Refrigerator

Abstract

The application provides a refrigerator, which belongs to the refrigeration technical field and comprises a cabinet, a cabinet door, and an ice maker connected to the cabinet or the cabinet door. The ice maker comprises a first support, an ice tray installed on the first support, and an ice storage box installed on the first support. An ice storage cavity for receiving and storing ice is formed in the ice storage box, and the ice storage cavity is located below the ice tray to receive ice falling from the ice tray. A sterilization device is connected to the first support and located on one side of the ice tray in the length direction. The sterilization device comprises a sterilization light source configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity to sterilize the ice storage cavity and the ice therein. The sterilization device is arranged on one side of the ice tray in the length direction, and the sterilization light source of the sterilization device irradiates the ice storage cavity, thereby sterilizing the surface of the ice block, the inside of the ice block, and the ice storage cavity. The sterilization device can effectively improve the sterilization uniformity of the ice storage cavity and the ice block inside, and ensure the cleanliness of the ice storage cavity and the ice block.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Currently, to meet users' ice needs, refrigerators are usually equipped with ice makers. After the ice maker produces ice, it is stored in an ice storage tray, from which users can take ice as needed.

[0003] In related technologies, the ice maker is located inside the refrigerator's cooling compartment, or it is located on the refrigerator door. Users frequently open the door, and when taking out ice, they also open the ice storage box, which allows microorganisms to enter the environment where the ice maker is located, contaminating both the ice maker and the ice in the ice storage box.

[0004] A sterilization device is installed to sterilize the ice maker, but the sterilization effect is not obvious. Therefore, this application proposes a refrigerator. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides a refrigerator that can solve the technical problem of ineffective sterilization of ice makers.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, comprising:

[0007] The enclosure, which defines a refrigeration chamber;

[0008] The cabinet door is rotatably connected to the cabinet body to open or close the refrigeration compartment;

[0009] An ice maker for making ice, the ice maker being connected to the housing or the door; the ice maker includes:

[0010] First support;

[0011] An ice tray is installed on the first bracket;

[0012] An ice storage box is installed on the first bracket. The ice storage box has an ice storage cavity formed inside for receiving and storing ice. The ice storage cavity is located below the ice grid to receive ice that is removed from the ice grid.

[0013] A sterilization device, connected to the first support, is located on one side of the ice tray along its length. The sterilization device includes:

[0014] A sterilization light source is configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity to sterilize the ice storage cavity and the ice inside it.

[0015] The sterilization device is placed on one side of the ice grid along its length. The sterilization light source of the device irradiates the ice storage cavity, achieving sterilization of the ice surface, the ice inside, and the ice storage cavity. This effectively improves the sterilization uniformity of the ice storage cavity and the ice inside, ensuring the cleanliness of the ice storage cavity and the ice.

[0016] According to one embodiment of this application, the sterilization light source has at least two, and the at least two sterilization light sources are arranged sequentially at intervals along the length direction of the ice grid; the distance between the two sterilization light sources with the largest distance is M, M≥2cm, so that the ice blocks in the ice storage cavity are sterilized more uniformly along the length direction of the ice grid.

[0017] According to one embodiment of this application, the sterilization device includes:

[0018] A light panel is used to support the sterilization light source. The end of the light panel closer to the ice grid is the first end of the light panel, and the end of the light panel farther away from the ice grid is the second end of the light panel. Along the height direction of the box, the second end of the light panel is lower than the first end of the light panel, so that the sterilization light source can irradiate the ice storage cavity to sterilize the ice storage cavity and the ice cubes inside the ice storage cavity.

[0019] According to one embodiment of this application, the sterilization device includes:

[0020] The lampshade is detachably connected to the first bracket; a mounting cavity is formed inside the lampshade, and an opening of the mounting cavity is formed on the top of the lampshade, which communicates with the mounting cavity.

[0021] The lamp panel passes through the opening of the mounting cavity and is disposed inside the mounting cavity. The lamp panel and the lamp cover are detachably connected, which facilitates the installation and removal of the lamp panel.

[0022] According to one embodiment of this application, the lampshade includes a lampshade base plate located at the bottom of the lampshade. The end of the lampshade base plate near the ice tray is the first end of the base plate, and the end of the lampshade base plate away from the ice tray is the second end of the base plate. Along the height direction of the box body, the second end of the base plate is lower than the first end of the base plate, so that the tilt direction of the lampshade base plate is consistent with the lamp plate, and the lampshade base plate is adapted to the lamp plate.

[0023] According to one embodiment of this application, the lampshade includes a first positioning part, and a second positioning part is formed on the lamp plate. One of the first positioning part and the second positioning part is inserted into the other to position the lamp plate during installation, which facilitates the installation of the lamp plate and avoids the lamp plate being installed backwards.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, comprising:

[0025] The enclosure, which defines a refrigeration chamber;

[0026] The cabinet door is rotatably connected to the cabinet body to open or close the refrigeration compartment;

[0027] An ice maker for making ice, the ice maker being connected to the housing or the door; the ice maker includes:

[0028] First support;

[0029] An ice tray is installed on the first bracket;

[0030] An ice storage box is installed on the first bracket. The ice storage box has an ice storage cavity formed inside for receiving and storing ice. The ice storage cavity is located below the ice grid to receive ice that is removed from the ice grid.

[0031] A sterilization device, connected to the first support, the sterilization device comprising:

[0032] A sterilization light source is configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity to sterilize the ice storage cavity and the ice inside the ice storage cavity. The peak wavelength of the light emitted by the sterilization light source is A, where 400nm≤A and A≤410nm. The surface of the sterilization light source is coated with a phosphor layer. The dominant wavelength of the light emitted by the sterilization light source after passing through the phosphor layer is B, where 440nm≤B and B≤480nm.

[0033] The sterilization device's sterilization light source irradiates the ice storage cavity, achieving sterilization of the ice surface, interior, and the ice storage cavity itself. This effectively improves the uniformity of sterilization within the ice storage cavity and the ice, ensuring the cleanliness of both. Short-wave visible light can penetrate ice with a certain degree of transparency, achieving comprehensive sterilization of the ice surface, interior, bottom layer of ice in the ice storage cavity, and the bottom of the ice storage cavity. This enhances the cleanliness of the ice, ensuring food safety. Furthermore, short-wave visible light does not cause any deterioration to the ice, ice maker, cabinet, or door, and poses no harm to the human body. The addition of a fluorescent powder layer removes the purple hue from the light, improving visibility and making the light more acceptable to users, thus increasing user satisfaction.

[0034] According to one embodiment of this application, the thickness of the phosphor layer is E, 50μm≤E, and E≤300μm, which can effectively convert light and avoid the phosphor layer being too thin, which would not be able to convert light effectively, and avoid the light being too thin, which would make it difficult for light to pass through the phosphor layer and cause light loss. At the same time, the thickness is too large and will affect the heat dissipation of the sterilization light source.

