Food material management module, storage box and refrigerator

Abstract

The utility model relates to the field of refrigeration and freezing, in particular to a food material management module, a storage box and a refrigerator. An existing refrigerator has the problem that food freshness information is not easy to master. Therefore, the food material management module provided by the utility model comprises a main body part which comprises a detachable connecting structure and is installed on a first target object or a second target object through the detachable connecting structure, the first target object is used for storing the food material management module and charging the food material management module, and the second target object is used for storing the food material management module and charging the food material management module. The second target object is used for storing the food materials; the display part is arranged on the main body part, and the display part is used for displaying the state information of the food materials in the second target object. According to the utility model, the technical problems are solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of refrigeration and freezing, and in particular to a food management module, a storage box, and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards gradually improve, food often accumulates in household refrigerators, and users tend to overlook food stored in the refrigerator for extended periods, leading to problems such as food becoming stale or even spoiling. Refrigerators often contain a variety of foods, each with a different shelf life and purchased at different times, making it difficult for users to ascertain the freshness of each item, significantly impacting their user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One objective of this invention is to solve the problem of difficulty in obtaining information about the freshness of food in a refrigerator.

[0004] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a food management module to manage the food storage information in the refrigerator and to provide timely feedback on the status information of the food to the user so as to remind the user to handle the food in time and avoid food waste.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a food ingredient management module in its first aspect, comprising:

[0006] The main body includes a detachable connection structure for mounting to a first target object or a second target object via the detachable connection structure. The first target object is used to store the food management module and charge the food management module, while the second target object is used to store the food.

[0007] A display unit is disposed on the main body, and the display unit is used to display the status information of the food ingredient within the second target object.

[0008] Optionally, the cross-section of the main body is circular; and / or

[0009] The detachable connection structure includes at least one slot provided on the circumferential wall for engaging with the first target object or the second target object via the slot.

[0010] Optionally, the number of card slots is two, and they are centrally symmetrically distributed, with the card slots located at the end of the main body away from the display part.

[0011] Optionally, the detachable connection structure includes at least one magnet disposed on the main body, and / or the number of magnets is two, and they are centrally symmetrically distributed.

[0012] Optionally, a power receiving terminal is provided on the side of the main body away from the display portion, and the power receiving terminal is matched with the charging terminal on the first target object so as to be charged by the first target object.

[0013] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a refrigerator in a second aspect, comprising:

[0014] The gate body is the first target object described in any of the above items;

[0015] At least one of the food ingredient management modules described above.

[0016] Optionally, a plurality of first receiving slots are provided on the side of the door body away from its pivot end, the first receiving slots being used to receive at least a portion of the main body.

[0017] Optionally, a recess is provided on the side of the door body away from its pivot end, and the first receiving groove is located in the recess; and / or

[0018] The first receiving tank has charging terminals on its peripheral or bottom wall to charge the food management module; and / or

[0019] The first receiving groove has a first detachable connection structure on its peripheral wall or bottom wall, which is adapted to the detachable connection structure.

[0020] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a storage box in a third aspect. The storage box is the second target object described in any of the above claims, and is provided with a plurality of second receiving slots; and / or the peripheral wall or bottom wall of the first receiving slot is provided with a second detachable connection and fitting structure, which is adapted to the detachable connection structure.

[0021] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a refrigerator in a third aspect, comprising:

[0022] The storage box described above.

[0023] Based on the foregoing description, those skilled in the art will understand that in the aforementioned technical solution of this utility model, when the food management module needs to be charged, it is installed on the first target object for charging via a detachable connection structure; when the food in the refrigerator needs to be managed, the food management module is installed on the second target object where the food is stored via a detachable connection structure, and the food management module displays the status information of the food in the second target object through a display unit, thereby allowing the user to understand the freshness status of the food in the refrigerator, reminding the user to handle the food in a timely manner, and avoiding waste.

[0024] Furthermore, by setting the cross-section of the main body to be circular, this utility model makes it easier to rotate and move the food management module, reducing the inconvenience caused by irregular shape.

[0025] Furthermore, this utility model provides two centrally symmetrical slots on the food management module, and positions the slots at the end of the main body away from the display section. This ensures that the main body is subjected to uniform force when installed on the target object, avoiding deformation or damage caused by uneven force, effectively fixing the main body and reducing its shaking during use.

