A refrigerator

Abstract

The application provides a refrigerator, and belongs to the technical field of household appliances. The refrigerator provided by the application comprises a refrigeration chamber and a freezing chamber, a first knob, a second knob, an air door and a potentiometer. The refrigeration chamber is provided with a refrigeration air duct, the freezing chamber is provided with a freezing air duct, and the refrigeration air duct and the freezing air duct are communicated. The air door and the potentiometer are arranged in the refrigeration air duct, and the first knob and the second knob are arranged on the air duct cover plate of the refrigeration chamber. The first knob is mechanically connected with the air door and is used for adjusting the opening size of the air volume outlet, the second knob is mechanically connected with the potentiometer and is used for adjusting the gear of the potentiometer, and the first knob and the second knob are coaxially arranged. The air door and the potentiometer are arranged in the refrigeration air duct and are respectively controlled by the first knob and the second knob. A user only needs to operate two coaxial knobs in the refrigeration chamber, so as to respectively adjust the air door opening degree and the potentiometer gear, thereby simplifying the operation process and avoiding misoperation caused by understanding deviation.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In existing refrigerators, the freezer and refrigerator compartments typically have separate control knobs. However, when adjusting the temperature of these compartments, both knobs are usually used together. This setup can mislead some users into believing that the knob in the freezer compartment is for adjusting the freezer temperature and the knob in the refrigerator compartment is for adjusting the refrigerator temperature. This can lead to incorrect operation, causing the refrigerator temperature to fail to reach the target setting in some cases, resulting in the refrigerator compartment temperature rising and causing poor cooling. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this application is to provide a downlight to solve the technical problem in the prior art where the components of the downlight are easily loosened after the angle is swung.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows:

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a refrigerator, which includes a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment, and further includes a first knob, a second knob, an air damper, and a potentiometer. The refrigerator compartment is provided with a refrigerator air duct, and the freezer compartment is provided with a freezer air duct, which are connected to each other. The air damper and the potentiometer are both located in the refrigerator air duct, and the first knob and the second knob are located on the air duct cover of the refrigerator compartment. The first knob is mechanically connected to the air damper and is used to adjust the opening size of the air outlet. The second knob is mechanically connected to the potentiometer and is used to adjust the potentiometer's setting. The first knob and the second knob are coaxially arranged.

[0006] Building upon this, by placing both the air damper and potentiometer within the refrigerator's air duct and controlling them separately with a first knob and a second knob, the problem of users having to repeatedly adjust between the refrigerator and freezer compartments in traditional mechanical air damper refrigerators is solved. Users only need to operate two coaxial knobs in the refrigerator compartment to adjust the air damper opening and potentiometer setting respectively, simplifying the operation process and avoiding misoperation due to misunderstandings. At the same time, this design optimizes the airflow distribution logic, making temperature adjustment in the refrigerator and freezer compartments more intuitive and efficient, improving user experience and temperature control accuracy.

[0007] In one possible design, a first rotating shaft is also provided in the refrigerated air duct, the air damper is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft, and the end of the first rotating shaft away from the air damper is fixedly connected to a first knob.

[0008] Based on this, the damper is fixedly connected to the first knob via the first rotating shaft, realizing direct mechanical control of the damper opening. This design is simple in structure and highly reliable, avoiding the complex structure and cost issues of traditional electric dampers. The rigid connection of the first rotating shaft ensures the accuracy and stability of the adjustment. Users can intuitively control the opening and closing of the damper by rotating the first knob, making operation convenient and responsive.

[0009] In one possible design, a second rotating shaft is also provided in the refrigerated air duct, a potentiometer is connected to the second rotating shaft, and the end of the second rotating shaft away from the potentiometer is connected to a second knob.

[0010] Building upon this, the second rotating shaft connects the potentiometer to the second knob, making potentiometer adjustments smoother and more precise. This mechanical transmission method avoids the delay issues of electronic control while reducing system complexity. Users can directly adjust the overall temperature setting of the refrigeration system by rotating the second knob; the operation is intuitive and requires no additional instructions.

[0011] In one possible design, the second knob is equipped with a first gear at the end furthest from the refrigerator compartment, and the second shaft is equipped with a second gear at the end furthest from the potentiometer, with the first gear meshing with the second gear.

