Ice maker

Abstract

The utility model relates to an ice maker. The ice maker comprises an inner container and a shell assembly, the inner container is provided with a first surface, a second surface and a third surface, the first surface and the third surface are located on the two opposite sides of the inner container, and the second surface is connected between the first surface and the third surface; the shell assembly comprises a top shell, two side plates and a plurality of first fixing pieces. The two side plates are installed on the first surface and the third surface correspondingly. Each side plate is provided with a plurality of side plate connecting parts, each side plate connecting part comprises a first connecting part and a second connecting part which are connected with each other, the plurality of first fixing pieces are in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of first connecting parts, and each first fixing piece penetrates through the corresponding first connecting part and is locked to the inner container; the top shell is installed on the second surface, the top shell is provided with a plurality of top shell connecting parts, and each second connecting part is provided with one top shell connecting part which corresponds to and is matched with the top shell connecting part in an embedded mode. In the embodiment of the utility model, the side plate connecting part has higher structural strength, so that the connection relationship between the side plate and the top shell is more stable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electrical equipment technology, and in particular to an ice maker. Background Technology

[0002] With the advancement of technology, there are more and more types of refrigeration equipment, such as refrigerators, freezers, and ice makers. Considering the heat preservation effect, such equipment generally includes an outer shell and an inner liner. The outer shell is basically a prefabricated shell, which is formed by assembling at least two shells.

[0003] However, in traditional refrigeration equipment, the connection structure between multiple housings is relatively weak, and the connection stability between housings is low. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides an ice maker, which includes an inner liner and an outer shell assembly. The inner liner has a first surface, a second surface, and a third surface, with the first and third surfaces located on opposite sides of the inner liner, and the second surface connected between the first and third surfaces. The outer shell assembly includes a top shell, two side plates, and a plurality of first fasteners. The two side plates are respectively mounted on the first and third surfaces. Each side plate has a plurality of side plate connecting portions, each side plate connecting portion including a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion connected to each other. The first connecting portions are stacked on the second surface. The plurality of first fasteners correspond one-to-one with the plurality of first connecting portions, and each first fastener passes through a corresponding first connecting portion and is locked to the inner liner. The top shell is mounted on the second surface, covering the second surface and the plurality of side plate connecting portions. The side of the top shell facing the second surface has a plurality of top shell connecting portions, and each second connecting portion has a top shell connecting portion that corresponds to and fits into each other.

[0005] In some optional embodiments, the inner liner is provided with an opening, at least a portion of which is located on the second surface; the top shell is provided with a cleaning window, which is opposite to and communicates with the opening; and among the plurality of top shell connecting parts, at least one top shell connecting part is located on the outer periphery of the cleaning window and fits into the inner liner.

[0006] In some optional embodiments, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of each side panel connecting portion are arranged sequentially along a first direction. The second connecting portion is provided with an embedding groove, and at least a portion of the groove opening faces the same direction as the first direction. The inner liner is provided with at least one mating portion, which protrudes from the second surface. The mating portion is provided with a mating groove, and the groove opening faces the same direction as the first direction. The top shell includes a top shell body and a plurality of top shell connecting portions. One end of each top shell connecting portion is connected to the top shell body, and the other end extends along a second direction and is spaced apart from the top shell body. The first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other. The top shell moves along the second direction so that each second connecting portion engages with a corresponding top shell connecting portion, and each mating groove engages with a corresponding top shell connecting portion.

[0007] In some optional embodiments, the inner liner also has a fourth surface, which is connected to one side of the second surface and between the first surface and the third surface; the outer shell assembly also includes a front shell and a second fastener, the front shell is mounted on the fourth surface, the front shell is provided with a first locking part, the top shell is provided with a second locking part, and the second fastener passes through the first locking part and is locked to the second locking part.

[0008] In some optional embodiments, the front shell includes a front shell body and a first locking part, the first locking part protruding from the side of the front shell body facing the inner liner; the ice maker also includes a connecting beam, the connecting beam connecting the inner liner and the front shell body, the connecting beam having a clearance space extending through the opposite sides of the connecting beam, the first locking part passing through the connecting beam and extending to be opposite to the second locking part.

[0009] In some optional embodiments, the front shell includes a front shell body and a first locking part. The first locking part has an accommodating space, the port of which is exposed on the side of the front shell body away from the inner liner. A second fastener is disposed in the accommodating space and passes through the first locking part and is locked to the second locking part.

[0010] In some optional embodiments, the inner liner also has a fourth surface, which is connected to one side of the second surface and between the first surface and the third surface; the outer shell assembly also includes a front shell and a plurality of third fasteners, the front shell including a front shell body and a plurality of front shell connecting parts, the plurality of front shell connecting parts being connected to opposite sides of the front shell body and extending relative to the front shell body, the plurality of front shell connecting parts being stacked on the first surface and the third surface, and two side plates respectively covering the first surface, the third surface and the plurality of front shell connecting parts; the plurality of third fasteners correspond one-to-one with the plurality of front shell connecting parts, each third fastener passing through a corresponding front shell connecting part and locked to the inner liner.

[0011] In some optional embodiments, the front shell further includes a perimeter, which is connected to the outer periphery of the front shell body and extends toward the inner liner. A plurality of front shell connecting parts are sequentially and spaced apart from the side of the perimeter away from the front shell body. Each side plate includes a side plate body and a plurality of plug-in parts, which are sequentially and spaced apart from the side plate body. The side plate body is provided with a receiving space. When the front shell and the two side plates are installed in the inner liner, the perimeter is arranged around the outer periphery of the first surface and at least part of its structure is spaced apart from the first surface and the third surface. The plug-in parts are embedded between the perimeter and the inner liner, and each front shell connecting part is embedded in the receiving space.