[0035] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, comprising:

[0036] The enclosure, which defines a refrigeration chamber;

[0037] The cabinet door is rotatably connected to the cabinet body to open or close the refrigeration compartment;

[0038] An ice maker for making ice, the ice maker being connected to the housing or the door; the ice maker includes:

[0039] First support;

[0040] An ice tray is installed on the first bracket;

[0041] An ice storage box is installed on the first bracket. The ice storage box has an ice storage cavity formed inside for receiving and storing ice. The ice storage cavity is located below the ice grid to receive ice that is removed from the ice grid.

[0042] A sterilization device, connected to the first support, the sterilization device comprising:

[0043] A sterilization light source is configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity to sterilize the ice storage cavity and the ice inside the ice storage cavity. The peak wavelength of the light emitted by the sterilization light source is A, where 400nm≤A and A≤410nm.

[0044] A dimming light source, wherein the dominant wavelength of the light emitted by the dimming light source is C, 445nm≤C, and C≤485nm.

[0045] The sterilization device's sterilization light source irradiates the ice storage cavity, achieving sterilization of the ice surface, interior, and the cavity itself. This effectively improves the uniformity of sterilization within the cavity and ensures the cleanliness of the ice. Short-wave visible light can penetrate ice with a certain degree of transparency, achieving comprehensive sterilization of the ice surface, interior, bottom layer of ice within the cavity, and the bottom of the cavity. This enhances the cleanliness of the ice, ensuring food safety. Furthermore, short-wave visible light does not cause any deterioration to the ice, ice maker, cabinet, or door, and poses no harm to the human body. When the sterilization light source is activated, a dimming light source can be simultaneously activated to block the emitted light, preventing users from seeing the purple light. This improves visibility and increases user satisfaction.

[0046] According to one embodiment of this application, the germicidal light source (51) has at least one, the dimming light source (52) has at least one, and the number of dimming light sources (52) does not exceed the number of germicidal light sources (51), which can better adjust the color of light while saving costs. Attached Figure Description

[0047] To more clearly illustrate the implementation methods in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0048] Figure 1 This is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 2 This is a partial structural diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 3 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application from another perspective;

[0051] Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application from another perspective;

[0052] Figure 5 This is a partial exploded view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 6 This is a partial structural cross-sectional view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 7 This is a partial bottom view of an embodiment of the ice maker and sterilization device of this application;

[0055] Figure 8 This is a partial structural cross-sectional view of an ice maker and sterilization device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 9 This is another partial structural cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the ice maker and sterilization device of this application;

[0057] Figure 10 This is a partial exploded view of an ice maker and sterilization device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 11 This is a partial structural diagram of a sterilization device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 12 This is another partial structural diagram of a sterilization device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 13 This is another partial structural diagram of a sterilization device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 14 This is a structural diagram of a lampshade according to an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 15 This is another partial exploded view of the ice maker and sterilization device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 16 This is another partial structural diagram of an ice maker and sterilization device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 17 This is a structural diagram of an ice storage box according to an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 18 This is another partial structural diagram of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of a rangefinder for detecting the height of ice blocks inside an ice storage box, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0067] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application.

[0068] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0069] 1: Cabinet body; 11: Refrigeration compartment; 2: Cabinet door;

[0070] 3: Ice maker; 31: First bracket; 311: First snap-fit ​​part; 312: Cable hole; 313: First mounting space; 314: First mounting port; 315: Second mounting space; 316: Second mounting port; 3171: First mounting plate; 31711: Second support surface; 3172: Second mounting plate; 31721: Third support surface; 318: Air guide channel;

[0071] 32: Ice tray; 33: Drive mechanism;

[0072] 34: Ice storage box; 341: Ice storage cavity; 342: First opening; 343: First sliding part; 3431: First contact surface; 344: Second sliding part; 3441: Second contact surface;

[0073] 35: Second support; 36: Ice probe rod; 37: Rangefinder; 381: Reed switch;

[0074] 41: Water storage box;

[0075] 5: Sterilization device; 51: Sterilization light source; 52: Dimmable light source;

[0076] 53: Lamp panel; 531: First end of lamp panel; 532: Second end of lamp panel; 533: Second positioning part;

[0077] 54: Lampshade; 541: Second snap-fit ​​part; 542: Mounting cavity; 543: Mounting cavity opening; 544: Third snap-fit ​​part; 545: First support part; 5451: First support surface; 5452: First limiting surface; 546: First positioning part; 547: Lampshade base plate; 5471: First end of base plate; 5472: Second end of base plate;

[0078] 55: Power cord. Detailed Implementation

[0079] To make the objectives, implementation methods and advantages of this application clearer, the exemplary implementation methods of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the exemplary embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described exemplary embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0080] It should be noted that the brief descriptions of terms in this application are only for the convenience of understanding the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. Unless otherwise stated, these terms should be understood in their ordinary and common meaning.

[0081] Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover but not exclusively include, for example, a product or device that includes a series of components is not necessarily limited to those that are explicitly listed, but may include other components that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such product or device.

[0082] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0083] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0084] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0085] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0086] As described in the background section, in related technologies, ice makers are located in the refrigeration compartment of a refrigerator, or on the refrigerator door. Users frequently open the door, and when taking ice, they also open the ice storage box, allowing microorganisms to enter the environment surrounding the ice maker and contaminate both the ice maker and the ice in the storage box. Low temperatures alone are insufficient to inhibit the growth and reproduction of microorganisms in the environment. While sterilization devices are installed to sterilize the ice maker, the uniformity of sterilization for both the ice maker and the ice itself is limited. It is difficult to sterilize the bottom of the ice storage cavity and the ice blocks inside the ice, and it cannot sterilize the interior of the ice blocks, resulting in an ineffective sterilization effect.

[0087] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application proposes a refrigerator, comprising a cabinet, a door, an ice maker, and a sterilization device. The cabinet body defines a cooling compartment. The door is rotatably connected to the cabinet body to open or close the cooling compartment. The ice maker is used to make ice and is connected to the cabinet body or the door. The ice maker includes a first support, an ice tray, and an ice storage box. The ice tray is mounted on the first support. The ice storage box is mounted on the first support, and an ice storage cavity is formed within the ice storage box for receiving and storing ice. The ice storage cavity is located below the ice tray to receive ice that falls from the ice tray. The sterilization device is connected to the first support and is located on one side along the length of the ice tray. The sterilization device includes a sterilization light source. The sterilization light source is configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity to sterilize the ice storage cavity and the ice within it. The sterilization device is placed on one side of the ice grid along its length. The sterilization light source of the device irradiates the ice storage cavity, achieving sterilization of the ice surface, the ice inside, and the ice storage cavity. This effectively improves the sterilization uniformity of the ice storage cavity and the ice inside, ensuring the cleanliness of the ice storage cavity and the ice.

[0088] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2This application provides a refrigerator. The refrigerator may include a cabinet 1. The cabinet 1 may define a refrigeration compartment 11. There may be multiple refrigeration compartments 11. The refrigeration compartment 11 may be a refrigerator compartment or a freezer compartment.

[0089] The refrigerator may include a door 2. The door 2 can be rotatably connected to the body 1, allowing the door 2 to open or close the cooling compartment 11. The door 2 and body 1 can be hinged, allowing the door 2 to rotate relative to the body 1. The door 2 can be a refrigerator door for closing the cooling compartment, or a freezer door for closing the freezer compartment.

