Refrigerator

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model relates to the technical field of refrigeration, in particular to a refrigerator. According to the embodiment of the invention, the air door is arranged at the air inlet, and the memory metal part is arranged to sense the air temperature change of the evaporation cavity to deform so as to drive the air door to move relative to the air inlet. When the evaporator defrosts, the air door shields the air inlet, defrosting heat is prevented from entering the storage chamber, and the temperature of the storage chamber can be kept stable. And the top of the evaporation cavity is closed by shielding the air inlet, so that defrosting heat is favorably converged in the evaporation cavity and acts on the evaporator, and the defrosting efficiency is improved. According to the embodiment of the invention, the guide structure is arranged between the air door and the air duct component to limit the deformation direction of the memory metal. At least part of the memory metal piece exposed out of the evaporation cavity can directly make contact with air in the evaporation cavity so as to sense the change of the air temperature of the evaporation cavity, and the moving sensitivity of the air door is improved.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] During refrigerator use, the food stored in the storage compartment and the air contain moisture, causing frost to form when the air passes through the evaporator. When the frost reaches a certain thickness, it affects the smooth flow of air through the evaporator, thus impacting cooling efficiency. Therefore, regular defrosting is necessary.

[0003] In related technologies, a heater is typically installed below the evaporator to melt frost. However, because the evaporator chamber is connected to the storage chamber, the heat generated during defrosting enters the storage chamber through the air duct, causing the temperature inside the storage chamber to rise and affecting the quality of the stored goods. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a refrigerator that can reduce the amount of heat entering the storage compartment during defrosting.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, which includes:

[0006] The box is constructed to form a receiving cavity with an opening for taking out and putting in.

[0007] An air duct component is installed within the receiving cavity, dividing the receiving cavity into an evaporation chamber and a storage compartment along the depth direction of the refrigerator. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporator and a heater for defrosting the evaporator. The storage compartment is located on one side of the access port. The air duct component is configured to form an air duct to allow cold air from the evaporation chamber to flow into the storage compartment. The air inlet of the air duct is located within the evaporation chamber.

[0008] A damper mechanism is located within the evaporation chamber and is opposite to the air inlet along the depth direction; the damper mechanism includes:

[0009] The damper is configured to either shield or open the air inlet;

[0010] A shape memory metal component is configured to deform in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber, thereby moving the damper; the shape memory metal component is connected to both the damper and the duct component.

[0011] The damper and the duct component are provided with a guide structure to limit the deformation direction of the shape memory metal component, and at least a portion of the shape memory metal component is exposed in the evaporation chamber.

[0012] This embodiment of the application incorporates a damper at the air inlet. A shape memory metal component deforms to sense changes in the air temperature within the evaporator chamber, driving the damper to move relative to the air inlet. During evaporator defrosting, the damper blocks the air inlet, preventing defrosting heat from entering the storage compartment and helping to maintain a stable temperature in the storage compartment. Blocking the air inlet also seals the top of the evaporator chamber, facilitating the accumulation of defrosting heat within the chamber and its application to the evaporator, thus improving defrosting efficiency. During evaporator cooling, the damper opens the air inlet, allowing cold air passing through the evaporator to enter the storage compartment through the inlet and duct, lowering the temperature of the storage compartment. This embodiment includes a guide structure between the damper and the duct components to limit the deformation direction of the shape memory metal. At least a portion of the shape memory metal component exposed within the evaporator chamber can directly contact the air inside, sensing changes in the air temperature and improving the sensitivity of the damper's movement.

[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the guide structure is configured to form a guide cavity, and the shape memory metal element is accommodated in the guide cavity;

[0014] The guide structure is also configured to form a hollow portion that communicates with the guide cavity, so that the shape memory metal part is exposed to the evaporation cavity through the hollow portion.

[0015] In this embodiment, a guide cavity is formed in the guide structure, which accommodates the shape memory metal part and provides a certain degree of protection for the shape memory metal part. Furthermore, by setting a hollow part in the guide structure, the shape memory metal part is exposed to the evaporation cavity. This not only ensures the guiding effect of the guide structure on the deformation of the shape memory metal part, but also allows at least a part of the shape memory metal part to be exposed to the evaporation cavity, ensuring that the shape memory metal part deforms in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation cavity.

[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the guide structure is configured to form a first opening communicating with the guide cavity, the first opening being located at one end of the guide structure away from the air duct component; the hollow portion includes the first opening.

[0017] By providing a first opening at the end of the guide structure, it is not only convenient to install the shape memory metal part into the guide cavity, but also to allow the shape memory metal part to be exposed in the evaporation cavity through the first opening.

[0018] In some embodiments of this application, the guide structure is configured to form a second opening communicating with the guide cavity, the second opening being located at one end of the guide structure facing the air duct component; the hollow portion includes the second opening.

[0019] By providing a second opening at the other end of the guide cavity, the shape memory metal component can be exposed to the evaporation cavity through the second opening, which helps to increase the exposed area of ​​the shape memory metal component and improve its temperature sensing sensitivity. Moreover, the second opening is opposite to the first opening, so that the guide cavity forms a channel communicating with the evaporation cavity. Air in the evaporation cavity can circulate in the guide cavity through the first and second openings, which is beneficial for the shape memory metal component in the guide cavity to contact the air in the evaporation cavity and sense temperature changes.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, the guide structure is further configured to form a third opening communicating with the guide cavity, the third opening being located on the side of the guide cavity; the hollow portion includes the third opening.

[0021] The third opening is located on the side of the guide cavity extending in the direction of its extension. This provides ample space for the third opening, allowing the shape memory metal component within the guide cavity to directly contact the air in the evaporation cavity.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, at least a portion of the guide structure is exposed in the evaporation chamber; at least a portion of the shape memory metal element is arranged outside the portion of the guide structure exposed in the evaporation chamber.

[0023] This design allows for a simple structure that exposes at least part of the shape memory metal component within the evaporation chamber.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, the side of the air duct component facing the evaporation chamber is recessed away from the damper to form a receiving groove; the receiving groove at least accommodates a portion of the guide structure.

[0025] The recessed groove, in conjunction with the guide structure, not only guides the movement of the damper but also provides space for the expansion and contraction of the shape memory metal parts.

[0026] In some embodiments of this application, one end of the guide structure is fixed to the bottom wall of the receiving groove;

[0027] The edge of the damper is configured to form a mating hole so that one end of the guide structure protrudes from the bottom wall of the receiving groove;

[0028] The shape memory metal component is disposed at the portion of the guide structure that passes through the mating hole, and the shape memory metal component is connected to both the guide structure and the damper.

[0029] In this embodiment, the shape memory metal component is disposed at the part of the guide structure that passes through the mating hole, so that the shape memory metal component is located on the side of the damper away from the air duct cover plate, which is beneficial to expose the shape memory metal component in the evaporation chamber to sense the air temperature change in the evaporation chamber.

[0030] In some embodiments of this application, the air duct component is provided with a fixing seat on the side facing the damper, the fixing seat is configured to form a receiving channel, and the receiving channel is configured to receive at least a portion of the guide structure;

[0031] The edge of the damper forms the guide structure, and the shape memory metal component is connected to the guide structure and the fixed base respectively.

[0032] This application embodiment provides a connection position for the shape memory metal component by setting a fixing seat on the air duct component.

[0033] In some embodiments of this application, the side wall of the fixing base is provided with a fourth opening so that the shape memory metal part is exposed to the evaporation chamber through the fourth opening.

