Hinge assembly and refrigeration appliance

Abstract

This application provides a hinge assembly and a refrigeration device. The hinge assembly includes: a first connecting member; a second connecting member; a first rotating shaft, with a first end axially connected to the first connecting member and a second end axially connected to the second connecting member; a first ratchet, sleeved on the first rotating shaft and coupled to the first connecting member; and a first elastic member, disposed on the second connecting member and in contact with the first ratchet. When the first connecting member rotates in a first direction, the first elastic member provides resistance to the first ratchet, keeping the first ratchet stationary, and the first connecting member rotates relative to the first ratchet against the resistance. When the first connecting member rotates in a second direction, the first elastic member deforms, and the first connecting member and the first ratchet rotate synchronously relative to the second connecting member, with the first and second directions being opposite. This assembly, through the cooperation of the ratchet structure and the elastic member, can reduce wear and enable the door to hover during opening and closing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of home appliances, and more specifically to a hinge assembly and a refrigeration device. Background Technology

[0002] As the core component connecting two rotatable parts, the hinge assembly bears the crucial responsibility of ensuring stable and flexible opening and closing. Its design quality significantly impacts the user experience, as well as the sealing and durability of the components. Taking a freezer as an example, the hinge assembly connects the freezer door to the cabinet. Its design performance directly affects the user's door opening and closing experience, as well as the freezer's sealing and durability. Therefore, the hinge assembly structure holds a vital position in the entire freezer.

[0003] Currently, existing refrigerator door hinges typically employ a specific structural composition to achieve their function. They mainly consist of door connectors, cabinet connectors, hinge rotation shafts, guide rods, and swing shafts. The door connectors and cabinet connectors are connected via the hinge rotation shaft, thus establishing the basic rotational relationship between the door and the cabinet.

[0004] However, since the freezer door is a frequently used component, the frequent opening and closing significantly increases the friction between the hinge shaft and the guide rod. Prolonged exposure to this high-wear condition can easily lead to loosening of the door hinges, affecting the stability of the connection between the door and the freezer body. Furthermore, wear can cause abnormal noises, not only reducing the user experience but also potentially indicating a malfunction in the hinge's internal structure. More seriously, under continuous wear, hinge components may deform or even break, affecting the normal operation of the freezer, increasing repair costs, and causing user inconvenience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One of the objectives of this application is to provide a hinge assembly to solve the technical problem in the prior art where the hinges of refrigerator doors are prone to significant wear due to their structural characteristics when the doors are frequently opened and closed, resulting in poor door stability and reduced service life.

[0006] To achieve one of the aforementioned objectives, this application provides a hinge assembly, comprising: a first connector; a second connector; a first pivot shaft, the first end of which is axially connected to the first connector, and the second end of which is axially connected to the second connector; a first ratchet, sleeved on the first pivot shaft and coupled to the first connector; and a first elastic element, disposed on the second connector and in contact with the first ratchet. When the first connector rotates in a first direction, the first elastic element provides resistance to the first ratchet, keeping the first ratchet stationary, and the first connector overcomes the resistance and rotates relative to the first ratchet. When the first connector rotates in a second direction, the first elastic element deforms, and the first connector and the first ratchet rotate synchronously relative to the second connector, with the first and second directions being opposite.

[0007] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the first elastic member includes: an engaging portion and an elastic portion, wherein the engaging portion is provided with a contact tooth surface that engages with the tooth surface of the first ratchet on one side facing the first ratchet, and the elastic portion is disposed on the other side of the engaging portion.

[0008] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the elastic part includes a plurality of spaced elastic sheets, one end of which is fixedly disposed on one side of the meshing part, and the other end is fixedly disposed on the second connector.

[0009] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the elastic sheet and the second connector form an acute angle in a third direction, and the third direction forms an angle with the first direction and the second direction.

[0010] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the first elastic member includes: a first slider and a first spring, a first end of the first spring being connected to the second connector, a second end of the first spring being connected to one end of the first slider, and the other end of the first slider engaging with the first ratchet.