[0090] The height of box 1 can be defined as the distance from its bottom to its top. Box 1 also has a width direction, which can be defined as the distance from one end of box 1 to its other end. Finally, box 1 has a front-to-back direction, which can be defined as the distance from its front to its rear. Of the height, width, and front-to-back directions of box 1, at least two are perpendicular to each other.

[0091] Door 2 can be connected to the front end of body 1. The refrigerator compartment and freezer compartment can be arranged sequentially along the height of body 1, with the freezer compartment located below the refrigerator compartment. The refrigerator compartment and freezer compartment can also be arranged sequentially along the width of body 1.

[0092] A refrigerator may include a refrigeration system. The refrigeration system may include a compressor, condenser, expansion joint, and evaporator connected in a cycle. When the refrigeration system is running, the compressor compresses refrigerant vapor to generate high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor, and delivers the refrigerant vapor to the condenser. The condenser liquefies the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor to generate high-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant liquid, and delivers it to the expansion joint. The expansion joint reduces the pressure of the refrigerant liquid, transforming the high-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid into a low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid, which is then delivered to the evaporator. The evaporator receives the low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant liquid and boils it under isobaric conditions, absorbing heat and vaporizing to form refrigerant vapor, thereby lowering the temperature inside the refrigeration compartment 11.

[0093] In some embodiments, reference Figure 2 The refrigerator includes an ice maker 3. The ice maker 3 is used for making ice. The ice maker 3 is connected to the cabinet body 1, or it is connected to the door 2. When the ice maker 3 is connected to the cabinet body 1, it is located inside the cooling compartment 11. When the ice maker 3 is connected to the door 2, it is located on the side of the door 2 facing the cooling compartment 11 when the door 2 is closed.

[0094] In some embodiments, reference Figure 2 and Figure 3The ice maker 3 includes a first support 31. When the ice maker 3 is connected to the cabinet 1, the first support 31 is connected to the cabinet 1 and is located inside the refrigeration compartment 11. The first support 31 is located in the freezer compartment or the refrigerator compartment. When the ice maker 3 is connected to the cabinet door 2, the first support 31 is connected to the cabinet door 2.

[0095] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The ice maker 3 includes an ice tray 32. The ice tray 32 is mounted on a first support 31. The refrigerator includes a water storage box 41. The water storage box 41 is located in the refrigerator compartment. The water storage box 41 is used to store water. The refrigerator includes a water system. The water system is used to inject water from the water storage box 41 into the ice tray 32. The water in the water storage box 41 can be purified water or mineral water.

[0096] refer to Figure 5 The ice maker 3 includes a drive component 33. The drive component 33 is connected to the first support 31. The drive component 33 is connected to the ice tray 32. The ice tray 32 is rotatably connected to the first support 31. When water in the ice tray 32 forms ice, the drive component 33 drives the ice tray 32 to rotate, causing the ice to fall off and completing the ice-flipping process. The drive component 33 can be a drive motor. The drive component 33 is connected to one end of the first support 31 along its length. The drive component 33 is also connected to one end of the ice tray 32 along its length. When the ice maker 3 is connected to the housing 1, the drive component 33 is connected to the rear end of the first support 31 and the rear end of the ice tray 32.

[0097] The ice tray 32 has a first end and a second end that are positioned opposite each other. The first end and the second end are positioned opposite each other along the length of the ice tray 32. When the ice tray 32 is connected to the housing 1, the first end is the rear end of the ice tray 32.

[0098] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The ice maker 3 includes an ice storage box 34. The ice storage box 34 is mounted on a first support 31. An ice storage cavity 341 is formed within the ice storage box 34 for receiving and storing ice. The ice storage cavity 341 is located below the ice tray 32 to receive ice removed from the ice tray 32. A first opening 342 is formed at the top of the ice storage box 34. The first opening 342 communicates with the ice storage cavity 341. The first opening 342 is located below the ice tray 32 to allow ice removed from the ice tray 32 to enter the ice storage cavity 341. The ice storage box 34 may be made of an antibacterial material to improve the cleanliness of the ice.

[0099] In some embodiments, reference Figure 7 and Figure 8The refrigerator includes a sterilization device 5. The sterilization device 5 is connected to the first bracket 31. The sterilization device 5 is located on one side of the ice tray 32 along its length. The sterilization device 5 includes a sterilization light source 51. The sterilization light source 51 is configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity 341 to sterilize the ice storage cavity 341 and the ice inside the ice storage cavity 341.

[0100] The sterilization device 5 is placed on one side of the ice grid 32 along its length. The sterilization light source 51 of the sterilization device 5 irradiates the ice storage cavity 341, thereby sterilizing the surface of the ice, the inside of the ice, and the ice storage cavity. This effectively improves the sterilization uniformity of the ice storage cavity and the ice inside, ensuring the cleanliness of the ice storage cavity 341 and the ice.

[0101] The peak wavelength of light refers to the specific wavelength at which the radiant energy of a light source is strongest. When the light emitted by a light source contains multiple wavelength components, the wavelength corresponding to the maximum value of the radiant intensity (or power density) in its spectral energy distribution is the peak wavelength.

[0102] The dominant wavelength of light refers to the wavelength of monochromatic light that is visually closest to a particular polychromatic light. It is defined by the psychophysical response of the human eye to color and is used to quantify the wavelength value of the dominant color in mixed light.

[0103] The peak wavelength of the light emitted by the germicidal light source 51 is A, where 400nm≤A and A≤450nm, making the light emitted by the germicidal light source 51 short-wavelength visible light.

[0104] The sterilization principle of short-wave visible light differs from that of ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light sterilization works by directly irradiating microorganisms, disrupting their DNA replication and transcription, leading to death. Short-wave visible light sterilization, on the other hand, works by causing porphyrin compounds within microbial cells to undergo electron transitions upon light exposure, producing reactive substances such as OH-, hydrogen peroxide, and singlet oxygen. These reactive substances act on the cell wall and cell membrane, causing irreversible oxidative damage to the microorganisms.

[0105] UVC sterilization refers to the process of disinfecting microorganisms using ultraviolet C-band light (wavelength range of approximately 100nm-280nm). UVC has low penetration through common plastics and glass materials, requiring the use of quartz glass to penetrate the encapsulation cover for sterilization, resulting in higher costs. Furthermore, direct UVC irradiation is harmful to food, materials, and the human body. Compared to ultraviolet light, short-wave visible light has better penetrating power, with a penetration rate exceeding 90% through ordinary transparent plastics and glass materials. It can effectively penetrate the encapsulation cover of the sterilization light source 51 and then irradiate the ice storage cavity 341 and the ice blocks within it, sterilizing both the ice storage cavity and the ice blocks.

[0106] Short-wave visible light has a certain degree of penetrability. It can penetrate ice blocks with a certain degree of transparency, achieving comprehensive sterilization of the surface, interior, bottom layer of ice blocks in ice storage cavity 341, and bottom of ice storage cavity 341. This improves the cleanliness of the ice blocks, ensures food safety, and does not cause any deterioration to the ice blocks, ice maker, cabinet, or door. It is also harmless to the human body.