[0012] Building upon this, the meshing design of the first and second gears enables efficient power transmission between the second knob and the potentiometer. The compact gear transmission structure and stable transmission ratio ensure the accuracy and repeatability of gear adjustments. Simultaneously, the mechanical characteristics of gear meshing enhance the tactile feedback of operation, allowing users to control temperature settings more precisely.

[0013] In one possible design, a limiting device is installed in the refrigerated air duct. The limiting device is connected to the first rotating shaft, and when the first rotating shaft is not subjected to external force, the limiting device restricts the rotation of the first rotating shaft.

[0014] Based on this, the limit device prevents the damper from rotating accidentally due to its own weight or vibration, ensuring the stability of the damper opening. Users need to apply a certain torque to overcome the limit resistance when adjusting the damper. This design not only avoids accidental adjustments caused by accidental touches but also provides clear operational feedback, enhancing the reliability of use.

[0015] In one possible design, the limiting device includes a third gear and a spring clip. The third gear is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft, and the spring clip is fixedly connected to the refrigerated air duct, engaging between the teeth of the third gear. When the torque on the first rotating shaft is less than or equal to a preset torque, the spring clip engages with the third gear, restricting the rotation of the first rotating shaft. When the torque on the first rotating shaft is greater than the preset torque, the third gear rotates, causing the spring clip to deform, and the first rotating shaft rotates.

[0016] Building upon this, the limiting device, through the coordinated action of the third gear and the elastic latch, provides reliable locking when the first rotating shaft is not subjected to external force. The engagement of the elastic latch between the gear teeth provides a clear tactile feedback, allowing the user to perceive the change in each gear during adjustment, thus improving operational precision. Simultaneously, the preset torque setting ensures that the damper remains fixed when there is no external force, further enhancing the system's stability.

[0017] In one possible design, the second knob is a hollow ring structure, and the first knob is nested inside the second knob, with the first knob and the second knob coaxial.

[0018] Building upon this, the second knob features a hollow ring structure and is coaxial with the first knob, saving installation space and making the interface more concise and aesthetically pleasing. Users can control the damper and potentiometer separately via the inner and outer knobs, providing clear operational logic and avoiding the confusion caused by scattered knobs in traditional designs, thus enhancing the user experience.

[0019] In one possible design, a damper bracket is installed in the refrigerated air duct, and an opening is provided on the damper bracket. The damper is rotatably connected to the damper bracket, and the damper and the opening cooperate to form an air outlet. The size of the air outlet is adjusted by adjusting the position of the damper on the damper bracket.

[0020] Based on this, the opening on the damper bracket, in conjunction with the damper, forms an adjustable airflow outlet. By rotating the damper, the opening size can be changed, achieving linear adjustment of the airflow. This design is simple in structure, has a wide adjustment range, can meet the airflow distribution requirements under different temperature conditions, and reduces the complexity of the duct system.

[0021] In one possible design, a foam assembly is installed in the refrigerated air duct, and a cavity is provided in the foam assembly, with a damper bracket installed inside the cavity.

[0022] Building upon this, the cavity design of the foam assembly provides a stable installation environment for the damper bracket, while the thermal insulation properties of the foam material reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency. The damper bracket, embedded within the foam cavity, further enhances the sealing and structural strength of the duct system, ensuring long-term reliability.

[0023] In one possible design, the refrigerator in this application also includes a central air duct, through which the refrigerator air duct is connected to the freezer air duct. The central air duct optimizes the connection between the refrigerator and freezer air ducts, making the distribution of cold air more even and efficient. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 A front view of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator along the AA direction;

[0028] Figure 4 An exploded view of a partial structure in a refrigerator's refrigeration air duct, provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a partial structure in the refrigeration air duct of a refrigerator, provided as an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of a refrigerator's refrigeration air duct provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The diagram shows a partial enlarged view of a refrigerator at point B.

[0032] The following are the labeling elements in the figure:

[0033] 100 - Refrigerator;

[0034] 110 - Refrigerator compartment; 120 - Freezer compartment; 130 - Refrigerator air duct; 140 - Freezer air duct; 150 - First knob; 160 - Second knob; 170 - Air damper; 180 - Potentiometer; 190 - Intermediate air duct;

[0035] 111-Air duct cover; 112-First rotating shaft; 113-Second rotating shaft; 114-Limiting device; 115-Air damper bracket; 116-Opening; 117-Foam assembly;

[0036] 161 - First gear; 1131 - Second gear; 1141 - Third gear; 1142 - Elastic buckle. Detailed Implementation

[0037] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0038] In the embodiments of this application, 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 indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0039] It should be understood that the terminology used in the description of the various examples herein is for the purpose of describing the particular examples only and is not intended to be restrictive. As used in the description of the various examples, the singular forms “a” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise.