[0011] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the first slider is provided with a contact tooth surface that meshes with the first ratchet on the side facing the first ratchet, the first slider is provided with a first groove on the side facing the second connector, and the first spring is disposed in the first groove.

[0012] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the contact tooth surface between the first ratchet and the first elastic member is arc-shaped.

[0013] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the hinge assembly further includes: a second ratchet symmetrically arranged with respect to the first ratchet, the second ratchet being sleeved on the first rotating shaft and coupled to the first connecting member.

[0014] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the hinge assembly further includes: a second elastic member symmetrically disposed with respect to the first elastic member, the second elastic member being disposed on the second connector and in contact with the second ratchet.

[0015] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the hinge assembly further includes: a third elastic element, the third elastic element including a second slider and a second spring, the first end of the second spring being connected to the first connector, the second end of the second spring being connected to the first end of the second slider, and the second end of the second slider engaging with the second ratchet.

[0016] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this application, the first connector, the second connector and the first ratchet are all provided with mounting holes, and the rotating shaft is inserted into its mounting holes and fixed at both ends of the rotating shaft by cotter pins.

[0017] To achieve one of the above-mentioned objectives, this application provides a refrigeration device, including a door and a housing, wherein the door and the housing are connected by the hinge assembly.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the embodiments of this application have at least one of the following beneficial effects:

[0019] This application discloses a hinge assembly. When the first connector rotates along a first direction, the first elastic element, relying on its own elastic properties, forms resistance against the first ratchet in contact with it, keeping the first ratchet stationary. At this time, the first connector overcomes this resistance and rotates relative to the first ratchet, effectively limiting the door opening speed and ensuring the smoothness of the door opening process. When the first connector rotates along a second direction, the direction of the elastic force of the first elastic element changes, allowing the first connector and the first ratchet to rotate synchronously relative to the second connector, ensuring the smoothness of the door closing process, reducing component jamming and collisions caused by uneven rotation, and reducing additional wear caused by frequent jamming and collisions.

[0020] Furthermore, during the opening or closing process, when the external force stops being applied and torque balance is achieved, the door can achieve the hovering function when opening and closing by means of the interaction between the first ratchet and the first elastic element. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the hinge assembly in one embodiment of this application.

[0022] Figure 2(a) is a schematic diagram of the structure in which the first connector is directly connected to the first ratchet in one embodiment of this application.

[0023] Figure 2(b) is a schematic diagram of the structure in which the first connector is indirectly connected to the first ratchet in another embodiment of this application.

[0024] Figure 3(a) is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first elastic element in one embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 3(b) is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first elastic element in one embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the hinge assembly in one embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the hinge assembly in one embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the hinge assembly installed in a freezer according to one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The present application will now be described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present application, and any structural, methodological, or functional modifications made by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments are included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0030] The terms used in this document, such as “center,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” and “outer,” indicating spatial relative positions, are used for illustrative purposes to describe the relationship of one unit or feature relative to another unit or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings. The terms “spatial relative positions” may be intended to include different orientations of the equipment in use or operation other than those shown in the figures.

[0031] For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, a unit described as being "below" or "under" other units or features will be "above" other units or features. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or otherwise) and the spatially related descriptive terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0032] 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.

[0033] It should be noted that the term "comprising" or any other variation thereof is intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, one embodiment of this application provides a hinge assembly 1000.

[0035] The hinge assembly 100 is a mechanical device used to connect two parts and control the relative rotation of the two parts.

[0036] The hinge assembly 100 includes a first connector 11, which is fixedly mounted on a first component. The first component can be a door, a flip cover, or other structures that are fixedly connected to each other.

[0037] In one embodiment, the first connector 11 includes a first fixing plate and a first side plate 2 and a second side plate 3 extending from opposite ends of the first fixing plate. The first side plate 2 and the second side plate 3 are each provided with a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole.