[0107] Specifically, the peak wavelength of the sterilization light source 51 is set to 400nm≤A and A≤410nm, which makes the sterilization effect of the sterilization light source 51 good.

[0108] Table 1 shows the sterilization rates of different peak wavelengths of light during the second sterilization time in the refrigerated room. The second sterilization time is shorter than the first sterilization time. According to Table 2, among 405nm, 415nm, and 425nm, the larger the peak wavelength, the lower the sterilization rate. To ensure a certain sterilization rate, 400nm≤A and A≤410nm are set.

[0109] Table 1

[0110] peak wavelength Short-wave visible light sterilization rate 405nm 99.1％ 415nm 98.1％ 425nm 97.9％

[0111] Table 2 shows the sterilization rates of short-wave visible light with a peak wavelength of 400nm-410nm on the surface of the ice storage box 34, the surface of the ice block, and the entire ice block, all within the freezer chamber and during the first sterilization period. Specifically, ice blocks can be made from a solution containing bacteria, irradiated with a sterilization light source 51, and then the solution containing bacteria can be melted to form ice blocks. The sterilization rate of the entire ice block is then tested.

[0112] Table 2

[0113] Sterilization location Short-wave visible light sterilization rate surface of ice storage box 99.99％ ice surface 99.99％ The whole ice block 99.9％

[0114] In some embodiments, the dominant wavelength of the light emitted by the sterilization light source 51 is D, where 425nm≤D and D≤435nm, allowing users to see the light emitted by the sterilization light source 51 and intuitively experience the sterilization function of the refrigerator, thus improving the user experience. However, light with a dominant wavelength of 425nm-435nm appears as a purplish-blue color, and users have a relatively low tolerance for purple.

[0115] In some embodiments, the surface of the germicidal light source 51 is coated with a phosphor layer. The phosphor layer is used to adjust the dominant wavelength of the light emitted by the germicidal light source 51. The phosphor layer is configured to adjust the dominant wavelength of the light emitted by the germicidal light source 51 to B, such that the dominant wavelength of the light emitted by the germicidal light source 51 after passing through the phosphor layer is B, where 440nm ≤ B and B ≤ 480nm. The phosphor layer removes the purple hue from the light, resulting in better visibility and increased user acceptance of the light, thus improving user satisfaction. Specifically, the germicidal light source 51 can be a germicidal LED bead. The encapsulation cover of the germicidal LED bead is coated with a phosphor layer.

[0116] The thickness of the phosphor layer is E, 50μm≤E and E≤300μm, which can effectively convert light. This avoids the situation where the phosphor layer is too thin, which would not be able to convert light effectively, and also avoids the situation where the thickness is too large, which would make it difficult for light to pass through the phosphor layer and cause light loss. At the same time, it also avoids the situation where the thickness is too large, which would affect the heat dissipation of the sterilization light source 51.

[0117] The phosphor concentration in the phosphor layer is F, 0.1 g / cm³. 3 ≤F, and F≤0.6g / cm 3 If the phosphor concentration in the phosphor layer is too low, the light conversion efficiency will be low. Appropriately increasing the phosphor concentration will improve wavelength stability and conversion efficiency. However, if the phosphor concentration is too high, it will lead to decreased luminous efficiency and color shift. A concentration of 0.1 g / cm³ is recommended. 3 ≤F, and F≤0.6g / cm 3 This will improve wavelength stability and conversion efficiency.

[0118] The phosphor in the phosphor layer can be one or more of the following: strontium chlorophosphate blue phosphor, europium barium magnesium aluminate blue phosphor, quantum dot blue phosphor, and oxynitride blue phosphor. The phosphor layer can be one or more layers.

[0119] In some embodiments, reference Figure 13 The sterilization device 5 includes a dimming light source 52. The dimming light source 52 emits light with a dominant wavelength of C. Specifically, the dominant wavelength of the light emitted by the dimming light source 52 is C, where 445nm ≤ C and C ≤ 485nm. The light emitted by the dimming light source 52 is mixed with the light emitted by the sterilization light source 51 to form mixed light with a dominant wavelength of B, where 440nm ≤ B and B ≤ 480nm. When the sterilization light source 51 is activated, the dimming light source 52 can be activated simultaneously, mixing with the light emitted by the sterilization light source 51. This can cover the light emitted by the sterilization light source 51, making the purple color invisible to the user, improving visibility, increasing user acceptance of the light, and enhancing user satisfaction.

[0120] There is at least one sterilization light source 51 and at least one dimming light source 52. The number of dimming light sources 52 does not exceed the number of sterilization light sources 51, which can better adjust the color of the light while saving costs. The dimming light sources 52 and the sterilization light sources 51 are arranged at intervals along the length of the ice grid 32.

[0121] In some embodiments, reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The sterilization device 5 may include a lamp plate 53. The lamp plate 53 supports the sterilization light source 51. The sterilization light source 51 may be mounted on the lamp plate 53. A dimming light source 52 may be mounted on the lamp plate 53.

[0122] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The end of the light panel 53 closest to the ice tray 32 can be designated as the first end 531. The end of the light panel 53 furthest from the ice tray 32 can be designated as the second end 532. Along the height of the housing 1, the second end 532 is lower than the first end 531, allowing the sterilization light source to irradiate the ice storage cavity and sterilize the ice within. The sterilization light source 51 is mounted on the light panel 53 and is located on the side of the light panel 53 facing the ice storage box 34. The light panel 53 can be a printed circuit board.

[0123] The first end 531 and the second end 532 of the light panel can be the two ends in the width direction of the light panel 53. The length direction of the light panel 53 can be parallel to the length direction of the ice grid 32.

[0124] In some embodiments, reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The sterilization device 5 includes a lampshade 54. The lampshade 54 is detachably connected to the first bracket 31. The first bracket 31 and the lampshade 54 are snap-fitted together. A first snap-fit ​​portion 311 is formed on the first bracket 31, and a second snap-fit ​​portion 541 is formed on the lampshade 54. The first snap-fit ​​portion 311 and the second snap-fit ​​portion 541 are snap-fitted together. The first snap-fit ​​portion 311 can be located at the top of the first bracket 31. The lampshade 54 can be made of plastic or glass. The lampshade 54 can be a transparent lampshade or a frosted lampshade.

[0125] refer to Figure 11 A mounting cavity 542 is formed inside the lamp cover 54. A mounting cavity opening 543 is formed on the top of the lamp cover 54. The mounting cavity opening 543 communicates with the mounting cavity 542. The lamp plate 53 passes through the mounting cavity opening 543 and is disposed in the mounting cavity 542. The lamp plate 53 and the lamp cover 54 are detachably connected, which facilitates the installation and removal of the lamp plate.

[0126] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 14The lampshade 54 includes a first support portion 545 located within the mounting cavity 542. A first support surface 5451 is provided on the first support portion 545. The lampshade 54 also includes a third snap-fit ​​portion 544 located within the mounting cavity 542. The lamp plate 53 is disposed on the first support surface 5451 and is snapped below the third snap-fit ​​portion 544, thus engaging the lamp plate 53 and the lampshade 54. A first limiting surface 5452 is provided on the first support portion 545, located on one side of the lamp plate 53 along its length, to limit the lamp plate's position.