[0034] In this embodiment, the third opening and the fourth opening are radially opposite each other along the guide cavity, which can prevent part of the third opening from being blocked by the fixing seat and affecting the air contact between the shape memory metal part and the evaporation cavity.

[0035] In some embodiments of this application, the shape memory metal element is a helical spring, and the shape memory metal element is configured to extend and retract along the axial direction of the damper in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber, so as to drive the damper to move axially along the air inlet.

[0036] The shape memory metal component is sleeved on the outside of the guide structure, or the guide structure is disposed on the outside of the shape memory metal component.

[0037] Helical springs have a simple structure, are easy to manufacture, and can stretch and deform along their axial direction.

[0038] The shape memory metal component is fitted onto the outside of the guide structure, which is located inside the shape memory metal component. This allows at least a portion of the shape memory metal component to be exposed within the evaporation chamber, facilitating its ability to sense temperature changes within the chamber. Furthermore, with the shape memory metal component having a uniform radial dimension, positioning the guide structure inside the component allows for a more compact structure.

[0039] The guide structure is located on the outside of the shape memory metal part, so that the shape memory metal part is located on the inside of the guide structure, which provides a certain degree of protection for the shape memory metal part; moreover, the guide structure is located on the outside of the shape memory metal part, which can provide better radial fabrication and reduce lateral bending of the shape memory metal part during expansion and contraction deformation.

[0040] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, which includes:

[0041] The enclosure includes a storage chamber and an evaporation chamber. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporator and a heater for defrosting the evaporator. An air duct is provided between the evaporation chamber and the storage chamber to allow cold air from the evaporation chamber to flow into the storage chamber.

[0042] The air inlet of the air duct is located inside the evaporation chamber; a damper is provided at the air inlet.

[0043] The air inlet is also provided with a shape memory metal component; the shape memory metal component is configured to deform when heated by the temperature rise in the evaporation chamber, and drive the damper to move to shield the air inlet;

[0044] The air inlet is also provided with a guide structure to limit the deformation direction of the shape memory metal component; at least a portion of the shape memory metal component is exposed in the evaporation chamber.

[0045] This embodiment of the application incorporates a damper at the air inlet. A shape memory metal component deforms to sense changes in the air temperature within the evaporator chamber, driving the damper to move relative to the air inlet. During evaporator defrosting, the damper blocks the air inlet, preventing defrosting heat from entering the storage compartment and helping to maintain a stable temperature in the storage compartment. Blocking the air inlet also seals the top of the evaporator chamber, facilitating the accumulation of defrosting heat within the chamber and its application to the evaporator, thereby improving defrosting efficiency. This embodiment also includes a guide structure between the damper and the air duct components to limit the deformation direction of the shape memory metal. At least a portion of the shape memory metal component exposed within the evaporator chamber can directly contact the air inside, sensing changes in the air temperature and improving the sensitivity of the damper's movement. Attached Figure Description

[0046] 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.

[0047] Figure 1 This application provides structural schematic diagrams of refrigerators for some embodiments.

[0048] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the box liner provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0049] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the damper mechanism and air duct component provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0050] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Rear view of the middle structure;

[0051] Figure 5 for Figure 4 AA section view in the middle;

[0052] Figure 6 This application provides structural schematic diagrams of dampers for some embodiments.

[0053] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a damper provided in some other embodiments of this application;

[0054] Figure 8 Schematic diagrams of the structure of the damper provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0055] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the air duct rear cover plate provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0056] Figure 10 for Figure 9 An enlarged schematic diagram of region P in the diagram;

[0057] Figure 11 Rear view of damper mechanism and duct components provided for other embodiments of this application;

[0058] Figure 12 for Figure 11 BB section view in the middle;

[0059] Figure 13 Schematic diagrams of damper mechanisms and duct components provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0060] Figure 14 for Figure 13 An enlarged schematic diagram of the Q region.

[0061] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0062] 10: Cabinet body; 11: Cabinet liner; 12: Rear side wall; 13: Receiving cavity; 14: Storage compartment; 15: Evaporation chamber; 20: Door; 30: Damper mechanism; 40: Evaporator; 41: Heater;

[0063] 100: Air duct component; 101: Air duct; 102: Return air inlet; 110: Air duct rear cover; 111: Air inlet; 112: Protrusion; 113: Receiving groove; 114: Fixing base; 1141: Limiting structure; 1142: Receiving channel; 1143: Fourth opening; 1144: Fixing part; 117: Limiting seat; 1171: First limiting slide; 1172: Second limiting slide; 120: Air duct front cover; 121: Air outlet; 130: Refrigeration fan;

[0064] 200: Damper; 210: Plate body; 211: Mating surface; 220: Connecting seat; 221: Mating hole; 230: Guide structure; 2301: Guide cavity; 231: Hollowed-out part; 2311: First opening; 2312: Second opening; 2313: Third opening; 232: First connector; 233: Second connector; 240: Connecting component;

[0065] 300: Shape memory metal component; 310: Spring arm; 320: First connecting part; 330: Second connecting part. Detailed Implementation

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] In related technologies, a heater is typically installed below the evaporator to melt frost. However, because the evaporator chamber is connected to the storage chamber, the heat generated during defrosting enters the storage chamber through the air duct, causing the temperature inside the storage chamber to rise and affecting the quality of the stored goods.

[0073] The researchers of this application utilize the deformation of shape memory metal parts to drive the movement of the damper. During defrosting, the air inlet of the chamber where the fan is located is closed, and during cooling, the air inlet is opened. This not only prevents defrosting heat from entering the storage room, but also ensures unobstructed airflow during cooling.

[0074] To ensure that the deformation force of the shape memory metal component acts more effectively on the damper, a guide structure is incorporated into the shape memory metal component to guide its deformation direction. Therefore, the researchers of this application have fitted a cylindrical guide structure onto the outer side of the shape memory metal component to limit its deformation direction.

[0075] However, during the experiment, the researchers discovered a lag in the opening and closing of the damper. Further investigation revealed that the guide structure blocked the shape memory metal component from sensing temperature changes in the evaporator chamber, causing the damper to open and close lag.

[0076] Therefore, in this embodiment of the application, by setting a specific structure for the guide structure, at least a portion of the shape memory metal component is exposed in the chamber where the evaporator is located, thereby improving the reliability of the shape memory metal component in sensing temperature changes and thus improving the sensitivity of the damper movement.

[0077] 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.

[0078] This application provides a refrigerator, which includes:

[0079] The cabinet contains a storage chamber and an evaporation chamber. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporator and a heater for defrosting the evaporator. An air duct is provided between the evaporation chamber and the storage chamber to allow cold air from the evaporation chamber to flow into the storage chamber.

[0080] The air inlet of the air duct is located inside the evaporation chamber; thus, the cold air in the evaporation chamber enters the air duct through the air inlet and then enters the storage compartment through the air duct. An air damper is installed at the air inlet.

[0081] The air inlet is also equipped with a shape memory metal component, which is designed to deform in response to changes in the air temperature in the evaporation chamber. This deformation serves as the driving force to move the damper.

[0082] Among them, the shape memory metal component is configured to deform when heated by the rising temperature inside the evaporation chamber, and drive the damper to block the air inlet.

[0083] When the evaporator is cooling, the shape memory metal component drives the damper to open the air inlet, allowing cold air to enter the storage compartment through the inlet and duct. When the heater defrosts the evaporator, the shape memory metal component drives the damper to block the air inlet.

