Ice maker

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of ice making equipment, and discloses an ice maker, which comprises an inner container and a refrigeration system. The refrigeration system comprises a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator and a return gas hose connected between the evaporator and the compressor. A cold water cavity for sending water to the evaporator is defined below the inner container. A first opening is formed in the side wall of the inner container. The return gas hose at least partially extends into the cold water cavity through the first opening. The application utilizes the refrigerant cold energy in the return gas pipeline without increasing the production design cost, and improves the energy efficiency of the ice maker.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of ice-making equipment technology, specifically to an ice maker. Background Technology

[0002] The refrigeration system of an ice maker includes a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator. The refrigerant is cooled by the condenser and then throttled into the evaporator. At the evaporator, it absorbs heat from the outside and changes from a liquid to a gaseous state before finally returning to the compressor to complete the cycle. Meanwhile, the water in the cold water chamber of the ice maker is cooled and frozen by absorbing the cold energy at the evaporator, thus making ice. The ice-making process consumes a lot of energy and has a low efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, this application provides an ice maker to solve the problems of high energy consumption, slow ice-making speed and low ice-making efficiency of existing ice makers.

[0004] In a first aspect, this application provides an ice maker, including: an inner tank and a refrigeration system, the refrigeration system including: a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator and a return air hose connected between the evaporator and the compressor, a cold water chamber for supplying water to the evaporator is defined below the inner tank, a first opening is formed on the side wall of the inner tank, and the return air hose extends at least partially into the cold water chamber through the first opening.

[0005] Beneficial effects: By extending part of the return gas hose into the cold water chamber, the low-temperature refrigerant return gas comes into closer contact with the medium in the cold water chamber, enabling efficient heat exchange. Furthermore, since the liquid or air in the cold water chamber surrounds the return gas hose, the cooling capacity within the return gas hose will not be lost in any direction or leak into the air outside the cold water chamber. Compared to the scheme where the return gas pipe wraps around the inner tank and exchanges heat with the liquid in the cold water chamber, this method has higher energy efficiency. Furthermore, in this process, only the first opening needs to be made on the inner liner for the return air hose to pass through. There is no need to make major modifications to the structure of the return air hose. Since the return air hose is flexible, it can be easily installed and removed from the inner liner by bending or other means through the first opening. It can adapt to inner liners with different structures and will not have a significant impact on the internal structure of the ice maker. Moreover, since the return air cooling capacity that would otherwise be lost to the environment is recovered and used to pre-cool the water in the cold water chamber, when the water pump pumps this pre-cooled water to the evaporator, the evaporator's cooling load is significantly reduced, the ice-making speed is accelerated, and thus the overall energy consumption of the ice maker is reduced, improving energy efficiency.

[0006] In one alternative embodiment, at least a portion of the return air hose comes into contact with the liquid in the cold water chamber, and heat is exchanged with the liquid in the cold water chamber.

[0007] Beneficial effects: Direct immersion allows the low-temperature refrigerant return gas to come into closer contact with the water in the cold water chamber and enables efficient heat exchange. Furthermore, the water in the cold water chamber surrounds the return gas hose, ensuring that the cooling capacity in the return gas hose is not lost in any direction. Compared to the scheme where the return gas pipe circles the inner tank and exchanges heat with the liquid in the cold water chamber, this method has higher energy efficiency.

[0008] In one alternative implementation, the first opening is located above the highest water level of the cold water chamber.

[0009] Beneficial effects: The first opening is located above the highest water level in the cold water chamber, ensuring that the first opening is above the highest water level and fundamentally preventing water in the cold water chamber from overflowing from the first opening whether it is stationary or in motion, thus guaranteeing the product's sealing performance and safety of use.

[0010] In one alternative embodiment, a sealing structure is provided at the mating point between the return air hose and the first opening to seal the gap between the return air hose and the first opening.

[0011] Beneficial effects: The sealed structure effectively prevents water vapor in the cold water chamber from escaping through the gap between the first opening and the return air hose, avoiding the risk of internal condensation or electrical short circuits caused by condensation. It also prevents external contaminants from entering the cold water chamber, improving the reliability and service life of the ice maker.

[0012] In one optional embodiment, the inner liner includes an installation part and a water storage part. A second opening is formed above the rear side wall of the inner liner. The installation part is arranged around the second opening. The evaporator is sleeved and installed in the installation part through the second opening. The water storage part defines a cold water chamber and receives water flowing through the evaporator. A water pump is provided in the cold water chamber. A water pipe is provided between the water pump and the evaporator. The water pump pumps the water in the cold water chamber back to the evaporator.

[0013] Beneficial effects: It realizes the integration of the inner tank, integrating the installation of the evaporator, water storage and circulation functions into one, with a compact structure, which is easy to assemble and maintain. Furthermore, since the cold water can circulate between the cold water chamber and the evaporator, the cold energy in the refrigerant can be obtained at both the evaporator and the cold water chamber, improving the ice-making efficiency. The cold energy at the return gas hose directly acts on the ice-making process, better realizing the cold energy recovery of the return gas hose.

[0014] In one alternative embodiment, the inner liner is provided with a water guide that defines a return water flow path that avoids the first opening.

