounding gas to form plasma, and the charge on the needle-shaped electrode instantaneously becomes zero, then the cycle of charge accumulation and discharge begins again. By adjusting the distance between the needle-shaped electrode and the sheet-shaped electrode, the discharge frequency and discharge intensity can be controlled and adjusted to find the optimal discharge power and generate plasma.

[0173] At least one set of counter electrode group 200 is provided. For example, one set of counter electrode group 200 can be provided, which has a simple structure.

[0174] Multiple sets of counter electrode groups 200 can be provided, which helps to increase the plasma quantity. Multiple sets of counter electrode groups 200 can be connected to the same power supply terminal, so that the same voltage value is applied to the multiple sets of counter electrode groups 200. Alternatively, the voltage value of at least one set of counter electrode groups 200 may be different from the voltage values ​​applied to the other sets of counter electrode groups 200, thereby forming different discharge voltages.

[0175] The ion generator 30 of this application embodiment may further include a third electrode 300, which is used to generate negative air ions.

[0176] The third electrode 300 is located outside the region between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220. It can be understood that the third electrode 300 cannot form a discharge with the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

[0177] In some embodiments, a partition plate 161 is provided within the accommodating cavity 101. The partition plate 161 is parallel to the second side plate 140, and there is a gap between the partition plate 161 and both second side plates 140. The counter electrode group 200 and the third electrode 300 are respectively located on both sides of the partition plate 161 along the second direction, such that the third electrode 300 is located outside the region of the counter electrode group 200.

[0178] The third electrode 300 is partially located within the accommodating cavity 101, facilitating electrical connection between the third electrode 300 and the drive circuit board of the ion generator 30. The third electrode 300 extends to the outside of the housing component 100, thus exposing a portion of the third electrode 300 to the housing component 100, which helps the negative air ions diffuse into the air supply duct 502 and improves the electrostatic sterilization rate.

[0179] The third electrode 300 is a conductor. The third electrode 300 can be made of metal, such as a metal needle electrode. The third electrode 300 can be a carbon brush electrode, which not only has good conductivity but also reduces the generation of electrical sparks.

[0180] The voltage of the third electrode 300 is a negative voltage, and the voltage value of the third electrode 300 can be greater than 1.5kV and less than 5kV. For example, the voltage value of the third electrode 300 can be -2kV, -2.5kV, -3.0kV, -3.5kV, -4kV, -4.5kV, or -5kV, etc.

[0181] Thus, a negative voltage is applied to the third electrode 300, with a value greater than 1.5kV and less than 5kV. This setting reduces the probability of electrostatic dust collection by using a relatively small voltage value for the third electrode 300.

[0182] In some embodiments, the input voltage of the ion generator 30 can be DC 12V, provided by the main control board of the refrigerator. The circuitry within the ion generator 30 adjusts the input voltage to the power supply voltage for the third electrode 300 and the counter electrode group 200.

[0183] The ion generator 30 of this embodiment generates plasma by setting up a counter electrode group 200. This plasma not only sterilizes the refrigerator compartment 11 but also decomposes odor molecules, thus purifying the space. A third electrode 300 is placed outside the area of ​​the counter electrode group 200 to generate negative air ions. These negative air ions adsorb airborne bacteria in the refrigerator compartment 11, effectively removing them. The ion generator 30 of this embodiment can generate both plasma and negative air ions; these two functions complement each other, improving the sterilization and deodorization effects on the refrigerator compartment 11.

[0184] In some embodiments, the refrigerator is already equipped with an ion generator with a counter electrode assembly. Adding a third electrode to the ion generator enables the ion generator to produce negative air ions, thereby upgrading the function of the ion generator without affecting the installation of the ion generator.

[0185] In some embodiments of this application, there is a gap between the outer shell component 100 and the rear cavity wall 13 of the refrigerator compartment 11, and this gap is connected to the air supply duct 502. The third electrode 300 is exposed in this gap, that is, there is a gap between the side of the outer shell component 100 where the third electrode 300 is provided and the rear cavity wall 13 of the refrigerator compartment 11. In this way, the negative air ions generated by the third electrode 300 can quickly enter the air supply duct 502 through the gap, and enter the refrigerator compartment 11 under the action of the airflow in the air supply duct 502, which helps to improve the diffusion rate of negative air ions.