[0127] refer to Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 The lampshade 54 includes a first positioning part 546. A second positioning part 533 is formed on the lamp panel 53. One of the first positioning part 546 and the second positioning part 533 is inserted into the other to position the lamp panel 53 during installation, facilitating installation and preventing the lamp panel 53 from being installed backwards. Specifically, one of the first positioning part 546 and the second positioning part 533 is a plate, and the other is a groove, with the plate inserted into the groove.

[0128] In some embodiments, reference Figure 14 and Figure 15 The lampshade 54 includes a lampshade base plate 547 located at the bottom of the lampshade 54. The end of the lampshade base plate 547 closest to the ice tray 32 is the first end of the base plate 5471, and the end of the lampshade base plate 547 furthest from the ice tray 32 is the second end of the base plate 5472. Along the height direction of the box body 1, the second end of the base plate 5472 is lower than the first end of the base plate 5471, so that the tilt direction of the lampshade base plate is consistent with the lamp plate 53, so that the lampshade base plate and the lamp plate 53 are adapted to each other.

[0129] In some embodiments, reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The sterilization device 5 may include a power cord 55. One end of the power cord 55 is connected to the lamp panel 53, and the other end of the power cord 55 is connected to the controller, enabling power supply to the lamp panel 53. A wire-passing hole 312 is formed on the first bracket 31, and the power cord 55 is inserted into the wire-passing hole 312, with the power cord 55 passing through the wire-passing hole 312 and exiting from the top of the first bracket 31.

[0130] In some embodiments, the germicidal light source 51 can be a germicidal lamp bead. The optical axis of the germicidal lamp bead refers to the axis of symmetry of the light propagation path. The optical axis of the germicidal lamp bead typically coincides with the direction perpendicular to the light-emitting surface of the germicidal lamp bead chip. The maximum angle between the light emitted by the germicidal light source 51 and the optical axis is a first angle α, where 15°≤α and α≤60°. The irradiance of the germicidal light source 51 is I, where 0.001mW / cm². 2 ≤I, and I≤10mW / cm 2The irradiance of the germicidal light source 51 refers to the luminous flux intensity emitted by the light source in a given direction, which is usually expressed as the luminous flux received per unit area.

[0131] In some embodiments, reference Figure 12 The sterilization light source 51 has at least two, and the at least two sterilization light sources 51 are arranged sequentially at intervals along the length of the ice grid 32. The distance between the two sterilization light sources 51 with the largest distance is M, where M≥2cm, so that the ice blocks in the ice storage cavity are sterilized more uniformly along the length of the ice grid.

[0132] In some embodiments, reference Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 15 The ice maker 3 includes a second support 35. The second support 35 is detachably connected to the first support 31. An ice tray 32 is mounted on the second support 35 and is rotatably connected to the second support 35.

[0133] A first mounting space 313 is formed on the first bracket 31, and a first mounting opening 314 is formed on the first bracket 31. The first mounting opening 314 is located at one end of the first mounting space 313 and communicates with the first mounting space 313. When the ice maker 3 is connected to the housing 1, the first mounting opening 314 is located at the front end of the first mounting space 313.

[0134] The second bracket 35 passes through the first mounting port 314 and is inserted into the first mounting space 313. The second bracket 35 is limitedly connected to the first bracket 31. The driving member 33 is connected to the ice tray 32, so that the second bracket 35 is fixed on the first bracket 31, and the driving member 33 can drive the ice tray 32 to rotate. When the second bracket 35 is separated from the first bracket 31, the driving member 33 is separated from the ice tray 32.

[0135] In some embodiments, the ice storage container 34 has a closed position. When the ice storage container 34 is in the closed position, the first opening 342 is in a closed state, closed by the first support 31. The ice storage container 34 also has an open position, and when the ice storage container 34 is in the open position, the first opening 342 is in an open state.

[0136] An ice storage box 34 is mounted on a first bracket 31 and is slidably connected to the first bracket 31. The ice storage box 34 slides along the length of the first bracket 31 to switch between a closed position and an open position.

[0137] refer to Figure 8 When the sterilization light source 51 irradiates the ice storage chamber 341, the ice storage box 34 is in the closed position. When the ice maker is connected to the cabinet, the ice storage box slides along the front and back direction of the cabinet to switch the ice storage box 34 between the closed and open positions.

[0138] refer to Figure 15 An ice storage box 34 is inserted into the first bracket 31. Specifically, a second mounting space 315 is formed on the first bracket 31. A second mounting opening 316 is formed on the first bracket 31. The second mounting opening 316 is located at one end of the second mounting space 315 and communicates with the second mounting space 315. The ice storage box 34 is inserted into the second mounting space 315 through the second mounting opening 316, and the ice storage box 34 is slidably connected to the first bracket 31. When the ice maker 3 is connected to the housing 1, the second mounting opening 316 is located at the front end of the second mounting space 315.

[0139] In some embodiments, reference Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 The first bracket 31 includes a first mounting plate 3171 and a second mounting plate 3172. The first mounting plate 3171 and the second mounting plate 3172 are positioned opposite each other and spaced apart along the width direction of the first bracket. The first mounting plate 3171 and the second mounting plate 3172 form a second mounting space 315. The first mounting plate 3171 and the second mounting plate 3172 are located at opposite ends of the second mounting space 315 along the width direction of the first bracket 31.

[0140] refer to Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 The first mounting plate 3171 has a second support surface 31711. The second mounting plate 3172 has a third support surface 31721. The ice storage box 34 includes a first sliding part 343. The ice storage box 34 includes a second sliding part 344. The first sliding part 343 is disposed on the second support surface 31711. The second sliding part 344 is disposed on the third support surface 31721. The bottom of the first sliding part 343 has a first contact surface 3431. The first contact surface 3431 is disposed on the second support surface 31711 and contacts the second support surface 31711. The bottom of the second sliding part 344 has a second contact surface 3441, which is disposed on the third support surface 31721 and contacts the third support surface 31721.

[0141] The contact area between the first contact surface 3431 and the second support surface 31711 is a first width K1, where K1 ≥ 2 mm, in the width direction of the first bracket 31. The dimension of the first contact surface 3431 in the width direction of the first bracket 31 is a second width K2, where K2 / K1 > 50%. The dimension of the second support surface 31711 in the width direction of the first bracket 31 is a third width, where K3 / K1 > 50%.

[0142] The contact area between the second contact surface 3441 and the third support surface 31721 is a fourth width K4 in the width direction of the first bracket 31, where K4 ≥ 2 mm. The second contact surface 3441 has a fifth width K5 in the width direction of the first bracket 31, where K5 / K4 > 50%. The third support surface 31721 has a sixth width K6 in the width direction of the first bracket 31, where K6 / K4 > 50%.

[0143] The total distance between the contact areas of the first contact surface 3431 and the second support surface 31711 along the length of the first bracket 31 is a first length L1, where L1 ≥ 2 mm. The dimension of the first contact surface 3431 along the length of the first bracket 31 is a second length L2, where L2 / L1 > 30%. The dimension of the second support surface 31711 along the length of the first bracket 31 is a third length, where L3 / L1 > 30%.