[0038] The hinge assembly 100 includes a second connector 12, which is fixedly mounted on a second component, which may be a box, frame, or other structure.

[0039] In one embodiment, the second connector 12 includes a second fixing plate and a third side plate 5 and a fourth side plate 6 extending from opposite ends of the second fixing plate. The third side plate 5 and the fourth side plate 6 are each provided with a third mounting hole and a fourth mounting hole.

[0040] The hinge assembly 100 includes a first pivot 13, a first end of which is pivotally connected to a first connector 11, and a second end of which is pivotally connected to a second connector 12.

[0041] The first connector 11 and the first rotating shaft 13 are connected by a shaft, so that the first connector 11 can rotate around the first rotating shaft 13 as the central axis. However, the first rotating shaft 13 itself may not necessarily rotate synchronously with the first connector 11. In this way, the door can be easily lifted, only needing to overcome the small frictional force at the shaft connection.

[0042] In one embodiment, one end of the first connector 11 is provided with a plurality of mounting holes for fixed connection to the first component (such as a door) by means of fasteners such as bolts. Similarly, one end of the second connector 12 is provided with a plurality of mounting holes for fixed connection to the second component (such as a housing) by means of fasteners such as bolts.

[0043] The hinge assembly 100 includes a first ratchet 14, which is sleeved on a first rotating shaft 13. The first ratchet 14 is coupled to a first connecting member 11, which can specifically refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection.

[0044] In one embodiment, the first ratchet 14 is directly connected to the first connecting member 11. As shown in FIG2(a), the side of the first connecting member 11 facing the first ratchet 14 is provided with a toothed surface, and the first connecting member 11 meshes with the first ratchet 14. When the first connecting member 11 rotates, the meshing point 11-1 between the first connecting member 11 and the first ratchet 14 will deform.

[0045] In one embodiment, the first ratchet 14 is connected to the first connector 11 via other intermediate components. As shown in FIG2(b), an elastic element (such as a third elastic element 18) is provided between the first connector 11 and the first ratchet 14, and the side of the elastic element facing the first ratchet 14 is provided with a toothed surface to mesh with the first ratchet 14.

[0046] In one specific embodiment, the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are disposed on the same side of the first ratchet 14, such as... Figure 1 As shown.

[0047] The hinge assembly 100 includes a first elastic element 15, which is disposed on the second connector 12 and contacts the first ratchet 14. This contact means that the first elastic element 15 maintains physical contact with the tooth surface or contour of the first ratchet 14, but the magnitude of the contact pressure can vary with the direction of movement.

[0048] In one embodiment, when the first connector 11 rotates in the first direction, the door opens, the first elastic member 15 creates resistance to the first ratchet 14, keeping the first ratchet 14 stationary, and the first connector 11 overcomes the resistance and rotates relative to the first ratchet 14.

[0049] In one embodiment, when the first connector 11 rotates in the second direction, the door closes, the first elastic member 15 deforms, and the first connector 11 and the first ratchet 14 rotate synchronously relative to the second connector 12.

[0050] In one embodiment, the first direction is opposite to the second direction. Specifically, taking a freezer as an example, when the door is closed, the door cover is placed on top of the cabinet, and the hinge assembly 100 is located at the junction of the door and the cabinet. Assuming the opening direction is counterclockwise, the closing direction is clockwise. In this case, the first direction refers to the first connecting member 11 rotating counterclockwise, and the second direction refers to the first connecting member 11 rotating clockwise.

[0051] In one embodiment, the contact tooth surfaces of the first ratchet 14 and the first elastic member 15 are arc-shaped.

[0052] Thus, the arc-shaped structure design helps to increase the contact area between the two, making the force transmission more uniform and stable, reducing local stress concentration, and reducing wear.