[0012] In some optional embodiments, the inner liner also has a fifth surface opposite to the second surface; the outer shell assembly also includes a base plate connected to the inner liner and covering the fifth surface, and the side plate includes a side plate body and a side plate stacking portion connected to the side plate body away from the top shell, and the side plate stacking portion stacked on the side of the base plate opposite to the inner liner.

[0013] In some optional embodiments, the inner liner includes a first storage section and a second storage section, and the outer shell assembly also includes a support column. The first storage section is mounted on the base plate, and the second storage section is connected to the side of the first storage section away from the base plate. The two ends of the support column are respectively connected to the second storage section and the base plate.

[0014] In some optional embodiments, the inner liner further has a sixth surface, which is connected to one side of the second surface and between the first and third surfaces; the top shell has a plurality of top shell mating parts arranged at intervals on the side near the sixth surface, and each side plate has a plurality of side plate mating parts arranged at intervals on the side near the sixth surface; the outer shell assembly also includes a rear shell, which includes a rear shell body and a plurality of rear shell connecting parts, which are arranged at intervals on the side of the rear shell body facing the inner liner; the rear shell body is mounted on the sixth surface and covers the sixth surface, the plurality of top shell mating parts, and the plurality of side plate mating parts, each top shell mating part having a corresponding and fitting rear shell connecting part, and each side plate mating part having a corresponding and fitting rear shell connecting part.

[0015] In some optional embodiments, the rear shell connection includes a buckle, each top shell mating part is engaged with a corresponding buckle, and each side plate mating part is engaged with a corresponding buckle.

[0016] This application provides an ice maker. This embodiment provides an ice maker including an inner liner and an outer shell assembly. The outer shell assembly includes a top shell, two side plates, and multiple first fixing members. The inner liner has a first surface, a second surface, and a third surface, located on opposite sides of the inner liner. The second surface connects the first and third surfaces. The top shell is mounted on the second surface, and the two side plates are respectively mounted on the first and third surfaces. In this embodiment, the side plates have multiple side plate connecting portions located on the second surface. Each side plate connecting portion includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion connected to each other. Multiple first fixing members correspond one-to-one with the first connecting portions. The first connecting portions are stacked on the second surface. Each first fixing member passes through a corresponding first connecting portion and is locked to the inner liner to install the side plate into the inner liner. When the top shell is installed in the inner liner, it covers the second surface and multiple side plate connecting parts. The side of the top shell facing the second surface has multiple top shell connecting parts. Among the multiple top shell connecting parts, the same number of top shell connecting parts correspond one-to-one with the second connecting parts and fit together to install the top shell in the inner liner.

[0017] In this embodiment, the first connecting part connected to the inner liner and the second connecting part connected to the top shell are connected to form a side plate connecting part. Compared with the first connecting part or the second connecting part provided separately, the side plate connecting part has a larger size and stronger structural strength, which makes the connection between the side plate and the inner liner more stable, and the connection between the side plate and the top shell more stable, so that the side plate and the top shell can be stably installed on the inner liner. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ice maker provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the inner liner, top shell, and side panels of the ice maker.

[0021] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the structural schematic of the side plate connection part of the side plate.

[0022] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the structural schematic of the top shell connection part of the top shell.

[0023] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the structural schematic of the mating part of the inner liner.

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the outer casing and the first locking part of the ice maker.

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the second locking part of the top shell of the ice maker.

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of the first locking part and the second locking part is shown.

[0027] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of the insertion part of the side plate.

[0028] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the base plate of the ice maker.

[0029] Figure 11 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the structural design of the support column for the ice maker.

[0030] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the sixth surface of the inner liner of the ice maker.

[0031] Figure 13 yes Figure 2 Rear view of the top shell and side panels shown.

[0032] Figure 14 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the rear casing of the ice maker.

[0033] Reference numerals: 100, Ice maker; 10, Outer shell assembly; 11, Front shell; 111, Front shell body; 1111, Access window; 112, Front shell connecting part; 113, First locking part; 1131, Accommodating space; 114, Edge; 12, Side panel; 121, Side panel body; 122, Side panel connecting part; 1221, First connecting part; 1222, Second connecting part; 1223, Inserting groove; 124, Insertion part; 125, Side panel fixing part; 126, Side panel stacking part; 127, Side panel assembly part; 13, Top shell; 131, Top shell body; 1311, Cleaning window. 132. Top shell connecting part; 133. Second locking part; 134. Top shell fixing part; 135. Top shell assembly part; 14. Rear shell; 141. Rear shell body; 142. Rear shell connecting part; 15. Bottom plate; 20. Inner liner; 21. First surface; 22. Second surface; 221. Opening; 222. Mating part; 2221. Mating groove; 23. Third surface; 24. Fourth surface; 25. Fifth surface; 26. Sixth surface; 27. Storage space; 291. First storage part; 292. Second storage part; 40. Connecting beam; 41. Clearance space; 50. Support column. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0035] Please see Figure 1This application provides an ice maker 100 for preparing ice cubes. The ice maker 100 may include a housing assembly 10, which serves as the main structure and appearance of the ice maker 100. In this embodiment, the housing assembly 10 is hollow and has an internal space. The internal space of the housing assembly 10 provides space for the ice-making process and also accommodates other components of the ice maker 100. In this embodiment, other components may include structures such as a compressor, evaporator, and condenser (not shown in the figure). The compressor, evaporator, and condenser are sequentially connected and end-to-end to form a circulation path. Refrigerant (such as Freon) flows in the circulation path. The low-temperature refrigerant is pumped into the evaporator after being compressed by the compressor. The evaporator can exchange heat with the liquid water to absorb the heat of the liquid water. The evaporator lowers the temperature of the liquid water until the liquid water freezes into ice, so as to realize the function of making ice cubes. Then the refrigerant flows to the condenser and exchanges heat with the external environment of the ice maker 100 to release the absorbed heat. Then it flows back to the compressor to start the next cycle.