[0084] A guide structure is also provided at the air inlet to limit and guide the deformation direction of the shape memory metal parts, so that the deformation force of the shape memory metal parts can act on the damper in the set direction to drive the damper to move and reduce the loss of the deformation force of the shape memory metal parts.

[0085] At least a portion of the shape memory metal component is exposed in the evaporation chamber. This can be understood as at least a portion of the shape memory metal component being exposed in the evaporation chamber, allowing at least a portion of the shape memory metal component to directly contact the air in the evaporation chamber in order to sense changes in the air temperature in the evaporation chamber and improve the sensitivity of the shape memory metal component in sensing temperature.

[0086] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 14 This application describes in detail the specific structure and function of the refrigerator in the embodiment.

[0087] 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 14 with an access opening for storing items.

[0088] Multiple storage compartments 14 can be provided to expand storage space. Depending on the storage temperature of the storage compartments 14, the storage compartments 14 may include at least one refrigerated compartment and at least one frozen compartment. The internal temperature of the refrigerated compartment 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.

[0089] In some possible implementations, at least one of the storage chambers 14 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.

[0090] For example, two storage compartments 14 can be provided, which can be stacked vertically or arranged side by side horizontally. One of them can be a refrigerator compartment and the other can be a freezer compartment.

[0091] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1 and Figure 2 The refrigerator body 10 may include a refrigerator liner 11 and a refrigerator shell. The refrigerator liner 11 may be configured to form a storage compartment 14 with a front opening, which serves as an access port. The refrigerator shell may be attached to the outside of the refrigerator liner 11 to form the appearance of the refrigerator.

[0092] The cabinet 10 may also include a cabinet insulation layer, which can be disposed between the cabinet liner 11 and the cabinet shell. The cabinet insulation layer can insulate the storage compartment 14 to minimize heat exchange between the storage compartment 14 and the outside of the refrigerator, which is beneficial to ensuring the cooling effect of the refrigerator.

[0093] The refrigerator in this embodiment may further include a refrigeration system for reducing the air temperature in the storage compartment 14. Exemplarily, the refrigeration system may be housed within the cabinet 10. The refrigeration system may include a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator 40 connected in a cycle.

[0094] During refrigeration system operation, the compressor compresses refrigerant vapor to generate high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, which is then transported to the condenser. The condenser liquefies the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, generating high-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant liquid, which is then transported to the expansion valve. The expansion valve reduces the pressure of the refrigerant liquid, transforming the high-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid into a low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid, which is then transported to the evaporator 40. The evaporator 40 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 14.

[0095] 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 access port. Exemplarily, the door 20 is hinged to the cabinet 10.

[0096] Each storage room 14 may be provided with one door 20; or, each storage room 14 may be provided with two doors 20, which may rotate in opposite directions to open or close the storage room 14.

[0097] Of course, in some possible implementations, the storage compartment 14 is equipped with drawers, the outer ends of which are constructed to form a door 20.

[0098] In some embodiments, the door 20 may include an inner door liner. When the door 20 is closed to the refrigerator compartment, the inner door liner faces the refrigerator compartment.

[0099] The door 20 may include a door outer shell; the door outer shell may be attached to the outside of the door inner liner to form the appearance of the door 20. The door outer shell may be rotatably connected to the cabinet 10 to allow the door 20 to open or close the refrigerator compartment.

[0100] 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 can insulate the storage compartment 14 to minimize heat exchange between the storage compartment 14 and the outside of the refrigerator, thus helping to ensure the refrigerator's cooling effect. The door insulation component can be a foam layer.

[0101] In some embodiments, a door shelf is provided on the side of the door 20 facing the refrigerator compartment to increase the storage space of the refrigerator. The door shelf has an upward-opening storage cavity for storing items.

[0102] Reference Figure 2 In some embodiments of this application, the inner liner 11 of the cabinet 10 is configured to form a receiving cavity 13 with an opening for taking out and putting in. The receiving cavity 13 can not only form a storage room 14, but also provide installation space for other components of the refrigerator.

[0103] In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerator may also include an air duct component 100, which is used to construct a channel for forming a flow of cold air to guide the cold air cooled by the evaporator 40 into the storage compartment 14.

[0104] The air duct component 100 is installed inside the receiving cavity 13. This can be understood as the air duct component 100 being installed inside the box liner 11. The air duct component 100 is positioned near the rear side wall 12 of the box liner 11, allowing a large storage compartment 14 to be formed on the front side of the box liner 11.

[0105] The air duct component 100 directs the accommodating cavity 13 of the refrigerator liner 11 along the depth direction of the refrigerator (corresponding to...). Figure 2 The space is divided into an evaporation chamber 15 and a storage chamber 14 along the Y-axis. Figure 2 There is a gap between the air duct component 100 and the rear side wall 12 of the box liner 11 to form an evaporation chamber 15, and the side of the air duct component 100 facing the access port forms a storage compartment 14.

[0106] The evaporator 40 of the refrigeration system is installed inside the evaporation chamber 15, and the evaporator 40 is located at the lower part of the evaporation chamber 15. A heater 41 is provided below the evaporator 40 to provide defrosting heat for defrosting the evaporator 40. Of course, this is not a limitation on the location of the heater 41, and the heater 41 can also be located at other positions on the evaporator 40.

[0107] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The air duct component 100 is constructed to form an air duct 101 and an air inlet 111. The air inlet 111 connects the air duct 101 and the evaporation chamber 15, and the air inlet 111 is located on the side of the air duct component 100 facing the evaporation chamber 15. Along the height direction of the refrigerator (corresponding to...) Figure 2 (in the Z-axis direction), the air inlet 111 is located above the evaporator 40, so that the air inlet 111 is connected to the top of the evaporation chamber 15. In this way, the cold air after heat exchange in the evaporator 40 can enter the air duct 101 through the air inlet 111.

[0108] The air duct 101 is connected to the storage compartment 14 to guide the cool air after heat exchange in the evaporator 40 into the storage compartment 14, thereby reducing the temperature of the storage compartment 14. An air outlet 121 is provided on the side of the air duct component 100 facing the storage compartment 14, and the air outlet 121 connects the air duct 101 and the storage compartment 14. Multiple air outlets 121 can be provided; some air outlets 121 can be spaced apart along the width of the refrigerator, and some air outlets 121 can be spaced apart along the height of the refrigerator to improve the temperature uniformity within the storage compartment 14.

[0109] In some embodiments, the bottom end of the air duct component 100 is spaced from the inner chamber 11 to form a return air vent 102. The return air vent 102 is located below all the air supply vents 121. The return air vent 102 connects the bottom of the storage compartment 14 and the evaporation chamber 15, and the connection point between the return air vent 102 and the evaporation chamber 15 is located below the evaporator 40, so that the cold air from the return air vent 102 can pass through the evaporator 40 and exchange heat.

[0110] In some embodiments, a cooling fan 130 is also installed in the air duct 101 to provide power for the circulation of cold air between the storage compartment 14 and the evaporation chamber 15. The cooling fan 130 is opposite to the air inlet 111, so that a negative pressure can be formed at the air inlet 111, improving the efficiency of cold air entering the storage compartment 14 from the evaporation chamber 15.

[0111] For example, the air inlet 111 is a circular opening, thus matching the shape of the cooling fan 130.

[0112] With the above configuration, under the action of the cooling fan 130, the cold air in the evaporator 15, after heat exchange with the evaporator 40, enters the air duct 101 through the air inlet 111, and then enters the storage chamber 14 through the air outlet 121; the air in the storage chamber 14 returns to the evaporator 15 through the return air outlet 102 and exchanges heat with the evaporator 40. This cycle repeats, lowering the temperature of the storage chamber 14.