[0186] In other embodiments of this application, the mounting groove 503 has an opening on one side along the width direction of the refrigerator, and the mounting groove 503 communicates with the air supply duct 502 through the opening; the outer shell component 100 is exposed in the air supply duct 502 through the opening; the third electrode 300 is disposed on the side of the outer shell component 100 facing the opening. With this configuration, the third electrode 300 is exposed in the air supply duct 502, so the negative air ions generated by the third electrode 300 can quickly enter the refrigerator compartment 11 under the influence of the airflow in the air supply duct 502, shortening the residence time of the negative air ions in the air supply duct 502, improving the sterilization rate of the negative air ions, and also reducing the problem of electrostatic dust accumulation in the refrigerator compartment 11.

[0187] In some embodiments of this application, the third electrode 300 is exposed inside the refrigerator compartment 11. Exemplarily, the air duct structure 500 is provided with through holes to expose the third electrode 300 within the refrigerator compartment 11; alternatively, the third electrode 300 is exposed within the refrigerator compartment 11 through an air outlet 501. This allows the negative air ions generated by the third electrode 300 to directly enter the refrigerator compartment 11, improving the sterilization effect.

[0188] Combination Figure 10 In some possible implementations of this application, the outer surface of the outer shell member 100 away from the accommodating cavity 101 is configured to form a recess 103, and the recess 103 forms a through structure 104.

[0189] The through structure 104 can be a through hole penetrating the recess 103, for example, Figure 10 The circular hole shown; the through structure 104 can also be a polygonal hole, an elliptical hole, etc.

[0190] The outer surface of the outer shell component 100 is machined to form a recess 103, so that the inner side of the outer shell component 100 is not affected.

[0191] Because the outer shell component 100 has a small thickness, the side of the outer shell component 100 that is away from the receiving cavity 101 is recessed into the receiving cavity 101 to form a recessed portion 103. This helps to ensure the consistency of the thickness of the outer shell component 100 and to ensure the structural strength of the outer shell component 100.

[0192] In some embodiments, the recess 103 is provided on the first side plate 130 of the housing portion 160, with sufficient space for provision.

[0193] One end of the third electrode 300 is exposed to the outer shell component 100 through the through structure 104, which helps the negative ions diffuse outward.

[0194] In some embodiments, one end of the third electrode 300 is fixed within the through structure 104, so that the third electrode 300 is stably fixed to the outer shell member 100.

[0195] The other end of the third electrode 300 extends into the recess 103, and the other end of the third electrode 300 does not protrude from the outer surface of the housing member 100.

[0196] For example, the third electrode 300 can be bonded to the through structure 104, and the installation method is stable and reliable.

[0197] In this embodiment, a recess 103 is formed on the outer side of the housing member 100 to accommodate the exposed portion of the third electrode 300, and the other end of the third electrode 300 does not protrude from the outer surface of the housing member 100, thus preventing the exposed portion of the third electrode 300 from being damaged by impact and protecting the exposed portion of the third electrode 300. The through structure 104 provided in the recess 103 is used to fix the third electrode 300 and ensure the stability of the position of the third electrode 300.

[0198] In some other embodiments of this application, one end of the third electrode 300 extending into the recess 103 protrudes from the outer surface of the outer shell member 100, so that the third electrode 300 extends to the outside of the outer shell member 100 with a large length, which is beneficial to improve the diffusion effect of negative ions.

[0199] In some possible implementations, one end of the third electrode 300 extending into the recess 103 does not protrude beyond the ridge 131 on the outer casing member 100. That is, a section of the third electrode 300 extending into the recess 103 may protrude beyond the outer surface of the outer casing member 100, but be below or flush with the top of the ridge 131. The top of the ridge 131 is the end of the ridge 131 that faces away from the outer surface of the outer casing member 100.

[0200] With this configuration, the protrusion 131 prevents the third electrode 300 from contacting the rear cavity wall 13, thus protecting the third electrode 300.