[0015] Beneficial effects: The water guide is designed to guide the water flowing from the evaporator to the cold water chamber in an orderly manner, avoiding water splashing or flowing irregularly. In particular, the design of the return water path to avoid the first opening prevents water from directly scouring or splashing onto the first opening, further enhancing the sealing reliability and leak-proof capability of this location.

[0016] In one alternative implementation, the water guide directs the water flowing through the evaporator to the return air hose, which is used to direct the water to the cold water chamber.

[0017] Beneficial effects: The return gas hose can simultaneously deliver refrigerant and guide its flow, making it more functional. It combines the functions of the water guide and the return gas hose. The water guide directs the water flow to the surface of the return gas hose, and the water flows down the pipe wall into the cold water chamber. This process allows the water to undergo additional and sufficient heat exchange with the outer wall of the return gas hose during its descent, further recovering the cold energy of the return gas and improving the pre-cooling effect. In addition, the water flow is slower after being guided by the return gas hose, which helps to reduce water flow noise and avoid liquid splashing.

[0018] In one alternative implementation, a drain outlet is formed above the cold water chamber to collect water flowing through the evaporator; Wherein, the projection of the drain outlet on the horizontal plane is spaced apart from the projection of the first opening on the horizontal plane; and / or, the height of the drain outlet is lower than the height of the first opening.

[0019] Beneficial effects: The drain outlet and the first opening are offset on the horizontal plane, which avoids the water flowing directly from the drain outlet from affecting the area of ​​the first opening. The height of the drain outlet is lower than that of the first opening, which ensures that the path of the water flow back is natural and far away from the first opening, thus ensuring the dryness and safety of the area of ​​the first opening.

[0020] In one optional embodiment, the return air hose includes a first section, a second section, and a third section. The second section extends into the inner liner through a first opening. The first section connects the second section to the compressor, and the third section connects the second section to the evaporator. At least a portion of the second pipe section forms a heat exchange section.

[0021] Beneficial effects: By designing the return air hose in segments, the second pipe segment extending into the cold water chamber can be specially optimized to enable efficient heat exchange, while the first and third pipe segments located outside the inner tank can focus on connection and insulation. Through modular design, the heat exchange function is concentrated in the cold water chamber, maximizing cold energy recovery while minimizing cold energy loss from external pipes.

[0022] In one alternative implementation, the heat exchange section is formed in the middle of the second pipe section.

[0023] Beneficial effects: Placing the heat exchange section in the middle of the second pipe section ensures that the heat exchange section is completely submerged in the liquid as much as possible, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency at the heat exchange section and improving the efficiency of recovering the cold energy from the refrigerant in the return gas hose.

[0024] In one alternative implementation, the heat exchange section uses a material with high thermal conductivity.

[0025] Beneficial effects: Using high thermal conductivity materials in the heat exchange section can improve the basic heat transfer performance of the heat exchange section pipeline itself, increase the heat exchange efficiency at the heat exchange section, and thus improve the efficiency of recovering the cold energy from the refrigerant in the return gas hose.

[0026] In one alternative implementation, the heat exchange section is arranged in a curved, coiled, spiral, or wavy shape inside the cold water chamber.

[0027] Beneficial effects: Heat exchange section pipelines arranged in a curved, coiled, spiral, or wavy shape can increase the heat exchange area between the heat exchange section and the liquid, improve the heat exchange efficiency at the heat exchange section, and thus enhance the efficiency of recovering cold energy from the refrigerant in the return gas hose.

[0028] In one alternative implementation, the heat exchange section is provided with guide vanes or fin structures on its exterior.

[0029] Beneficial effects: The heat exchange section pipe with external guide vanes or fin structures can further increase the heat exchange area between the heat exchange section and the liquid, improve the heat exchange efficiency at the heat exchange section, and thus improve the efficiency of recovering cold energy from the refrigerant in the return gas hose.

[0030] In one alternative implementation, the first and third pipe sections are made of low thermal conductivity materials.

[0031] Beneficial effects: The first and third pipes are located on the outside of the inner tank. The use of low thermal conductivity materials can reduce the leakage of cold air from the return gas hose on the outside of the inner tank, ensuring that the cold air is released as much as possible into the liquid in the cold water chamber through the second pipe section, so as to ensure that the cold air in the refrigerant in the return gas hose is fully recovered.

[0032] In one alternative embodiment, the first pipe segment, the second pipe segment, and the third pipe segment are integrally formed, and the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment are covered with heat insulation components.

[0033] Beneficial effects: The one-piece molded structure ensures the integrity and sealing reliability of the return air hose, reducing the risk of leakage at the connection point. The insulation material wrapped around the first and third pipe sections located on the outside of the inner tank can effectively block heat exchange with the external environment, ensuring that the cold energy is retained to the maximum extent inside the system and concentrated in the cold water chamber for release, further optimizing the energy efficiency of the ice maker.

[0034] In one optional embodiment, the return air hose includes a sealing joint that mates with a first opening for sealing, and includes a first joint and a second joint that are interconnected, and a third joint and a fourth joint that are interconnected; the first joint and the fourth joint face outwards from the inner liner, the first joint is sealed to a first pipe section, the fourth joint is sealed to a third pipe section, and the second joint and the third joint face inwards from the inner liner and are respectively sealed to both ends of a second pipe section.

