Refrigerator with a split body

By installing a heating element at the joint of the modular refrigerator and controlling it via a main control board, the problems of condensation and frost at the joint are solved, improving the dryness and aesthetics of the refrigerator and simplifying the installation process.

CN224340419UActive Publication Date: 2026-06-09QINDAO HAIER REFRIGERATOR CO LTD +1

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
QINDAO HAIER REFRIGERATOR CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-04-28
Publication Date
2026-06-09

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a spliced refrigerator, including first box, second box and heating part, heating part sets up between first box and second box, and heating part is connected in the main control board of first box or second box. This spliced refrigerator sets up heating part directly between first lateral wall and second lateral wall, eliminates condensate water and frost through heating and keeps dry and clean at splicing place. The heating part is powered and controlled through the main control board, and a separate plug connection is not needed for the heating part. The spliced refrigerator can share a power supply interface with the refrigerator, reducing wiring complexity and improving user installation and use convenience. The heating part can be easily controlled through the operation of the refrigerator, and the control method is simple and convenient.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of refrigeration equipment technology, and in particular to a modular refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Modular refrigerators combine multiple independent refrigerator units to meet users' needs for large capacity or flexible layout. However, due to structural gaps at the joints and the release of heat and cold, condensation or frost can easily form at these joints. This not only affects the refrigerator's aesthetics but can also increase internal humidity, leading to mold growth and even electrical safety hazards caused by moisture accumulation. Current technology cannot yet overcome this problem. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the problem of condensation or frost buildup in the gaps between multiple refrigerators when used together in existing technologies, the purpose of this invention is to provide a modular refrigerator that effectively solves the problems of condensation and frost buildup at the joints. 。

[0004] To achieve the above-mentioned utility model objectives, one embodiment of this utility model provides a modular refrigerator, comprising:

[0005] The first enclosure has a first door and a first sidewall, the first sidewall being located on one side of the first door;

[0006] The second enclosure has a second door and a second side wall. The second side wall is located on one side of the second door. The first side wall is adjacent to the second side wall. The first door and the second door both face the same direction.

[0007] A heating element is disposed between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and the heating element is connected to the main control board of the first housing or the second housing.

[0008] As a further improvement of this utility model, the main control board of the first housing is disposed on the top of the first housing, and the main control board of the second housing is disposed on the top of the second housing. Both the main control board of the first housing and the main control board of the second housing are provided with terminal interfaces for connecting the heating part.

[0009] As a further improvement of this utility model, the terminal interface is configured as a low-voltage control interface, which is used to supply power to the heating unit and control the power-on duration.

[0010] As a further improvement of this utility model, the modular refrigerator also includes a hinge box, which is provided on the top of the first cabinet and the top of the second cabinet. The main control board is located inside the hinge box, and the terminal interface extends out from inside the hinge box.

[0011] As a further improvement of this utility model, a decorative part is provided on the top of both the first door body and the second door body, and the upper edge of the decorative part is not lower than the upper edge of the hinge box.

[0012] As a further improvement of this utility model, the hinge box is configured as a symmetrical structure along the parallel direction of the first box and the second box, and the terminal interface of the hinge box is located at the middle position of the symmetrical structure.

[0013] As a further improvement of this utility model, a hinge component is provided on the top of both the first box and the second box, and a hinge box is provided behind the hinge component. The wire passes through the hinge component from the first box or the second box and extends into the hinge box.

[0014] As a further improvement of this utility model, the heating part is configured as a heating wire, which is attached to the first side wall.

[0015] As a further improvement of this utility model, the heating wire is laid on the first side wall;

[0016] The thickness of the heating wire is no greater than the distance between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0017] As a further improvement of this utility model, at least a portion of the heating element is disposed at the edge of the gap between the first housing and the second housing and the outside.