[0053] like Figure 1 As shown in Figure 3(a), the first elastic member 15 includes an engaging part 15-1 and an elastic part 15-2. The engaging part 15-1 is provided with a contact tooth surface that engages with the tooth surface of the first ratchet 14 on one side facing the first ratchet 14. The elastic part 15-2 is provided on the other side of the engaging part 15-1 and is fixedly connected to the second connecting member 12.

[0054] In this embodiment, the meshing part 15-1 ensures full tooth profile engagement with the first ratchet 14 upon contact, and the pressure distribution is uniform. The elastic part 15-2 adjusts the degree of deformation based on the elasticity of different materials.

[0055] In one embodiment, the elastic part 15-2 includes a plurality of spaced elastic sheets 7, one end of which is fixedly disposed on one side of the engaging part 15-1, and the other end is fixedly disposed on the second connector 12.

[0056] In this way, the load is distributed by the spaced elastic plates 7, avoiding stress concentration at a single point. At the same time, if a single elastic plate 7 fails, the remaining elastic plates 7 can still work, thus enhancing reliability.

[0057] In one specific embodiment, the elastic portion 15-2 contains 4 elastic pieces 7, which are arranged at equal intervals along the length of the meshing portion 15-1.

[0058] In one specific embodiment, the plurality of elastic sheets 7 in the elastic portion 15-2 are parallel to each other. This ensures that the elastic sheets are subjected to uniform force and avoids damage to individual elastic sheets due to uneven force at a single point.

[0059] In one specific embodiment, the elastic sheet is made of plastic, which is prone to deformation under external pressure. Furthermore, the elastic sheet 7 has a certain thickness, and the side containing this thickness is fixed to the second connector 12 by welding.

[0060] In one specific embodiment, the engaging portion 15-1 and the elastic portion 15-2 can be integrally formed or not integrally formed. For example, the engaging portion 15-1 and the elastic piece 7 can be fixed by welding, or a groove can be provided at the engaging portion 15-1, and the elastic piece 7 can be fixed by rivets after being inserted into the groove. There are no specific limitations on this.

[0061] In one embodiment, the elastic sheet 7 and the second connector 12 form an acute angle in the third direction. Thus, by changing this angle, the amount of resistance or assistance provided by the elastic sheet 7 during the rotation of the door can be adjusted.

[0062] In this embodiment, the third direction can be understood as the horizontal direction, or the mounting plane of the second connector 12. An acute angle means that the elastic sheet 7 has already been pre-deformed in its natural state.

[0063] In one specific embodiment, the acute angle formed by the elastic sheet 7 and the second connector 12 in the third direction is 45° or 60°.

[0064] In one embodiment, the first direction forms an angle with the third direction, and the second direction forms an angle with the third direction.

[0065] In one specific embodiment, the contact tooth surface between the first ratchet 14 and the meshing part 15-1 is arc-shaped.

[0066] Continue to refer to Figure 1 As shown in Figure 2(a), taking a freezer as an example, when the freezer door is opened, the first connector 11 tends to rotate with the first ratchet 14 through the meshing part with the first ratchet 14. When the first ratchet 14 tends to rotate, it will apply a force to the first elastic member 15. The result that the elastic piece 7 and the second connector 12 form an acute angle in the third direction makes the elastic piece 7 generate a component force perpendicular to the elastic piece 7 and pointing towards the second connector 12 when it is subjected to the force transmitted from the first connector 11 through the first ratchet. This component force increases the pressure between the first ratchet 14 and the second connector 12, making the interference between the two more obvious and the friction force significantly increased, thereby effectively preventing the first ratchet 14 from rotating relative to the second connector 12 and keeping the first ratchet 14 in a relatively stationary state.

[0067] The support component 8 (such as a plastic support component) below the first connector 11, which contacts the first ratchet 14, will deform to a certain extent because it has to withstand the force generated when the first connector 11 rotates and the reaction force generated by the interference of the first ratchet 14. This deformation plays a role in buffering and adapting, ensuring that the first connector 11 can continue to rotate to open the door, while preventing damage to the component due to excessive stress.