[0035] Beneficial effects: By designing a sealing joint, reliable sealing can be achieved when the return air hose passes through the inner liner wall, and the connection and disassembly of the pipeline can be facilitated. Furthermore, the first and third pipe sections located outside the inner liner can be made of different materials and have different designs from the second pipe section located inside the cavity. The modular design facilitates the production and maintenance of the pipeline, while ensuring the airtightness and watertightness of the system.

[0036] In one alternative embodiment, the inner liner further defines a receiving space, and a third opening is formed on the side wall of the inner liner. The height of the third opening is higher than that of the first opening, and the ice box is movably disposed in the receiving space through the third opening.

[0037] Beneficial effects: It achieves avoidance between the installation of the ice box and the return air hose, sets the third opening at a higher position, and allows the ice box to be stored and retrieved from this position. This makes the operation of taking out and putting in the ice box away from the cold water chamber area with pipes located below, making the operation more convenient and avoiding users accidentally touching the pipes or water surface, thus improving the safety of product use and user experience.

[0038] In one optional embodiment, it further includes a water delivery assembly, a control module, and a liquid level sensor. The liquid level sensor communicates with the control module to detect the water level in the cold water chamber. The water delivery assembly is used to deliver water into the cold water chamber. The control module is configured to control the water delivery assembly to stop delivering water into the cold water chamber after the liquid level sensor detects that the water level in the cold water chamber has reached a preset water level. The preset water level is lower than the highest water level line of the cold water chamber.

[0039] Beneficial effects: It realizes automated water level control. Through the cooperation of liquid level sensor and control module, the water level can be accurately maintained at a preset water level below the maximum water level line. This ensures that the heat exchange section of the return air hose can be fully immersed for efficient heat exchange, while reserving sufficient safety margin to prevent the water level from approaching or touching the first opening due to excessive water level, which greatly improves the safety and automation level of the system. Attached Figure Description

[0040] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a partial exploded view of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the refrigeration system of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the inner liner of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the inner liner of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the inner liner of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration system of an ice maker according to an embodiment of this application.

[0042] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Inner tank; 101. Water storage section; 1011. Cold water chamber; 102. Installation section; 1031. Drain outlet; 1041. Accommodation space; 11. First opening; 12. Second opening; 14. Water guide component; 2. Ice box; 3. Refrigeration system; 31. Compressor; 32. Condenser; 33. Evaporator; 34. Return hose; 341. First pipe section; 342. Second pipe section; 343. Third pipe section; 4. Liquid level sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0043] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0044] The refrigeration system of an ice maker includes a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator. The refrigerant is cooled by the condenser and then throttled into the evaporator. At the evaporator, it absorbs heat from the outside and changes from a liquid to a gaseous state before finally returning to the compressor to complete the cycle. Meanwhile, the water in the cold water chamber of the ice maker is cooled and frozen by absorbing the cold energy at the evaporator, thus making ice. The ice-making process consumes a lot of energy and has a low efficiency.

[0045] After in-depth analysis, it was found that the low ice-making efficiency of ice makers is due to the inability to fully utilize the cooling capacity of the refrigerant at the evaporator. To fully utilize the cooling capacity of the refrigerant, a more complex evaporator structure or cooling capacity recovery structure needs to be designed, resulting in a complex structure and excessively high manufacturing cost of ice makers.

[0046] After the refrigerant completes the evaporation process, it re-enters the compressor through the return pipe. Analysis of the refrigerant in the return pipe reveals that its temperature remains low. This indicates that the cold energy in the refrigerant is not effectively utilized during the ice-making process and is directly lost to the environment through the return pipe, resulting in slow ice-making speed and energy waste. In addition, excessively low return temperatures can sometimes affect the normal operating efficiency of the compressor. Utilizing this cold energy through a specially designed piping structure or an independent cold energy recovery device would significantly increase the production and design costs of the ice maker.

[0047] However, utilizing the cold energy in the return gas pipe by designing a special pipeline structure or an independent cold energy recovery device will greatly increase the production and design cost of the ice maker.

[0048] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 7 This describes an embodiment of the present application.

[0049] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the ice maker provided by the present invention mainly includes an inner liner 1 and a refrigeration system 3.

[0050] The refrigeration system 3 includes a compressor 31, a condenser 32, an evaporator 33, and a return air hose 34 connecting the outlet of the evaporator 33 and the inlet of the compressor 31.

[0051] During the operation of the refrigeration system 3, the compressor 31 compresses the refrigerant, which is then cooled by the condenser 32 and throttled into the evaporator 33. At the evaporator 33, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the outside of the evaporator 33 and changes from a liquid state to a gaseous state. Finally, it returns to the compressor 31 through the return hose 34, completing the cycle.

[0052] In the ice-making process, water is pumped to the surface of evaporator 33 by a water pump. The heat in the water is absorbed by the refrigerant in evaporator 33, and the water is cooled by evaporator 33 and eventually freezes to form ice.

[0053] The inner liner 1 has a defined cold water chamber 1011 at its lower part for supplying water to the evaporator 33. In other words, the liquid stored in the cold water chamber 1011 is directly supplied to the evaporator 33, pre-cooling the water in the cold water chamber 1011. This reduces the temperature of the liquid supplied to the surface of the evaporator 33, lowers the refrigeration load of the evaporator 33, accelerates ice making, and reduces the energy consumption of the ice maker. Furthermore, pre-cooling only the water in the cold water chamber 1011 avoids the loss of cold energy during storage or transportation, further reducing energy consumption.