[0036] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, the ice maker 100 may further include an inner liner 20, which is disposed inside the outer shell assembly 10. The inner liner 20 has a storage space 27 for storing ice cubes or water or beverages used to make ice cubes. In this embodiment, the inner liner 20 has a first surface 21, a second surface 22, and a third surface 23. The first surface 21 and the third surface 23 are located on opposite sides of the inner liner 20, and the second surface 22 is connected between the first surface 21 and the second surface 22. In this embodiment, the outer shell assembly 10 includes a top shell 13 and two side plates 12. The top shell 13 is mounted on the second surface 22, and the two side plates 12 are respectively mounted on the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. In this embodiment, the top shell 13 defines the top surface of the ice maker 100, and the two side plates 12 define the left and right surfaces of the ice maker 100.

[0037] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3In this embodiment, each side panel 12 is provided with multiple side panel connecting portions 122, which are connected to the inner liner 20 and the top shell 13 respectively. Specifically, in this embodiment, each side panel 12 includes a side panel body 121 and multiple side panel connecting portions 122, which are sequentially and spaced apart from each other on the side of the side panel body 121 near the second surface 22. In this embodiment, the side panel connecting portion 122 includes a first connecting portion 1221. When the side panel 12 is installed on the inner liner 20, the side panel connecting portion 122 is located on the second surface 22, and the first connecting portion 1221 is stacked on the second surface 22. In this embodiment, the outer shell assembly 10 also includes multiple first fasteners (e.g., screws), which correspond one-to-one with the multiple first connecting portions 1221. Each first fastener passes through a corresponding first connecting portion 1221 and is locked to the inner liner 20 to install the side panel 12 on the inner liner 20.

[0038] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, the side panel connecting portion 122 further includes a second connecting portion 1222, which is connected to the first connecting portion 1221 and is used to connect with the top shell 13. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the top shell 13 is installed on the inner liner 20, the top shell 13 covers the second surface 22 and the multiple side panel connecting portions 122 located on the second surface 22, so that there are no connecting structures on the outer surface of the ice maker 100, making most of the outer surface of the ice maker 100 relatively clean and improving the overall appearance of the ice maker 100. The top shell 13 has multiple top shell connecting portions 132 on the side facing the second surface 22, and each second connecting portion 1222 has a corresponding top shell connecting portion 132, and the corresponding second connecting portions 1222 and top shell connecting portions 132 fit together. In actual installation scenarios, the two side panels 12 are first installed on the inner liner 20, and then the top shell 13 is installed on the inner liner 20. When the top shell 13 is installed on the inner liner 20, it covers the side panel connecting part 122 and multiple second connecting parts 1222. In this embodiment, the second connecting parts 1222 and the top shell connecting parts 132 are set to fit together, so that the second connecting parts 1222 and the top shell connecting parts 132 can be connected when the top shell 13 covers the side panel connecting parts 122, so that the top shell 13 can be installed on the inner liner 20. The installation method is relatively simple and reduces the difficulty of assembling the ice maker 100.

[0039] In summary, this embodiment provides an ice maker 100, which includes an inner liner 20 and an outer shell assembly 10. The outer shell assembly 10 includes a top shell 13, two side plates 12, and a plurality of first fixing members. The inner liner 20 has a first surface 21, a second surface 22, and a third surface 23, with the first surface 21 and the third surface 23 located on opposite sides of the inner liner 20, and the second surface 22 connecting the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. The top shell 13 is mounted on the second surface 22, and the two side plates 12 are respectively mounted on the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. In this embodiment, the side plates 12 are provided with a plurality of side plate connecting portions 122, which are located on the second surface 22. The side panel connecting portion 122 includes a first connecting portion 1221 and a second connecting portion 1222 connected to each other. A plurality of first fasteners correspond one-to-one with the first connecting portions 1221. The first connecting portions 1221 are stacked on the second surface 22. Each first fastener passes through a corresponding first connecting portion 1221 and is locked to the inner liner 20 to install the side panel 12 onto the inner liner 20. When the top shell 13 is installed on the inner liner 20, it covers the second surface 22 and the plurality of side panel connecting portions 122. The top shell 13 has a plurality of top shell connecting portions 132 on the side facing the second surface 22. Among the plurality of top shell connecting portions 132, the same number of top shell connecting portions 132 correspond one-to-one with the second connecting portions 1222 and engage with them to install the top shell 13 onto the inner liner 20.

[0040] In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 1221 connected to the inner liner 20 and the second connecting portion 1222 connected to the top shell 13 are connected to form the side plate connecting portion 122. Compared with the separately provided first connecting portion 1221 or the separately provided second connecting portion 1222, the side plate connecting portion 122 has a larger size and stronger structural strength, making the connection between the side plate 12 and the inner liner 20 more stable, and making the connection between the side plate 12 and the top shell 13 more stable, so that the side plate 12 and the top shell 13 can be stably installed on the inner liner 20.