[0068] When the freezer door is closed, compared to when it is open, the first connecting piece 11 rotates in the opposite direction to the opening direction. This causes the first connecting piece 11 to exert a force on the first ratchet 14 in the opposite direction to the opening direction during rotation, tending to drive the first ratchet 14 to rotate in the opposite direction to the opening direction.

[0069] When the first ratchet 14 is subjected to the reverse rotational force transmitted from the first connector 11, it exerts a reverse force on the first elastic element 15. This reverse force has a third-direction component, which causes the elastic piece 7 to deform in a direction more prone to deformation. After the elastic piece 7 deforms, a certain degree of elastic buffer space is formed between the first ratchet 14 and the second connector 12. This buffer space allows the resistance from the second connector 12 on the first ratchet 14 to gradually decrease. When this resistance decreases to a certain extent, less than the force exerted by the first connector 11 on the first ratchet 14 to drive its rotation, the first connector 11 can smoothly drive the first ratchet 14 to rotate relative to the cabinet, thereby allowing the freezer door to close smoothly as expected.

[0070] During the opening and closing process described above, when the door moves to a certain angle, the torque generated by the door on the first ratchet 14 is balanced with the anti-friction torque of the first elastic element 15 on the first ratchet 14, thereby achieving the suspension of the door.

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the first elastic member 15 includes a first slider 15-3 and a first spring 15-4. The first end of the first spring 15-4 is connected to the second connector 12, and its second end is connected to the first end of the first slider 15-3. The second end of the first slider 15-3 engages with the first ratchet 14.

[0072] In this embodiment, the first elastic element 15 adopts a combination structure of the first slider 15-3 and the first spring 15-4. The first slider 15-3, as a component that directly contacts the first ratchet 14, can accurately transmit the elastic force of the first spring 15-4 to the first ratchet 14 through the meshing of its contact tooth surface with the tooth surface of the first ratchet 14. The first spring 15-4 provides the elastic force source for the entire elastic element and adapts to the movement changes of the first ratchet 14 through its own extension and contraction deformation, thereby realizing the control of the rotation or stationary state of the first ratchet 14.

[0073] Specifically, taking a freezer as an example, when the freezer door begins to open, the first connector 11 will cause the first ratchet 14 to rotate. Since the first slider 15-3 is tightly engaged with the first ratchet 14 through its contact teeth, the rotation of the first ratchet 14 will push the first slider 15-3 to move closer to the second connector 12. Since one end of the first spring 15-4 is connected to the second connector 12 and the other end is connected to the first slider 15-3, the first spring 15-4 will be compressed at this time to make way for the rotation of the first connector 11.

[0074] The elastic force generated by the compression of the first spring 15-4 is transmitted to the first ratchet 14 through the first slider 15-3, increasing the friction between the first ratchet 14 and surrounding components (such as the related structures of the second connector 12), thereby hindering the rotation of the first ratchet 14. As the first connector 11 continues to rotate, the deformation of the first spring 15-4 gradually increases, and the elastic force also increases, further hindering the rotation of the first ratchet 14, keeping the first ratchet 14 in a relatively stationary state. Meanwhile, the first connector 11 overcomes this resistance and rotates relative to the first ratchet 14, realizing the opening action of the door.

[0075] Similarly, during the closing process of the door, the first connecting member 11 drives the first ratchet 14 to rotate in the opposite direction to the opening direction. At this time, the compressed first spring 15-4 begins to release its elastic potential energy, generating a spring force in the opposite direction to the movement of the first slider 15-3, pushing the first slider 15-3 to move away from the second connecting member 12. The movement of the first slider 15-3 causes its contact tooth surface to interact with the tooth surface of the first ratchet 14, providing some assistance to the rotation of the first ratchet 14.