[0201] Continue to refer to Figure 10Along the extending direction of the through structure 104, and from the outer end of the through structure 104 toward the recess 103, the sidewall of the recess 103 slopes outward away from the center of the through structure 104, making the recess 103 funnel-shaped or horn-shaped. This arrangement makes the recess 103 diffuse, providing a larger diffusion space for negative air ions and facilitating their diffusion.

[0202] When the through structure 104 is a through hole, the extension direction of the through structure 104 is the axial direction of the through hole.

[0203] In some embodiments of this application, a fixing member 110 is provided in the accommodating cavity 101, and the fixing member 110 is opposite to the through structure 104 along the extension direction of the through structure 104; the through structure 104 extends from one end away from the recess 103 and passes through the fixing member 110.

[0204] For example, the fastener 110 can be columnar, with a simple structure and easy processing.

[0205] In this embodiment of the application, by providing a fixing member 110 in the accommodating cavity 101, the axial dimension of the through structure 104 is lengthened, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the third electrode 300 installed in the through structure 104.

[0206] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some embodiments of this application, a reinforcing member 120 is also provided in the accommodating cavity 101, and the reinforcing member 120 connects the fixing member 110 and the outer shell member 100.

[0207] For example, the reinforcement 120 may also be a reinforcing rib.

[0208] Multiple reinforcing members 120 may be provided, and the multiple reinforcing members 120 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the fixing member 110 to improve the structural strength of the fixing member 110.

[0209] In some embodiments, the reinforcing member 120 is connected to the fixing member 110 and the first side plate 130 of the housing portion 160 respectively to improve the structural strength of the fixing member 110.

[0210] In some embodiments, the reinforcing member 120 is also connected to the partition plate 161, which helps to improve the structural strength and stability of the housing portion 160.

[0211] Continue to refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 In some embodiments of this application, the ion generator 30 further includes a drive circuit board 400, which is fixed inside the accommodating cavity 101.

[0212] For example, a fixing groove 162 is formed within the accommodating cavity 101, and the driving circuit board 400 is snapped into the fixing groove 162, resulting in a simple connection method. Two limiting plates 163 are also provided within the accommodating cavity 101. The two limiting plates 163 are opposite to each other along a third direction and are spaced apart, and are parallel to the third side plate 150. The two ends of the two limiting plates 163 along a second direction are respectively connected to a partition plate 161 and a second side plate 140. Thus, the second side plate 140, the two limiting plates 163, the partition plate 161, and the first side plate 130 enclose and form the fixing groove 162.

[0213] The drive circuit board 400 is electrically connected to the first electrode 210, the second electrode 220 and the third electrode 300 respectively; the drive circuit board 400 is configured to control the energization state of the first electrode 210, the second electrode 220 and the third electrode 300.

[0214] For example, the first electrode 210 is the positive electrode and the second electrode 220 is the negative electrode. A voltage difference is formed between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220, and plasma is formed by discharge.

[0215] In this embodiment, the ion generator 30 controls the energizing state of the first electrode 210, the second electrode 220, and the third electrode 300 by setting a drive circuit board 400. The drive circuit board 400 is fixed inside the accommodating cavity 101, so that the electrodes and control devices of the ion generator 30 are all integrated inside the housing component 100, making the structure of the ion generator 30 more compact and the installation simpler and more convenient.

[0216] In some embodiments of this application, the counter electrode group 200 and the third electrode 300 are located on different sides of the drive circuit board 400. Thus, the third electrode 300 is located outside the area of ​​the counter electrode group 200, preventing discharge between the third electrode 300 and the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220. Furthermore, it ensures sufficient electrical connection space between the electrodes and the drive circuit board 400.

[0217] For example, the counter electrode group 200 may be located on one side of the drive circuit board 400 along a third direction, and the third electrode 300 may be located on one side of the drive circuit board 400 along a second direction.

[0218] Combination Figure 15 In some embodiments, the drive circuit board 400 is arranged between the two first side plates 130 and parallel to the first side plates 130. This arrangement allows the drive circuit board 400 to have a larger area for arranging electrical components, and also makes the ion generator 30 flatter overall, resulting in a more compact structure.