[0040] In the embodiments of this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of a single item or a plurality of items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be a single item or multiple items.

[0041] It should also be understood that, in this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a sliding connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium.

[0042] It should also be understood that the term “comprising” (also referred to as “includes”, “including”, “comprises” and / or “comprising”) as used in this specification specifies the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0043] It should be understood that the terms "an embodiment," "another embodiment," and "a possible design" used throughout the specification mean that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic related to an embodiment or implementation is included in at least one embodiment of this application. Therefore, phrases such as "in one embodiment of this application," "in another embodiment of this application," and "a possible design" appearing throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, these specific features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0044] In existing refrigerators, the freezer and refrigerator compartments typically have separate control knobs. However, to adjust the temperature of each compartment, both knobs are usually used together. This setup can mislead some users into believing that the knob in the freezer is for adjusting the freezer temperature and the knob in the refrigerator is for adjusting the refrigerator temperature. This can lead to incorrect operation, causing the refrigerator temperature to fail to reach the target setting in some cases, resulting in overheating and poor cooling in the refrigerator compartment. Furthermore, having separate control knobs for the freezer and refrigerator compartments is somewhat cumbersome.

[0045] To solve the above technical problems, refer to Figures 1 to 5 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is a front view of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 for Figure 2 The image shown is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator along the AA direction. Figure 4 This is an exploded view of a partial structure of a refrigerator's refrigeration air duct, provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a refrigerator's cooling air duct, provided as an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows structures such as dampers and potentiometers installed in the refrigerated air duct.

[0046] like Figures 1 to 5As shown in the figure, this application embodiment provides a refrigerator 100, which includes a refrigerator compartment 110 and a freezer compartment 120. It includes a first knob 150, a second knob 160, an air damper 170, and a potentiometer 180. The refrigerator compartment 110 is provided with a refrigerator air duct 130, and the freezer compartment 120 is provided with a freezer air duct 140. The refrigerator air duct 130 and the freezer air duct 140 are connected. The air damper 170 and the potentiometer 180 are both located in the refrigerator air duct 130. The first knob 150 and the second knob 160 are located on the air duct cover 111 of the refrigerator compartment 110. The first knob 150 is mechanically connected to the air damper 170 and is used to adjust the opening size of the airflow outlet. The second knob 160 is mechanically connected to the potentiometer 180 and is used to adjust the setting of the potentiometer 180. The first knob 150 and the second knob 160 are coaxially arranged.

[0047] The refrigerator 100 in this embodiment includes two main storage spaces: a refrigerator compartment 110 and a freezer compartment 120. The refrigerator compartment 110 is generally used for food preservation, and the freezer compartment 120 is generally used for freezing food. The freezer compartment 120 is equipped with a freezer air duct 140, and the refrigerator compartment 110 is equipped with a refrigerator air duct 130. Cold air circulation is achieved between the two compartments through the connected refrigerator air duct 130 and freezer air duct 140. In this embodiment, cold air generated by the compressor and fan flows into the freezer air duct 140, and the refrigerator air duct 130 receives cold air from the freezer air duct through its connection with the freezer air duct 140.

[0048] In this embodiment, by providing a damper 170 in the refrigerated air duct 130, which can be a rotatable baffle, the amount of cold air flowing into the refrigerated compartment 110 can be controlled by changing the opening angle of the damper 170, thereby achieving airflow ratio adjustment between the refrigerated compartment 110 and the freezer compartment 120. By providing a potentiometer 180 in the refrigerated air duct 130, the overall start-up and shutdown temperature of the refrigeration system can be controlled by adjusting the setting of the potentiometer 180, such as controlling the compressor speed, operating time, and fan speed.