[0026] Furthermore, this utility model also provides a refrigerator in which multiple first receiving slots are provided on the side of the refrigerator door away from its pivot end, and multiple food management modules are installed in the first receiving slots for easy access by the user. Other beneficial effects of this invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can more clearly understand the improved objectives, features and advantages of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The following sections will describe some specific embodiments of the present invention in a detailed manner by way of example and not limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar parts or components. Those skilled in the art should understand that these drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In the drawings:

[0028] Figure 1 This is the first isometric view of the food ingredient management module;

[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The second isometric view of the food ingredient management module;

[0030] Figure 3 This is an axonometric view of a refrigerator in some embodiments of this utility model;

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the food management module according to some embodiments of this utility model;

[0032] Figure 5 This is a partial view of the food ingredient management module installed on the second target object in some embodiments of this utility model;

[0033] Figure 6 This is a partial view of the second target object in some embodiments of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In some embodiments of this utility model, the food management module 100 includes a main body 120 and a display unit 130. The main body 120 includes a detachable connection structure 121 for mounting to a first target object 200 or a second target object 300. The first target object 200 stores and charges the food management module 100, while the second target object 300 stores food items. The display unit 130 is disposed on the main body 120 and displays the status information of the food items within the second target object 300.

[0035] In this embodiment, the food management module 100 is installed on the first target object 200 or the second target object 300 via a detachable connection structure 121. This allows for convenient charging of the food management module 100, and when food information needs to be recorded, the food management module 100 can be connected to the second target object 300 where the food is stored. This enables the display unit 130 of the food management module 100 to display the status information of the food in the second target object 300, reminding the user to process the food in a timely manner.

[0036] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the main body 120 has a circular cross-section. The circular main body 120 facilitates rotation and movement, reducing inconvenience caused by irregular shapes. Circular designs generally offer better visual appeal, providing a harmonious and complete aesthetic, and contributing to an improved overall appearance of the food management module 100.

[0037] Continue reading Figure 1 and Figure 2 The detachable connection structure 121 includes at least one slot 123 disposed on the circumferential wall, for engaging with the first target object 200 or the second target object 300 via the slot 123. The slots 123 are distributed in a strip shape along the circumferential direction on the circumferential surface of the main body 120, and the minimum extension length of the slots 123 is one-tenth of the circumference of the main body 120, to avoid unstable connection of the food management module 100 when the slots 123 are engaged with the first target object 200 or the second target object 300. In some other embodiments of this utility model, the slots 123 may also be disposed around the circumference of the main body 120.

[0038] Continue reading Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments of this invention, the number of slots 123 is two, and they are centrally symmetrically distributed. This ensures that the main body 120 is subjected to uniform force when installed onto the target object, avoiding deformation or damage caused by uneven force. This design helps improve the structural stability of the main body 120, making it more durable. The centrally symmetrical distribution of the slots 123 can more effectively fix the main body 120, reducing its shaking during use. This helps maintain the stability of the food management module 100 and improves the user experience.

[0039] In addition, the card slot 123 can be located at the end of the main body 120 away from the display unit 130 to avoid interference or damage to the display unit 130 during operation.

[0040] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 As shown, the detachable connection structure 121 includes at least one magnet 124 disposed on the main body 120, and the magnet 124 is located inside the main body 120.

[0041] In some embodiments of this utility model, see further reading. Figure 2 The number of magnets 124 is two, and the two magnets 124 are centrally symmetrically distributed to ensure that the magnetic force is balanced between the main body 120 and the first target object 200 or the second target object 300. This balance helps to reduce the loosening or detachment of the connection due to uneven magnetic force, thereby improving the stability of the connection.

[0042] Those skilled in the art will understand that the magnetic force generated by magnet 124 can provide additional bonding force, making the connection between the main body 120 and the first target object 200 or the second target object 300 more secure and improving the connection strength. The presence of magnet 124 makes the connection between the main body 120 and the first target object 200 or the second target object 300 simpler and faster. The user only needs to bring the main body 120 close to the first target object 200 or the second target object 300, and magnet 124 will automatically attract and fix them, without the need for additional tools or complicated operating procedures.

[0043] Similarly, the presence of magnet 124 makes disassembly very simple. The user can separate the main body 120 from the first target object 200 or the second target object 300 with just a little force.