[0219] In some embodiments of this application, the counter electrode group 200 is located on one side of the drive circuit board 400 along a third direction; the first electrode 210 is electrically connected to the drive circuit board 400, thereby enabling the drive circuit board 400 to supply power to the first electrode 210; the second electrode 220 is grounded, thereby creating a voltage difference between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

[0220] The second electrode 220 is opposite to and spaced from the first electrode 210 along a third direction, and the second electrode 220 is opposite to and spaced from the drive circuit board 400 along a third direction. The second electrode 220 is mounted parallel to the third side plate 150.

[0221] The portions of the two first side plates 130 located between the second electrode 220 and the drive circuit board 400 are provided with first through holes 1021. The communication port 102 includes the first through hole 1021.

[0222] For example, the side of the limiting plate 163 facing away from the fixing groove 162 has a gap with the third side plate 150, and the counter electrode assembly 200 is installed in the gap. The portion of the first plate located between the limiting plate 163 and the third side plate 150 is provided with a first through hole 1021.

[0223] The first through hole 1021 can be a circular hole, an elliptical hole, an oblong hole, a polygonal hole, etc.

[0224] Multiple first through holes 1021 can be provided, and multiple first through holes 1021 are spaced apart along the second direction to increase the area of ​​the communication port 102 and increase the plasma diffusion rate.

[0225] In this embodiment, the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 are disposed on one side of the drive circuit board 400 along a third direction, so that there is sufficient space for the arrangement of the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220; and, a first through hole 1021 is provided in the interval between the two first side plates 130 and the drive circuit board 400 and the second electrode 220, so that the plasma generated by the discharge of the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 can quickly enter the air supply duct 502 through the first through hole 1021, reducing the residence path of the plasma in the accommodating cavity 101, which helps to improve the diffusion efficiency of the plasma, and thus helps to improve the sterilization and deodorization effect of the ion generator 30.

[0226] In some embodiments of this application, the third electrode 300 is located on one side of the drive circuit board 400 along the second direction, and two first side plates 130 are respectively provided with second through holes 1022 on both sides of the third electrode 300 along the third direction; the communication port 102 also includes the second through hole 1022.

[0227] In this embodiment, the third electrode 300 is located on one side of the drive circuit board 400 along the second direction, and is located on a different side of the drive circuit board 400 from the opposing electrode group 200, thus avoiding mutual interference between the two. By providing second through holes 1022 on both sides of the third electrode 300 along the third direction, the area of ​​the communication port 102 is further increased, and convection is formed between the first through hole 1021 and the second through hole 1022, which is more conducive to plasma entering the air supply duct 502 from the accommodating cavity 101.

[0228] The second through hole 1022 can be a circular hole, an elliptical hole, an oblong hole, a polygonal hole, etc.

[0229] Multiple second through holes 1022 can be provided, and multiple second through holes 1022 are spaced apart along the second direction to increase the area of ​​the communication port 102.

[0230] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

[0231] For ease of explanation, the above description has been provided in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Various modifications and variations can be obtained based on the above teachings. The selection and description of the above embodiments are for the purpose of better explaining the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the described embodiments and various different variations of embodiments suitable for specific use considerations.

Claims

1. A refrigerator characterized by comprising: The application relates to a refrigerator comprising: a cabinet (10) configured to form a refrigeration compartment (11) with a loading / unloading opening; a door (20) hinged to the cabinet (10) to open or close the loading / unloading opening; a refrigeration system arranged in the cabinet (10) to reduce the air temperature in the refrigeration compartment (11); an ion generator (30) mounted on the cabinet (10); the ion generator (30) comprises: a housing member (100) configured to form a receiving cavity (101) and a communication opening (102), the receiving cavity (101) being in communication with the refrigeration compartment (11) through the communication opening (102); a pair of opposite electrodes (200) located in the receiving cavity (101); the pair of opposite electrodes (200) comprises a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) being oppositely arranged; the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) are collectively used for ionizing air to generate plasma; a third electrode (300) for generating air negative ions; the third electrode (300) is located outside the region between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220); part of the third electrode (300) is located in the receiving cavity (101), and part of the third electrode (300) is exposed outside the housing member (100).