[0113] In some embodiments, Figure 2 The storage compartment 14 shown is a freezer compartment. A refrigerated air duct is connected to the top of the air duct component 100, and the refrigerated air duct is connected to the refrigerated compartment to provide cold air to the refrigerated compartment.

[0114] Continue to refer to Figure 2 In some embodiments, the air duct component 100 includes a rear cover plate 110 and a front cover plate 120, which are fixedly connected and enclose an air duct 101. The rear cover plate 110 is located behind the front cover plate 120, so that the rear cover plate 110 faces the evaporation chamber 15 and the front cover plate 120 faces the storage chamber 14. An air inlet 111 is located on the rear cover plate 110, and an air outlet 121 is located on the front cover plate 120.

[0115] Continue to refer to Figure 2 In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerator further includes a damper mechanism 30, which is located within the evaporation chamber 15. The damper mechanism 30 is located at the upper part of the evaporation chamber 15 and above the evaporator 40. The damper mechanism 30 and the air inlet 111 are aligned along the depth direction (corresponding to...) Figure 2 (in the Y-axis direction) relative to each other. The damper mechanism 30 is configured to open the air inlet 111 when the evaporator 40 is cooling and close the air inlet 111 when the evaporator 40 is defrosting.

[0116] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the damper mechanism 30 may include a damper 200 configured to either shield or open the air inlet 111.

[0117] The damper 200 can be generally plate-shaped to reduce the space occupied by the damper mechanism 30 along the depth direction of the refrigerator. In some embodiments, the main body of the damper 200 can be circular, and a connecting structure is provided at the edge of the damper 200 to install the shape memory metal part 300.

[0118] Continue to refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4In some embodiments of this application, the damper mechanism 30 may further include a shape memory metal element 300, which is configured to deform in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15, thereby driving the damper 200 to move and open or close the air inlet 111.

[0119] The shape memory metal part 300 can be a shape memory alloy part, such as nickel-titanium alloy.

[0120] In some embodiments, the shape memory metal 300 is configured to deform axially along the air inlet 111 in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15, thereby driving the damper 200 to move axially along the air inlet 111.

[0121] When the air inlet 111 is arranged in the vertical plane of the refrigerator, the axis of the air inlet 111 is parallel to the depth direction of the refrigerator. The width direction and the height direction of the refrigerator determine the vertical plane of the refrigerator.

[0122] In other embodiments, the shape memory metal 300 is configured to deform in a vertical plane in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15, thereby driving the damper 200 to move in the vertical plane of the refrigerator, such that the damper 200 is opposite to the air inlet 111 and blocks the air inlet 111, or that the damper 200 is offset from the air inlet 111 and opens the air inlet 111.

[0123] Of course, the damper 200 can move in a straight line or a curve within the vertical plane of the refrigerator.

[0124] In some embodiments, the shape memory metal element 300 may be configured to deform in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15, with the deformation direction of the shape memory metal element 300 forming a certain angle with respect to the axial direction of the air inlet 111. Thus, the damper 200 moves along the deformation direction of the shape memory metal element 300 to open or close the air inlet 111. When the shape memory metal element 300 drives the damper 200 to move, the distance between the damper 200 and the air duct component 100 along the axial direction of the air inlet 111 changes; furthermore, the relative positions of the damper 200 and the air inlet 111 in the vertical plane of the refrigerator also change.

[0125] In some possible implementations of this application, the shape memory metal component 300 is a shape memory metal spring, which is configured to stretch or contract in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15.

[0126] In some embodiments, during evaporator 40 cooling, the temperature inside evaporator cavity 15 can reach -18°C to -20°C, causing the shape memory metal element 300 to undergo an austenitic-to-martensite phase transformation and elongate along the depth direction of the refrigerator. During evaporator 40 defrosting, the temperature inside evaporator cavity 15 can reach 2°C to 5°C, causing the shape memory metal element 300 to undergo a martensite-to-austenite phase transformation and shrink along the depth direction of the refrigerator.

[0127] In some implementations, the material of the shape memory metal 300 is designed so that the shape memory metal 300 shrinks along the depth direction of the refrigerator when the evaporator 40 is cooling, and stretches along the depth direction of the refrigerator when the evaporator 40 is defrosting.

[0128] In some specific implementations, the shape memory metal component 300 is a helical spring, such as a cylindrical helical spring or a conical helical spring. It has a simple structure, is easy to manufacture, and the spring can stretch and deform along its axial direction.

[0129] The shape memory metal part 300 is configured to extend and retract along the axial direction of the damper 200 in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15, thereby driving the damper 200 to move axially along the air inlet 111.

[0130] With this configuration, the spacing between the damper 200 and the plane containing the air inlet 111 remains essentially consistent as the damper 200 moves. When the damper 200 closes the air inlet 111, this helps ensure the uniformity of the damper 200's closure around the air inlet 111; when the damper 200 opens the air inlet 111, this helps ensure that the air intake spacing is the same around the air inlet 111, thus guaranteeing the uniformity of air intake.

[0131] In some embodiments of this application, the shape memory metal component 300 is connected to the damper 200 and the duct component 100, respectively. Specifically, the shape memory metal component 300 is connected to both the damper 200 and the duct rear cover plate 110.

[0132] Thus, during defrosting of the evaporator 40, the shape memory metal component 300 is configured to drive the damper 200 to shield the air inlet 111. This prevents defrosting heat from entering the storage compartment 14 via the air inlet 111 and the air duct 101, thus avoiding any impact on the temperature of the storage compartment 14. Furthermore, shielding the air inlet 111 closes the top of the evaporator chamber 15, facilitating the accumulation of defrosting heat within the evaporator chamber 15 and directing it towards the evaporator 40, thereby improving defrosting efficiency. During evaporator cooling, combined with... Figure 4 and Figure 5The damper 200 is driven by the shape memory metal part 300 to move away from the air duct component 100 to open the air inlet 111. In this way, the cold air after heat exchange in the evaporator enters the air duct 101 through the air inlet 111 and enters the storage compartment 14 through the air outlet 121 to reduce the temperature of the stored items and ensure the normal operation of the refrigerator's cooling function.

[0133] In some embodiments of this application, a guide structure 230 is provided between the damper 200 and the duct component 100 to limit the deformation direction of the shape memory metal. The guide structure 230 may be provided at the edge of the damper 200, or the guide structure 230 may be provided on the side of the duct component 100 facing the damper 200. Under the restriction of the shape memory metal 300 by the guide structure 230, the shape memory metal 300 deforms in a set direction, so that the deformation force of the shape memory metal 300 acts as much as possible on the movement of the damper 200, and reduces other losses of the deformation force of the shape memory metal 300.

[0134] In some embodiments, the shape memory metal 300 is a helical spring, and the shape memory metal 300 is sleeved on the outside of the guide structure 230, or the guide structure 230 is disposed on the outside of the shape memory metal 300, both of which can provide guidance for the expansion and contraction deformation of the shape memory metal 300.

[0135] In this design, the shape memory metal component 300 is fitted onto the outside of the guide structure 230, which is located inside the shape memory metal component 300. This allows at least a portion of the shape memory metal component 300 to be exposed within the evaporation chamber, facilitating its ability to sense temperature changes within the chamber. Furthermore, with all shape memory metal components 300 having uniform radial dimensions, the guide structure 230's placement inside the component allows for a more compact structure.