[0018] Compared with commonly used technologies, this utility model has the following advantages: The modular refrigerator directly places the heating element between the first and second side walls, eliminating condensation and frost caused by temperature differences through heating, keeping the joint dry and clean. Furthermore, the heating element is powered and controlled by the main control board, eliminating the need for a separate plug connection and allowing it to share a power interface with the refrigerator, reducing wiring complexity and improving user convenience in installation and use. The heating element can also be easily controlled by operating the refrigerator, making the control method simple. This design significantly improves the condensation and frost problems at the joint of modular refrigerators, enhancing the refrigerator's performance, aesthetics, and user experience, and possesses strong practical value and market competitiveness. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a modular refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of a modular refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a hinge box according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a side view of a modular refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle;

[0024] Among them, 100 is a modular refrigerator; 10 is a first cabinet; 11 is a first door; 111 is a decorative part; 12 is a first side wall; 20 is a second cabinet; 21 is a second door; 22 is a second side wall; 30 is a hinge box; 31 is a terminal interface; and 40 is a heating part. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present invention, and any structural, methodological, or functional modifications made by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments are included within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0026] It should be understood that terms such as “above,” “over,” “below,” and “under” used herein to indicate spatial relative position are for illustrative purposes to describe the relationship of one unit or feature relative to another unit or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings. The terms “spatial relative position” may be intended to include different orientations of the equipment in use or operation other than those shown in the figures.

[0027] One embodiment of this utility model provides a modular refrigerator. Through innovative structural design and heating control, it solves the problems of condensation and frost formation at the joints of existing modular refrigerators, thereby improving the overall performance and user experience of the refrigerator. The technical features and implementation methods of this invention will be described in detail below, along with its resulting technical effects.

[0028] The modular refrigerator 100 in this embodiment is as follows: Figure 1 and 2 As shown, it includes a first housing 10, a second housing 20, and a heating unit 40.

[0029] The first box 10 has a first door 11 and a first side wall 12, the first side wall 12 being located on one side of the first door 11; the first door 11 is used to open and close the storage space of the first box 10, while the first side wall 12 is a side boundary of the first box 10.

[0030] The second enclosure 20 has a second door 21 and a second side wall 22. The second side wall 22 is located on one side of the second door 21. The first side wall 12 is arranged adjacent to the second side wall 22. The first door 11 and the second door 21 both face the same direction.

[0031] During installation, the first sidewall 12 and the second sidewall 22 are arranged adjacent to each other, and the first door 11 and the second door 21 both face the same direction, that is, the doors of both cabinets face forward. This design allows the first cabinet 10 and the second cabinet 20 to be placed side by side and tightly spliced ​​into a whole refrigerator unit.

[0032] Although the first sidewall 12 and the second sidewall 22 are usually made of insulating materials to reduce heat transfer, there may still be cold leakage at the joint, so additional technical means are needed to make up for this deficiency.

[0033] The heating element 40 is located between the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 22, that is, at the joint of the two boxes.

[0034] Because of the tiny gaps at the joints, moisture can easily condense due to cold air leakage or temperature differences between the inside and outside. The heating element 40 heats the joint area to increase the local temperature, preventing condensation or frost caused by temperature differences. Compared to traditional sealing strips or simple insulation designs, the heating element 40 more proactively and effectively solves the moisture problem at the joints, avoiding the risk of condensation seeping into electrical components and causing short circuits or malfunctions if it accumulates over a long period. It also avoids hygiene problems that moisture accumulation may cause, such as mold growth or food becoming damp.

[0035] The heating unit 40 is connected to the main control board of the first cabinet 10 or the second cabinet 20. As the core control component of the refrigerator, the main control board can provide power to the heating unit 40 and manage its working status.

[0036] The main control board can adjust the on / off status and heating intensity of the heating unit 40 according to the refrigerator's operating status or environmental conditions to ensure that it works when needed.

[0037] The heating element 40 can be of various types, such as a heating wire or a heating film. In this embodiment, the heating element 40 is preferably a heating wire because it has the advantages of simple structure, low cost, and easy installation. The heating wire can be attached to the outer side of the first side wall 12 or the outer side of the second side wall 22, and its specific position can be adjusted according to the actual situation of the housing design and the splicing area.

[0038] The heating wire should cover the critical areas at the joints to ensure even heat distribution, thereby effectively preventing condensation and frost formation.

[0039] The main control board is the intelligent control center of the refrigerator, typically responsible for functions such as temperature regulation and lighting. In this embodiment, the main control board also integrates control functions for the heating unit 40.

[0040] The heating unit 40 is connected to the main control board via wires. The main control board determines the operating status of the heating unit 40 based on preset programs or data feedback from sensors. For example, when the temperature at the splicing point is too low or the ambient humidity is too high, the main control board can automatically start the heating unit 40, heat it for a period of time, and then turn it off to maintain the dryness of the splicing point.