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, An outer surface of the housing member (100) facing away from the receiving cavity (101) is configured to form a recess (103) with a through structure (104); the third electrode (300) is exposed outside the housing member (100) through the through structure (104).

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the axial direction of the through structure (104), and from the through structure (104) towards the outer end of the recess (103), the side wall of the recess (103) is inclined outwardly away from the center of the through structure (104).

4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, A fixing member (110) is arranged in the receiving cavity (101), the fixing member (110) is opposite to the through structure (104) along the extension direction of the through structure (104); one end of the through structure (104) away from the recess (103) extends through the fixing member (110).

5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that, A reinforcing member (120) is further arranged in the receiving cavity (101), the reinforcing member (120) connects the fixing member (110) and the housing member (100).

6. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The ion generator (30) further comprises a driving circuit board (400) fixed in the receiving cavity (101); the driving circuit board (400) is electrically connected with the first electrode (210), the second electrode (220) and the third electrode (300) respectively; the driving circuit board (400) is configured to control the energization state of the first electrode (210), the second electrode (220) and the third electrode (300).

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, characterized in that The opposite electrode group (200) and the third electrode (300) are located at different sides of the driving circuit board (400) respectively.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 6, characterized in that, The housing member (100) comprises two first side plates (130) which are opposite along a first direction and have a spacing; the two first side plates (130) have a size along a second direction and a size along a third direction which are both greater than the spacing of the two first side plates (130) along the first direction; The driving circuit board (400) is arranged between the two first side plates (130) and parallel to the first side plates (130); The first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, characterized in that, The opposite electrode group (200) is located at one side of the driving circuit board (400) along the third direction; the first electrode (210) is electrically connected with the driving circuit board (400), and the second electrode (220) is grounded; the second electrode (220) is opposite to the first electrode (210) along the third direction and has a spacing, and the second electrode (220) is opposite to the driving circuit board (400) along the third direction and has a spacing; The two first side plates (130) are provided with first through holes (1021) at the parts between the second electrode (220) and the driving circuit board (400); The communication port (102) comprises the first through holes (1021).

10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The third electrode (300) is located at one side of the driving circuit board (400) along the second direction, and the two first side plates (130) are provided with second through holes (1022) at the two sides of the third electrode (300) along the third direction respectively; the communication port (102) further comprises the second through holes (1022).

11. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The refrigerator further comprises an air duct structure (500) installed in the refrigeration compartment (11), the air duct structure (500) is configured to form an air supply port (501), the air duct structure (500) and a rear cavity wall (13) of the refrigeration compartment (11) jointly form an air supply air duct (502), and the air supply air duct (502) communicates with the air supply port (501); the air supply air duct (502) is configured to guide the cold air passing through an evaporator of the refrigeration system into the refrigeration compartment (11) through the air supply port (501); The housing member (100) is installed on the air duct structure (500) and close to one end of the air supply port (501); The accommodation cavity (101) communicates with the air supply air duct (502) through the communication port (102).

12. The refrigerator according to claim 11, characterized in that, The air duct structure (500) is configured to form a mounting groove (503), and an opening of the mounting groove (503) faces the rear cavity wall (13) of the refrigeration compartment (11); The housing member (100) is accommodated in the mounting groove (503) and is clamped with the air duct structure (500).

13. The refrigerator according to claim 12, characterized in that, The housing member (100) is provided with a gap between one side of the third electrode (300) and the rear cavity wall (13) of the refrigeration compartment (11); or, The installation groove (503) is provided with an opening along one side in the width direction of the refrigerator, the installation groove (503) communicates with the air supply air duct (502) through the opening; the housing member (100) is exposed to the air supply air duct (502) through the opening; the third electrode (300) is arranged on one side of the housing member (100) facing the opening.

14. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The third electrode (300) is exposed in the refrigeration compartment (11).

15. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The third electrode (300) is a carbon brush electrode; and / or, the voltage of the third electrode (300) is a negative voltage, the voltage value of the third electrode (300) is greater than 1.5kV and less than 5kV.

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