[0044] Continue reading Figure 2 In some embodiments of this utility model, a power receiving terminal 122 is provided on the side of the main body 120 away from the display part 130. The power receiving terminal 122 is matched with the charging terminal 210 on the first target object 200 so as to be charged by the first target object 200.

[0045] In some embodiments of this utility model, the food management module 100 and the magnets 124 on the first target object 200 and the second target object 300 are configured to align the power receiving terminal 122 on the food management module 100 with the charging terminal 210 on the first target object 200 or the second target object 300.

[0046] Those skilled in the art will understand that when the positive terminal 122 on the food management module 100 is aligned with the negative charging terminal 210 on the first target object 200 or the second target object 300, the magnet 124 on the food management module 100 and the magnet 124 on the first target object 200 or the second target object 300 are in a state of mutual repulsion, and the food management module 100 is repelled and cannot be placed into the charging slot.

[0047] When the food management module 100 needs charging, the user simply brings it close to the charging slot. The attractive force of the magnet 124 will naturally guide the receiving terminal 122 to align with the charging terminal 210, without the need for complicated operations or precise visual alignment. Simultaneously, if an attempt is made to insert it incorrectly (i.e., aligning the positive receiving terminal 122 with the negative charging terminal 210), the repulsive force of the magnet 124 will immediately provide feedback, preventing such misoperation and thus avoiding charging failure or device damage due to polarity mismatch.

[0048] The safety mechanism configured in Magnet 124 effectively prevents potential risks such as short circuits or battery damage caused by incorrect polarity. A physical barrier is established between the food management module and the charging device, ensuring that charging can only occur when correctly aligned, thereby significantly improving the safety and reliability of the device.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, the present invention also provides a refrigerator 001, which includes a door 200 and at least one food management module 100, wherein the door 200 is the first target object 200.

[0050] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, a plurality of first receiving slots 220 are provided on the side of the door 200 away from its pivot end. The first receiving slots 220 are used to accommodate at least a portion of the main body 120. Specifically, a portion of the food management module 100 is located within the first receiving slot 220, while another portion is exposed outside the first receiving slot 220, facilitating user access to the food management module 100 on the refrigerator door 200. By embedding a portion of the food management module 100's structure into the first receiving slot 220, the module's stability is increased, preventing it from shaking or falling off the refrigerator door 200. This design not only improves the module's durability but also ensures user safety during use.

[0051] In addition, in this embodiment, multiple first receiving slots 220 are arranged on the side of the door 200 away from the pivot end to store the food management module 100 and charge it. Part of the structure of the food management module 100 is exposed outside the first receiving slots 220, so that users can take it out or operate it directly without opening the refrigerator door.

[0052] In some embodiments of this utility model, see further reading. Figure 3 and Figure 4 A recessed groove 230 is provided on the side of the door 200 away from its pivot end, and a first receiving groove 220 is located in the recessed groove 230. By providing a recessed groove 230 on the side of the door 200 away from the pivot end and placing the first receiving groove 220 therein, space can be effectively integrated and the overall aesthetics of the refrigerator 001 door 200 can be improved. The design of the recessed groove 230 makes the receiving groove more visually concealed, reducing its abruptness, and also helps to protect the food management module 100 from external collisions or contamination.

[0053] Meanwhile, the presence of the recessed groove 230 also helps reduce the risk of the module shaking or falling off during use, improving the overall durability of the refrigerator 001. The design of the recessed groove 230 and the first receiving groove 220 allows the food management module 100 to be partially embedded in the refrigerator 001 door 200, thereby effectively utilizing the internal space of the refrigerator door 200. This embedded design not only saves external space but also makes the refrigerator 001 look neater and more aesthetically pleasing.

[0054] In some embodiments of this utility model, a charging terminal 210 is provided on the peripheral wall 240 or bottom wall 250 of the first receiving groove 220 to charge the food management module 100. A first detachable connection and mating structure 260 is provided on the peripheral wall 240 or bottom wall 250 of the first receiving groove 220, which is adapted to the detachable connection structure 121.

[0055] In some embodiments of this utility model, the first detachable connecting structure 260 can be a first retaining edge 260, which is made of an elastic material and has a certain elastic deformation capability. The user can push the food management module 100 into the first receiving groove 220, and the retaining edge will be embedded in the retaining groove 123, thereby fixing the food management module 100 to the door 200 of the refrigerator 001.