[0041] Temperature can be detected by a humidity sensor.

[0042] Alternatively, it can be turned on and off at set times, such as starting for 1 minute every 1 hour.

[0043] When using the modular refrigerator 100 of this embodiment, users do not need to worry about water droplets or frost at the joints, the refrigerator has a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, and cleaning and maintenance are simpler. Since the heating unit 40 is integrated with the main control board, the refrigerator can automatically manage the heating function without user intervention, improving ease of use and intelligence.

[0044] Furthermore, the main control board of the first housing 10 is located on the top of the first housing 10, and the main control board of the second housing 20 is located on the top of the second housing 20. Both the main control board of the first housing 10 and the main control board of the second housing 20 are provided with terminal interfaces 31 for connecting the heating unit 40.

[0045] The top of the cabinet is relatively concealed, which protects the main control board from external interference and facilitates connection with the electrical system inside the refrigerator.

[0046] The main control board integrates a terminal interface 31 for direct connection to the heating unit 40, providing power and control signals. The terminal interface 31 adopts a modular design to ensure a stable connection with the heating unit 40. This eliminates the need for a separate plug to connect to the heating unit 40, making its use more convenient, and allowing the operation of the heating unit 40 to be controlled by the refrigerator mainboard.

[0047] The terminal interface 31 of the main control board of the first housing 10 and the terminal interface 31 of the main control board of the second housing 20 can be selectively connected to the heating unit 40, and the other terminal interface 31 can be closed by a cover.

[0048] Furthermore, terminal interface 31 is configured as a low-voltage control interface, transmitting power and control signals via low voltage and low current. The low-voltage design reduces the risk of electric shock and is suitable for humid environments.

[0049] The main control board provides power to the heating unit 40 through this interface and precisely controls the power-on duration according to preset programs or sensor feedback to adapt to different usage scenarios.

[0050] like Figures 1-3As shown, the modular refrigerator 100 also includes a hinge box 30. The hinge box 30 is provided on the top of the first cabinet 10 and the top of the second cabinet 20, and the main control board is located inside the hinge box 30.

[0051] The hinge box 30 has a closed structure, and the terminal interface 31 extends from inside the hinge box 30 and connects to the external heating unit 40. The hinge box 30 is made of durable materials to ensure stability during long-term use.

[0052] The hinge box 30 protects the main control board from dust and moisture, extending its service life. The main control board is hidden inside the hinge box 30, making the top of the refrigerator more aesthetically pleasing. The protruding terminal interface 31 facilitates the quick connection and disconnection of the heating element 40.

[0053] like Figure 4 and 5 As shown, a decorative part 111 is provided on the top of both the first door body 11 and the second door body 21, and the upper edge of the decorative part 111 is not lower than the upper edge of the hinge box 30.

[0054] The decorative part 111 can be integrally formed with the outer decorative panel of the door, or it can be part of the door decorative panel. The decorative part 111 covers the hinge box 30, making the top of the refrigerator flat and uniform, avoiding the hinge box 30 being directly visible from the outside, and improving the visual effect.

[0055] Furthermore, the hinge box 30 is configured as a symmetrical structure along the parallel direction of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20, and the terminal interface 31 of the hinge box 30 is located in the middle position of the symmetrical structure.

[0056] In this embodiment, the first box 10 and the second box 20 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction, and the hinge box 30 is also a left-right symmetrical structure. In this way, the hinge box 30 has better versatility. Regardless of whether the box is on the left or right side, the hinge box 30 can be installed without considering the left-right direction.

[0057] The terminal interface 31 in the middle position can ensure that the connection point is centered. This way, whether it is the second box 20 on the left or the first box 10 on the right, the terminal interface 31 can be connected to the heater with the same wire length, avoiding the impact of the left or right side affecting the wire length and layout.

[0058] Both the top of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are equipped with hinges, which are used to connect the door and the housing to ensure that the door can be opened and closed flexibly.

[0059] A hinge box 30 is provided behind the hinge component. Wires (such as power cords and control wires) pass through the hinge component from the first housing 10 or the second housing 20 and extend into the hinge box 30 to connect with the main control board.

[0060] The heating part 40 is configured as a heating wire, which is attached to the first side wall 12.