[0136] The guide structure 230 is disposed on the outside of the shape memory metal part 300, so that the shape memory metal part 300 is located on the inside of the guide structure 230, which provides a certain protection for the shape memory metal part 300; moreover, the guide structure 230 is located on the outside of the shape memory metal part 300, which can provide better radial fabrication and reduce the lateral bending of the shape memory metal part 300 during expansion and contraction deformation.

[0137] Since the shape memory metal part 300 needs to deform in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15, at least a portion of the shape memory metal part 300 is exposed in the evaporation chamber 15, thereby increasing the sensitivity of the shape memory metal part 300 in sensing temperature changes.

[0138] The entire shape memory metal component 300 is exposed in the evaporation chamber 15, which allows the entire shape memory metal component 300 to sense changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15 and deform accordingly, thereby increasing the deformation force of the shape memory metal component 300 and thus increasing the movement speed of the damper 200.

[0139] This can be understood as at least a portion of the shape memory metal 300 being exposed in the evaporation chamber 15, and the portion of the shape memory metal 300 exposed in the evaporation chamber 15 being in direct contact with the air inside the evaporation chamber 15 to sense changes in the temperature of the evaporation chamber 15.

[0140] At least a portion of the shape memory metal component 300 may be directly exposed to the evaporation chamber 15, allowing the shape memory metal component 300 to directly contact the temperature within the evaporation chamber 15. Alternatively, a channel may be provided within the evaporation chamber 15 to introduce air from the evaporation chamber 15 into at least a portion of the shape memory metal component 300, thereby allowing the air within the evaporation chamber 15 to come into contact with the shape memory metal component 300.

[0141] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the guide structure 230 is exposed in the evaporation chamber 15; at least a portion of the shape memory metal element 300 is disposed outside the portion of the guide structure 230 exposed in the evaporation chamber 15. This allows for a simple structure to expose the shape memory metal element 300 in the evaporation chamber 15.

[0142] Combination Figure 6 In some embodiments of this application, the guide structure 230 is configured to form a guide cavity 2301, and the shape memory metal part 300 is accommodated in the guide cavity 2301.

[0143] When the shape memory metal part 300 is a helical spring, the guide cavity 2301 extends along the axial direction of the helical spring to provide guidance and restraint for the deformation of the shape memory metal part 300.

[0144] When the shape memory metal part 300 is a cylindrical helical spring, the guide cavity 2301 is a cylindrical chamber that matches the shape of the shape memory metal part 300 to ensure radial restriction of the shape memory metal part 300.

[0145] The guide structure 230 is also configured to form a hollow portion 231 that communicates with the guide cavity 2301, so that the shape memory metal part 300 is exposed to the evaporation cavity 15 through the hollow portion 231.

[0146] The hollowed-out portion 231 is located in the part of the guide structure 230 that is exposed inside the evaporation chamber 15.

[0147] The hollow part 231 can be an opening or hole in the cavity wall of the guide cavity 2301.

[0148] Understandably, the hollowed-out portion 231 does not affect the guiding structure 230's guidance and restriction of the deformation of the shape memory metal part 300.

[0149] In this embodiment, a guide cavity 2301 is formed in the guide structure 230, so that the shape memory metal part 300 is accommodated in the guide cavity 2301, which provides a certain degree of protection for the shape memory metal part 300; and by setting a hollow part 231 in the guide structure 230, the shape memory metal part 300 is exposed to the evaporation cavity 15, which not only ensures the guiding effect of the guide structure 230 on the deformation of the shape memory metal part 300, but also allows at least a part of the shape memory metal part 300 to be exposed to the evaporation cavity 15, ensuring that the shape memory metal part 300 deforms in response to temperature changes in the evaporation cavity 15.

[0150] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some embodiments of this application, the guide structure 230 is configured to form a first opening 2311 communicating with the guide cavity 2301. The first opening 2311 is located at one end of the guide structure 230 away from the air duct component 100; the hollow portion 231 includes the first opening 2311. The first opening 2311 is located at one end in the extending direction of the guide cavity 2301. By providing the first opening 2311 at the end of the guide structure 230, it is not only convenient to install the shape memory metal part 300 into the guide cavity 2301, but also allows the shape memory metal part 300 to be exposed in the evaporation cavity 15 through the first opening 2311.

[0151] The first opening 2311 can be a circular opening, and the diameter of the first opening 2311 is the same as the diameter of the guide cavity 2301, which facilitates the installation of the memory metal part 300.

[0152] The first opening 2311 is located at one end of the guide structure 230 inside the evaporation chamber 15, so that the shape memory metal part 300 can directly contact the air temperature change of the evaporation chamber 15 through the first opening 2311, which is simple in structure.

[0153] Continue to refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In other embodiments of this application, the guide structure 230 is configured to form a second opening 2312 communicating with the guide cavity 2301. The second opening 2312 is located at one end of the guide structure 230 facing the air duct component 100; the hollow portion 231 includes the second opening 2312. The second opening 2312 is located at the other end of the extending direction of the guide cavity 2301, and the second opening 2312 and the first opening 2311 are respectively located at both ends of the extending direction of the guide cavity 2301.

[0154] The second opening 2312 can be a circular opening, and the diameter of the second opening 2312 is the same as the diameter of the guide cavity 2301, which facilitates the installation of the memory metal part 300.

[0155] By providing a second opening 2312 at the other end of the guide cavity 2301, the shape memory metal component 300 can also be exposed to the evaporation cavity 15 through the second opening 2312. This increases the exposed area of ​​the shape memory metal component 300 and improves its temperature sensing sensitivity. Moreover, the second opening 2312 is opposite to the first opening 2311, forming a channel between the guide cavity 2301 and the evaporation cavity 15. Air in the evaporation cavity 15 can circulate in the guide cavity 2301 through the first opening 2311 and the second opening 2312, which facilitates contact between the shape memory metal component 300 in the guide cavity 2301 and the air in the evaporation cavity 15, enabling it to sense temperature changes.

[0156] Combination Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some embodiments of this application, the guide structure 230 is further configured to form a third opening 2313 communicating with the guide cavity 2301, the third opening 2313 being located on the side of the guide cavity 2301; the hollow portion 231 includes the third opening 2313.

[0157] The third opening 2313 is located on the side of the guide cavity 2301 in the direction of extension. In this way, the space for the third opening 2313 is relatively sufficient, which can provide an opening for the shape memory metal part 300 in the guide cavity 2301 to directly contact the air in the evaporation cavity 15.

[0158] like Figure 7 As shown, the third opening 2313 can be an elongated opening extending along the extension direction of the guide cavity 2301, providing a larger contact area for the shape memory metal part 300 inside the guide cavity 2301.

[0159] Multiple third openings 2313 can be provided, and multiple third openings 2313 can be arranged at intervals along the circumference of the guide cavity 2301 to increase the opening area.

[0160] like Figure 8 As shown, the opening area of ​​the third opening 2313 is relatively small. For example, the third opening 2313 is an arc-shaped slit extending circumferentially along the guide cavity 2301. Multiple third openings 2313 are provided, and these openings are spaced apart along the extension direction of the guide cavity 2301. This provides a larger contact area for the shape memory metal within the guide cavity 2301 while also ensuring the guiding function of the guide cavity 2301 for the deformation of the shape memory metal part 300. Multiple third openings 2313 spaced apart along the extension direction of the guide cavity 2301 form a group of openings. Multiple groups of openings, such as two groups, can be provided circumferentially along the guide cavity 2301.