[0049] In this embodiment, a first knob 150 and a second knob 160 are provided. The first knob 150 (inner knob) is located on the air duct cover 111 of the refrigerator compartment 110 and directly corresponds to the adjustment of the air damper 170. A marking can be provided on or outside the first knob 150, with a scale indicating the range from "maximum refrigerator" to "maximum freezer," allowing the user to visually change the angle of the air damper 170 when rotating the first knob 150. The second knob 160 (outer knob) is coaxially sleeved outside the first knob 150 and corresponds to the adjustment of the potentiometer 180. A marking can be provided on or outside the second knob 160, with a scale indicating the cooling level (e.g., 1-9), used to control the compressor's start and stop temperature. The first knob 150 and the second knob 160 share a central axis, with the second knob 160 encasing the first knob 150 through a hollow shaft sleeve, allowing for independent rotation and a compact layout.

[0050] In this embodiment, both the damper 170 and the potentiometer 180 are located in the refrigeration air duct 130, unlike the traditional solution (one is located in the freezer air duct 140 and the other in the refrigeration air duct 130). This embodiment integrates both the damper 170 and the potentiometer 180 into the refrigeration air duct 130, avoiding the need for users to repeatedly adjust the refrigeration compartment 110 and the freezer compartment 120. It also avoids the need for users to understand the control principle to better adjust the temperature of the refrigeration compartment 110, thereby preventing user misoperation that could cause the temperature of the refrigeration compartment 110 to fail to reach the required temperature.

[0051] The cold air distribution logic of the refrigerator 100 in this embodiment can be adjusted simultaneously through airflow regulation and temperature control. For example, when the damper 170 is fully open (the first knob 150 is turned to "maximum refrigerator speed"), the airflow into the refrigerator duct 130 is at its maximum, and the airflow into the freezer compartment 120 is at its minimum; when the damper 170 is fully closed (the first knob 150 is turned to "maximum freezer speed"), almost all the cold air flows to the freezer compartment 120. For example, when enhanced freezing is needed in summer, the user turns the inner knob to "maximum freezer speed," the damper 170 angle decreases, the airflow into the freezer compartment 120 increases, and the temperature drops rapidly.

[0052] When temperature control is required, the second knob 160 adjusts the potentiometer 180 position, taking potentiometer 180 as an example (positions 1 to 9). Higher positions (e.g., position 9) extend the compressor's operating time, increasing the overall cooling capacity; lower positions (e.g., position 1) reduce the cooling capacity, suitable for energy-saving scenarios. The overall temperature baseline is controlled by potentiometer 180, and the damper 170 allocates airflow proportionally based on this baseline, avoiding the problem of "single-component adjustment causing temperature conflicts between compartments" in traditional solutions.

[0053] In this embodiment, by coaxially mounting the first knob 150 and the second knob 160 on the air duct cover 111 of the refrigerator compartment 110, the user does not need to travel back and forth between the refrigerator and freezer compartments 120 for adjustment, thus centralizing the user's operation and conforming to the intuitive understanding that "the compartment where the regulator is located corresponds to the control target." At the same time, it can avoid misoperation. Through unified scale markings (such as the inner knob labeled "Refrigeration / Freezing Maximum" and the second knob 160 labeled with the gear position), the user can intuitively understand the adjustment target, avoiding temperature runaway caused by the "complex logic of the air damper 170-potentialistor 180 coordination."

[0054] In this embodiment, the potentiometer 180 is placed in the refrigeration duct 130 (temperature higher than the freezer compartment 120) to avoid the impact of long-term low temperature on the reliability of electronic components and extend component life. The connection between the first knob 150 and the damper 170, and between the second knob 160 and the potentiometer 180, uses purely mechanical transmission (e.g., gears, clips) instead of the microcomputer control of the electric damper 170, reducing hardware costs and simplifying the assembly process. The mechanical connection structure between the knobs and the damper 170 and the potentiometer 180 is located on the duct cover 111. During maintenance, there is no need to disassemble complex piping; only the duct cover 111 needs to be removed for inspection, improving after-sales efficiency and making maintenance more convenient.

[0055] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 ,like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in one embodiment of this application, a first rotating shaft 112 is also provided in the refrigerated air duct 130, the damper 170 is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 112, and the end of the first rotating shaft 112 away from the damper 170 is fixedly connected to the first knob 150.

[0056] In this embodiment, the first rotating shaft 112 is disposed in the refrigerated air duct 130 and is a mechanical connecting component between the damper 170 and the first knob 150. Its main function is to transmit the rotational torque of the first knob 150 so as to adjust the angle of the damper 170.