[0054] The cold water chamber 1011 contains a small amount of water, which is mainly used to supply the evaporator 33 for ice making. The cold water chamber 1011 does not primarily perform the function of storing or storing water. The small amount of water can also avoid the loss of cooling capacity and improve the cooling efficiency.

[0055] Furthermore, a first opening 11 is formed on the side wall of the inner liner 1, and the return air hose 34 extends at least partially into the cold water chamber 1011 through the first opening 11.

[0056] By extending part of the return gas hose 34 into the cold water chamber 1011, the low-temperature refrigerant return gas comes into closer contact with the medium in the cold water chamber 1011 and can perform efficient heat exchange. Furthermore, the water or air in the cold water chamber 1011 surrounds the return gas hose 34, so the cooling capacity in the return gas hose 34 will not be lost in any direction. Compared with the scheme of exchanging heat between the return gas pipe and the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011 by wrapping the inner liner 1, it has higher energy efficiency.

[0057] Furthermore, since the return air hose 34 is a hose, it has a certain bending and deformation capability, and can easily change its shape and form during installation.

[0058] Therefore, only a first opening 11 needs to be made on the inner liner 1 for the return air hose 34 to pass through. The return air hose 34 can be easily installed and removed from the inner liner 1 by bending or other means through the first opening 11. This allows the return air hose 34 to be installed inside the inner liner 1 without making significant modifications to the structure of the return air hose 34 and the inner liner 1. The return air hose 34 can be inserted into inner liners 1 with different structures without significantly affecting the internal structure of the ice maker.

[0059] Furthermore, since the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011 recovers the cold air that would otherwise be lost to the environment, the water in the cold water chamber 1011 is pre-cooled. When the water pump pumps this pre-cooled water to the evaporator 33, the cooling load of the evaporator 33 is significantly reduced, the ice-making speed is accelerated, and thus the overall energy consumption of the ice maker is reduced, improving energy efficiency.

[0060] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the return air hose 34 comes into contact with the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011 and exchanges heat with the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011.

[0061] Direct immersion allows the low-temperature refrigerant return gas to come into closer contact with the water in the cold water chamber 1011 and enables efficient heat exchange. Furthermore, the water in the cold water chamber 1011 surrounds the return gas hose 34, ensuring that the cooling capacity in the return gas hose 34 is not lost in any direction. Compared to the scheme where the return gas pipe exchanges heat with the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011 by going around the inner liner 1, this method has higher energy efficiency.

[0062] In other embodiments, the return air hose 34 does not contact the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011, and the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011 is cooled by cooling the cold water chamber 1011.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the first opening 11 is located above the highest water level line of the cold water chamber 1011.

[0064] The highest water level is the highest water level that the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011 can reach. An overflow outlet or other structure can be provided at the highest water level to prevent the water level from submerging the highest water level in extreme situations or in the event of a malfunction of the ice maker.

[0065] The first opening 11 is located above the highest water level line of the cold water chamber 1011, ensuring that the first opening 11 is above the highest water level line. This fundamentally prevents water in the cold water chamber 1011 from overflowing from the first opening 11 when it is stationary or in motion, thus ensuring the product's sealing performance and safety in use.

[0066] At the same time, the distance between the first opening 11 and the highest water level line should be as small as possible so that the return air hose 34 extending into the inner tank 1 is immersed in the liquid stored in the cold water chamber 1011 as much as possible.

[0067] In some embodiments, a sealing structure is provided at the mating point between the return air hose 34 and the first opening 11 to seal the gap between the return air hose 34 and the first opening 11.

[0068] Setting a sealing structure between the return air hose 34 and the first opening 11 can effectively prevent water vapor in the cold water chamber 1011 from escaping through the gap between the first opening 11 and the return air hose 34, avoiding the risk of internal condensation or electrical short circuit caused by condensation. It can also prevent external contaminants from entering the cold water chamber 1011, thus improving the reliability and service life of the ice maker.

[0069] If the sealing effect is good, the first opening 11 can be set below the highest water level line.

[0070] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, the inner liner 1 includes a mounting part 102 and a water storage part 101. The mounting part 102 is used to mount the evaporator 33 to fix the evaporator 33 so that ice is produced stably. The water storage part 101 defines a cold water chamber 1011 for storing a portion of liquid for delivery to the evaporator 33.

[0071] Specifically, the evaporator 33 is installed as follows: a second opening 12 is formed on the upper part of the rear side wall of the inner liner 1, and the mounting part 102 is arranged around the second opening 12. The evaporator 33 is fitted into the mounting part 102 through the second opening 12. Thus, the evaporator 33 includes front and rear side surfaces. The front side faces the inside of the inner liner 1 and is used to contact the liquid to absorb heat from the liquid to make ice. The rear side is located outside the inner liner 1 and is used to connect the pipeline. The interface between the evaporator 33 and the refrigerant pipeline has low stability. Placing the interface outside the inner liner 1 can effectively prevent refrigerant leakage and contamination of the ice produced by the ice maker, thus ensuring food safety.