[0041] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4In this embodiment, the inner liner 20 has an opening 221 that connects the storage space 27 of the inner liner 20 to the external environment of the inner liner 20. Users can access the ice cubes in the inner liner 20 or clean the storage space 27 through the opening 221. In this embodiment, a portion of the opening 221 is located on the second surface 22. In this embodiment, the top shell 13 has a cleaning window 1311 that extends through both opposite sides of the top shell 13. When the top shell 13 is installed on the inner liner 20, the cleaning window 1311 communicates with the opening 221. After the ice maker 100 is assembled, users can clean the interior of the inner liner 20 through the cleaning window 1311 and the opening 221 on the second surface 22 without disassembling the ice maker 100, reducing the difficulty of cleaning the inner liner 20.

[0042] In this embodiment, the top shell 13 includes a top shell body 131 and a plurality of top shell connecting portions 132. The top shell body 131 is provided with a cleaning window 1311, and the plurality of top shell connecting portions 132 are disposed on the side of the top shell body 131 facing the second surface 22. When the top shell 13 is installed on the inner liner 20, the top shell body 131 is generally spaced apart from the second surface 22 of the inner liner 20, and the peripheral structure of the cleaning window 1311 is located on the top of the inner liner 20 and spaced apart from the inner liner 20. In this embodiment, at least one of the plurality of top shell connecting portions 132 is disposed on the outer periphery of the cleaning window 1311. That is, in this embodiment, some of the top shell connecting portions 132 correspond one-to-one with and fit into the plurality of side plate connecting portions 122, and some of the top shell connecting portions 132 are located on the outer periphery of the cleaning window 1311.

[0043] In this embodiment, the top shell connecting portion 132 located on the outer periphery of the cleaning window 1311 is connected to the peripheral structure of the cleaning window 1311. The top shell connecting portion 132 engages with the inner liner 20 to establish a connection between the edge structure of the cleaning window 1311 and the inner liner 20. The top shell connecting portion 132 also provides some support to the peripheral structure of the cleaning window 1311, thereby enhancing the structural strength of the peripheral structure. In this embodiment, two top shell connecting portions 132 are disposed on the outer periphery of the cleaning window 1311, located on opposite sides of the cleaning window 1311, to ensure a more uniform structural strength of the peripheral structure of the cleaning window 1311. In other embodiments, three, four, or more top shell connecting portions 132 may be disposed on the outer periphery of the cleaning window 1311.

[0044] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 1221 and the second connecting portion 1222, which are connected to each other, are arranged sequentially along the first direction A. The second connecting portion 1222 is provided with an insert groove 1223, and at least a portion of the groove opening of the insert groove 1223 faces the same direction as the first direction A. In this embodiment, one end of the top shell connecting portion 132 is connected to the top shell body 131, and the other end extends along the second direction B and is spaced apart from the top shell body 131. In this embodiment, the structure between the two ends of the top shell connecting portion 132 extends approximately along the second direction B, forming a pin-like or snap-fit ​​structure. In this embodiment, the first direction A and the second direction B are opposite to each other. In actual assembly scenarios, the top shell 13 is driven to move along the second direction B, and the pin-like top shell connecting portion 132 is inserted into the insert groove 1223 along the second direction B to achieve the fitting connection between the second connecting portion 1222 and the top shell connecting portion 132.

[0045] Please see Figure 5 In this embodiment, the second connecting portion 1222 abuts against the second surface 22, and a portion of the groove 1223 faces the second surface 22. The groove 1223 communicates with the side surface of the second connecting portion 1222 facing the second surface 22. The second surface 22 and the groove 1223 together define a groove-shaped structure with strong sealing and fit into the top shell connecting portion 132. With this configuration, the inner liner 20 can support the second connecting portion 1222 to distribute the stress on the second connecting portion 1222 and prevent the second connecting portion 1222 from deforming or being damaged. In this embodiment, the groove 1223 has a high degree of openness, which facilitates the demolding of the side plate 12 during production.

[0046] In this embodiment, the inner liner 20 is provided with at least one mating part 222, which engages with the top shell connecting part 132 located on the outer periphery of the cleaning window 1311. Specifically, the mating part 222 protrudes from the second surface 22 and is provided with a mating groove 2221. The groove opening of the mating groove 2221 faces the same direction as the first direction A. In actual assembly scenarios, the top shell 13 is driven to move along the second direction B, and the top shell connecting part 132 corresponding to the mating part 222 is embedded in the embedding groove 1223 along the second direction B to achieve the mating connection between the mating part 222 and the top shell connecting part 132.

[0047] Please see Figure 1In this embodiment, the inner liner 20 further has a fourth surface 24, which is connected between the first surface 21 and the third surface 23, and is also connected to one side of the second surface 22. In this embodiment, the first surface 21 and the third surface 23 are used as the left and right side surfaces of the inner liner 20, the second surface 22 is used as the top side surface of the inner liner 20, and the fourth surface 24 is used as the front surface of the inner liner 20. In this embodiment, the outer shell assembly 10 also includes a front shell 11, which is mounted on and covers the fourth surface 24.

[0048] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this embodiment, the front shell 11 is provided with a first locking part 113 on the side facing the inner liner 20, and the top shell 13 is provided with a second locking part 133 on the side facing the inner liner 20. The first locking part 113 and the second locking part 133 are connected within the space defined by the outer shell assembly 10, so that the front shell 11 and the top shell 13 are connected, thereby enhancing the structural stability of the outer shell assembly 10, making the connection between the front shell 11 and the inner liner 20 more stable, and making the connection between the top shell 13 and the inner liner 20 more stable.

