Refrigerator drainage structure and refrigerator

Abstract

According to the refrigerator drainage structure and the refrigerator, through the closing and opening mechanism of the cover plate, the problems of cold leakage and energy efficiency in the refrigerator drainage structure are effectively solved. Sealing and limiting are achieved through connection of the drainage pipe assembly, the sealing performance and reliability of connection are guaranteed, and hot air outside the refrigerator is prevented from entering the refrigerator through the connecting position; the structural design of the drain pipe assembly and the water pan ensures that defrosting water can be smoothly discharged into the water pan, the water is prevented from leaking to other parts outside the refrigerator or in a compressor cabin, and the internal environment of the refrigerator is protected to be dry and clean. By preventing the defrosting water from accumulating and possibly leaking in the drainage pipe, the risk of corrosion and damage of the drainage structure is reduced, and the service life of the refrigerator is prolonged. According to the whole refrigerator, the refrigerating efficiency is improved by optimizing the layout of the evaporator chamber and the compressor chamber and enhancing air circulation. And meanwhile, cold air leakage is prevented, defrosting water evaporation is accelerated, cold loss is reduced, and the energy efficiency level of the refrigerator is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of household appliance technology, and more specifically to a refrigerator drainage structure and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] During continuous operation, the evaporator in a refrigerator's refrigeration system exchanges heat within the refrigerator through forced convection, maintaining its surface temperature between -15°C and -25°C. When humid air flows through the evaporator fins, water vapor in the air undergoes a phase change and condenses on the low-temperature surface, gradually crystallizing into frost or ice crystals over time. This frost buildup alters the heat exchange characteristics of the evaporator surface, reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channels and indirectly increasing system power consumption. Therefore, to ensure good cooling performance, periodic defrosting is necessary to melt the frost or ice on the evaporator and drain it.

[0003] Existing defrosting technologies typically use electric heaters to heat the evaporator for defrosting, creating localized high-temperature zones on the evaporator surface that rapidly convert the solid frost layer into liquid water. The defrosting water, under gravity, collects along an inclined guide channel into a defrosting water pipe. This pipe system connects one end to a water collection pan at the bottom of the evaporator and the other end to a water collection pan in the compressor compartment, forming a continuous gas-liquid mixing channel.

[0004] During the refrigeration system's operation, the forced convection effect generated by the evaporator fan driving air circulation creates a continuous negative pressure environment in the evaporator cavity and the defrost drain pipe inlet area. This negative pressure area forms a pressure gradient with the outside atmospheric pressure, driving hot and humid air to permeate through the gaps in the defrost drain pipe. This hot air from outside enters the refrigerator through the defrost drain pipe, increasing the refrigerator's heat load and moisture content, accelerating evaporator frosting, reducing refrigeration efficiency, and increasing energy consumption. Furthermore, the water seal structure of the defrost drain pipe has limited sealing effectiveness and cannot completely prevent the entry of outside air and hot air. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the issues in existing technologies where hot and humid air seeps through gaps in the defrost water pipes and where the water seal structure of the defrost water pipes has limited sealing effectiveness, thus failing to completely prevent the entry of outside air and hot air, this paper proposes a new approach.

[0006] The first aspect of this application provides a refrigerator drainage structure, including: a defrosting water pipe, a drain pipe assembly, and a water receiving tray;

[0007] The drain pipe assembly includes a connecting pipe, a drain pipe, and a cover plate;

[0008] One end of the connecting pipe is sleeved on the outer wall of the defrosting water pipe, and the other end is sleeved on the outer wall of the drain pipe. The inner diameter of the connecting pipe is smaller than the outer diameter of the defrosting water pipe and the drain pipe.

[0009] The drain pipe is provided with a cover plate at the end away from the connecting pipe, and the cover plate is rotatably connected to the drain pipe;

[0010] The cover is configured such that it normally closes and covers the drain pipe outlet under the action of gravity, and rotates and opens the drain pipe outlet when the defrosting water flows due to water pressure.