[0061] The heating wire is tightly attached to the first side wall 12 of the first housing 10. The heating wire is a resistance heating element that generates heat through electric current. It has the characteristics of simple structure, rapid response and low cost, and is suitable for preventing condensation in household appliances.

[0062] The heating wire is laid in a serpentine pattern along the extension direction of the first sidewall 12, covering the key areas at the joint. It can be attached with high-temperature resistant tape or fixed with special clamps to ensure that the heating wire is in close contact with the sidewall surface and that heat can be evenly transferred to the joint.

[0063] Furthermore, heating wires are laid on the first side wall 12; the thickness of the heating wires is not greater than the distance between the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 22, so as to avoid the thickness of the heating part 40 affecting the tightness of the box splicing.

[0064] Heating wires can be laid in a single straight line or in multiple parallel lines, depending on the width of the joints and the heating requirements. A serpentine arrangement can increase the coverage area and improve heating uniformity.

[0065] At least part of the heating element 40 is located at the edge of the gap between the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 and the outside. This location is the area most susceptible to external moisture intrusion, and is also prone to condensation and frost formation.

[0066] Specifically, a portion of the heating wire is specifically positioned at the edges of the joint, such as the top, bottom, or sides of the sidewall—areas in contact with the outside environment. At these edges, the density of the heating wire can be increased, or higher-power heating wires can be selected to improve the localized heating effect.

[0067] In addition, the combination of edge heating and overall heating at the joints forms a multi-layered anti-condensation protection mechanism. This design reduces moisture intrusion and condensation buildup, lowering the risk of material corrosion or electrical failures caused by humidity, thereby extending the refrigerator's lifespan.

[0068] Compared with the prior art, this embodiment has the following beneficial effects:

[0069] The modular refrigerator 100 directly positions the heating element 40 between the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 22. Heating eliminates condensation and frost caused by temperature differences, keeping the joint dry and clean. The heating element 40 is powered and controlled by the main control board, eliminating the need for a separate plug and allowing it to share a power interface with the refrigerator. This reduces wiring complexity and improves user convenience during installation and use. Furthermore, the heating element 40 can be easily controlled via the refrigerator's controls, making the operation simple. This design significantly improves the condensation and frost problems at the joint of the modular refrigerator 100, enhancing its performance, aesthetics, and user experience, thus possessing strong practical value and market competitiveness.

[0070] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0071] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible implementations of this utility model, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. All equivalent implementations or modifications made without departing from the spirit of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A modular refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The first enclosure has a first door and a first sidewall, the first sidewall being located on one side of the first door; The second enclosure has a second door and a second side wall. The second side wall is located on one side of the second door. The first side wall is adjacent to the second side wall. The first door and the second door both face the same direction. A heating element is disposed between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and the heating element is connected to the main control board of the first housing or the second housing.

2. The modular refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main control board of the first housing is located on the top of the first housing, and the main control board of the second housing is located on the top of the second housing. Both the main control boards of the first housing and the second housing are provided with terminal interfaces for connecting the heating element.

3. The modular refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The terminal interface is configured as a low-voltage control interface, which is used to supply power to the heating element and control the power-on duration.

4. The modular refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The modular refrigerator also includes a hinge box, which is provided on the top of both the first and second cabinets. The main control board is located inside the hinge box, and the terminal interface extends out from inside the hinge box.

5. The modular refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that, Both the first door and the second door are provided with decorative parts at their tops, and the upper edge of the decorative parts is not lower than the upper edge of the hinge box.

6. The modular refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that, The hinge box is configured as a symmetrical structure along the parallel direction of the first box and the second box, and the terminal interface of the hinge box is located at the middle position of the symmetrical structure.

7. The modular refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that, Both the first and second housings are provided with hinge components at their tops, and the hinge box is provided behind the hinge components. The wire passes through the hinge components from the first or second housing and extends into the hinge box.

8. The modular refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating element is configured as a heating wire, which is attached to the first sidewall.

9. The modular refrigerator according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heating wire is laid on the first side wall; The thickness of the heating wire is no greater than the distance between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

10. The modular refrigerator according to claim 8, characterized in that, At least a portion of the heating element is disposed in the gap between the first housing and the second housing and at the edge of the outside.