[0144] The contact area between the second contact surface 3441 and the third support surface 31721 is a fourth length L4 along the length direction of the first bracket 31, where L4 ≥ 2 mm. The second contact surface 3441 has a fifth length L5 along the length direction of the first bracket 31, where L5 / L4 > 30%. The third support surface 31721 has a sixth length L6 along the length direction of the first bracket 31, where L6 / L4 > 30%.

[0145] In some embodiments, reference Figure 4 An air guide channel 318 is formed on the first support 31. The air guide channel 318 is arranged along the length of the first support 31 and is used to guide cold air to the top of the ice grid 32 to improve the ice-making efficiency of the ice grid. When the ice maker 3 is installed on the housing 1, the air guide channel 318 is located at the rear end of the first support 31.

[0146] In some embodiments, reference Figure 8 The sterilization device 5 is connected to the first support 31. The sterilization device 5 includes a sterilization light source 51. The sterilization light source 51 is used to irradiate the ice storage cavity 341. The light emitted by the sterilization light source 51 can be short-wave visible light. The peak wavelength of the short-wave visible light can be A, where 400nm ≤ A and A ≤ 410nm, or 400nm ≤ A and A ≤ 420nm, or 400nm ≤ A and A ≤ 450nm. The sterilization light source 51 can be an ultraviolet sterilization light source, capable of emitting ultraviolet light to sterilize the ice storage cavity 341 and the ice blocks within it.

[0147] In some embodiments, the refrigerator includes a controller. The controller is electrically connected to the germicidal light source 51. The controller is configured to:

[0148] Upon receiving the start signal from the ice maker 3, the sterilization light source 51 is turned on.

[0149] The ice maker 3 can be started or stopped via the refrigerator's display panel or a mobile terminal. Upon receiving the start signal from the ice maker 3, the controller activates the sterilization light source 51, which irradiates the ice storage cavity 341 to ensure its cleanliness. Specifically, upon receiving the start signal from the ice maker 3, the controller controls the sterilization light source 51 to operate intermittently at a first start-stop ratio a1, with the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 being a first intensity b1. 1 / 20 ≤ a1, and a1 ≤ 1 / 10, 0.001 mW / cm² 2 ≤b1, and b1≤0.01mW / cm 2 The time from starting the ice maker 3 to completing the first ice making is defined as the first time t1, where 30 min ≤ t1 and t1 ≤ 150 min. After receiving the start signal from the ice maker 3, the controller controls the sterilization light source 51 to operate intermittently at a first start-stop ratio a1 for a second time t2. The second time t2 is less than the first time t1.

[0150] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to:

[0151] After the ice is turned over in the ice tray 32, the sterilization light source 51 is turned on to sterilize the ice storage cavity 341 and the ice inside the ice storage cavity 341.

[0152] Frequent opening of the ice maker door allows microorganisms to enter the environment, easily leading to bacterial growth in the ice trays. The sterilization light source, installed after the ice trays are turned over, sterilizes the ice storage cavity and the ice inside, ensuring the cleanliness of each batch of ice and preventing bacterial contamination of the ice storage cavity and ice from the ice trays. Furthermore, when the sterilization light source irradiates the ice storage cavity, it sterilizes the surface and interior of the ice, as well as the ice storage cavity itself, effectively improving the uniformity of sterilization and ensuring the cleanliness of the ice storage cavity and the ice.

[0153] In some embodiments, reference Figure 20 The controller is configured as follows:

[0154] After the ice-making grid 32 is turned over, it is determined whether the ice storage cavity 341 is full of ice. When the ice storage cavity 341 is full of ice, the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is controlled to the second intensity b2; when the ice storage cavity 341 is not full of ice, the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is controlled to the third intensity b3; wherein, the second intensity b2 is greater than the third intensity b3. The value is 0.1 mW / cm². 2 ≤b2, and b2≤10mW / cm 2 0.01mW / cm 2 ≤b3, and b3≤0.1mW / cm 2. After the ice cubes in the ice-making grid 32 are turned over, it is determined whether the ice storage cavity 341 is full of ice. The irradiation intensity can be determined according to the amount of ice in the ice storage cavity 341, so that when there is more ice, the irradiation intensity is large enough to sterilize more thoroughly. When there is relatively less ice, the irradiation intensity is slightly smaller, which can adapt to the amount of ice cubes, sterilize thoroughly and save resources at the same time.

[0155] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 20 , the controller is configured to:

[0156] When the ice storage cavity 341 is full of ice, control the sterilization light source 51 to work intermittently at the second start-stop ratio a2; when the ice storage cavity 341 is not full of ice, control the sterilization light source 51 to work intermittently at the third start-stop ratio a3; wherein, the second start-stop ratio a2 is greater than the third start-stop ratio a3. Among them, 1 / 10 ≤ a2 and a2 ≤ 1 / 5. 1 / 10 ≤ a3 and a3 ≤ 1 / 8. After the ice cubes in the ice-making grid 32 are turned over, it is determined whether the ice storage cavity 341 is full of ice. The start-stop ratio of the sterilization light source 51 can be determined according to the amount of ice in the ice storage cavity 341, so that when there is more ice, the total irradiation time is long and the sterilization is more thorough. When there is relatively less ice, the total irradiation time is relatively short, sterilizing thoroughly and saving resources at the same time.

[0157] Among them, when the ice storage cavity 341 is full of ice, control the sterilization light source 51 to work intermittently at the second start-stop ratio a2 for the third time t3, 0 min < t3 and t3 ≤ 60 min, which can sterilize relatively thoroughly. When the ice storage cavity 341 is not full of ice, control the sterilization light source 51 to work intermittently at the third start-stop ratio a3 for the fourth time t4, 0 min < t4 and t4 ≤ 60 min, which can sterilize relatively thoroughly.

[0158] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to:

[0159] When the ice storage cavity 341 remains full of ice for more than 24 hours, control the sterilization light source 51 to turn on, and control the sterilization light source 51 to work intermittently at the fourth start-stop ratio a4. The irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is the fourth intensity b4, which can sterilize the ice in the ice storage cavity 341 thoroughly. 1 / 12 ≤ a4 and a4 ≤ 1 / 6. 0.1 mW / cm 2 ≤ b4 and b4 ≤ 10 mW / cm 2 .

[0160] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7 , the ice maker 3 includes an ice probe 36. The ice probe 36 is used to detect whether the ice storage cavity 341 is full of ice. The ice probe 36 is connected to the driving member 33.

[0161] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to:

[0162] When the controller receives a signal that the ice storage box 34 has switched from the open position to the closed position, it controls the sterilization light source 51 to turn on. After the ice storage box 34 is opened, the probability of bacteria entering the ice storage cavity 341 increases. When the controller receives the signal that the ice storage box 34 has switched from the open position to the closed position, it will sterilize to eliminate microorganisms that enter the ice storage cavity 341 after the ice storage box 34 is opened, thus ensuring that the ice storage cavity 341 remains clean.