[0057] One end of the first rotating shaft 112 is fixedly connected to the damper 170, which can be achieved through methods such as interference fit of the shaft hole, key connection, welding, or integral molding, to ensure that the two move synchronously when rotating. The other end of the first rotating shaft 112 extends to the outside of the air duct cover 111 of the refrigerator compartment 110 and is fixedly connected to the first knob 150. This end can be processed into a flat shape, gear shape, or other structure that matches the inner interface of the first knob 150. The first rotating shaft 112 can also be fixedly connected to the first knob 150 by welding or integral molding.

[0058] In this embodiment, the damper 170 can be a semi-circular or fan-shaped baffle, with sealing strips usually embedded on the edge. By rotating with the first rotating shaft 112, the opening area of ​​the air outlet of the refrigerated air duct 130 is changed (the opening range is generally 0° to 90°), thereby controlling the amount of cold air flowing to the freezer compartment 120.

[0059] The first knob 150 forms a rigid transmission chain with the damper 170 via the first rotating shaft 112, avoiding problems such as slippage and slack that may occur with traditional flexible transmissions (such as belts and cables). This ensures that the angle of the damper 170 is perfectly synchronized with the scale of the first knob 150, with minimal angle error. The rigid connection structure effectively resists the impact of airflow within the refrigerated duct 130 (e.g., when the fan speed reaches 10 m / s). The damper 170 maintains a high angle and has strong anti-interference capabilities. This structure prevents the damper 170 angle from drifting due to airflow disturbances, ensuring the stability of cold air distribution.

[0060] refer to Figure 5 ,like Figure 5 As shown in one embodiment of this application, a second rotating shaft 113 is also provided in the refrigerated air duct 130. The potentiometer 180 is connected to the second rotating shaft 113, and the end of the second rotating shaft 113 away from the potentiometer 180 is connected to the second knob 160.

[0061] In this embodiment, the second rotating shaft 113 is disposed in the refrigerated air duct 130 and is a transmission component between the potentiometer 180 and the second knob 160. Its main function is to transmit the rotational torque of the second knob 160 to adjust the position of the potentiometer 180.

[0062] One end of the second rotating shaft 113 is connected to the potentiometer 180, and power can be transmitted through shaft hole fitting or gear transmission. The other end of the second rotating shaft 113 extends to the outside of the air duct cover 111 of the refrigerator compartment 110 and is connected to the second knob 160. This end can be machined into a gear shape or equipped with a transmission interface to match the transmission structure inside the second knob 160.

[0063] Potentiometer 180 is an adjustable resistive element. By adjusting its position through the second knob 160 and the second rotating shaft 113, the resistance value in the circuit is changed, thereby controlling the relevant parameters of the refrigeration system (such as compressor speed, working time, etc.) and realizing the adjustment of the overall cooling intensity of the refrigerator 100.

[0064] The rigid transmission structure of the second rotating shaft 113 and the potentiometer 180 can resist interference factors such as airflow vibration in the refrigeration duct 130, ensuring the stability of the potentiometer 180 setting under complex working environments and avoiding refrigeration system malfunctions caused by external interference. Components such as the second rotating shaft 113, potentiometer 180, and second knob 160 can be pre-assembled into independent modules. During after-sales maintenance, only the refrigeration compartment 110 duct cover 111 needs to be removed for overall inspection or replacement of the relevant modules, resulting in short maintenance time and high efficiency.

[0065] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 ,like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in one embodiment of this application, a first gear 161 is provided at the end of the second knob 160 away from the refrigerator compartment 110, and a second gear 1131 is provided at the end of the second rotating shaft 113 away from the potentiometer 180. The first gear 161 meshes with the second gear 1131.

[0066] In this embodiment, the first gear 161 serves as a transmission intermediary between the second knob 160 and the second rotating shaft 113, converting the rotational motion of the knob into gear meshing transmission. The first gear 161 and the second knob 160 can be integrally molded using injection molding or fixedly connected by screws. The second gear 1131 meshes with the first gear 161 to drive the second rotating shaft 113 to rotate and adjust the potentiometer 180 position.