[0076] As the first connecting member 11 continues to rotate, the first spring 15-4 gradually returns to a certain degree, and its force on the first slider 15-3 also changes. During this process, the meshing state between the first slider 15-3 and the first ratchet 14 is adjusted according to the change in the elastic force of the first spring 15-4. When the first spring 15-4 and the first connecting member 11 drive the first ratchet 14 to rotate and interfere with each other to remain relatively stationary, the first slider 15-3, which compresses the second connecting member 12, makes way for the first connecting member 11, so that the first connecting member 11 can smoothly drive the first ratchet 14 to rotate together with the box body, thereby realizing the closing action of the door.

[0077] In one specific embodiment, the first slider 15-3 has a contact tooth surface that meshes with the first ratchet 14 on the side facing the first ratchet 14, and the first slider 15-3 has a first groove 2 on the side facing the second connector 12, and the first spring 15-4 is disposed in the first groove 2.

[0078] Thus, by setting the first groove 2 on the first slider 15-3, the first spring 15-4 can be better installed and fixed, which not only ensures the stability of the first spring 15-4 during operation, but also makes the extension and retraction direction of the first spring 15-4 more accurate, thereby improving the working reliability of the first elastic element 15.

[0079] In one specific embodiment, the contact tooth surfaces of the first ratchet 14 and the first slider 15-3 are arc-shaped.

[0080] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the hinge assembly 100 further includes a second ratchet 16 disposed opposite to the first ratchet 14, the second ratchet 16 being sleeved on the first pivot 13 and coupled to the first connector 13.

[0081] Thus, by adding a symmetrical second ratchet 16 to the single first ratchet 14, a symmetrical double ratchet hinge assembly is formed. The two work together to constrain and adjust the rotation from different directions during the door's rotation, enhancing the stability of the rotation and effectively avoiding problems such as uneven force distribution, rotation jamming, or loss of control that may occur with a single ratchet. At the same time, the combined effect of the two can better distribute the ground force generated when the door rotates, reduce the load on a single ratchet, reduce wear, and extend the service life of the hinge assembly.

[0082] In this embodiment, the specific structural design of the second ratchet 16 and its cooperation with other components can be referred to the previous description of the first ratchet 14, and will not be repeated here.

[0083] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, when installing the hinge assembly 100, the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are first spatially positioned so that the first side plate 2 extended by the first fixing plate of the first connector 11 and the third side plate 5 extended by the second fixing plate of the second connector 12 are close to each other, and at the same time the second side plate 3 and the fourth side plate 6 are also close to each other.

[0084] During this process, the relative positions of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are adjusted to ensure that the first mounting holes and the second mounting holes on the first side plate 2 and the second side plate 3 correspond one-to-one with the third mounting holes and the fourth mounting holes on the third side plate 5 and the fourth side plate 6, respectively, and the axes of the four mounting holes coincide. At this time, the two connectors achieve precise alignment of the mounting holes in the overlapping area. The first rotating shaft 13 is passed through these four aligned mounting holes, and the first ratchet 14 and the second ratchet 16 are respectively sleeved on both ends of the first rotating shaft 13 to achieve the initial connection between the first connector 11 and the second connector 12.

[0085] Continue to refer to Figure 4 As shown, in one specific embodiment, the hinge assembly 100 further includes a second elastic member 17 symmetrically arranged with the first elastic member 15. The second elastic member 17 is disposed on the second connector 12 and has contact with the second ratchet 16.

[0086] In this embodiment, the specific structural design of the second elastic element 17 and its cooperation relationship with other components can be referred to the previous description of the first elastic element 15, and will not be repeated here.

[0087] like Figure 5As shown, in one embodiment, the hinge assembly 100 further includes a third elastic element 18, which includes a second slider 18-1 and a second spring 18-2. The first end of the second spring 18-2 is connected to the first connector 11, and its second end is connected to the first end of the second slider 18-2. The second end of the second slider 18-2 engages with the second ratchet 15.