[0049] Specifically, in this embodiment, the front shell 11 includes a front shell body 111 and a first locking part 113, the first locking part 113 being connected to the side of the front shell body 111 facing the inner liner 20. In this embodiment, the outer shell assembly 10 also includes a second fastener (e.g., a screw), the second fastener (not shown in the figure) being inserted through the first locking part 113 and locked to the second locking part 133, thereby fixing the first locking part 113 and the second locking part 133 together. In this embodiment, the number of the first locking part 113, the second locking part 133, and the second fastener can be multiple.

[0050] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, a portion of the opening 221 of the inner liner 20 is located on the fourth surface 24. The front shell 11 has access windows 1111 extending through opposite sides of the front shell 11. The access windows 1111 communicate with the opening 221 on the fourth surface 24, allowing the user to access ice cubes in the storage space 27 via the access windows 1111 and the opening 221. In this embodiment, the second surface 22 and the fourth surface 24 are connected, and the opening 221 is a single unit distributed across both the second surface 22 and the fourth surface 24. In other embodiments, the portion of the opening 221 located on the second surface 22 is spaced apart from the portion of the opening 221 located on the fourth surface 24.

[0051] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 7In this embodiment, the ice maker 100 further includes a connecting beam 40, which is connected to the inner liner 20 and the front shell body 111 respectively to strengthen the connection between the front shell 11 and the inner liner 20. In this embodiment, the connecting beam 40 is an angle steel structure with a first bend and a second bend that are connected to each other. The first bend is connected to the inner liner 20, and the second bend is bent relative to the first bend in a direction away from the opening of the inner liner 20, and is connected to the front shell 11. In this embodiment, the connecting beam 40 is provided with a clearance space 41, which extends through both opposite sides of the connecting beam 40. Specifically, the clearance space 41 is provided in the second bend and extends through both opposite sides of the second bend. In this embodiment, the first locking part 113 is connected to the side of the front shell body 111 facing the inner liner 20 and protrudes relative to the front shell body 111. During the installation of the front housing 11, the first locking part 113 passes through the clearance space 41 and extends to be opposite the second locking part 133. The first locking part 113 and the second locking part 133 are then fixedly connected by a second fastener. In this embodiment, the clearance space 41 is a through hole, and the hole shape and size of the clearance space 41 are set according to the shape and size of the first locking part 113, so that the connecting beam 40 has a limiting and reinforcing effect on the first locking part 113, which is beneficial for the correspondence between the first locking part 113 and the second locking part 133. In this embodiment, the number of clearance spaces 41 on the connecting beam 40 is set according to the number of first locking parts 113.

[0052] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this embodiment, both the first locking part 113 and the second locking part 133 are disposed within the space defined by the outer shell assembly 10. The first locking part 113 has a receiving space 1131, the port of which is exposed on the side of the front shell body 111 away from the inner liner 20. During the installation of the front shell 11, the second fastener enters the receiving space 1131 through the port on the front shell body 111 via the receiving space 1131. The second fastener passes through the end of the first locking part 113 away from the front shell body 111 and locks to the second locking part 133. With this configuration, the second fastener can fix the first locking part 113 and the second locking part 133 in the internal space of the outer shell assembly 10 when the front shell 11 is installed in the inner liner 20, reducing the difficulty of assembly. In this embodiment, both the first locking part 113 and the second locking part 133 have a block-shaped structure, so that the first locking part 113 has more structures connected to the second fixing member, and the second locking part 133 has more structures connected to the second fixing member, thereby improving the locking effect.

[0053] Please see Figure 6In this embodiment, the front shell 11 includes a front shell body 111 and a plurality of front shell connecting portions 112. The plurality of front shell connecting portions 112 are distributed on opposite sides of the front shell body 111 and connected to the front shell body 111. The front shell connecting portions 112 extend relative to the front shell body 111 toward the inner liner 20. When the front shell 11 is mounted on the fourth surface 24, the plurality of front shell connecting portions 112 are respectively stacked on the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. In this embodiment, the outer shell assembly 10 also includes a plurality of third fasteners (e.g., screws). The plurality of third fasteners (not shown in the figure) correspond one-to-one with the plurality of front shell connecting portions 112. Each third fastener passes through a corresponding front shell connecting portion 112 and is locked to the inner liner 20. Please refer to... Figure 1 In this embodiment, two side plates 12 are respectively installed on the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. The two side plates 12 can cover the first surface 21 and the third surface 23 respectively. When the side plate 12 installed on the first surface 21 covers the first surface 21, it can also cover the multiple front shell connecting parts 112 stacked on the first surface 21. When the side plate 12 installed on the third surface 23 covers the third surface 23, it can also cover the multiple front shell connecting parts 112 stacked on the third surface 23, so that there are no connecting structures on the outer surface of the ice maker 100, making most of the outer surface of the ice maker 100 relatively clean and improving the overall appearance of the ice maker 100.

[0054] Please see Figure 6 In this embodiment, the front shell 11 further includes a perimeter 114, which is connected to the outer peripheral edge of the front shell body 111. The perimeter 114 extends toward the inner liner 20 relative to the front shell body 111. A plurality of front shell connecting portions 112 are sequentially and spaced apart from the side of the perimeter 114 away from the front shell body 111, so as to make the structure of the front shell 11 more three-dimensional and improve the structural strength of the front shell 11. In this embodiment, when the front shell 11 is installed on the inner liner 20, the front shell body 111 covers the fourth surface 24, and the perimeter 114 is arranged around the outer periphery of the fourth surface 24. The perimeter 114 and the front shell body 111 define a certain volume of receiving space for the front shell 11. Part of the inner liner 20 is embedded in the receiving space defined by the front shell 11. At least a portion of the structure of the perimeter 114 is respectively spaced apart from the first surface 21 and the third surface 23.