[0011] In one feasible implementation, the defrosting water pipe is provided with a first clamping claw at one end near the connecting pipe;

[0012] The top of the connecting tube is provided with a first through hole that cooperates with the first claw. The first claw passes through the first through hole, engages with the first through hole, and forms an axial limit on the connecting tube.

[0013] In one feasible implementation, a second clamping claw is provided at one end of the drain pipe near the connecting pipe;

[0014] The bottom of the connecting pipe is provided with a second through hole that cooperates with the second claw. The second claw passes through the second through hole, engages with the second through hole, and forms an axial limit on the connecting pipe.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the end of the drain pipe away from the connecting pipe has symmetrically arranged axial holes;

[0016] The cover plate has a rotating shaft that is opposite to the shaft hole. The rotating shaft is embedded in the shaft hole and is rotatably connected to the shaft hole.

[0017] In one feasible implementation, the end of the rotating shaft is provided with a radially protruding anti-detachment boss, and the inner side of the shaft hole is provided with a corresponding annular limiting step, and the anti-detachment boss and the limiting step form an axial limiting fit.

[0018] In one feasible implementation, the cover plate is a U-shaped plate, and the maximum opening angle of the cover plate is 30°-45°.

[0019] In one feasible implementation, the closed surface of the cover plate is provided with a sealing ring, which forms a surface contact seal with the outlet end face of the drain pipe.

[0020] In one feasible implementation, the pipe body axis of the drain pipe is inclined downward, the outlet end of the drain pipe is suspended directly above the water receiving tray, and the opening edge of the water receiving tray extends outward to form a guide flange.

[0021] In one feasible implementation, the bottom surface of the water receiving tray is provided with a sunken guide channel. The extension direction of the guide channel is perpendicular to the axis of the drain pipe. The depth of the guide channel on the side closer to the outlet end of the drain pipe is greater than that on the side farther from the outlet end, and a buffer gap is left between the end of the guide channel and the edge of the water receiving tray.

[0022] A second aspect of this application provides a refrigerator, including a refrigerator drainage structure as described in any of the above claims, and further including: an evaporator chamber, a compressor chamber, a fan, and a condenser;

[0023] The fan is installed in the evaporator chamber and is located on one side of the defrost water pipe inlet.

[0024] The condenser is installed in the compressor compartment, and the water receiving tray is located below the condenser and aligned with the outlet end of the drain pipe.

[0025] The evaporator chamber and the compressor chamber are separated by a heat insulation layer, and the connecting pipe of the drain pipe assembly passes through the heat insulation layer.

[0026] As described above, this application provides a refrigerator drainage structure and a refrigerator. The connection of the drain pipe assembly achieves sealing and limiting, ensuring the sealing and reliability of the connection and preventing hot air from outside the refrigerator from entering the refrigerator through the connection. The structural design of the drain pipe assembly and drip tray ensures that defrost water can be smoothly drained into the drip tray, preventing water leakage to the outside of the refrigerator or other components in the compressor compartment, thus protecting the dryness and cleanliness of the refrigerator's internal environment. By preventing the accumulation of defrost water in the drain pipe and potential leakage, the risk of corrosion and damage to the drainage structure is reduced, extending the refrigerator's service life. By optimizing the layout of the evaporator chamber and compressor compartment and enhancing air circulation, refrigeration efficiency is improved. At the same time, preventing cold air leakage and accelerating defrost water evaporation reduce cold loss, significantly improving the refrigerator's energy efficiency level. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of the present invention, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the closed structure of the refrigerator drainage structure cover shown in the embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerator drainage structure cover being opened, as shown in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the defrosting water pipe shown in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator shown in an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0033] 1-Evaporator chamber; 2-Compressor compartment; 3-Defrosting water pipe; 4-Drain pipe assembly; 5-Fan; 6-Condenser; 7-Drain tray;

[0034] 31-First clamping claw; 41-Connecting pipe; 42-Drain pipe; 43-Cover plate;