[0163] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to:

[0164] Upon receiving a signal that the ice storage box 34 has switched from the open position to the closed position, the height of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341 is obtained, and the sterilization light source 51 is controlled to work intermittently. Based on the height of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341, the start-stop ratio of the intermittent operation of the sterilization light source 51 is controlled. The height of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341 can be obtained, and an optimal start-stop ratio can be determined based on the amount of ice in the ice storage cavity 341, ensuring the sterilization effect while saving resources.

[0165] In some embodiments, the height of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341 is H. The controller has n preset heights, n≥2, the first preset height is H1, the nth preset height is H... n From the first preset height H1 to the nth preset height H n Gradually increase.

[0166] The controller has n+1 preset start-stop ratios, the first preset start-stop ratio is G1, and the (n+1)th preset start-stop ratio is G. n+1 The first preset start-stop ratio G1 to the (n+1)th preset start-stop ratio G n+1 Gradually increase.

[0167] When H≤H1, the start-stop ratio of the bactericidal light source 51 is G1.

[0168] When H n-1 <H≤H n At that time, the start-stop ratio of the sterilization light source 51 is G. n .

[0169] When H>H n At that time, the start-stop ratio of the sterilization light source 51 is G. n+1 .

[0170] Multiple height ranges are set, and each range has a corresponding start-stop ratio. The optimal start-stop ratio can be quickly determined based on the ice height H in the ice storage chamber 341, which is efficient and convenient.

[0171] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to:

[0172] After receiving the signal that the ice storage box 34 is switched from the open position to the closed position, obtain the height of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341; according to the height of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341, control the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51, be able to obtain the height of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341, and be able to determine a better irradiation intensity according to the different amounts of ice cubes in the ice storage cavity 341, ensuring thorough sterilization while saving resources.

[0173] In some embodiments, the height of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341 is H. There are n preset heights in the controller, n≥2, the first preset height is H1, and the nth preset height is H n , from the first preset height H1 to the nth preset height H n gradually increases.

[0174] There are n + 1 preset irradiation intensities in the controller, the first preset irradiation intensity is I1, and the n + 1th preset irradiation intensity is I n+1 , from the first preset irradiation intensity I1 to the n + 1th preset irradiation intensity I n+1 gradually increases.

[0175] When H≤H1, the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is I1.

[0176] When H n-1 <H≤H n at this time, the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is I n .

[0177] When H>H n at this time, the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is I n+1 .

[0178] Set multiple height intervals, and set the corresponding irradiation intensity for each interval. It is possible to quickly determine a better irradiation intensity according to the height H of the ice in the ice storage cavity 341, which is efficient and convenient.

[0179] Among them, n = 3, H1 = 3cm, H2 = 7cm, H3 = 10cm. When H≤3cm, the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is I1, 0.001mW / cm 2 ≤I1, and I1≤0.01mW / cm 2 , the start-stop ratio of the sterilization light source 51 working is G1, 1 / 20≤G1, and G1≤1 / 10. When 3cm<H≤7cm, the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is I2, 0.01mW / cm 2 ≤I2, and I2≤1mW / cm 2 , the start-stop ratio of the sterilization light source 51 working is G 2， 1 / 10≤G2, and G2≤1 / 8. When 7cm<H≤10cm, the irradiation intensity of the sterilization light source 51 is I3, 1mW / cm 2≤I3, and I3≤5mW / cm 2 The start-stop ratio of the sterilization light source 51 is G3, where 1 / 8 ≤ G3 and G3 ≤ 1 / 5. When H > 10 cm, the irradiance of the sterilization light source 51 is I4, 5 mW / cm². 2 ≤I4, and I4≤10mW / cm 2 The start-stop ratio of the sterilization light source 51 is G. 4， 1 / 5 ≤ G4, and G4 ≤ 1 / 2.

[0180] Table 3 shows the visible light transmittance corresponding to different ice conditions in the ice storage cavity 341. Short-wave visible light can effectively sterilize the ice at the bottom of the ice storage cavity 341.

[0181] Table 3

[0182] Ice blocks in the ice storage chamber The height H of the ice in the ice storage chamber Visible light transmittance T Single layer of ice H≤3cm T≥60％ Two layers of ice 3cm<H≤5cm T≥40％ Full of ice cubes 5cm<H≤15cm T≥30％

[0183] The sterilization light source 51 has at least one component, and the irradiation intensity can be changed by controlling the number of sterilization light sources 51 that are turned on. Alternatively, the irradiation intensity can be changed by adjusting the power supply current of the sterilization light source.

[0184] In some embodiments, reference Figure 12 and Figure 19 The ice maker 3 includes a rangefinder 37. The rangefinder 37 is used to detect the height of the ice in the ice storage chamber 341. The rangefinder 37 is mounted on the light panel 53. The rangefinder 37 can be an ultrasonic rangefinder or an infrared rangefinder.

[0185] The ultrasonic rangefinder emits a sound wave signal, which returns to the receiver after encountering the ice block. Timing begins from the start of the signal transmission and stops immediately upon receiving the reflected sound wave. The speed of sound in air is 340 m / s. Based on the timer's duration t, the straight-line distance between the ice block and the ultrasonic rangefinder is calculated as: S1 = 340 × t / 2. The angle between the ultrasonic rangefinder's orientation and the height direction of the housing 1 is the second angle β. Based on the angle β between the ultrasonic rangefinder's orientation and the height direction of the housing 1, the distance S2 between the ice block and the ultrasonic rangefinder in the height direction of the housing 1 is calculated as S2 = S1 × cosβ. The distance between the bottom of the ice storage cavity 341 and the ultrasonic rangefinder in the height direction of the housing 1 is S3. The height of the ice inside the ice storage cavity 341 is H, where H = S3 - S2.

[0186] In some embodiments, reference Figure 18 The ice maker 3 includes an ice storage box switch. The ice storage box switch is connected to the controller. When the ice storage box 34 moves from the open position to the closed position, the ice storage box switch can send a signal to the controller, so that the controller can recognize that the ice storage box 34 has moved from the open position to the closed position. Then the controller can control the sterilization light source 51 to turn on for sterilization.

[0187] refer to Figure 18 The ice storage box switch includes a reed switch 381 and a magnet. The reed switch 381 is connected to the first bracket 31, and the magnet is connected to the ice storage box 34. When the ice storage box 34 is closed, the magnet approaches the reed switch 381. The magnetic field of the magnet is sufficient to close the two metal contacts inside the reed switch 381, forming a current path. At this time, the reed switch 381 can send a signal to the connected controller, indicating that the ice storage box 34 is closed. When the ice storage box 34 is open, the magnet moves away from the reed switch 381. The magnetic field of the magnet is insufficient to keep the metal contacts inside the reed switch 381 in contact, thus the circuit is broken.

[0188] In some embodiments, the sterilization device 5 is used to sterilize the ice maker 3. The sterilization device 5 can be connected to the housing 1 or the door 2. The sterilization device 5 includes a pulse lamp. The pulse lamp can be a pulse inert gas lamp. The pulse inert gas lamp can be a pulse xenon lamp.