[0072] Furthermore, the water storage section 101 is also used to receive water flowing through the evaporator 33. In some ice makers, the ice maker continuously supplies water from the cold water chamber 1011 to the evaporator 33. During the flow, the water is gradually cooled by the evaporator 33 and eventually freezes to produce ice. That is to say, the water in the cold water chamber 1011 defined by the water storage section 101 is continuously supplied to the evaporator 33, flows through the evaporator 33, and after flowing through the evaporator 33, the water flows downward, is received by the water storage section 101, and returns to the cold water chamber 1011, waiting to be supplied to the evaporator 33 again for cooling and freezing.

[0073] A water pump is installed in the cold water chamber 1011, and a water pipe is provided between the water pump and the evaporator 33. The water pump pumps the water in the cold water chamber 1011 back to the evaporator 33.

[0074] By dividing the inner tank 1 into an installation section 102 and a water storage section 101, the inner tank 1 is integrated, combining the installation of the evaporator 33, water storage and circulation functions into one compact structure, which is easy to assemble and maintain. Furthermore, since the cold water can circulate between the cold water chamber 1011 and the evaporator 33, the cold energy in the refrigerant can be obtained at both the evaporator 33 and the cold water chamber 1011, improving the ice-making efficiency. The cold energy at the return air hose 34 directly acts on the ice-making process, better realizing the recovery of cold energy at the return air hose 34.

[0075] Reference Figure 4 In one alternative embodiment, the inner liner 1 is provided with a water guide 14, which defines a return water flow path that avoids the first opening 11.

[0076] The water guide 14 is designed to guide the water flowing down from the evaporator 33 to the cold water chamber 1011 in an orderly manner, avoiding water splashing everywhere or flowing irregularly. In particular, the design of the return water path to avoid the first opening 11 prevents water from directly scouring or splashing onto the first opening 11, further enhancing the sealing reliability and leak-proof capability of this location.

[0077] The water guide 14 can be a water baffle formed on the side wall of the inner tank 1, or a water baffle plate provided inside the inner tank 1. The specific structure of the water guide 14 can be designed differently according to the structure of the inner tank 1 and the position of the first opening 11, and is not limited here.

[0078] In an alternative embodiment, the water guide 14 directs the water flowing through the evaporator 33 to the return air hose 34, which is used to guide the water to the cold water chamber 1011.

[0079] The return gas hose 34 can simultaneously deliver refrigerant and guide flow, making it more functional. It combines the functions of the water guide 14 and the return gas hose 34. The water guide 14 guides the water flow to the surface of the return gas hose 34, and the water flows down the pipe wall into the cold water chamber 1011. This process allows the water to undergo additional and sufficient heat exchange with the outer wall of the return gas hose 34 during its descent, further recovering the cold energy of the return gas and improving the pre-cooling effect. Moreover, the water flow is slower after being guided by the return gas hose 34, which helps to reduce water flow noise and avoid liquid splashing.

[0080] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, a drain outlet 1031 is formed above the cold water chamber 1011 to receive water flowing through the evaporator 33. In other words, the water flowing through the evaporator 33 will return to the cold water chamber 1011 through the drain outlet 1031.

[0081] The projection of the drain outlet 1031 on the horizontal plane and the projection of the first opening 11 on the horizontal plane are set at intervals. The drain outlet 1031 and the first opening 11 are staggered on the horizontal plane, which avoids the water flow falling directly from the drain outlet 1031 from affecting the area of ​​the first opening 11. This ensures that the path of the water flow back is natural and far away from the first opening 11, thus ensuring the dryness and safety of the area of ​​the first opening 11.

[0082] In some embodiments, the height of the drain outlet 1031 is lower than the height of the first opening 11. By lowering the height of the drain outlet 1031, the water flow drop height can be reduced, the possibility of water splashing can be reduced, and water flow noise can be reduced. Furthermore, raising the first opening 11 ensures that the path of the water flow back is natural and far away from the first opening 11, thus ensuring the dryness and safety of the area of ​​the first opening 11.

[0083] In some embodiments, a drain outlet 1031 is formed above the cold water chamber 1011 to receive water flowing through the evaporator 33. In other words, the water flowing through the evaporator 33 will return to the cold water chamber 1011 through the drain outlet 1031. The projection of the drain outlet 1031 onto the horizontal plane is spaced apart from the projection of the first opening 11 onto the horizontal plane. The height of the drain outlet 1031 is lower than the height of the first opening 11. The drain outlet 1031 and the first opening 11 are offset on the horizontal plane, and the offset height of the drain outlet 1031 from the height of the first opening 11, thus ensuring that the water flowing directly from the drain outlet 1031 does not affect the area of ​​the first opening 11, ensuring that the path of the returning water is natural and far away from the first opening 11, and guaranteeing the dryness and safety of the area of ​​the first opening 11.

[0084] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the return air hose 34 includes a first section 341, a second section 342 and a third section 343. The second section 342 extends into the inner liner 1 through a first opening 11. The first section 341 connects the second section 342 and the compressor 31. The third section 343 connects the second section 342 and the evaporator 33.

[0085] Therefore, for the evaporator 33 and compressor 31 located at different positions inside the ice maker, the return air hose 34 can extend a part of the structure into the inner tank 1 while connecting the two, and immerse it in the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011.

[0086] In this section, at least a portion of the second pipe section 342 is formed as a heat exchange section, and the return gas hose 34 mainly achieves heat exchange between the refrigerant inside the return gas hose 34 and the liquid inside the cold water chamber 1011 through the heat exchange section.