[0035] 411-First through hole; 412-Second through hole; 421-Second chuck; 422-Shaft hole; 431-Rotating shaft. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to make the present invention more comprehensive and complete, and to fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a full understanding of the implementation of embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] Existing defrosting technologies typically employ electric heaters to heat the evaporator for defrosting. Defrosting water, under gravity, collects in a sloped channel and flows into the defrosting water pipe. Specifically, during refrigeration system operation, the forced convection effect generated by the evaporator fan driving air circulation creates a continuous negative pressure environment within the evaporator cavity and the defrosting water pipe inlet area. This negative pressure area forms a pressure gradient with the external atmospheric pressure, driving humid, hot air to permeate through the gaps in the defrosting water pipe. Although existing technologies commonly use a U-shaped water seal structure as a gas-liquid isolation device, its sealing effectiveness is limited by the liquid seal height and water seal stability.

[0038] In actual operation, fluctuations in liquid level caused by drainage, water seal failure due to evaporation of the drip tray, and sealing gaps caused by thermal expansion and contraction of pipelines can all disrupt the continuity of the water seal. This structural defect allows hot and humid air from outside the chamber to continuously intrude into the chamber, not only carrying additional heat load but also introducing a large amount of water vapor, forming secondary frost on the evaporator surface, ultimately creating a vicious cycle of "defrosting-frost formation" and significantly reducing the system's energy efficiency.

[0039] To address the aforementioned problems, the first aspect of this application provides a refrigerator drainage structure, referring to... Figures 1-3As shown, it includes: a defrost water pipe 3, a drain pipe assembly 4, and a water receiving tray 7. The drain pipe assembly 4 includes a connecting pipe 41, a drain pipe 42, and a cover plate 43. One end of the defrost water pipe 3 is connected to the bottom of the evaporator chamber 1, and the other end is sleeved with the connecting pipe 41. It is located between the evaporator chamber 1 and the drain pipe assembly 4. The defrost water pipe 3 serves as a channel for defrost water to flow out of the evaporator chamber 1, guiding the water flow to the drain pipe assembly 4.

[0040] One end of the connecting pipe 41 is fitted onto the outer wall of the defrosting water pipe 3, and the other end is fitted onto the outer wall of the drain pipe 42. The inner diameter of the connecting pipe 41 is smaller than the outer diameters of the defrosting water pipe 3 and the drain pipe 42. The connecting pipe 41 is located between the two, and the design of the inner diameter being smaller than the outer diameters of both pipes creates an interference fit, ensuring the sealing of the connection and preventing water leakage.

[0041] A cover plate 43 is provided at the end of the drain pipe 42 away from the connecting pipe 41, and the cover plate 43 is rotatably connected to the drain pipe 42. The cover plate 43 is rotatably connected to the shaft hole 422 at the outlet end of the drain pipe 42 through a rotating shaft 431, and is normally closed to cover the outlet of the drain pipe 42.

[0042] Specifically, the cover 43 is configured such that it is normally closed under gravity, covering the outlet of the drain pipe 42, and rotates open under water pressure when defrosting water flows. That is, when the cover 43 is not draining, it is closed under gravity to prevent cold air inside the refrigerator from leaking through the drain pipe 42, thus improving energy efficiency; when draining, it is rotated open under water pressure to allow defrosting water to drain out.

[0043] The drip tray 7 is located below the condenser 6 and aligned with the outlet end of the drain pipe 42. The drain pipe 42 guides the water flow to the drip tray 7, which is used to collect the defrost water discharged from the drain pipe 42, preventing water from leaking to the outside of the refrigerator or other parts inside the compressor compartment 2. At the same time, the heat of the condenser 6 is used to accelerate the evaporation of the defrost water.

[0044] Specifically, the drainage process of the drainage structure in this application is as follows: the defrosting water generated in the evaporator chamber 1 flows out through the defrosting water pipe 3, and enters the drain pipe 42 through the connecting pipe 41; the water pressure pushes the cover plate 43 to rotate around the rotating shaft 431, opening the outlet of the drain pipe 42, and the defrosting water is discharged into the water receiving tray 7. When the defrosting water is drained, the cover plate 43 automatically closes under the action of gravity due to the loss of water pressure support, covering the outlet of the drain pipe 42.

