Foldable rack and refrigerator

Abstract

The utility model relates to the field of refrigeration equipment, and provides a foldable rack and a refrigerator. The foldable rack comprises two shelves and a limiting connecting piece, the two shelves are arranged in a spaced mode, the limiting connecting piece is arranged below the ends, close to each other, of the two shelves, and at least one shelf is rotationally connected to the limiting connecting piece; at least one shelf rotates relative to the limiting connecting piece, so that the foldable rack is in a horizontal state or a folded state, and when the foldable rack is in the horizontal state, the shelves are in limiting contact with the limiting connecting piece. According to the utility model, the at least one shelf is rotatably connected with the limiting connecting piece, the shelf can be switched between the horizontal state and the folding state, and in the horizontal state, the shelf is in limiting contact with the limiting connecting piece, so that enough placing space can be provided; in the folded state, the occupied space of the rack can be reduced, and the rack is convenient to take out, store and clean.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of refrigeration equipment technology, and in particular to foldable shelves and refrigerators. Background Technology

[0002] As modern families' storage needs for refrigerators continue to grow, refrigerator designs are constantly evolving, with increasing volume ratio becoming a significant trend. This increase aims to provide users with more storage space to accommodate diverse food preservation needs. However, increasing volume ratio often involves optimizing the cabinet structure, including reducing the thickness of the foam layer. While this enhances the refrigerator's energy efficiency and overall aesthetics to some extent, it also brings new design challenges.

[0003] Specifically, the ease of installation and removal of the one-piece glass shelves commonly used in refrigerator compartments has been significantly affected by the reduction in the size of the glass bubble layer. While one-piece glass shelves are widely used due to their strong load-bearing capacity, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal, when they need to be removed for cleaning, their large size and typically compact design often lead to interference between the shelf edges and the refrigerator's inner liner reinforcement, door posts, and bottle holders. This increases the risk of accidental collisions and damage. Utility Model Content

[0004] This utility model aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the related art. To this end, this utility model proposes a foldable shelf that can switch between a horizontal state and a folded state. In the horizontal state, the shelf is in contact with the limiting connector, providing sufficient placement space; in the folded state, the shelf occupies less space and is convenient for removal, storage and cleaning.

[0005] A foldable shelf according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: two shelves and a limiting connector. The two shelves are spaced apart, and the limiting connector is located below the adjacent ends of the two shelves. At least one shelf is rotatably connected to the limiting connector. At least one shelf can rotate relative to the limiting connector to make the foldable shelf in a horizontal or folded state. When the foldable shelf is in a horizontal state, the shelf is in limiting contact with the limiting connector.

[0006] According to the foldable shelf of this utility model, the limiting connector includes a V-shaped limiting connector, and the opening of the V-shaped limiting connector is disposed away from the shelf.

[0007] According to the foldable shelf of this utility model, the V-angle of the V-shaped limiting connector is 90-120°.

[0008] The foldable shelf according to this utility model also includes a fixing block. The top of the fixing block is detachably and fixedly connected to the shelf, and the bottom of the fixing block is rotatably connected to the limiting connector. When the shelf is in a horizontal state, the shelf is limited and contacted by the fixing block and the limiting connector.

[0009] The foldable shelf according to this utility model also includes a connecting seat, and the fixing block is rotatably connected to the limiting connector through the connecting seat.

[0010] According to the foldable shelf of this utility model, the V-shaped limiting connector includes two inclined plates, which are connected in transition; the length of the connecting seat is 1 / 6 to 1 / 3 of the length of the inclined plates.

[0011] The foldable shelf according to this utility model also includes a buffer member, which is disposed on the side of the limiting connector near the fixing block.

[0012] According to the foldable shelf of this utility model, there are multiple limiting connectors, and the multiple limiting connectors are spaced apart along the length direction of the shelf.

[0013] This utility model embodiment also provides a refrigerator, including: a storage compartment and at least one foldable shelf as described in any of the above, the foldable shelf being disposed in the storage compartment.

[0014] According to the refrigerator of this utility model, the side walls on opposite sides of the storage compartment are provided with inner ribs, the two inner ribs are at the same height, and when the foldable shelf is in a horizontal state, the two shelves are placed on the corresponding inner ribs.

[0015] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of the foldable shelf provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a bottom view of the foldable shelf provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a top view of the foldable shelf provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a front view of the foldable shelf provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0021] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of region A in the middle;

[0022] Figure label:

[0023] 1. Shelf; 2. Limiting connector; 21. Inclined plate; 3. Fixing block; 4. Connecting seat. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The embodiments of this utility model will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this utility model.

[0025] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this utility model. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0026] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0027] In this embodiment of the utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0028] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0029] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 5 This invention describes a foldable shelf and a refrigerator.