[0189] Pulsed xenon lamps produce pulsed intense light, a novel non-thermal sterilization technology capable of inactivating microorganisms on object surfaces. The pulsed intense light system primarily consists of a power unit and a xenon lamp unit. The power unit provides energy to the lamp by generating high voltage and high-energy current, converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), which is then stored in an energy storage device. When the capacitor reaches a preset level, the controller releases high-energy current to the lamp via a coaxial cable. The energy released into the lamp generates intense pulsed light that can be directly directed at the target object, achieving sterilization. The spectrum emitted by the pulsed light includes the ultraviolet (200nm-400nm), visible (400nm-700nm), and near-infrared (800nm-1100nm) regions, exhibiting high-power radiation pulses similar to the solar spectrum (200nm-1100nm).

[0190] The sterilization mechanism of pulsed light can be mainly divided into three aspects. First, photothermal reaction: A portion of the wavelength of pulsed light is in the visible and near-infrared bands. This portion of the light transfers heat to the surface of an object, immediately raising the surface temperature to 50℃-150℃, causing the bacterial cell walls to rupture and their cell fluid to evaporate, leading to bacterial death. This instantaneous heating only affects the surface of the object (approximately 10mm thick) and does not significantly increase the internal temperature of the irradiated object, thus affecting food quality. Second, photochemical reaction: After absorbing ultraviolet light, proteins, DNA, and RNA in cells undergo denaturation and physicochemical changes, resulting in damage to genetic information, loss of replication and gene transcription functions, ultimately leading to cell death and achieving sterilization. Third, photophysical action: The strong penetrating power and instantaneous impact of pulsed light can destroy cell structure, leading to bacterial cell death and a significant sterilization effect.

[0191] By using a pulsed inert gas lamp, the sterilization device 5 can emit light in the ultraviolet to infrared region that is similar to the solar spectrum but stronger, thereby sterilizing and disinfecting the ice maker 3, the ice storage box 34, and the ice cubes inside the ice storage box 34.

[0192] Pulsed inert gas lamps can release high-energy light for sterilization within millimeter-level time. The time spent on the object surface during the entire treatment process is short, so it will not damage the quality of the object.

[0193] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

[0194] For ease of explanation, the above description has been provided in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Various modifications and variations can be obtained based on the above teachings. The selection and description of the above embodiments are for the purpose of better explaining the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the described embodiments and various different variations of embodiments suitable for specific use considerations.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The housing (1) has a refrigeration chamber (11) defined inside it. The door (2) is rotatably connected to the box body (1) to open or close the refrigeration chamber (11). An ice maker (3) for making ice, the ice maker (3) being connected to the housing (1) or the door (2); the ice maker (3) comprising: First support (31); An ice tray (32) is mounted on the first bracket (31); An ice storage box (34) is installed on the first bracket (31). An ice storage cavity (341) for receiving and storing ice is formed inside the ice storage box (34). The ice storage cavity (341) is located below the ice grid (32) to receive ice that is removed from the ice grid (32). A sterilization device (5) is connected to the first support (31). The sterilization device (5) is located on one side of the ice tray (32) along its length. The sterilization device (5) includes: A sterilization light source (51) is configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity (341) to sterilize the ice storage cavity (341) and the ice inside the ice storage cavity (341).

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sterilization light source (51) has at least two, and the at least two sterilization light sources (51) are arranged sequentially at intervals along the length direction of the ice grid (32); the distance between the two sterilization light sources (51) with the largest distance is M, M≥2cm.

3. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-2, characterized in that, The sterilization device (5) includes: The lamp plate (53) is used to support the sterilization light source (51). The end of the lamp plate (53) closer to the ice grid (32) is the first end of the lamp plate (531), and the end of the lamp plate (53) away from the ice grid (32) is the second end of the lamp plate (532). Along the height direction of the box body (1), the second end of the lamp plate (532) is lower than the first end of the lamp plate (531).

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sterilization device (5) includes: The lampshade (54) is detachably connected to the first bracket (31); a mounting cavity (542) is formed inside the lampshade (54), and a mounting cavity opening (543) is formed on the top of the lampshade (54), and the mounting cavity opening (543) communicates with the mounting cavity (542); The lamp plate (53) passes through the mounting cavity opening (543) and is disposed in the mounting cavity (542). The lamp plate (53) and the lamp cover (54) are detachably connected.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that, The lampshade (54) includes a lampshade base plate (547) located at the bottom of the lampshade (54). The end of the lampshade base plate (547) closer to the ice grid (32) is the first end of the base plate (5471), and the end of the lampshade base plate (547) away from the ice grid (32) is the second end of the base plate (5472). Along the height direction of the box (1), the second end of the base plate (5472) is lower than the first end of the base plate (5471).

6. The refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that, The lampshade (54) includes a first positioning part (546), and a second positioning part (533) is formed on the lamp plate (53). One of the first positioning part (546) and the second positioning part (533) is inserted into the other.

7. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The housing (1) has a refrigeration chamber (11) defined inside it. The door (2) is rotatably connected to the box body (1) to open or close the refrigeration chamber (11). An ice maker (3) for making ice, the ice maker (3) being connected to the housing (1) or the door (2); the ice maker (3) comprising: First support (31); An ice tray (32) is mounted on the first bracket (31); An ice storage box (34) is installed on the first bracket (31). An ice storage cavity (341) for receiving and storing ice is formed inside the ice storage box (34). The ice storage cavity (341) is located below the ice grid (32) to receive ice that is removed from the ice grid (32). A sterilization device (5) is connected to the first support (31), the sterilization device (5) comprising: A sterilization light source (51) is configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity (341) to sterilize the ice in the ice storage cavity (341) and the ice inside the ice storage cavity (341). The peak wavelength of the light emitted by the sterilization light source (51) is A, 400nm≤A and A≤410nm. The surface of the sterilization light source (51) is coated with a phosphor layer. The main wavelength of the light emitted by the sterilization light source (51) after passing through the phosphor layer is B, 440nm≤B and B≤480nm.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thickness of the phosphor layer is E, where 50µm≤E and E≤300µm.

9. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The housing (1) has a refrigeration chamber (11) defined inside it. The door (2) is rotatably connected to the box body (1) to open or close the refrigeration chamber (11). An ice maker (3) for making ice, the ice maker (3) being connected to the housing (1) or the door (2); the ice maker (3) comprising: First support (31); An ice tray (32) is mounted on the first bracket (31); An ice storage box (34) is installed on the first bracket (31). An ice storage cavity (341) for receiving and storing ice is formed inside the ice storage box (34). The ice storage cavity (341) is located below the ice grid (32) to receive ice that is removed from the ice grid (32). A sterilization device (5) is connected to the first support (31), the sterilization device (5) comprising: A sterilization light source (51) is configured to irradiate the ice storage cavity (341) to sterilize the ice storage cavity (341) and the ice inside the ice storage cavity (341). The peak wavelength of the light emitted by the sterilization light source (51) is A, 400nm≤A, and A≤410nm. The dimming light source (52) emits light with a dominant wavelength of C, where 445nm≤C and C≤485nm.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The sterilization light source (51) has at least one, the dimming light source (52) has at least one, and the number of dimming light sources (52) does not exceed the number of sterilization light sources (51).

Images