[0087] By segmenting the return air hose 34, the second pipe section 342 extending into the cold water chamber 1011 can be specially optimized to enable efficient heat exchange, while the first pipe section 341 and the third pipe section 343 located outside the inner tank 1 can focus on connection and insulation. Through modular design, the heat exchange function is concentrated in the cold water chamber 1011, maximizing cold energy recovery while minimizing cold energy loss from external pipes.

[0088] In some embodiments, the second pipe section 342 can be formed as a heat exchange section, thereby enabling the portion of the return air hose 34 located inside the inner liner 1 to efficiently exchange heat with the interior of the inner liner 1, release cold energy, cool the interior of the inner liner 1, thereby reducing the liquid temperature and improving ice-making efficiency.

[0089] In other embodiments, since both ends of the second pipe section 342 are above the liquid surface, the middle section of the second pipe section 342 is mainly immersed in the liquid. Therefore, the heat exchange section is formed in the middle of the second pipe section 342. By placing the heat exchange section in the middle of the second pipe section 342, it is possible to ensure that the heat exchange section is completely immersed in the liquid as much as possible, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency at the heat exchange section and improving the efficiency of recovering the cold energy from the refrigerant in the return gas hose 34.

[0090] In some embodiments, the heat exchange section uses a high thermal conductivity material, such as copper pipe. Using a high thermal conductivity material in the heat exchange section can improve the basic heat transfer performance of the heat exchange section itself and increase the heat exchange efficiency at the heat exchange section, thereby improving the efficiency of recovering the cold energy from the refrigerant in the return gas hose 34.

[0091] In some embodiments, the heat exchange section is arranged in a curved, coiled, spiral, or wavy shape inside the cold water chamber 1011. The heat exchange section pipes arranged in a curved, coiled, spiral, or wavy shape can increase the heat exchange area between the heat exchange section and the liquid, improve the heat exchange efficiency at the heat exchange section, and thus improve the efficiency of recovering the cold energy from the refrigerant in the return gas hose 34.

[0092] Since the return air hose 34 is a hose, it has a certain bending and deformation capability and can easily change its shape and form during installation. Therefore, the return air hose 34 is shaped during the production process. Under the action of external force, the return air hose 34 can be bent and straightened for easy disassembly and assembly. After disassembly and assembly, without the action of external force, the return air hose 34 has a tendency to return to its initial shape.

[0093] In some embodiments, the heat exchange section can be shaped into a curved, coiled, spiral, or wavy shape during processing to ensure that the heat exchange section remains in the shaped form when the return air hose 34 is not subjected to external force. During the installation of the return air hose 34 into the inner liner 1, an external force can be applied to straighten the heat exchange section so that the heat exchange section of the return air hose 34 can pass through the first opening 11 and enter the inner liner 1. After the second pipe section 342 has completely entered the inner liner 1, the heat exchange section naturally droops under the action of gravity and is immersed in the liquid in the cold water chamber 1011, and its shape returns to the curved, coiled, spiral, or wavy shape formed during the shaped process.

[0094] In one optional embodiment, the heat exchange section is provided with a guide vane or fin structure on the outside. The heat exchange section pipeline with the additional guide vane or fin structure can further increase the heat exchange area between the heat exchange section and the liquid, improve the heat exchange efficiency at the heat exchange section, and thus improve the efficiency of recovering the cold energy from the refrigerant in the return gas hose 34.

[0095] In some embodiments, the return gas hose 34 is segmented and made of different materials, with the second segment 342 made of a high thermal conductivity material, while the first segment 341 and the third segment 343 are made of low thermal conductivity materials. The first and third pipes are located outside the inner liner 1. Using low thermal conductivity materials reduces cold leakage of the return gas hose 34 outside the inner liner 1, ensuring that as much cold energy as possible is released into the liquid within the cold water chamber 1011 through the second segment 342, thereby ensuring sufficient recovery of the cold energy in the refrigerant within the return gas hose 34.

[0096] Furthermore, the first section 341, the second section 342, and the third section 343 of the return air hose 34 can be processed separately and then connected to each other through a connector to form a complete return air hose 34.

[0097] In some embodiments, the return air hose 34 includes a sealing joint that connects the first pipe segment 341, the second pipe segment 342, and the third pipe segment 343 to form a complete return air hose 34. Furthermore, the sealing joint simultaneously seals the gap between the return air hose 34 and the first opening 11.

[0098] Specifically, the sealing joint is sealed in conjunction with the first opening 11, and includes a first joint and a second joint that are interconnected, and a third joint and a fourth joint that are interconnected; the first joint and the fourth joint face outward of the inner liner 1, the first joint is sealed to the first pipe section 341, the fourth joint is sealed to the third pipe section 343, and the second joint and the third joint face inward of the inner liner 1 and are sealed to both ends of the second pipe section 342 respectively.

[0099] By designing a sealing joint, a reliable seal can be achieved when the return air hose 34 passes through the inner liner 1 wall, and the connection and disassembly of the pipeline can be facilitated. Furthermore, the first pipe section 341 and the third pipe section 343 located outside the inner liner 1 can be made of different materials and have different designs than the second pipe section 342 located inside the cavity. The modular design facilitates the production and maintenance of the pipeline, while ensuring the airtightness and watertightness of the system.

[0100] In some embodiments, the sealing joint is integrally formed with the second pipeline to avoid the risk of refrigerant leakage caused by low stability at the joint.