[0045] This embodiment effectively solves the problems of cold leakage and energy efficiency in the refrigerator's drainage structure through the closing and opening mechanism of the cover plate 43. In the non-draining state, the cover plate 43 is closed, preventing cold air from leaking through the drain pipe 42, reducing cold loss, and improving the refrigerator's energy efficiency. During drainage, the cover plate 43 is pushed open by water pressure, allowing defrost water to drain smoothly, avoiding water accumulation and potential leakage in the drain pipe 42. Simultaneously, the interference fit design of the connecting pipe 41 ensures a tight seal between the defrost water pipe 3 and the drain pipe 42, further preventing water leakage. The overall structure is compact, easy to install, low in cost, and suitable for various refrigerator models, exhibiting good versatility.

[0046] In some embodiments of this application, the defrosting water pipe 3 is provided with a first clamp 31 at one end near the connecting pipe 41; simultaneously, the top of the connecting pipe 41 has a first through hole 411 that mates with the first clamp 31. In this way, the first clamp 31 can pass through the first through hole 411 and engage with it, thereby axially limiting the connecting pipe 41. This ensures the stability of the connection between the defrosting water pipe 3 and the connecting pipe 41. The axial limiting effect of the connecting pipe 41 engaging with the first clamp 31 of the defrosting water pipe 3 through the first through hole 411 effectively prevents axial movement of the connecting pipe 41 during defrosting water flow, thus ensuring the sealing and stability of the connection and preventing water and cold air leakage.

[0047] This embodiment effectively solves the problem of axial movement of the connecting pipe 41 during defrost water flow by using a snap-fit ​​structure between the defrost water pipe 3 and the connecting pipe 41. The snap-fit ​​between the first claw 31 and the first through hole 411 forms an axial limit, ensuring the stability of the connecting pipe 41, thereby guaranteeing the sealing and stability of the connection and preventing water and cold air leakage. In addition, this snap-fit ​​structure is simple in design, easy to install and disassemble, and more convenient for maintenance and replacement.

[0048] In some embodiments of this application, the drain pipe 42 is located near the interior of the refrigerator, specifically below the refrigeration system, and has a second locking claw 421 at one end near the connecting pipe 41. The connecting pipe 41 is located above the drain pipe 42, and its bottom has a second through hole 412 that precisely engages with the second locking claw 421. During assembly, the second locking claw 421 passes through the second through hole 412 and engages with it, thereby providing a stable axial restraint on the connecting pipe 41.

[0049] In this embodiment, the second claw 421 on the drain pipe 42 is engaged with the connecting pipe 41, which effectively ensures a stable connection between the two. After the connecting pipe 41 is engaged with the second claw 421 of the drain pipe 42 through the second through hole 412, an axial limit is formed, thereby preventing the connecting pipe 41 from axially moving during the defrosting water flow.

[0050] This embodiment further solves the problem of axial movement of the connecting pipe 41 due to water flow impact or vibration during defrosting water flow by using a snap-fit ​​structure between the drain pipe 42 and the connecting pipe 41. The snap-fit ​​between the second claw 421 and the second through hole 412 forms a reliable axial limit, ensuring the stability of the drain pipe 42, thereby ensuring the sealing and stability of the entire drainage structure's downward connection, improving the refrigerator's reliability and service life, and reducing maintenance costs caused by water leakage.

[0051] In some embodiments of this application, the end of the drain pipe 42 furthest from the connecting pipe 41, i.e., the end extending outside the refrigerator, has symmetrically arranged shaft holes 422. The design of these shaft holes 422 allows the drain pipe 42 to be rotatably connected to the cover plate 43. The cover plate 43 is located outside the drain pipe 42 and has a rotating shaft 431 disposed opposite to the shaft holes 422. During assembly, the rotating shaft 431 is fitted into the shaft holes 422, forming a tight rotatable connection with them.