[0067] The second gear 1131 typically has fewer teeth than the first gear 161, for example, forming a transmission ratio of 2:1. This achieves a speed-increasing effect where "one rotation of the second knob 160 corresponds to two rotations of the second shaft 113," thus improving adjustment sensitivity. The second gear 1131 and the second shaft 113 are connected by a key, interference fit, or integral molding to ensure slippage-free transmission. The connection between the second shaft 113 and the potentiometer 180 can be a direct connection. For example, the end of the second shaft 113 is machined into a flat shape and inserted into the corresponding groove on the shaft of the potentiometer 180, locked by the elastic buckle 1142. Rotation directly drives the sliding of the internal resistive element of the potentiometer 180.

[0068] In this embodiment, the second knob 160 and the second rotating shaft 113 are connected by a gear transmission, which enables functions such as speed-up transmission and quick gear switching. For example, a 2:1 transmission ratio design allows the potentiometer 180 to rotate one full turn (360°) with the second knob 160 rotating half a turn (180°). Shifting from gear 1 to gear 9 requires only 4 turns (compared to 8 turns in a traditional direct-drive method), improving operating efficiency by 50%.

[0069] Furthermore, the use of gear transmission ensures precise and error-free positioning. Due to the extremely small meshing clearance of the gear teeth, combined with the internal limiting structure of potentiometer 180, precise control of "each setting corresponding to a fixed resistance value" can be achieved, with minimal temperature fluctuations. Through the rigid transmission of gear meshing, this solution achieves high efficiency, precision, and reliability in potentiometer 180 adjustment, improving user experience while reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs.

[0070] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of the refrigeration air duct 130 in a refrigerator 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 for Figure 6 The diagram shows a partial enlarged view of a refrigerator 100 at point B.

[0071] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment of this application, a limiting device 114 is provided in the refrigerated air duct 130. The limiting device 114 is connected to the first rotating shaft 112. When the first rotating shaft 112 is not subjected to external force, the limiting device 114 restricts the rotation of the first rotating shaft 112.

[0072] In this embodiment, the limiting device 114 serves as an angle locking component for the first rotating shaft 112. After the user stops adjusting, it restricts the rotation of the first rotating shaft 112, ensuring the stability of the damper 170 angle and preventing angle deviation due to the damper 170's own weight, vibration, or airflow impact. When setting the limiting device 114, it is necessary to ensure that the limiting device 114 has appropriate resistance; generally, it can be designed so that the user can complete the rotation with one hand.

[0073] like Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment of this application, the limiting device 114 includes a third gear 1141 and an elastic buckle 1142. The third gear 1141 is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 112, and the elastic buckle 1142 is fixedly connected to the refrigerated air duct 130, engaging between the teeth of the third gear 1141. When the torque received by the first rotating shaft 112 is less than or equal to a preset torque, the elastic buckle 1142 engages with the third gear 1141, restricting the rotation of the first rotating shaft 112. When the torque received by the first rotating shaft 112 is greater than the preset torque, the third gear 1141 rotates, causing the elastic buckle 1142 to deform, and the first rotating shaft 112 rotates.

[0074] In this embodiment, the third gear 1141 is fixedly sleeved on the first rotating shaft 112 and rotates synchronously with the first rotating shaft 112. Angle limiting is achieved through the engagement of the gear teeth with the elastic buckle 1142. The elastic buckle 1142 is fixed to the inner side of the cover plate of the refrigerated air duct 130 by injection molding or screws. One end of the elastic buckle 1142 engages with the tooth groove of the third gear 1141, generating a resistance torque through elastic deformation to restrict the rotation of the first rotating shaft 112.

[0075] When no force is applied to the first knob 150, the elastic latch 1142 and the third gear 1141 are in a static locked state (the torque on the third gear 1141 is less than or equal to the preset torque). One end of the elastic latch 1142 is embedded in the tooth groove of two adjacent teeth of the third gear 1141, and the third gear 1141 and the elastic latch 1142 remain engaged. The elastic latch 1142 applies a certain limiting force to the third gear 1141, so the first rotating shaft 112 cannot rotate, and the damper 170 angle is locked.

[0076] When the user rotates the first knob 150, the torque on the third gear 1141 is greater than the preset torque, forcing the elastic buckle 1142 to slide along the tooth surface of the third gear 1141 at one end of the tooth groove. The elastic buckle 1142 deforms, overcoming the elastic resistance torque, so that the third gear 1141 can rotate.