[0101] In other embodiments, the first pipe section 341, the second pipe section 342, and the third pipe section 343 are integrally formed, that is, the first pipe section 341, the second pipe section 342, and the third pipe section 343 are made of the same material. In order to ensure the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange section, the return air hose 34 is made of a high thermal conductivity material. In order to reduce the heat exchange efficiency at the first pipe section 341 and the third pipe section 343, the first pipe section 341 and the second pipe section 342 are covered with heat insulation components.

[0102] The one-piece molded structure ensures the integrity and sealing reliability of the return air hose 34, reducing the risk of leakage at the connection point. The first pipe section 341 and the third pipe section 343 located on the outside of the inner tank 1 are covered with heat insulation materials, which can effectively block heat exchange with the external environment, ensuring that the cold energy is retained to the maximum extent inside the system and concentrated in the cold water chamber 1011 for release, further optimizing the energy efficiency of the ice maker.

[0103] The insulation component can be insulation cotton or similar material covering the outside of the return air hose 34), and is not limited here.

[0104] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 The inner liner 1 also defines a receiving space 1041. A third opening is formed on the side wall of the inner liner 1. The height of the third opening is higher than that of the first opening 11. The ice box 2 is movably disposed in the receiving space 1041 through the third opening. This achieves the avoidance between the installation of the ice box 2 and the return air hose 34. By setting the third opening at a higher position and allowing the ice box 2 to be stored and retrieved through it, the operation of taking out and placing the ice box 2 is kept away from the cold water chamber 1011 area with pipes located below, making the operation more convenient and avoiding accidental contact with pipes or water surface by the user, thereby improving the safety of product use and user experience.

[0105] like Figure 4 As shown, the ice maker also includes a water delivery assembly, a control module, and a liquid level sensor 4. The liquid level sensor 4 communicates with the control module and is used to detect the water level in the cold water chamber 1011. The water delivery assembly is used to deliver water into the cold water chamber 1011. The control module is configured to control the water delivery assembly to stop delivering water into the cold water chamber 1011 after the liquid level sensor 4 detects that the water level in the cold water chamber 1011 has reached a preset water level. The preset water level is lower than the highest water level line of the cold water chamber 1011.

[0106] Through the control module, automated water level control is achieved in the cold water chamber 1011. With the cooperation of the liquid level sensor 4 and the control module, the water level can be accurately maintained at a preset level below the maximum water level line. This ensures that the heat exchange section of the return air hose 34 can be fully immersed for efficient heat exchange, while also reserving sufficient safety margin to prevent the water level from approaching or touching the first opening 11 due to excessive water level, which greatly improves the safety and automation level of the system.

[0107] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 7 This describes a specific embodiment of the present application.

[0108] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the ice maker mainly includes an inner tank 1 and a refrigeration system 3. The refrigeration system 3 includes a compressor 31, a condenser 32, an evaporator 33, and a return air hose 34 connecting the outlet of the evaporator 33 and the inlet of the compressor 31.

[0109] The lower part of the inner tank 1 defines a cold water chamber 1011 for storing and supplying water for ice making. A first opening 11 is provided on the side wall of the inner tank 1. The return air hose 34 passes through the first opening 11, with a portion of its pipe extending into the interior of the inner tank 1 and immersed in the water stored in the cold water chamber 1011, thus forming a heat exchange.

[0110] To ensure safety, the first opening 11 should be positioned above the preset maximum water level of the cold water chamber 1011. To further prevent water vapor leakage, a sealing structure such as a sealing ring or sealant is provided at the mating point between the first opening 11 and the return air hose 34.

[0111] Furthermore, the inner liner 1 integrates a mounting section 102 and a water storage section 101. The mounting section 102 is located above the rear side of the inner liner 1, surrounding a second opening 12, and the evaporator 33 is fitted into the mounting section 102 from the rear. The water storage section 101 defines a cold water chamber 1011 for receiving unfrozen water flowing down from the surface of the evaporator 33. A water pump is installed in the cold water chamber 1011 to pump water back to the top of the evaporator 33 for circulating ice making via water pipes.

[0112] To optimize the water flow path, a water guide 14 can be installed inside the inner tank 1. The water guide 14 and the wall of the inner tank 1 define a return water flow path from below the evaporator 33 to the cold water chamber 1011. This flow path avoids the area of ​​the first opening 11. A drain outlet 1031 can be formed above the cold water chamber 1011, and its position should be offset from the first opening 11 on the horizontal plane.

[0113] like Figure 1 As shown, the return air hose 34 is a one-piece molded structure, divided into a first section 341, a second section 342, and a third section 343. The second section 342 extends into the cold water chamber 1011 as a heat exchange section. To improve heat exchange efficiency, the return air hose 34 can be made of a high thermal conductivity material such as copper, and the heat exchange section can be designed in a coiled, spiral, or wavy shape to increase the heat exchange area. Fins can also be added to the outside of the heat exchange section. Conversely, the first section 341 and the third section 343, located outside the inner liner 1, are covered with insulation to reduce cold loss.

[0114] The inner liner 1 also defines a receiving space 1041 in front of the evaporator 33 for placing the ice box 2. A third opening is made on the non-rear side wall of the inner liner 1, which is higher than the first opening 11. The ice box 2 can be pushed in or pulled out from the third opening like a drawer for easy ice removal.