[0052] In this embodiment, the cover plate 43 is rotatably connected to the shaft hole 422 of the drain pipe 42 via the pivot 431 on the cover plate 43, enabling the cover plate 43 to be closed in the non-draining state and open in the draining state. When the refrigerator needs to drain, the cover plate 43 can smoothly rotate and open around the pivot 431, allowing defrost water to flow out; when drainage is not required, the cover plate 43 is closed at the port of the drain pipe 42, effectively preventing cold air inside the refrigerator from leaking into the external environment through the drain pipe 42, improving the refrigerator's energy efficiency, and further maintaining a stable internal temperature.

[0053] Meanwhile, this rotary connection structure also has the advantages of being simple, reliable, easy to disassemble and install. When repairing or replacing the cover plate 43, workers can easily rotate the cover plate 43 off or install it on the drain pipe 42 without complicated operations or tools, which facilitates repair and replacement and reduces maintenance costs and time.

[0054] In some embodiments of this application, the end of the rotating shaft 431 is provided with a radially protruding anti-detachment boss, and the inner side of the shaft hole 422 is provided with a corresponding annular limiting step, and the anti-detachment boss and the limiting step form an axial limiting fit.

[0055] The rotating shaft 431 is axially limited by the anti-detachment boss and the limiting step of the shaft hole 422, preventing the cover plate 43 from falling off during rotation. When the cover plate 43 is open, the water pressure pushes the cover plate 43 to rotate around the rotating shaft 431, and the anti-detachment boss slides in the shaft hole 422, opening the outlet of the drain pipe 42, and defrosting water is discharged into the water receiving tray 7. When the defrosting water is drained, the cover plate 43 loses water pressure support and rotates around the rotating shaft 431 under the action of gravity. The anti-detachment boss slides in the shaft hole 422, automatically closing and covering the outlet of the drain pipe 42.

[0056] This embodiment effectively solves the problem of potential detachment of the cover plate 43 during rotation by using an axial limiting structure between the rotating shaft 431 and the shaft hole 422. The cooperation between the anti-detachment boss and the limiting step forms an axial limit, ensuring a stable connection of the cover plate 43 and preventing detachment. The axial limiting structure enhances the reliability of the rotational connection of the cover plate 43, ensuring smooth opening and closing of the cover plate 43. The stable connection reduces the risk of the cover plate 43 detaching and extends the service life of the drainage structure.

[0057] In some embodiments of this application, the cover plate 43 is a U-shaped plate, and the maximum opening angle of the cover plate 43 is 30°-45°. It is understood that the U-shaped structure of the cover plate 43 increases the contact area between the cover plate 43 and the outlet end of the drain pipe 42, improving the sealing performance. At the same time, the limitation on the maximum opening angle ensures that the cover plate 43 will not be excessively opened or closed during the opening process, avoiding collisions with the drain pipe 42 or other components.

[0058] Specifically, when the opening angle of the cover 43 is set to 30°, it meets the needs of most daily maintenance and cleaning work, while ensuring minimal clearance with the drain pipe 42 or other adjacent components during opening, reducing the risk of collision. This angle selection allows the cover 43 to remain stable when opening, preventing excessive opening or closing due to external forces, thus protecting the safety of the drainage structure. If the maximum opening angle of the cover 43 is too small, although it can further reduce the risk of collision, it may restrict the operating space, making maintenance and cleaning work difficult.

[0059] On the other hand, when the maximum opening angle of the cover 43 is set to 45°, it provides greater operating space, facilitating more complex maintenance or cleaning work. At the same time, this angle remains within a safe range, avoiding the possibility of collisions with the drain pipe 42 or other components due to excessive opening or closing. If the maximum opening angle is too large, for example, greater than 45°, it increases the risk of collisions with the drain pipe 42 or other components, thereby damaging the drainage structure or causing safety hazards.