[0161] Combination Figures 6 to 8In some embodiments of this application, the damper 200 may include a plate body 210, which is axially opposite to the air inlet 111 along the shape memory metal member 300. The plate body 210 is configured to open or block the air inlet 111.

[0162] The plate body 210 can be circular to match the shape of the air inlet 111. This ensures the reliability of shielding the air inlet 111 and avoids increasing the weight due to an excessively large plate body 210, which would affect the smooth movement of the damper 200.

[0163] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the damper 200 forms an annular mating surface 211 on the side facing the air inlet 111. Specifically, the plate body 210 forms a mating surface 211 on the side facing the air inlet 111. During defrosting of the evaporator 40, the mating surface 211 abuts against the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct at the edge of the air inlet 111 to shield the air inlet 111. Thus, the damper 200 and the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct form a curved abutment surface, which helps to improve the reliability of the damper 200 in shielding the air inlet 111.

[0164] In some embodiments of this application, the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct faces the damper 200, or the rear cover plate 110 faces away from the front cover plate 120 of the air duct, forming an annular protrusion 112, with the air inlet 111 located inside the annular protrusion 112. By providing the protrusion 112, the structural strength and stability around the air inlet 111 are improved, reducing the possibility of deformation at the edge of the air inlet 111.

[0165] A recessed mating surface 211 is formed on the plate body 210. The mating surface 211 and the protrusion 112 are mated together, so that a curved contact surface is formed between the damper 200 and the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct, which helps to improve the airtightness of the damper 200 in shielding the air inlet 111.

[0166] Continue to refer to Figures 6 to 8 The damper 200 may also include a connecting seat 220, which is disposed on the edge of the plate body 210. The connecting seat 220 is used to mount the shape memory metal part 300, and the number of connecting seats 220 may be the same as the number of shape memory metal parts 300. The guide structure 230 is disposed on the connecting seat 220.

[0167] For example, the guide structure 230, the connecting seat 220 and the plate body 210 are integrally formed as one piece. This arrangement helps to improve the structural strength and stability of the damper 200 and also simplifies the structure of the damper 200.

[0168] exist Figures 6 to 8In the structure shown, the guide structure 230 is cylindrical and is fitted onto the outside of the shape memory metal part 300. This is not a limitation on the guide structure 230. For example, the guide structure 230 could also be cylindrical, allowing the shape memory metal part 300 to be fitted onto the outside of the guide structure 230.

[0169] Continue to refer to Figure 5 In some embodiments of this application, the side of the air duct component 100 facing the evaporation chamber 15 is recessed away from the damper 200 to form a receiving groove 113; the receiving groove 113 at least accommodates a portion of the guide structure 230.

[0170] The rear cover plate 110 of the air duct is partially recessed towards the front cover plate 120 of the air duct to form a receiving groove 113, which can avoid setting an opening in the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct and affecting the airtightness of the air duct 101.

[0171] The receiving groove 113 cooperates with the guide structure 230 to not only guide the movement of the damper 200, but also provide a receiving space for the extension and retraction of the shape memory metal part 300.

[0172] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The air duct component 100 is provided with a fixing seat 114 on the side facing the damper 200. The fixing seat 114 is configured to form a receiving channel 1142, which is configured to receive at least part of the guide structure 230.

[0173] exist Figure 9 and Figure 10 In the structure shown, the receiving channel 1142 and the receiving groove 113 are opposite to and connected along the axial direction of the air inlet 111, which is not limiting. The receiving groove 113 can provide receiving space and deformation space for the shape memory metal part 300, which helps to reduce the structure of the damper mechanism protruding from the air duct rear cover plate 110, so that the damper mechanism can be installed in the limited space behind the air duct rear cover plate 110.

[0174] The edge structure of the damper 200 forms a guide structure 230, and the shape memory metal part 300 is connected to the guide structure 230 and the fixed seat 114 respectively.

[0175] There are multiple ways to connect the shape memory metal part 300 to the fixed base 114.

[0176] For example, a limiting structure 1141 is provided on the fixed base 114, so that one end of the shape memory metal part 300 abuts against the limiting structure 1141, which is simple in structure.

[0177] For example, the damper 200 may also include a snap-fit ​​component that passes through one end of the shape memory metal component 300. The snap-fit ​​component is snapped or plugged into the fixing seat 114, making the connection method simple.

[0178] For example, the end riveting connector of the shape memory metal part 300 and the damper 200 may also include a fixing member, which is fixedly connected to the fixing seat 114 so that the end riveting connector of the shape memory metal part 300 is clamped between the fixing member and the fixing seat 114, and the connection method is stable.

[0179] In some specific implementations, the mounting base 114 includes two fixing parts 1144 spaced apart on both sides of the receiving channel 1142, and each fixing part 1144 is provided with an insertion hole. The damper 200 may also include an insert strip, which is inserted into the insertion hole and passes through the spring ring of the shape memory metal part 300. The connection method is simple and reliable.

[0180] In some embodiments of this application, the connection method between the shape memory metal part 300 and the guide structure 230 includes abutment, snap-fit, etc. The connection method between the shape memory metal part 300 and the guide structure 230 can refer to the connection method between the shape memory metal part 300 and the fixing seat 114.

[0181] In this embodiment, a fixing seat 114 is provided on the air duct component 100 and connected to the shape memory metal component 300, thereby connecting the shape memory metal component 300 to the air duct component 100; the shape memory metal component 300 is connected to the damper 200 by connecting to the guide structure 230. When the shape memory metal component 300 deforms, it causes the damper 200 to move relative to the air duct component 100.

[0182] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The side wall of the mounting base 114 is provided with a fourth opening 1143 so that the shape memory metal part 300 is exposed to the evaporation chamber 15 through the fourth opening 1143.

[0183] When a third opening 2313 is provided on the side of the guide structure 230, at least a portion of the third opening 2313 and at least a portion of the fourth opening 1143 are radially opposite to each other in the guide cavity 2301. In this way, the arrangement of the fixing seat 114 does not affect the air contact between the shape memory metal part 300 and the evaporation cavity 15.

[0184] In this embodiment, the third opening 2313 and the fourth opening 1143 are radially opposite each other in the guide cavity 2301, so as to avoid the third opening 2313 being partially blocked by the fixing seat 114 and affecting the air contact between the shape memory metal part 300 and the evaporation cavity 15.

[0185] In some specific implementations, the fixing base 114 includes two fixing parts 1144, which are radially opposite each other along the receiving groove 113, and a receiving channel 1142 is formed between the two fixing parts 1144. The two fixing parts 1144 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the receiving groove 113 to form a fourth opening 1143.

[0186] In the above embodiment, the guide structure 230 is formed by the edge structure of the damper 200 as an example for description, but this is not limiting. The guide structure 230 can also be provided on the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct component 100.

[0187] Among some possible implementations of this application, refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 One end of the guide structure 230 is fixed to the bottom wall of the receiving groove 113. Exemplarily, the guide structure 230 and the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct are integrally formed, resulting in a stable structure. A gap exists between the guide structure 230 and the receiving groove 113 to accommodate the shape memory metal part 300.

[0188] Combination Figure 12 The edge of the damper 200 forms a mating hole 221, allowing the guide structure 230 to pass through one end opposite to the bottom wall of the receiving groove 113. A shape memory metal part 300 is disposed at the portion of the guide structure 230 that passes through the mating hole 221. Figure 11 This design allows the shape memory metal component 300 to be exposed inside the evaporation chamber 15.