[0055] Please see Figure 9In this embodiment, the side panel 12 includes a side panel body 121 and a plurality of insertion portions 124, which are sequentially and spaced apart from each other on the side panel body 121. In this embodiment, the plurality of insertion portions 124 are located on the side of the side panel body 121 near the front shell 11. In this embodiment, the side panel body 121 has a three-dimensional structure, and the side panel 12 is generally plate-shaped. The edge structure of the side panel 12 is bent toward the inner liner 20 relative to the middle structure of the side panel 12, so that the outer peripheral edge of the side panel 12 forms a stepped structure. The bent portion and the middle structure of the side panel 12 together define the receiving space of the side panel 12. In this embodiment, the plurality of insertion portions 124 are connected to the edge of the bent portion of the side panel 12 and extend toward the front shell 11 relative to the bent portion.

[0056] In actual assembly scenarios, the front shell 11 and the two side panels 12 are respectively installed on the inner liner 20. At least a portion of the perimeter 114 of the front shell 11 is spaced apart from the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. The insertion portion 124 of the side panel 12 is embedded between the perimeter 114 and the inner liner 20 to increase the stability of the connection between the side panel 12 and the inner liner 20. The edge of the perimeter 114 away from the front shell body 111 is approximately abutting against the stepped structure of the side panel 12, so that the edge of the perimeter 114 away from the front shell body 111 is not easily noticed, improving the aesthetics. In this embodiment, the insertion portion 124 of the side panel 12 is staggered from the front shell connection portion 112 of the front shell 11, so that the degree of interlocking at the connection between the front shell 11 and the side panel 12 is high, reducing the gaps on the front and left and right side surfaces of the ice maker 100 and improving the sealing degree of the accommodating space 1131. In this embodiment, the front shell 11 and the side plate 12 are interlocked, similar to a mortise and tenon structure, which improves the stability of the connection between the front shell 11 and the side plate 12, improves the correlation between the multiple encapsulation plates of the shell assembly 10, and improves the overall integrity of the shell assembly 10.

[0057] Please see Figure 10In this embodiment, the inner liner 20 further has a fifth surface 25, which is located between the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. The fifth surface 25 and the second surface 22 are located on opposite sides of the inner liner 20, respectively. The second surface 22 corresponds to the top surface of the inner liner 20, and the fifth surface 25 corresponds to the bottom surface of the inner liner 20. In this embodiment, the outer shell assembly 10 also includes a base plate 15, which is connected to the inner liner 20 and covers the fifth surface 25. In this embodiment, the base plate 15 serves as a support plate for the ice maker 100, defining the bottom side surface of the ice maker 100. In this embodiment, the side plate 12 includes a side plate body 121 and a side plate stacking portion 126. The side plate stacking portion 126 is connected to the side of the side plate body 121 near the fifth surface 25, and is stacked on the side of the base plate 15 opposite to the inner liner 20. In this embodiment, the side panel 12 can cover the edge structure of the bottom plate 15, making the bottom sides of the left and right side surfaces of the ice maker 100 more aesthetically pleasing. In some embodiments, the front shell 11 may also include an edge structure that covers the bottom plate 15. In this embodiment, screws, pins, or other structures can be sequentially inserted into the side panel stack 126 and the bottom plate 15 and locked to the inner liner 20 to improve the structural stability of the outer shell assembly 10.

[0058] Please see Figure 10 and Figure 11 In this embodiment, the inner liner 20 includes a first storage section 291 and a second storage section 292, which are integrally formed and connected. In this embodiment, the first storage section 291 is mounted on the base plate 15, and the second storage section 292 is connected to the side of the first storage section 291 away from the base plate 15. The second storage section 292 is spaced apart from the base plate 15 and is approximately located above the base plate 15. In this embodiment, the outer shell assembly 10 also includes a support column 50, with its two ends connected to the base plate 15 and the second storage section 292, respectively. The support column 50 can support the second storage section 292, so that the inner liner 20 remains balanced relative to the base plate 15. In this embodiment, multiple support columns 50 can be provided, for example, two, with the two support columns 50 respectively close to the first surface 21 and the third surface 23.

[0059] Please see Figure 11 and Figure 12In this embodiment, the inner liner 20 also has a sixth surface 26, which is located between the first surface 21 and the third surface 23, and is connected to the second surface 22. As mentioned above, the sixth surface 26 and the fourth surface 24 are located on opposite sides of the inner liner 20. In this embodiment, the side panel 12 includes a side panel body 121 and a side panel assembly part 127. Multiple side panel assembly parts 127 are sequentially and spaced apart from each other on the side panel body 121, and the side panel assembly parts 127 are located on the side of the side panel body 121 near the sixth surface 26. In this embodiment, the top shell 13 includes a top shell body 131 and a top shell assembly part 135. Multiple top shell assembly parts 135 are sequentially and spaced apart from each other on the top shell body 131, and the top shell assembly parts 135 are located on the side of the top shell body 131 near the sixth surface 26.