[0030] The foldable shelf provided in this embodiment of the utility model includes: two shelves 1 and a limiting connector 2. The two shelves 1 are spaced apart, and the limiting connector 2 is located below the adjacent ends of the two shelves 1. At least one shelf 1 is rotatably connected to the limiting connector 2. At least one shelf 1 can rotate relative to the limiting connector 2 to make the foldable shelf be in a horizontal or folded state. When the foldable shelf is in a horizontal state, the shelf 1 is in limiting contact with the limiting connector 2.

[0031] In this embodiment of the invention, the two shelves 1 can be identical shelves 1 or two shelves 1 with different structures. In one embodiment, one shelf 1 is fixedly connected to the limiting connector 2, and the other shelf 1 is rotatably connected to the limiting connector 2, such as through a hinge. The hinge allows the shelf 1 to rotate around the connecting axis of the limiting connector 2, so that the shelf 1 can switch between a horizontal and a folded state. Specifically, in the horizontal state, the shelf 1 is limited by the portion of the limiting connector 2 that contacts it, preventing the shelf 1 from rotating excessively and maintaining the stability of the shelf 1. Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown; in the folded state, shelf 1 can be folded by rotating the hinge, shortening the length of shelf 1, making it convenient to store, retrieve or put away.

[0032] The limiting connector 2 serves to maintain the stability of the shelf and its folding function. Depending on the specific needs, the limiting connector 2 can take different forms. In one embodiment, the limiting connector 2 can be a V-shaped limiting connector, with its opening facing away from the shelf 1. In a horizontal state, the shelf 1 contacts the inclined surface of the V-shaped limiting connector, thus forming a stable restraint to prevent excessive rotation or loosening of the shelf 1 and maintain its stability in a horizontal state. In another embodiment, the limiting connector 2 can be a U-shaped limiting connector, with its opening facing away from the shelf 1. In a horizontal state, the bottom of the shelf 1 contacts the side wall of the U-shaped limiting connector, forming a stable support point to prevent the shelf 1 from accidentally tipping over.

[0033] In another embodiment, both shelves 1 are rotatably connected to the limiting connector 2. When both shelves 1 can rotate, the user can freely adjust the state of the shelf as needed. The user can not only adjust the rotation angle of one shelf 1, but also change the state of the entire shelf by rotating both shelves 1 simultaneously. For example, when both shelves 1 are folded at the same time, the length of the shelf is shortened to its minimum; while when both shelves 1 are kept horizontal, the shelf can provide a larger storage space.

[0034] The foldable shelf provided in this embodiment of the invention allows the shelf to switch between a horizontal and a folded state by rotating at least one shelf 1 relative to the limiting connector 2. When the shelf is in the horizontal state, the shelf 1 is in limiting contact with the limiting connector 2, ensuring the shelf 1 is stable and secure, possessing good load-bearing capacity and operational stability. In this state, the shelf provides sufficient storage space to effectively store various items. When the shelf is in the folded state, it significantly reduces the space occupied by the shelf, facilitating the retrieval, storage, and cleaning of items.

[0035] like Figure 5As shown, the limiting connector 2 includes a V-shaped limiting connector. The opening of the V-shaped limiting connector is positioned away from the shelf 1. The V-angle of the V-shaped limiting connector 2 is 90-120°, such as 90°, 100°, 105°, 110°, 120°, etc. This not only provides sufficient stability and support but also allows the angle of the limiting connector 2 to be adjusted according to different usage needs to achieve the best stability effect. Specifically, the choice of the angle of the V-shaped limiting connector directly affects the load-bearing capacity and stability of the shelf. Smaller angles (such as 90°) are suitable for storing small items that require higher stability, while larger angles (such as 120°) are suitable for storing larger or heavier items. This diversity of angles allows the shelf of this utility model to adapt to different occasions and storage needs, enhancing the flexibility and practicality of the structure.

[0036] The foldable shelf also includes a fixing block 3, the top of which is detachably and securely connected to the shelf 1, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the fixing block 3 and the shelf 1 are detachably fixed together by bolts, allowing users to adjust the position of the shelf 1 or disassemble and store it according to their actual needs. The bolt fixing method ensures a firm and stable connection between the shelf 1 and the fixing block 3, while also providing convenience for disassembly and reassembly, allowing users to store or maintain the shelf when not in use. The bottom of the fixing block 3 is rotatably connected to the limiting connector 2. When the shelf 1 is in a horizontal position, the fixing block 3 and the limiting connector 2 effectively limit the shelf, preventing it from tilting or becoming unstable. It should be noted that the dimensions of the fixing block 3 change according to the angle of the V-shaped connector 2 to ensure that the shelf 1 is in a horizontal position and is limited in contact with the V-shaped limiting connector 2.