[0189] Combination Figure 12 The shape memory metal component 300 is connected to the guide structure 230 and the damper 200 respectively. The shape memory metal component 300 is connected to the guide structure 230 through the first connector 232, and the shape memory metal component 300 is connected to the connecting seat 220 of the damper 200 through the second connector 233.

[0190] When the shape memory metal component 300 is a cylindrical helical spring, the shape memory metal component 300 has a first end and a second end extending along its axial direction. The first end of the shape memory metal component 300 is connected to the end of the guide structure 230 opposite to the receiving groove 113 via a first connector 232. The connection method between the first connector 232 and the guide structure 230 includes, but is not limited to, threaded connection, snap-fit, etc., and the first connector 232 is snap-fitted or abutted against the shape memory metal component 300.

[0191] The second end of the shape memory metal part 300 is connected to the connecting seat 220 of the damper 200 via the second connector 233. The second connector 233 is snapped into the connecting seat 220, threaded into it, etc. The second end of the shape memory metal part 300 is clamped between the second connector 233 and the connecting seat 220, or the second end of the shape memory metal part 300 is snapped into the second connector 233, etc.

[0192] Combination Figure 11 and Figure 12 During defrosting in evaporator 40, the temperature inside evaporation chamber 15 rises. The shape memory metal component 300 senses this temperature increase. One end of the shape memory metal component 300 connected to the guide structure 230 remains stationary, while the other end connected to the damper 200 extends along the guide structure 230, causing the plate body 210 to close the air inlet 111. During cooling in evaporator 40, the temperature inside evaporation chamber 15 decreases. The shape memory metal component 300 senses this temperature decrease. One end of the shape memory metal component 300 connected to the guide structure 230 remains stationary, while the other end connected to the damper 200 retracts along the guide structure 230, causing the plate body 210 to open the air inlet 111.

[0193] In some embodiments of this application, multiple shape memory metal elements 300 are provided, such as two, three, or four. These multiple shape memory metal elements 300 are evenly spaced along the circumference of the damper 200 to provide sufficient power for the movement of the damper 200 and to improve the uniformity of the circumferential force on the damper 200.

[0194] For example, two shape memory metal parts 300 are provided, which can provide sufficient driving force for the damper 200 and avoid increasing costs by setting too many shape memory metal parts 300.

[0195] In the above embodiments, the shape memory metal component 300 is used as an example of a helical spring, but this is not limiting. Figure 13 and Figure 14 A limiting seat 117 is provided on the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct, and the limiting seat 117 is connected to one end of the shape memory metal part 300. The limiting seat 117 is the aforementioned guide structure 230, which provides guidance for the deformation of the shape memory metal part 300. A connecting component 240 is provided on the damper 200, and the connecting component 240 is fixedly connected to the other end of the shape memory metal part 300. The connection method includes, but is not limited to, snap-fit, screw fixing, etc.

[0196] The shape memory metal component 300 may include two spring arms 310, which are vertically opposite each other and extend at an angle. One end of each spring arm 310 is connected to a limiting seat 117, and the other end is connected to a connecting component 240. The shape memory metal component 300 is configured to sense changes in the angle between the two spring arms 310 when the temperature of the evaporation chamber 15 changes, thereby causing the damper 200 to move axially along the air inlet 111 to open or close the air inlet 111.

[0197] During defrosting of the evaporator 40, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber 15 rises under the action of the heater 41, and the hot air rises. The shape memory metal part 300 senses the rise in temperature, and the two spring arms 310 deform toward each other, making the included angle between the two spring arms 310 smaller. Under the guidance of the limit seat 117, it drives the damper 200 to move along the axial direction of the air inlet 111 toward the air inlet 111 to block the air inlet 111 and prevent defrosting heat from entering the storage chamber 14 through the air inlet 111 and the air duct 101.

[0198] When the evaporator 40 is cooling, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber decreases under the action of the evaporator 40. The shape memory metal part 300 senses the decrease in air temperature, and the two spring arms 310 deform away from each other, making the included angle between the two springs larger. Under the guidance of the limit seat 117, the damper 200 moves away from the air inlet 111 along the axial direction of the air inlet 111 to open the air inlet 111, so that the heat in the evaporation chamber 15 can enter the storage chamber 14 through the air inlet 111 and the air duct 101.

[0199] The shape memory metal component 300 may further include a first connecting portion 320, which connects to one end of the two spring arms 310 and is connected to the connecting member 240. The shape memory metal component 300 may further include a second connecting portion 330, which is disposed at the other end of the two spring arms 310 and is connected to the limiting seat 117.

[0200] In some embodiments, the limiting seat 117 is configured to form a first limiting channel and a second limiting channel. The first limiting channel extends axially along the air inlet 111, and the second limiting channel extends vertically along the refrigerator. Both the first and second limiting channels are connected to the evaporation chamber 15, so that the shape memory metal part 300 is exposed in the evaporation chamber 15.

[0201] The first connecting part 320 is located inside the first limiting slide 1171. Through the cooperation between the first connecting part 320 and the first limiting slide 1171, the movement direction of the damper 200 is guided.

[0202] The second connecting part 330 is slidably installed in the second limiting slide 1172, which can not only connect the limiting seat 117 and the memory metal part 300, but also limit the deformation direction of the spring arm 310.

[0203] In some embodiments of this application, the shape memory metal part 300 is made of two-way shape memory alloy. Two-way shape memory alloy is a material that can automatically change shape during heating and cooling. When heated, the two-way shape memory alloy returns to a preset high-temperature shape, and when cooled, it automatically transforms into another low-temperature shape. This bidirectional shape change can be achieved without external force.

[0204] In some embodiments, the shape memory metal element 300 is configured to extend or contract along its axial direction in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15, and independently drive the damper 200 to move axially along the air inlet 111. Here, "independent" can be understood as: the driving force of the damper 200 is solely the deformation force of the shape memory metal element 300, without any other auxiliary driving force.

[0205] During defrosting of the evaporator 40, the shape memory metal parts 300 are configured to drive the damper 200 toward the air inlet 111 and abut against the duct component 100 to shield the air inlet 111. Exemplarily, during defrosting of the evaporator 40, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber 15 rises under the action of the heater 41, and the hot air rises. All shape memory metal parts 300 sense the temperature rise in the evaporation chamber 15, synchronously undergo a phase change and elongate, driving the damper 200 toward the duct component 100 and abutting against the duct rear cover 110 of the duct component 100 to shield the air inlet 111.

[0206] When the evaporator 40 is refrigerating, combined with Figure 4 and Figure 5 The shape memory metal components 300 are configured to drive the damper 200 away from the air inlet 111 to open the air inlet 111. Exemplarily, during evaporator cooling, the air temperature inside the evaporator chamber decreases due to the action of the evaporator. All the shape memory metal components 300 sense the decrease in evaporator chamber temperature, synchronously undergo a phase change and contract, driving the damper 200 away from the air duct component 100, creating a gap between the damper 200 and the air duct rear cover 110, thus opening the air inlet 111. In this way, the cold air inside the evaporator chamber 15 can enter the storage compartment via the air duct 101 and the air outlet under the action of the cooling fan 130.

[0207] In this embodiment, the damper mechanism 30 uses a shape memory metal part 300 to sense changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber 15 and to extend or shorten along the axial direction of the shape memory metal part 300, thereby driving the damper 200 to move relative to the air duct component 100, thus achieving the shielding and opening of the air inlet 111. No additional components, drivers, or auxiliary devices are required, which not only makes the structure of the damper mechanism 30 simple and highly reliable, but also helps to reduce the cost of the damper mechanism 30.