[0115] The ice maker also includes a water delivery assembly, a control module, and a liquid level sensor 4. The liquid level sensor 4 detects the water level in the cold water chamber 1011 and transmits the signal to the control module. The control module controls the operation of the water delivery assembly. When the water level reaches a preset level below the maximum water level line, the water delivery is stopped to ensure a safe water level and sufficient immersion of the heat exchange section.

[0116] The ice maker of this invention operates as follows: After startup, the water pump pumps water from the cold water chamber 1011 to the top of the evaporator 33. The water freezes on the low-temperature surface of the evaporator 33, and the remaining water flows back. Simultaneously, the low-temperature refrigerant return flow from the evaporator 33 passes through the second section 342 of the return air hose 34, which is immersed in water. Its cooling capacity is transferred to the water in the cold water chamber 1011, pre-cooling the water. The pre-cooled water is then pumped back to the evaporator 33, thereby reducing the energy required for the evaporator 33 to cool the water to its freezing point, achieving energy saving.

[0117] In summary, the ice maker provided in this application significantly reduces the heat load on the evaporator 33 by recovering and utilizing the cold energy from the return air of the refrigeration system 3 to pre-cool the circulating water, thereby accelerating ice making and reducing overall power consumption and improving energy efficiency. Furthermore, the overall structure is compact and reliable, integrating the cold energy recovery system into the cold water chamber 1011 of the inner tank 1. The ingenious and compact structural design, along with multiple measures such as opening location design, sealing structure, and water flow path planning, ensures the system's sealing reliability and operational safety. Combined with automatic water level control, the heat exchange process is ensured to be stable, efficient, and safe, enhancing the product's automation level and user experience.

[0118] Although embodiments of this application have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of this application, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by this application.

Claims

1. An ice maker, characterized in that, include: The ice maker includes an inner tank, a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and a return air hose connecting the evaporator and the compressor. A cold water chamber for supplying water to the evaporator is defined below the inner tank. A first opening is formed on the side wall of the inner tank, and the return air hose extends at least partially into the cold water chamber through the first opening.

2. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the return air hose comes into contact with the liquid in the cold water chamber, and heat is exchanged with the liquid in the cold water chamber.

3. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first opening is located above the highest water level line of the cold water chamber.

4. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The return air hose is provided with a sealing structure at the joint with the first opening to seal the gap between the return air hose and the first opening.

5. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner tank includes an installation part and a water storage part. A second opening is formed on the upper part of the rear side wall of the inner tank. The installation part is arranged around the second opening. The evaporator is sleeved and installed in the installation part through the second opening. The water storage part defines a cold water chamber. The water storage part receives water flowing through the evaporator. A water pump is provided in the cold water chamber. A water pipe is provided between the water pump and the evaporator. The water pump pumps the water in the cold water chamber back to the evaporator.

6. The ice maker as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The inner liner is provided with a water guide, which defines a return water flow path that avoids the first opening.

7. The ice maker as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The water guide component directs the water flowing through the evaporator to the return air hose, which is used to guide the water to the cold water chamber.

8. The ice maker as described in claim 5, characterized in that, A drain outlet is formed above the cold water chamber to collect water flowing through the evaporator. Wherein, the projection of the drain outlet on the horizontal plane is spaced apart from the projection of the first opening on the horizontal plane; and / or, the height of the drain outlet is lower than the height of the first opening.

9. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The return air hose includes a first section, a second section, and a third section. The second section extends into the inner liner through the first opening. The first section connects the second section to the compressor. The third section connects the second section to the evaporator. At least a portion of the second pipe section is formed as a heat exchange section.

10. The ice maker as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The heat exchange section is formed in the middle of the second pipe section; And / or, the heat exchange section is made of a material with high thermal conductivity; And / or, the heat exchange section is arranged in a curved, coiled, spiral, or wavy shape inside the cold water cavity; And / or, the heat exchange section is provided with a flow guide or fin structure on its exterior; And / or, the first pipe section and the third pipe section are made of low thermal conductivity materials.

11. The ice maker as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The first pipe segment, the second pipe segment, and the third pipe segment are integrally formed, and the first pipe segment and the second pipe segment are covered with heat insulation components.

12. The ice maker as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The return air hose includes a sealing joint that seals with the first opening, and includes a first joint and a second joint that are interconnected, and a third joint and a fourth joint that are interconnected. The first joint and the fourth joint face outward from the inner liner. The first joint is sealed to the first pipe section, and the fourth joint is sealed to the third pipe section. The second joint and the third joint face inward from the inner liner and are sealed to both ends of the second pipe section, respectively.

13. The ice maker as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner liner also defines a receiving space, and a third opening is formed on the side wall of the inner liner. The height of the third opening is higher than that of the first opening, and the ice box is movably disposed in the receiving space through the third opening.

14. The ice maker as described in claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a water delivery assembly, a control module, and a liquid level sensor. The liquid level sensor communicates with the control module and is used to detect the water level in the cold water chamber. The water delivery assembly is used to deliver water into the cold water chamber. The control module is configured to control the water delivery assembly to stop delivering water into the cold water chamber after the liquid level sensor detects that the water level in the cold water chamber has reached a preset water level. The preset water level is lower than the highest water level line of the cold water chamber.

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