[0060] In practical applications, operators can flexibly adjust the opening angle of the cover plate 43 within the range of 30°-45° according to specific needs. This embodiment effectively solves the problem of excessive opening and closing that may occur during the opening process of the cover plate 43 through the U-shaped plate structure and the limitation of the maximum opening angle. The U-shaped plate structure increases the contact area and improves the sealing performance; the limitation of the maximum opening angle ensures that the cover plate 43 will not collide with other components during opening, protecting the safety of the drainage structure. At the same time, avoiding collisions and excessive opening and closing also extends the service life of the drainage structure.

[0061] In some embodiments of this application, the closed surface of the cover plate 43 is provided with a sealing ring, which forms a surface contact seal with the outlet end face of the drain pipe 42. This surface contact seal between the sealing ring and the outlet end face of the drain pipe 42 improves sealing performance, prevents cold air leakage, further solves the problem of humid and hot air in the negative pressure area penetrating into the refrigerator through the gaps in the defrosting water pipe, and improves the refrigerator's energy efficiency.

[0062] In some embodiments of this application, the axis of the drain pipe 42 is inclined downwards. This inclination utilizes gravity to accelerate the flow of defrost water, ensuring that the defrost water can smoothly drain into the drip tray 7. The outlet end of the drain pipe 42 is suspended directly above the drip tray 7, and the opening edge of the drip tray 7 extends outwards to form a guide flange. The guide flange structure increases the water-receiving area, ensuring that the defrost water can accurately fall into the drip tray 7, preventing water leakage to the outside of the refrigerator or other components inside the compressor compartment 2.

[0063] This embodiment solves the problems of poor defrost water drainage and water leakage by using the inclined setting of the drain pipe 42 and the guide flange structure of the water receiving tray 7. The inclined setting uses gravity to accelerate the flow of defrost water, ensuring smooth drainage; the guide flange structure expands the water receiving area, ensuring accurate dripping of defrost water and preventing water leakage.

[0064] In some embodiments of this application, the bottom surface of the water receiving tray 7 is provided with a sunken guide groove. The extension direction of the guide groove is perpendicular to the axis of the drain pipe 42. The depth of the guide groove on the side closer to the outlet end of the drain pipe 42 is greater than that on the side farther from the outlet end, and a buffer gap is left between the end of the guide groove and the edge of the water receiving tray 7.

[0065] The flow direction of defrosting water within the drip tray 7 is guided by a flow channel structure, ensuring that the defrosting water is evenly distributed within the drip tray 7 and accelerating evaporation. The sunken design and varying depth of the flow channel utilize gravity to guide the flow of defrosting water. A buffer gap is left between the end of the flow channel and the edge of the drip tray 7 to prevent defrosting water from overflowing during flow.

[0066] This embodiment solves the problems of uneven distribution and potential overflow of defrost water within the drip tray 7 by using a guide channel structure. The guide channel ensures uniform distribution of defrost water within the drip tray 7, improving evaporation efficiency. It also allows the defrost water to come into contact with the heat generated by the condenser 6, accelerating the evaporation process and reducing the accumulation of defrost water in the drip tray 7.

[0067] In another aspect of this application, a refrigerator is provided, including any of the refrigerator drainage structures described in the above embodiments, with reference to... Figure 4 As shown, it also includes: evaporator chamber 1, compressor chamber 2, fan 5 and condenser 6.

[0068] A fan 5 is installed inside the evaporator chamber 1, located on one side of the inlet end of the defrost water pipe 3, to drive air circulation. A condenser 6 is installed inside the compressor chamber 2, with a water tray 7 located below the condenser 6 and aligned with the outlet end of the drain pipe 42. The condenser 6 generates heat to accelerate the evaporation of defrost water in the water tray 7. The evaporator chamber 1 and the compressor chamber 2 are separated by a heat insulation layer, and the connecting pipe 41 of the drain pipe assembly 4 passes through the heat insulation layer.