[0060] Please see Figure 12 and Figure 13 In this embodiment, the outer casing assembly 10 further includes a rear casing 14, which is mounted on the sixth surface 26 and covers the sixth surface 26, as well as a plurality of side panel assemblies 127 and a plurality of top shell assemblies 135. The plurality of side panel assemblies 127 and the plurality of top shell assemblies 135 are all located between the rear casing 14 and the sixth surface 26, thus concealing the plurality of side panel assemblies 127 and the plurality of top shell assemblies 135. In this embodiment, the rear casing 14 defines the back of the ice maker 100. The rear casing 14 covers the plurality of side panel assemblies 127 and the plurality of top shell assemblies 135 so that the back of the ice maker 100 has no connecting structures, resulting in a clean appearance for the ice maker 100. As can be seen from the foregoing, under the configuration of this embodiment, there are no connecting structures on the top, front, back, and left and right surfaces of the ice maker 100, resulting in a better overall appearance for the ice maker 100.

[0061] In this embodiment, the rear shell 14 includes a rear shell body 141 and a plurality of rear shell connecting parts 142. Each top shell assembly 135 has a rear shell connecting part 142 that corresponds to and fits into each other, and each side plate assembly 127 has a rear shell connecting part 142 that corresponds to and fits into each other, thereby strengthening the connection between the rear shell 14 and the inner liner 20. Specifically, both the top shell assembly 135 and the side plate assembly 127 are provided with slots. Correspondingly, the rear shell connecting part 142 includes a buckle, and a plurality of buckles and a plurality of slots (including slots on the top shell assembly 135 and slots on the side plate assembly 127) correspond one-to-one. When the rear shell 14 is connected to the inner liner 20, each buckle is fitted into a corresponding slot to connect the rear shell 14 and the side plate 12, and the rear shell 14 and the top shell 13, thereby improving the overall stability of the outer shell assembly 10.

[0062] In this embodiment, the side panel 12 further includes a plurality of side panel fixing parts 125, which are sequentially and spaced apart from each other on the side panel body 121. The side panel fixing parts 125 are located on the side of the side panel body 121 near the sixth surface 26. When the side panel 12 is installed on the inner liner 20, the plurality of side panel fixing parts 125 are stacked on the sixth surface 26, and the side panel fixing parts 125 and the sixth surface 26 are detachably fixedly connected by external accessories (such as screws, pins, etc.). The top shell 13 further includes a plurality of top shell fixing parts 134, which are sequentially and spaced apart from each other on the top shell body 131. The top shell fixing parts 134 are located on the side of the top shell body 131 near the sixth surface 26. In this embodiment, the side panel fixing parts 125 have a flat, sheet-like structure. When the top shell 13 is installed on the inner liner 20, multiple top shell fixing parts 134 are stacked on the sixth surface 26, and the top shell fixing parts 134 and the sixth surface 26 are detachably fixedly connected by external accessories (such as screws, pins, etc.).

[0063] In this embodiment, the top shell assembly part 135 and the top shell fixing part 134 can be connected to form an integral structure to strengthen the connection between the top shell 13, the inner liner 20 and the rear shell 14. The side plate assembly part 127 and the side plate fixing part 125 can be connected to form an integral structure to strengthen the connection between the side plate 12, the inner liner 20 and the rear shell 14.

[0064] This embodiment provides an ice maker 100, which includes an inner liner 20 and an outer shell assembly 10. The outer shell assembly 10 includes a top shell 13, two side plates 12, and a plurality of first fixing members. The inner liner 20 has a first surface 21, a second surface 22, and a third surface 23, with the first surface 21 and the third surface 23 located on opposite sides of the inner liner 20, and the second surface 22 connecting the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. The top shell 13 is mounted on the second surface 22, and the two side plates 12 are respectively mounted on the first surface 21 and the third surface 23. In this embodiment, the side plates 12 are provided with a plurality of side plate connecting portions 122, which are located on the second surface 22. The side panel connecting portion 122 includes a first connecting portion 1221 and a second connecting portion 1222 connected to each other. A plurality of first fasteners correspond one-to-one with the first connecting portions 1221. The first connecting portions 1221 are stacked on the second surface 22. Each first fastener passes through a corresponding first connecting portion 1221 and is locked to the inner liner 20 to install the side panel 12 onto the inner liner 20. When the top shell 13 is installed on the inner liner 20, it covers the second surface 22 and the plurality of side panel connecting portions 122. The top shell 13 has a plurality of top shell connecting portions 132 on the side facing the second surface 22. Among the plurality of top shell connecting portions 132, the same number of top shell connecting portions 132 correspond one-to-one with the second connecting portions 1222 and engage with them to install the top shell 13 onto the inner liner 20.

[0065] In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 1221 connected to the inner liner 20 and the second connecting portion 1222 connected to the top shell 13 are connected to form the side plate connecting portion 122. Compared with the separately provided first connecting portion 1221 or the separately provided second connecting portion 1222, the side plate connecting portion 122 has a larger size and stronger structural strength, making the connection between the side plate 12 and the inner liner 20 more stable, and making the connection between the side plate 12 and the top shell 13 more stable, so that the side plate 12 and the top shell 13 can be stably installed on the inner liner 20.

[0066] In this application specification, certain terms are used to refer to specific components. Those skilled in the art will understand that hardware manufacturers may use different names to refer to the same component. The specification and claims do not distinguish components based on differences in name, but rather on differences in function. The term "comprising" throughout the specification and claims is an open-ended term and should be interpreted as "including but not limited to"; "generally" means that those skilled in the art can solve the technical problem within a certain margin of error and basically achieve the technical effect.

[0067] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right", "inside", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the purpose of simplifying the description of this application 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.

[0068] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or merely surface contact. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0069] 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 this application. 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.