[0088] In this embodiment, the first elastic element 15 connects the first ratchet 14 and the second connector 12, and the second elastic element 18 connects the first connector 11 and the second ratchet 16. Through the meshing relationship between the ratchet and the connector, the movement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 is indirectly coupled.

[0089] Furthermore, by symmetrically distributing the first elastic element 15 and the third elastic element 18, bidirectional controllable damping is introduced during the rotation of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12, which can counteract the radial unbalanced torque of the shaft and reduce wear.

[0090] This application also provides a refrigeration device 200, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the refrigeration equipment 200 includes a door 21 and a cabinet 22, which are connected by the hinge assembly 100 described above, for opening or closing the door of the freezer.

[0091] In one embodiment, the refrigeration equipment can be a freezer (e.g., a horizontal freezer). Specifically, the first connector 11 is disposed on the side where the thickness of the door 21 is located, and the second connector 12 is disposed at the corresponding position on the cabinet 22.

[0092] In this embodiment, when the door 21 is closed, the side of the door 21 with its thickness is on the same plane as the side of the corresponding housing 22. At this time, the angle between the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 is 180°, so that the door 21 and the housing 22 fit tightly together to prevent cold air leakage. When the door 21 is opened, the door 21 rotates around the hinge assembly 100, and the angle between the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 gradually decreases from 180°.

[0093] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and 6 As shown, taking a horizontal freezer as an example, the operation of the hinge assembly 100 during the opening and closing process is described. When the horizontal freezer is placed stably on the ground, with the door 21 closed, the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are on the same vertical plane. At this time, the door 21 is tightly fitted to the cabinet 22, and all components of the hinge assembly 100 are in a relatively stable initial position.

[0094] On the one hand, during the opening of the door 21, an external force needs to be applied to overcome the weight of the door 21 and the frictional force inside the hinge assembly 100. When the external force is applied to push the door 21 to rotate upward, the first connecting member 11 connected to the door 21 rotates around the first pivot 13. Due to the rotation of the first connecting member 11, the first ratchet 14 also tends to rotate under the drive of the first connecting member 11. At this time, the interaction between the first ratchet 14 and the corresponding first elastic member 15 changes.

[0095] The rotation of the first ratchet 14 changes the deformation state of the first elastic element 15. The first elastic element 15 generates elastic force and applies a reverse frictional resistance torque to the first ratchet 14 through its contact part with the first ratchet 14. This resistance torque counteracts the torque that pushes the door 21 to rotate, so that the door 21 will not open quickly in an instant, but can open relatively smoothly and slowly.

[0096] Furthermore, as the opening angle of the door 21 gradually increases, the weight of the door 21 itself generates a clockwise (assuming the opening direction is clockwise) torque on the first ratchet 14, causing the door 21 to continue opening. At the same time, the elastic force generated by the first elastic element 15 continuously increases, which in turn increases the frictional resistance torque it applies to the first ratchet 14.

[0097] When the door 21 is opened to a certain angle, the clockwise rotational torque generated by the door 21 on the first ratchet 14 is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the frictional resistance torque applied by the first elastic member 15 through the first ratchet 1. At this time, the net external torque on the first ratchet 14 is 0, and the first ratchet 14 stops rotating. Since the first ratchet 14 is connected to the first connecting member 11, and the first connecting member 11 is connected to the door 21, the door 21 also stops rotating, thus achieving a hovering.

[0098] On the other hand, during the closing process of the door 21, when an external force is applied to push the door 21 downward, the first connecting member 11 rotates around the first pivot 13, causing the first ratchet 14 to rotate. At this time, the first elastic member 15, which had deformed due to the opening of the door, begins to recover its deformation. Its elastic force applies a resistance torque to the first ratchet 14 through the contact part of the first ratchet 14, which is opposite to the direction of rotation of the door 21. This resistance torque helps to control the closing speed of the door 21 and prevents the door 21 from crashing rapidly into the box 22 due to gravity.