[0069] The evaporator chamber 1 generates cooling capacity and is connected at the bottom to the defrost water pipe 3 to guide the defrost water out. The compressor chamber 2 houses components such as the condenser 6 and is separated from the evaporator chamber 1 by an insulation layer to reduce heat transfer. The fan 5 drives air circulation, enhancing airflow within the evaporator chamber 1 and improving cooling efficiency. The heat generated by the condenser 6 accelerates the evaporation of defrost water in the drip tray 7, reducing defrost water accumulation.

[0070] During the refrigeration phase of the refrigerator, the evaporator in the evaporator chamber 1 absorbs heat and generates cooling capacity. The fan 5 drives air circulation, enhancing the cooling effect. After frost forms on the evaporator surface, a defrosting operation is performed, and the resulting defrost water flows out through the defrost water pipe 3. The defrost water enters the downwardly inclined drain pipe 42 via the connecting pipe 41, accelerating its drainage into the drip tray 7. The guide groove in the drip tray 7 guides the defrost water to distribute evenly, and the heat generated by the condenser 6 accelerates the evaporation of the defrost water. The cover plate 43 in the drainage structure is closed when not draining to prevent cold air from leaking into the compressor compartment 2 through the drain pipe 42.

[0071] This embodiment effectively solves problems such as refrigeration efficiency, defrost water drainage, and cold air leakage through the overall structural design of the refrigerator. The insulation layer design between the evaporator chamber 1 and the compressor chamber 2 reduces heat transfer and improves refrigeration efficiency; the drain pipe assembly 4 ensures smooth drainage of defrost water and prevents water leakage; the closed cover 43 prevents cold air leakage and improves the refrigerator's energy efficiency; the heat generated by the condenser 6 accelerates the evaporation of defrost water and reduces defrost water accumulation.

[0072] As described in the foregoing embodiments, the drainage structure and refrigerator operation process provided in this application are as follows: After the refrigerator is started, the evaporator in the evaporator chamber 1 begins to work, absorbing heat and generating cooling. The fan 5 drives air circulation, enhancing airflow within the evaporator chamber 1 and transferring cooling to various areas inside the refrigerator, thus achieving refrigeration. As the refrigeration time increases, frost gradually forms on the evaporator surface. When the frost layer reaches a certain thickness, the refrigerator initiates the defrosting process. During defrosting, the defrosting water generated on the evaporator surface flows out through the defrosting water pipe 3.

[0073] Defrosting water flows from defrosting water pipe 3 into connecting pipe 41, and then into downward-sloping drain pipe 42. Under the influence of gravity, the defrosting water accelerates its flow along drain pipe 42, and upon reaching the outlet, pushes cover plate 43 to rotate around pivot 431 and open, draining into drip tray 7. The guide grooves in drip tray 7 guide the defrosting water to distribute evenly, while the heat generated by condenser 6 accelerates the evaporation of the defrosting water. The water vapor generated during evaporation is discharged outside the refrigerator through the vents in compressor compartment 2. In the non-draining state, cover plate 43 closes under gravity, covering the outlet of drain pipe 42 to prevent cold air from leaking into compressor compartment 2 through drain pipe 42, thus reducing cold air loss. As the refrigerator continues to operate, the above process repeats, ensuring that the interior of the refrigerator maintains a suitable temperature and humidity environment.

[0074] In summary, the drainage structure and refrigerator provided in this application improve refrigeration efficiency and energy efficiency. The connection of the drain pipe assembly achieves sealing and limiting, ensuring the sealing and reliability of the connection and preventing hot air from outside the refrigerator from entering the refrigerator through the connection point. The structural design of the drain pipe assembly and drip tray ensures that defrost water can be smoothly drained into the drip tray, preventing water leakage to the outside of the refrigerator or other components in the compressor compartment, thus protecting the dryness and cleanliness of the refrigerator's internal environment. By preventing the accumulation of defrost water in the drain pipe and potential leakage, the risk of corrosion and damage to the drainage structure is reduced, extending the refrigerator's service life. Optimized layout of the evaporator chamber and compressor compartment, along with enhanced air circulation, improves refrigeration efficiency. Simultaneously, preventing cold air leakage and accelerating defrost water evaporation reduces cold loss, significantly improving the refrigerator's energy efficiency. Stable control of the refrigerator's internal temperature and effective humidity management enhance the user experience. Furthermore, the compact and reasonable design facilitates daily use and maintenance.