[0208] In other embodiments of this application, the shape memory metal part 300 is made of one-way shape memory alloy. One-way shape memory alloy can "remember" a shape at a specific temperature. For example, when a one-way shape memory alloy is cooled below its phase transition temperature, it can be plastically deformed; when the temperature rises to the phase transition temperature, the one-way shape memory alloy will return to a pre-set shape.

[0209] In some embodiments, the shape memory metal component 300 has a first state and a second state, and the expansion force of the shape memory metal component 300 in the first state is greater than the expansion force in the second state. For example, the expansion force of the shape memory metal component 300 in the first state is more than three times the expansion force of the shape memory metal component 300 in the second state.

[0210] For example, during evaporator defrosting, the shape memory metal component 300 senses an increase in the air temperature of the evaporator chamber and extends to its first state. During evaporator cooling, the shape memory metal component 300 senses a decrease in the air temperature of the evaporator chamber, the expansion force of the shape memory metal component 300 decreases, and it contracts to its second state under the action of other forces.

[0211] The damper mechanism 30 may further include a biasing elastic member configured to elastically extend and retract along a first direction parallel to the axial direction of the air inlet 111. The biasing elastic member is connected to the damper 200 and the duct rear cover plate 110 of the duct component 100, respectively.

[0212] The combined force of the shape memory metal component 300 and the biased elastic component drives the damper 200 to move axially along the air inlet 111. At this time, the damper 200 is subjected to the combined force of the shape memory metal component 300 and the biased elastic component.

[0213] During defrosting of the evaporator 40, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber 15 rises under the action of the heater 41, and the hot air rises. The shape memory metal component 300 senses the temperature rise in the evaporation chamber 15, undergoes a phase change, and elongates. The shape memory metal component 300 drives the bias elastic component to deform elastically, driving the damper 200 to move towards the air duct component 100 and abut against the air duct rear cover plate 110 of the air duct component to block the air inlet 111.

[0214] At this time, the elastic force of the shape memory metal 300 is greater than the elastic force of the bias elastic element, causing the bias elastic element to deform elastically. The elastic force of the shape memory metal 300 and the elastic force of the bias elastic element are in opposite directions. The resultant force of the elastic force of the shape memory metal 300 and the elastic force of the bias elastic element is directed towards the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct, and this resultant force overcomes the friction of the damper 200, driving the damper 200 to move towards the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct to block the air inlet 111.

[0215] When the evaporator 40 is cooling, the air temperature inside the evaporation chamber decreases under the action of the evaporator 40. The shape memory metal component 300 senses the decrease in temperature in the evaporation chamber 15 and undergoes a phase change. The elastic force of the shape memory metal component 300 decreases, and it contracts under the action of the biased elastic component, driving the damper 200 to move away from the air duct component, so that a gap is formed between the damper 200 and the air duct rear cover plate 110, and the air inlet 111 is opened. In this way, the cold air in the evaporation chamber 15 can enter the storage compartment 14 through the air duct 101 and the air outlet 121 under the action of the cooling fan 130.

[0216] At this time, the elastic force of the shape memory metal 300 is less than the elastic force of the bias elastic element, and the bias elastic element recovers its deformation. The elastic force of the shape memory metal 300 and the elastic force of the bias elastic element are in opposite directions. The resultant force of the elastic force of the shape memory metal 300 and the elastic force of the bias elastic element is away from the rear cover plate 110 of the air duct and toward the rear side wall of the box. This resultant force overcomes the friction of the damper 200 and drives the damper 200 to move toward the rear side wall of the box to open the air inlet 111.

[0217] The elongation of the shape memory metal element 300 compresses the bias elastic element, causing it to elastically deform. This is not a limitation on the bias elastic element. In some possible implementations, the elongation of the shape memory metal element 300 drives the bias elastic element to stretch, resulting in elastic deformation.

[0218] 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.

[0219] 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 in that, include: The box is constructed to form a receiving cavity with an opening for taking out and putting in. An air duct component is installed within the receiving cavity, dividing the receiving cavity into an evaporation chamber and a storage compartment along the depth direction of the refrigerator. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporator and a heater for defrosting the evaporator. The storage compartment is located on one side of the access port. The air duct component is configured to form an air duct to allow cold air from the evaporation chamber to flow into the storage compartment. The air inlet of the air duct is located within the evaporation chamber. A damper mechanism is located within the evaporation chamber and is opposite to the air inlet along the depth direction; the damper mechanism includes: The damper is configured to either shield or open the air inlet; A shape memory metal component is configured to deform in response to changes in the air temperature of the evaporation chamber, thereby moving the damper; the shape memory metal component is connected to both the damper and the duct component. The damper and the duct component are provided with a guide structure to limit the deformation direction of the shape memory metal component, and at least a portion of the shape memory metal component is exposed in the evaporation chamber.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guiding structure forms a guiding cavity, and the shape memory metal component is housed in the guiding cavity; The guide structure is also configured to form a hollow portion that communicates with the guide cavity, so that the shape memory metal part is exposed to the evaporation cavity through the hollow portion.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The guide structure is configured to form a first opening communicating with the guide cavity, and the first opening is located at one end of the guide structure away from the air duct component; the hollow portion includes the first opening; And / or, The guide structure is configured to form a second opening communicating with the guide cavity, and the second opening is located at one end of the guide structure facing the air duct component; the hollow portion includes the second opening; And / or, The guide structure is further configured to form a third opening communicating with the guide cavity, the third opening being located on the side of the guide cavity; the hollow portion includes the third opening.

4. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, At least a portion of the guide structure is exposed in the evaporation chamber; at least a portion of the shape memory metal is arranged on the outside of the portion of the guide structure exposed in the evaporation chamber.

5. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The air duct component is recessed away from the damper on the side facing the evaporation chamber to form a receiving groove; the receiving groove at least accommodates a portion of the guide structure.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 5, characterized in that, One end of the guide structure is fixed to the bottom wall of the receiving groove; The edge of the damper is configured to form a mating hole so that one end of the guide structure protrudes from the bottom wall of the receiving groove; The shape memory metal component is disposed at the portion of the guide structure that passes through the mating hole, and the shape memory metal component is connected to both the guide structure and the damper.

7. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The air duct component is provided with a fixing seat on the side facing the air damper, the fixing seat is configured to form a receiving channel, the receiving channel is configured to receive at least part of the guide structure; The edge of the damper forms the guide structure, and the shape memory metal component is connected to the guide structure and the fixed base respectively.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The side wall of the mounting base is provided with a fourth opening so that the shape memory metal component is exposed to the evaporation chamber through the fourth opening.

9. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The shape memory metal component is a helical spring, which is configured to extend and retract along the axial direction of the damper in response to temperature changes in the evaporation chamber, thereby driving the damper to move axially along the air inlet. The shape memory metal component is sleeved on the outside of the guide structure, or the guide structure is disposed on the outside of the shape memory metal component.

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The enclosure includes a storage chamber and an evaporation chamber. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporator and a heater for defrosting the evaporator. An air duct is provided between the evaporation chamber and the storage chamber to allow cold air from the evaporation chamber to flow into the storage chamber. The air inlet of the air duct is located inside the evaporation chamber; a damper is provided at the air inlet. The air inlet is also provided with a shape memory metal component; the shape memory metal component is configured to deform when heated by the temperature rise in the evaporation chamber, and drive the damper to move to shield the air inlet; The air inlet is also provided with a guide structure to limit the deformation direction of the shape memory metal component; at least a portion of the shape memory metal component is exposed in the evaporation chamber.

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