[0099] When the door 21 is closed to a certain angle, the counterclockwise rotational torque generated by the door 21 on the first ratchet 14 is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the resistance torque applied by the first elastic member 15 through the first ratchet 14. At this time, the net external torque on the first ratchet 14 is zero, the first ratchet 14 stops rotating, and thus the first connecting member 11 and the door 21 stop rotating, achieving a hovering state.

[0100] In summary, this application provides a hinge assembly and a refrigeration device. When the first connecting member rotates along a first direction, the first elastic member, relying on its own elastic properties, forms resistance against the first ratchet in contact with it, keeping the first ratchet stationary. At this time, the first connecting member overcomes this resistance and rotates relative to the first ratchet, effectively limiting the door opening speed and ensuring the smoothness of the door opening process. Simultaneously, during this process, when the external force stops being applied and torque balance is achieved, the door can achieve stable suspension in the open state due to the interaction between the first ratchet and the first elastic member. When the first connecting member rotates along a second direction, the direction of the elastic force of the first elastic member changes, allowing the first connecting member and the first ratchet to rotate synchronously relative to the second connecting member, ensuring the smoothness of the door closing process. Furthermore, during the closing process, stable suspension in the closed state can also be achieved when the external force stops and torque balance is achieved.

[0101] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0102] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible implementation methods of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. All equivalent implementation methods or modifications made without departing from the spirit of the art of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A hinge assembly, characterized in that, include: First connector; Second connector; A first rotating shaft, the first end of which is axially connected to the first connecting member, and the second end of which is axially connected to the second connecting member; The first ratchet is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and coupled to the first connecting member; The first elastic element is disposed on the second connecting element and is in contact with the first ratchet; When the first connector rotates in the first direction, the first elastic element creates resistance to the first ratchet, keeping the first ratchet stationary, and the first connector overcomes the resistance and rotates relative to the first ratchet. When the first connector rotates in the second direction, the first elastic element deforms, and the first connector and the first ratchet rotate synchronously relative to the second connector, with the first direction and the second direction being opposite.

2. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first elastic element includes an engaging portion and an elastic portion. The engaging portion has a contact tooth surface that engages with the tooth surface of the first ratchet on one side facing the first ratchet, and the elastic portion is disposed on the other side of the engaging portion.

3. The hinge assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The elastic part includes a plurality of spaced elastic sheets, one end of which is fixedly disposed on one side of the meshing part, and the other end is fixedly disposed on the second connector.

4. The hinge assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic sheet and the second connector form an acute angle in a third direction, and the third direction forms an angle with the first direction and the second direction.

5. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first elastic element includes a first slider and a first spring. The first end of the first spring is connected to the second connecting member, and its second end is connected to one end of the first slider. The other end of the first slider is engaged with the first ratchet.

6. The hinge assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first slider has a contact tooth surface on its side facing the first ratchet that meshes with the first ratchet, and the first slider has a first groove on its side facing the second connector, with the first spring disposed in the first groove.

7. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contact surface between the first ratchet and the first elastic element is arc-shaped.

8. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hinge assembly further includes a second ratchet symmetrically arranged with respect to the first ratchet, the second ratchet being sleeved on the first rotating shaft and coupled to the first connecting member.

9. The hinge assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The hinge assembly further includes a second elastic element symmetrically arranged with respect to the first elastic element, the second elastic element being disposed on the second connector and in contact with the second ratchet.

10. The hinge assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The hinge assembly further includes a third elastic element, which includes a second slider and a second spring. The first end of the second spring is connected to the first connector, and its second end is connected to the first end of the second slider. The second end of the second slider engages with the second ratchet.

11. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connector, the second connector, and the first ratchet are all provided with mounting holes. The rotating shaft is inserted into its mounting holes and fixed at both ends of the rotating shaft by cotter pins.

12. A refrigeration device, characterized in that, It includes a door and a housing, and the door and housing are connected by a hinge assembly as described in any one of claims 1-11.

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