Ice-making mold, ice maker, and refrigeration appliance

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of ice making mould, ice maker and refrigeration equipment, ice making mould includes: shell, shell includes at least one ice making chamber, ice making chamber is equipped with opening, the side wall of ice making chamber is equipped with at least one opening and closing slit, opening and closing slit extends to opening, wherein, ice making mould can be switched between ice making state and ice separation state by opening and closing slit: in ice making state, opening and closing slit is closed;In ice separation state, opening and closing slit is opened, and a part of the side wall of ice making chamber is separated by opening and closing slit, so that the area of opening in ice separation state is greater than the area of opening in ice making state.The ice making mould provided by the utility model realizes the change of opening area in the process of opening and closing of opening and closing slit, and then the opening area is smaller when opening and closing slit is closed, so that the ice block made is more complete, when opening and closing slit is opened, opening expands outward, so that the opening area is larger, more convenient for ice block to separate from ice making chamber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of household appliance technology, and more specifically, to an ice-making mold, an ice maker, and a refrigeration device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, ice-making molds include an ice-making chamber and an ice-discharging opening. When making ice blocks using ice-making molds, if the integrity of the ice blocks is to be improved, the size of the opening needs to be reduced. However, reducing the size of the opening increases the difficulty of removing the ice, meaning that the design of ice-making molds cannot simultaneously take into account both the integrity of the ice blocks and the ease of removing the ice. Utility Model Content

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related technologies.

[0004] Therefore, the first aspect of this utility model provides an ice-making mold.

[0005] A second aspect of this utility model also provides an ice maker.

[0006] A third aspect of this utility model also provides a refrigeration device.

[0007] In view of this, the first aspect of the present invention provides an ice-making mold, comprising: a shell, the shell including at least one ice-making chamber, the ice-making chamber having an opening, and the side wall of the ice-making chamber having at least one opening and closing slit extending to the opening, wherein the ice-making mold is capable of switching between an ice-making state and an ice-removing state through the opening and closing slit: in the ice-making state, the opening and closing slit is closed; in the ice-removing state, the opening and closing slit is open, and a portion of the side wall of the ice-making chamber is separated through the opening and closing slit, so that the area of ​​the opening in the ice-removing state is larger than the area of ​​the opening in the ice-making state.

[0008] The ice-making mold provided by this utility model includes a shell, which includes at least one ice-making chamber. The ice-making chamber has an opening, and the side wall of the ice-making chamber has at least one opening and closing slit. The opening and closing slit extends from the side wall of the ice-making chamber to the opening, so that a part of the side wall of the ice-making chamber is disconnected through the opening and closing slit. Thus, the ice-making mold can switch between an ice-making state and an ice-removing state through the opening and closing slit. Specifically, when the ice-making mold is in the ice-making state, the opening and closing slit is closed, so that the disconnected part of the side wall of the ice-making chamber is closed to prevent water leakage through the opening and closing slit. When the ice-making mold is in the ice-removing state, the opening and closing slit is open, so that a part of the side wall of the ice-making chamber is separated through the opening and closing slit, thereby expanding the opening outward. That is, the area of ​​the opening in the ice-removing state is larger than the area in the ice-making state, so that the ice cube can be removed from the ice-making chamber in the ice-removing state. The ice-making mold proposed in this application has an opening and closing slit extending to the opening on the side wall of the ice-making chamber. During the opening and closing process of the opening and closing slit, the opening area changes. When the opening and closing slit is closed, the opening area is smaller, making the ice block more complete. When the opening and closing slit is open, the opening expands outward, making the opening area larger, which makes it easier for the ice block to leave the ice-making chamber.

[0009] The ice-making mold provided by this utility model may also have the following additional technical features:

[0010] In some embodiments, optionally, when there are multiple openings and closing seams, the multiple openings and closing seams are spaced apart circumferentially along the opening.

[0011] In this embodiment, when there are multiple opening and closing seams, the multiple opening and closing seams are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the opening, so that the opening of the ice-making chamber can be expanded outward through the opening and closing seams, thereby facilitating the de-icing of the ice-making chamber.