[0056] Similarly, when removing the food management module 100 from the first receiving slot 220, the user only needs to apply appropriate force to pull the food management module 100 out of the first receiving slot 220. The edge of the card will undergo a certain degree of elastic deformation when squeezed, and the edge of the card will move out of the card slot 123, thereby realizing the removal of the food management module 100 from the first receiving slot 220.

[0057] In this embodiment, the retaining edge made of elastic material can fit tightly after being embedded in the retaining groove 123, forming a stable connection and ensuring that the food management module 100 will not loosen or fall off due to vibration or external force during use. The choice of elastic material allows the retaining edge to adapt to retaining grooves 123 of different sizes and shapes, improving the compatibility of the food management module 100 with different models of refrigerator door 200.

[0058] This design also ensures the connectivity remains consistent when upgrading or modifying the refrigerator 001 or the food management module 100 in the future. Compared to traditional fixing methods, the use of snap-fit ​​edges and flexible materials simplifies manufacturing and reduces production costs. Furthermore, the elimination of the need to purchase and carry additional installation tools lowers installation and operating costs for users.

[0059] In some other embodiments of this invention, the first detachable connection structure 260 may be a magnetic component (not shown in the figure). The food management module 100 is attracted to the magnetic component via the magnet 124 on it, thereby enabling the food management module 100 to be detachably connected to the first receiving slot 220. Users do not need to use any tools; they simply need to bring the food management module 100 close to the first receiving slot 220 of the refrigerator door 200, and the magnet 124 will automatically attract to the magnetic component, achieving quick installation. Similarly, disassembly is also simple and quick; the module can be easily pulled out of the receiving slot with just a little force.

[0060] Meanwhile, the magnetic component design can accommodate food management modules 100 of different sizes and shapes, as well as refrigerator door models 200, improving product compatibility and applicability. When it is necessary to upgrade or modify the refrigerator 001 or the food management module 100, this magnetic connection method allows for easy disassembly and replacement, reducing the difficulty and cost of upgrades.

[0061] In some other embodiments of this utility model, the first detachable connection and mating structure 260 may be a metal part (not shown in the figure), and the food management module 100 is attracted to the metal part by the magnet 124 on it, thereby realizing the detachable connection of the food management module 100 to the first receiving groove 220.

[0062] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, this utility model also provides a storage box 300, which is the second target object 300 mentioned above. The storage box 300 is a container for storing food and is provided with a plurality of second receiving slots 310. The peripheral wall 320 or bottom wall 330 of the second receiving slot 310 is provided with a second detachable connecting structure 340, which is adapted to the detachable connecting structure 121.

[0063] In some embodiments of this utility model, the second detachable connecting structure 340 can be a second retaining edge 340, which is made of an elastic material and has a certain elastic deformation capability. The user can push the food management module 100 into the second receiving groove 310, and the second retaining edge 340 is embedded in the retaining groove 123, thereby fixing the food management module 100 to the storage box 300.

[0064] This utility model also provides a refrigerator 001, which includes the above-mentioned storage box 300.

[0065] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 6 As shown, at least one second receiving groove 310 can be provided on the surface of the storage box 300. The second receiving groove 310 is used to receive at least a portion of the main body 120 of the food management module 100. Specifically, a portion of the food management module 100 is located inside the second receiving groove 310, and another portion is exposed outside the second receiving groove 310, so as to facilitate the user to remove the food management module 100 from the surface of the storage box 300. By embedding a portion of the structure of the food management module 100 into the second receiving groove 310, the stability of the module can be increased, preventing it from falling off the storage box 300.

[0066] In some embodiments of this utility model, the edge of the food management module 100 is made of elastic material, which has a certain elastic deformation capability. The user can push the food management module 100 into the second receiving groove 310, and the edge is embedded in the slot 123 to fix the food management module 100 on the storage box 300.

[0067] Similarly, when removing the food management module 100 from the second receiving slot 310, the user only needs to apply appropriate force to pull the food management module 100 out of the second receiving slot 310. After the edge is squeezed, it will undergo a certain degree of elastic deformation and move out of the slot 123, thereby removing the food management module 100 from the second receiving slot 310.

[0068] In this embodiment, the retaining edge made of elastic material fits tightly after being embedded in the slot 123, forming a stable connection and ensuring that the food management module 100 will not loosen or fall off due to vibration or external force during use. The choice of elastic material allows the retaining edge to adapt to slots 123 of different sizes and shapes, improving the compatibility of the food management module 100 with different models of storage boxes 300.