[0037] The foldable shelf also includes a connecting base 4, and the fixing block 3 is rotatably connected to the limiting connector 2 through the connecting base 4, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the top of the connecting seat 4 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the fixing block 3, and the bottom of the connecting seat 4 is rotatably connected to the limiting connector 2. The position of the fixing block 3 and the limiting connector 2 in limiting contact can be adjusted by the connecting seat 4 to improve stability and prevent the shelf from rotating in a horizontal state. In one embodiment, the fixing block 3 and the connecting seat 4 are integrated as one piece.

[0038] In one embodiment, the V-shaped limiting connector includes two inclined plates 21, which are connected in a transitional manner. The length of the connecting seat 4 is 1 / 6 to 1 / 3 of the length of the inclined plates 21. Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in the horizontal position, the fixing block 3 contacts the inclined plate 21 at a position where the inclined plate 21 is at 1 / 3 to 2 / 3 of its length. At this position, the shelf has high stability during use, preventing unstable tilting or rotation of the shelf 1. It should be noted that the inclined plate 21 can extend from the bottom 1 / 3 to the top 2 / 3, or from the top 1 / 3 to the bottom 2 / 3. It can be understood that the two inclined plates 21 are a single piece, that is, the V-shaped limiting connector 2 is a single piece.

[0039] The foldable shelf also includes a cushioning element, which is located on the side of the limiting connector 2 near the fixing block 3. This cushioning element prevents wear on the limiting connector 2 when the fixing block 3 comes into contact with it, thus extending its service life. The cushioning element can be cushioning cotton.

[0040] In this embodiment of the invention, there may be multiple limiting connectors 2, and these multiple limiting connectors 2 are spaced apart along the length direction of the shelf 1. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, there are two limiting connectors 2, respectively located at both ends of the shelf 1. The number of limiting connectors 2 in this embodiment is not specifically limited and can be set according to the actual length, as long as stability is maintained.

[0041] This utility model embodiment also provides a refrigerator, including the foldable shelf in any of the above embodiments, and a storage compartment. The foldable shelf is disposed in the storage compartment. When the foldable shelf is in a horizontal state, it is used to place items. When it is necessary to clean the shelf 1, one or two shelves 1 can be rotated to fold the shelf, reduce the size of the shelf, and then remove it to avoid collision between the shelf and other parts inside the refrigerator, thus ensuring the smooth progress of cleaning and maintenance.

[0042] It should be noted that there are no restrictions on how the foldable shelf is installed in the storage compartment, as long as it can be supported and folded.

[0043] In one embodiment, ribs are provided on the opposite side walls of the storage compartment, with both ribs at the same height. When the foldable shelf is in a horizontal position, the two shelves 1 rest on the corresponding ribs, providing stable support. When it needs to be removed, the shelves 1 are moved upwards and one or both shelves 1 are rotated to easily fold the shelf. This embodiment of the invention improves the utilization rate of the refrigerator's storage space through the foldable shelf, and also makes the removal and cleaning of the shelf more convenient, exhibiting high practicality and flexibility.

[0044] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of the present invention do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention and should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A foldable shelf, characterized in that, include: Two shelves (1) and a limiting connector (2), the two shelves (1) are spaced apart, the limiting connector (2) is located below the end of the two shelves (1) that are close to each other, and at least one shelf (1) is rotatably connected to the limiting connector (2). At least one of the shelves (1) rotates relative to the limiting connector (2) to bring the foldable shelf into a horizontal or folded state, wherein when the foldable shelf is in a horizontal state, the shelf (1) is in limiting contact with the limiting connector (2).

2. The foldable shelf according to claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting connector (2) includes a V-shaped limiting connector (2), the opening of which is disposed away from the shelf (1).

3. The foldable shelf according to claim 2, characterized in that, The V-angle of the V-shaped limiting connector (2) is 90-120°.

4. The foldable shelf according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a fixing block (3), the top of which is detachably fixed to the shelf (1), and the bottom of which is rotatably connected to the limiting connector (2). When the shelf (1) is in a horizontal state, the shelf (1) is limited to contact with the limiting connector (2) through the fixing block (3).

5. The foldable shelf according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a connecting seat (4), and the fixing block (3) is rotatably connected to the limiting connector (2) through the connecting seat (4).

6. The foldable shelf according to claim 5, characterized in that, The V-shaped limiting connector (2) includes two inclined plates (21), and the two inclined plates (21) are connected in transition. The length of the connecting seat (4) is 1 / 6 to 1 / 3 of the length of the inclined plate (21).

7. The foldable shelf according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a buffer, which is located on the side of the limiting connector (2) near the fixing block (3).

8. The foldable shelf according to claim 1, characterized in that, There are multiple limiting connectors (2), and the multiple limiting connectors (2) are spaced apart along the length direction of the shelf (1).

9. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: A storage compartment and at least one foldable shelf as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, the foldable shelf being disposed within the storage compartment.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The storage room has ribs on its opposite side walls, and the two ribs are at the same height. When the foldable shelf is in a horizontal state, the two shelves (1) are placed on the corresponding ribs.

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