[0070] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0071] 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 of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An ice maker, characterized in that, include: The inner liner has a first surface, a second surface and a third surface, the first surface and the third surface are located on opposite sides of the inner liner, and the second surface is connected between the first surface and the third surface; A housing assembly, the housing assembly including a top shell, two side plates and a plurality of first fasteners, the two side plates being respectively mounted on the first surface and the third surface; Each side panel is provided with multiple side panel connecting parts, each side panel connecting part includes a first connecting part and a second connecting part connected to each other, the first connecting part is stacked on the second surface, multiple first fasteners correspond one-to-one with multiple first connecting parts, each first fastener passes through a corresponding first connecting part and is locked to the inner liner; The top shell is mounted on the second surface, and the top shell covers the second surface and the multiple side plate connecting parts. The top shell has multiple top shell connecting parts on the side facing the second surface, and each second connecting part has a top shell connecting part that corresponds to and fits into each other.

2. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner liner has an opening, at least a portion of which is located on the second surface; the top shell has a cleaning window, which is opposite to and communicates with the opening. Of the plurality of top shell connecting parts, at least one top shell connecting part is located on the outer periphery of the cleaning window and fits into the inner liner.

3. The ice maker as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of each side plate connecting portion are arranged sequentially along a first direction. The second connecting portion is provided with an embedding groove, and at least a portion of the groove opening faces the same direction as the first direction. The inner liner is provided with at least one mating part, and at least one mating part protrudes from the second surface. The mating part is provided with a mating groove, and the opening of the mating groove faces the same direction as the first direction. The top shell includes a top shell body and a plurality of top shell connecting parts. One end of each top shell connecting part is connected to the top shell body, and the other end extends along a second direction and is spaced apart from the top shell body. The first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other. The top shell moves along the second direction so that each second connecting part engages with a corresponding top shell connecting part, and each mating groove engages with a corresponding top shell connecting part.

4. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner liner also has a fourth surface, which is connected to one side of the second surface and between the first surface and the third surface; The outer casing assembly further includes a front shell and a second fastener. The front shell is mounted on the fourth surface. The front shell has a first locking part, and the top shell has a second locking part. The second fastener passes through the first locking part and is locked to the second locking part.

5. The ice maker as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The front shell includes a front shell body and the first locking part, the first locking part protruding from the side of the front shell body facing the inner liner; The ice maker also includes a connecting beam, which connects the inner liner and the front shell body. The connecting beam has a clearance space that extends through the opposite sides of the connecting beam. The first locking part passes through the connecting beam and extends to be opposite to the second locking part.

6. The ice maker as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The front shell includes a front shell body and a first locking part. The first locking part has an accommodating space. The port of the accommodating space is exposed on the side of the front shell body away from the inner liner. The second fixing member is disposed in the accommodating space and passes through the first locking part and is locked to the second locking part.

7. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner liner also has a fourth surface, which is connected to one side of the second surface and between the first surface and the third surface; The outer shell assembly further includes a front shell and a plurality of third fasteners. The front shell includes a front shell body and a plurality of front shell connecting parts. The plurality of front shell connecting parts are respectively connected to opposite sides of the front shell body and extend relative to the front shell body. The plurality of front shell connecting parts are respectively stacked on the first surface and the third surface. The two side plates respectively cover the first surface, the third surface and the plurality of front shell connecting parts. Each of the third fasteners corresponds to one of the front shell connecting parts, and each third fastener passes through a corresponding front shell connecting part and is locked to the inner liner.

8. The ice maker as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The front shell also includes a perimeter, which is connected to the outer periphery of the front shell body and extends toward the inner liner. A plurality of the front shell connecting parts are sequentially and spaced apart from each other on the side of the perimeter away from the front shell body. Each side panel includes a side panel body and a plurality of plug-in portions, which are sequentially and spaced apart from each other. The side panel body has a receiving space. When the front shell and the two side panels are installed on the inner liner, the rim is arranged around the outer periphery of the first surface and at least partially spaced from the first surface and the third surface. The plug-in portions are embedded between the rim and the inner liner, and each front shell connecting portion is embedded in the receiving space.

9. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner liner also has a fifth surface that is opposite to the second surface; The outer shell assembly also includes a base plate connected to the inner liner and covering the fifth surface. The side plate includes a side plate body and a side plate stacking portion. The side plate stacking portion is connected to the side of the side plate body away from the top shell, and the side plate stacking portion is stacked on the side of the base plate opposite to the inner liner.

10. The ice maker as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The inner liner includes a first storage section and a second storage section, and the outer shell assembly also includes a support column. The first storage section is mounted on the base plate, and the second storage section is connected to the side of the first storage section away from the base plate. The two ends of the support column are respectively connected to the second storage section and the base plate.

11. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner liner also has a sixth surface, which is connected to one side of the second surface and is connected between the first surface and the third surface; The top shell has a plurality of top shell mating parts arranged at intervals on the side near the sixth surface, and each side plate has a plurality of side plate mating parts arranged at intervals on the side near the sixth surface. The outer shell assembly further includes a rear shell, which includes a rear shell body and a plurality of rear shell connecting parts. The plurality of rear shell connecting parts are sequentially and spaced apart from each other on the side of the rear shell body facing the inner liner. The rear shell body is mounted on the sixth surface and covers the sixth surface, as well as the plurality of top shell mating parts and the plurality of side plate mating parts. Each top shell mating part has a rear shell connecting part that corresponds to and fits into each other, and each side plate mating part has a rear shell connecting part that corresponds to and fits into each other.

12. The ice maker as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The rear shell connecting part includes a buckle, each of the top shell mating parts is engaged with a corresponding buckle, and each of the side plate mating parts is engaged with a corresponding buckle.

Images