[0069] The food management module 100 for refrigerators provided by this utility model can remind users of the freshness of food through app reminders and light changes based on the food information entered by the user. This allows users to check the freshness of food at any time, achieving a precise and convenient food management experience and bringing users a better healthy life.

[0070] Specifically, the food management module 100 is initially fixedly placed on the side wall of the refrigerator door 200 for charging. When the user puts food into the container in the refrigerator 001, the user removes the food management module 100 from the refrigerator door 200, enters the food information into the food management module 100 via mobile phone, and then fixes the food management module 100 to the container storing the food.

[0071] After the food management module 100 is attached to the food storage container, the white light on the control panel illuminates, and the mobile application opens. The user manually enters the type of food in the application to activate the intelligent management function. The application has a database of food items and their corresponding shelf-life. If the user forgets to enter information in the app, the app will continue to notify the user until the information is entered.

[0072] Based on the information entered by the user, the food management module 100 will use app notifications and light changes to indicate the freshness of the food, reminding the user to check the food's freshness status regularly. When the light is orange, it reminds the user that the food is nearing its expiration date and should be used as soon as possible. When the light is red, it means the food in the container has passed its freshness expiration date and should not be used, reminding the user to dispose of it promptly. This addresses the problem of users easily overlooking food stored in refrigerator 001, leading to food becoming stale or even spoiled.

[0073] Among these, the information on the condition of the ingredients mainly refers to their freshness and shelf life. Parameters for evaluating freshness can include the appearance and smell of the ingredients. For example, fresh vegetables have bright green and glossy leaves, fruits are plump and brightly colored, and meat has a glossy surface and uniform color.

[0074] In the description of this embodiment, it should be understood that the terms "center", "central", "length", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", "axial", 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 the present invention 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 present invention.

[0075] 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. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature, that is, include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified. When a feature "includes or contains" one or more of the features it encompasses, unless otherwise specifically stated, this indicates that other features are not excluded and may be further included.

[0076] Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," and "coupling," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art should be able to understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0077] Furthermore, in the description of this embodiment, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or it can include contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. That is, in the description of this embodiment, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," or "below" of the second feature can mean the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0078] Unless otherwise specified, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the description of these embodiments have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains.

[0079] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "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.

[0080] Therefore, those skilled in the art should recognize that although many exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described in detail herein, many other variations or modifications conforming to the principles of the present invention can be directly determined or derived from the disclosure of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be understood and recognized as covering all such other variations or modifications.

Claims

1. A food ingredient management module, characterized in that, include: The main body includes a detachable connection structure for mounting to a first target object or a second target object via the detachable connection structure. The first target object is used to store the food management module and charge the food management module, while the second target object is used to store the food. A display unit is disposed on the main body, and the display unit is used to display the status information of the food ingredient within the second target object.

2. The food ingredient management module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-section of the main body is circular; and / or The detachable connection structure includes at least one slot provided on the circumferential wall for engaging with the first target object or the second target object via the slot.

3. The food ingredient management module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The number of card slots is two, and they are centrally symmetrically distributed. The card slots are located at the end of the main body that is away from the display part.

4. The food ingredient management module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The detachable connection structure includes at least one magnet disposed on the main body, and / or The number of magnets is two, and they are centrally symmetrically distributed.

5. The food ingredient management module according to claim 3, characterized in that, A power receiving terminal is provided on the side of the main body away from the display portion. The power receiving terminal is matched with the charging terminal on the first target object so that it can be charged by the first target object.

6. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The door body is the first target object as described in any one of claims 1 to 5; At least one of the food ingredient management modules as described in any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, characterized in that, The door body is provided with a plurality of first receiving slots on the side away from its pivot end, the first receiving slots being used to receive at least a portion of the main body.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, A recessed groove is provided on the side of the door body away from its pivot end, and the first receiving groove is located in the recessed groove; and / or The first receiving tank has charging terminals on its peripheral or bottom wall to charge the food management module; and / or The first receiving groove has a first detachable connection structure on its peripheral wall or bottom wall, which is adapted to the detachable connection structure.

9. A storage box, characterized in that, The second target object is as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, and is provided with a plurality of second receiving grooves; and / or the peripheral wall or bottom wall of the second receiving groove is provided with a second detachable connection and fitting structure, which is adapted to the detachable connection structure.

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The storage box as claimed in claim 9.

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