[0077] Each time the third gear 1141 rotates by one tooth pitch (corresponding to a change in the opening angle of the damper 170° Δθ = 360° / number of teeth), the latch jumps over the tooth pitch and makes a "click" sound, indicating to the user that the gear shift is complete. After adjustment, the latch automatically engages in the new tooth groove and relocks.

[0078] In one embodiment of this application, the second knob 160 is a hollow ring structure, and the first knob 150 is sleeved inside the second knob 160, with the first knob 150 and the second knob 160 being coaxial.

[0079] The coaxial design of the first knob 150 and the second knob 160 helps save space on the air duct cover 111. Compared with traditional separate knobs, it can reduce the size of the refrigerator panel 100 or increase storage space. Users can adjust the first knob 150 and the second knob 160 simultaneously with their thumb and forefinger (e.g., rotating the inner knob with the thumb to adjust the air damper 170, and rotating the outer knob with the forefinger to adjust the speed), which helps improve operating efficiency.

[0080] The first knob 150 and the second knob 160 can be isolated by a gap, so they do not interfere with each other when rotated. The synchronization error between the gear adjustment and the damper 170 adjustment is small, ensuring accurate temperature control logic (e.g., adjusting the gear first and then the airflow, or vice versa). The second knob 160 is supported by a bearing or bushing, which ensures a high coaxiality retention rate under the vibration of the refrigerator 100 during operation, avoiding adjustment errors caused by knob shaking.

[0081] Please refer to this again. Figure 4 ,like Figure 4 As shown in one embodiment of this application, a damper bracket 115 is provided in the refrigerated air duct 130, and an opening 116 is provided on the damper bracket 115. The damper 170 is rotatably connected to the damper bracket 115. The damper 170 and the opening 116 cooperate to form an airflow outlet. The size of the airflow outlet is adjusted by adjusting the position of the damper 170 on the damper bracket 115.

[0082] The damper bracket 115 serves as the mounting carrier for the damper 170, fixed within the refrigerated air duct 130. It provides a support structure for the rotation of the damper 170 and, through the opening 116, mates with the damper 170 to form an adjustable airflow outlet. The main frame of the damper bracket 115 is typically an injection-molded rectangular or circular frame, made of low-temperature resistant ABS or PS plastic, with a thickness of 2-3mm to ensure structural strength. The outlet is usually located in the center of the bracket, and its shape is circular, rectangular, or arc-shaped (matching the contour of the damper 170). The edges of the opening 116 are smooth to reduce airflow resistance. Shaft holes are provided on both sides of the opening 116 for mounting the damper 170's rotating shaft. The rotating shafts on both sides of the damper 170 are inserted into the bracket's shaft holes with a clearance fit, ensuring the damper 170 can rotate freely while avoiding noise caused by shaking. The damper 170 covers the opening 116 of the damper bracket 115. By rotating it, the overlapping area with the opening 116 is changed, thereby adjusting the airflow outlet size (opening range 0-100%). The damper 170 and the damper bracket 115 can be pre-assembled into an independent module, which can be directly embedded into the refrigeration air duct 130 during installation.

[0083] Please refer to this again. Figure 4 and Figure 5 ,like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in one embodiment of this application, a foam assembly 117 is provided in the refrigerated air duct 130, and a cavity is provided in the foam assembly 117. An air damper bracket 115 is disposed in the cavity. Specifically, the foam assembly 117 includes air duct foam and a foam cover plate. A cavity is provided inside the air duct foam, the foam cover plate is connected to the air duct foam, and the air damper bracket 115 is disposed in the cavity in the air duct foam.

[0084] The foam assembly 117 serves as the main structure of the refrigerated air duct 130, comprising the air duct foam and a foam cover. The air duct foam is formed into a sealed cavity using a foaming process, providing installation space for the damper bracket 115, while also serving as insulation, noise reduction, and airflow guidance functions. The foam cover covers the air duct foam, sealing the cavity and providing an operating interface (such as a knob mounting hole), while also enhancing structural strength.

[0085] The interior of the foam assembly 117 has an irregular hollow structure that matches the shape of the damper bracket 115. The inner wall of the cavity is smooth to reduce airflow resistance. An air inlet (connecting to the evaporator) is located on one side of the cavity, and an air outlet (connecting to the freezer duct 140) is located on the other side. The damper bracket 115 is positioned between the air inlet and the air outlet. The external shape of the foam assembly 117 fits snugly against the refrigerator body 100, and its outer surface is covered with an aluminum foil layer or a plastic panel to enhance structural strength.