[0075] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A refrigerator drain structure, characterized by, include: Defrosting water pipe (3), drain pipe assembly (4) and water receiving tray (7); The drain pipe assembly (4) includes a connecting pipe (41), a drain pipe (42), and a cover plate (43); One end of the connecting pipe (41) is sleeved on the outer wall of the defrosting water pipe (3), and the other end is sleeved on the outer wall of the drain pipe (42). The inner diameter of the connecting pipe (41) is smaller than the outer diameter of the defrosting water pipe (3) and the drain pipe (42). The drain pipe (42) is provided with a cover plate (43) at one end away from the connecting pipe (41), and the cover plate (43) is rotatably connected to the drain pipe (42); The cover plate (43) is configured to normally close and cover the outlet of the drain pipe (42) under the action of gravity, and rotate and open the outlet of the drain pipe (42) when the defrosting water flows due to water pressure.

2. The drain structure of a refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The defrosting water pipe (3) is provided with a first clamp (31) at one end near the connecting pipe (41); The top of the connecting pipe (41) is provided with a first through hole (411) that cooperates with the first claw (31). The first claw (31) passes through the first through hole (411), engages with the first through hole (411), and forms an axial limit on the connecting pipe (41).

3. A refrigerator drainage structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The drain pipe (42) is provided with a second clamp (421) at one end near the connecting pipe (41); The bottom of the connecting pipe (41) is provided with a second through hole (412) that cooperates with the second claw (421). The second claw (421) passes through the second through hole (412), engages with the second through hole (412), and forms an axial limit on the connecting pipe (41).

4. The drain structure of a refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The drain pipe (42) has symmetrically arranged shaft holes (422) at one end away from the connecting pipe (41); The cover plate (43) has a rotating shaft (431) that is opposite to the shaft hole (422). The rotating shaft (431) is embedded in the shaft hole (422) and is rotatably connected to the shaft hole (422).

5. The drain structure of claim 4, wherein The end of the rotating shaft (431) is provided with a radially protruding anti-detachment boss, and the inner side of the shaft hole (422) is provided with a corresponding annular limiting step. The anti-detachment boss and the limiting step form an axial limiting fit.

6. The drain structure of a refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The cover plate (43) is a U-shaped plate, and the maximum opening angle of the cover plate (43) is 30°-45°.

7. The drain structure of a refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The closed surface of the cover plate (43) is provided with a sealing ring, which forms a surface contact seal with the outlet end face of the drain pipe (42).

8. The refrigerator drain structure according to claim 1, wherein The drain pipe (42) is inclined downwards along its axis, and the outlet end of the drain pipe (42) is suspended directly above the water receiving tray (7). The opening edge of the water receiving tray (7) extends outwards to form a guide flange.

9. The refrigerator drain structure according to claim 1, wherein The bottom surface of the water receiving tray (7) is provided with a sunken guide channel. The extension direction of the guide channel is perpendicular to the axis of the drain pipe (42). The depth of the guide channel on the side closer to the outlet end of the drain pipe (42) is greater than that on the side farther from the outlet end. The end of the guide channel is left with a buffer gap from the edge of the water receiving tray (7).

10. A refrigerator characterized by comprising: The refrigerator drainage structure includes any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that it further includes: an evaporator chamber (1), a compressor chamber (2), a fan (5), and a condenser (6); The fan (5) is installed inside the evaporator chamber (1), and the fan (5) is located on one side of the inlet end of the defrosting water pipe (3); The condenser (6) is installed in the compressor compartment (2), and the water receiving tray (7) is located below the condenser (6) and aligned with the outlet end of the drain pipe (42); The evaporator chamber (1) and the compressor chamber (2) are separated by a heat insulation layer, and the connecting pipe (41) of the drain pipe assembly (4) is arranged through the heat insulation layer.

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