[0086] The closed-cell structure of the foam component 117 effectively blocks heat exchange between the refrigerated air duct 130 and the outside environment, resulting in smaller temperature fluctuations in the cold air inside the duct and greater energy efficiency compared to traditional metal air ducts. The porous structure of the foam material can absorb airflow noise and reduce the transmission of mechanical vibration and operating noise when the damper 170 rotates.

[0087] In this embodiment, a sealed and insulated space is formed by the air duct foam assembly 117 (including air duct foam and foam cover plate) to ensure efficient transmission of cold air.

[0088] Please refer to Figure 3 ,like Figure 3 As shown in one embodiment of this application, the refrigerator 100 in this application further includes an intermediate air duct 190, and the refrigeration air duct 130 is connected to the freezer air duct 140 through the intermediate air duct 190.

[0089] The intermediate air duct 190 serves as the connecting hub between the refrigerated air duct 130 and the refrigerated air duct 140, undertaking the function of cold air transfer and distribution, and improving the efficiency of cold air transfer by optimizing the airflow path. The intermediate air duct 190 is usually a tubular structure with a circular or rectangular cross-section and a smooth inner wall to reduce airflow resistance.

[0090] After being cooled by the evaporator, the cold air first enters the refrigeration air duct 140, then passes through the intermediate air duct 190 and enters the refrigerator air duct 130. The flow rate into the freezer compartment 120 is regulated by the damper 170 set in the refrigerator air duct 130.

[0091] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0092] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0093] Although preferred embodiments of the present application have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application includes the preferred embodiments as well as all changes and modifications falling within the scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0094] This document uses specific examples to illustrate the working principle and implementation method of the refrigerator of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the specific settings and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation method and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0095] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, It includes a refrigerator compartment, a freezer compartment, a first knob, a second knob, an air damper, and a potentiometer. The refrigerator compartment is provided with a refrigerator air duct, and the freezer compartment is provided with a freezer air duct. The refrigerator air duct and the freezer air duct are connected. The damper and the potentiometer are both located in the refrigeration air duct, and the first knob and the second knob are located on the air duct cover of the refrigeration compartment; The first knob is mechanically connected to the damper, and the second knob is mechanically connected to the potentiometer. The first knob and the second knob are coaxially arranged.

2. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerated air duct is also provided with a first rotating shaft, the air damper is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft, and the end of the first rotating shaft away from the air damper is fixedly connected to the first knob.

3. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The refrigerated air duct is also provided with a second rotating shaft, the potentiometer is connected to the second rotating shaft, and the end of the second rotating shaft away from the potentiometer is connected to the second knob for transmission.

4. The refrigerator as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The second knob is provided with a first gear at the end away from the refrigerator compartment, and the second shaft is provided with a second gear at the end away from the potentiometer. The first gear meshes with the second gear.

5. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, A limiting device is provided in the refrigerated air duct. The limiting device is connected to the first rotating shaft. When the first rotating shaft is not subjected to external force, the limiting device restricts the rotation of the first rotating shaft.

6. The refrigerator as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The limiting device includes a third gear and an elastic buckle. The third gear is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft, and the elastic buckle is fixedly connected to the refrigerated air duct. The elastic buckle is engaged between the teeth of the third gear. When the torque on the first rotating shaft is less than or equal to the preset torque, the elastic buckle engages with the third gear to restrict the rotation of the first rotating shaft. When the torque on the first rotating shaft is greater than the preset torque, the third gear rotates and causes the elastic buckle to deform, and the first rotating shaft rotates.

7. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second knob is a hollow ring structure, and the first knob is fitted inside the second knob. The first knob and the second knob are coaxial.

8. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The refrigerated air duct is equipped with an air damper bracket, which has an opening. The air damper is rotatably connected to the air damper bracket, and the air damper and the opening cooperate to form an air outlet. The size of the air outlet is adjusted by adjusting the position of the air damper on the air damper bracket.

9. The refrigerator as described in claim 8, characterized in that, A foam assembly is provided in the refrigerated air duct, and a cavity is provided in the foam assembly. The damper bracket is located in the cavity.

10. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an intermediate air duct, through which the refrigerated air duct is connected to the frozen air duct.

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