[0012] In some embodiments, optionally, along the circumference of the opening, an opening and closing seam is provided on opposite sides of the ice-making chamber to divide the sidewall of the ice-making chamber into a first shell wall and a second shell wall. A portion of the first shell wall and the second shell wall are connected, and the other portion is disconnected through the opening and closing seam. The first shell wall and the second shell wall enclose the opening. In the ice-free state, the ends of the first shell wall and the second shell wall that enclose the opening are far apart from each other, so that the opening is expanded outward. In the ice-making state, the first shell wall and the second shell wall are closed at the opening and closing seam.

[0013] In this embodiment, along the circumference of the opening, opening and closing seams are located on opposite sides of the ice-making chamber, dividing the sidewall of the ice-making chamber into a first shell wall and a second shell wall. A portion of the first shell wall and the second shell wall are connected, while the other portion is disconnected at the opening and closing seam. The first shell wall and the second shell wall can move away from each other or closer together at the disconnection point, thereby allowing the ice-making mold to switch between an ice-making state and an ice-removing state. Specifically, in the ice-removing state, the ends of the opening enclosed by the first shell wall and the second shell wall move away from each other, causing the opening to expand outwards, increasing the opening area and facilitating the removal of ice. In the ice-making state, the first shell wall and the second shell wall close at the opening and closing seam, returning the opening area to its initial state and improving the integrity of the ice.

[0014] In some embodiments, optionally, when there are multiple ice-making chambers, the multiple ice-making chambers are arranged in at least one row, and the opening and closing seams are provided on opposite sides of the ice-making chambers along the arrangement direction of the multiple ice-making chambers, wherein, along the arrangement direction of the multiple ice-making chambers, any two adjacent first shell walls are connected at the break point, and any two adjacent second shell walls are connected at the break point.

[0015] In this embodiment, with multiple ice-making chambers, the number of ice blocks produced at one time is increased, enabling the production of small ice blocks. Multiple ice-making chambers are arranged in at least one row, with opening and closing seams located on opposite sides of the chambers along their arrangement direction, allowing simultaneous opening and closing of the chambers. Furthermore, along the arrangement direction of the ice-making chambers, any two adjacent first shell walls are connected at their break points, and any two adjacent second shell walls are connected at their break points. This means the multiple ice-making chambers are connected at their break points, forming a unified structure. This increases the connection strength between the multiple ice-making chambers and also prevents leakage from the break points.

[0016] In some embodiments, the ice-making mold may optionally include a flexible baffle, which closes two of the multiple opening and closing slits located at both ends along the arrangement direction of the plurality of ice-making chambers.

[0017] In this embodiment, the ice-making mold also includes a flexible baffle. Multiple ice-making chambers are arranged in a row, and two adjacent first shell walls are connected at the break point, and two adjacent second shell walls are connected at the break point. The two opening and closing seams at both ends of the multiple opening and closing seams are closed by the flexible baffle. Thus, the two opening and closing seams of the two ice-making chambers at the beginning and end of the arrangement direction are closed by the flexible baffle. This allows both the first shell walls and the second shell walls to open and close by the flexible baffle, and also allows the opening and closing seams to be closed by the flexible baffle to prevent leakage.

[0018] In some embodiments, the ice-making mold may optionally include: an enclosure portion connected to the housing and surrounding the opening, wherein the enclosure portion is discontinuously disposed along the circumference of the opening to form a first enclosure wall and a second enclosure wall, the first enclosure wall and the second enclosure wall being capable of causing the side wall of the ice-making chamber to separate or close.

[0019] In this embodiment, the ice-making mold also includes an enclosure portion connected to the shell. The enclosure portion surrounds the opening and is disconnected according to the opening and closing seam, so that the enclosure portion consists of a first enclosure wall and a second enclosure wall. The first enclosure wall and the second enclosure wall can drive the side wall of the ice-making chamber to separate or close, thereby improving the convenience of switching the state of the ice-making chamber.

[0020] In some embodiments, optionally, in the ice-making state, along the circumference of the opening, the first and second enclosure walls close together at the break to form a gap, and multiple ice-making chambers are connected through the gap.

[0021] In this embodiment, during ice-making, the first and second enclosure walls form a gap at the point of disconnection along the circumference of the opening. This allows multiple ice-making chambers to be connected through the gap, enabling simultaneous water injection into multiple chambers through the same water inlet during ice-making. For example, during water injection, each water inlet corresponds to one ice-making chamber. When the corresponding ice-making chamber is full, water flows through the gap to adjacent ice-making chambers until all ice-making chambers are full.

[0022] In some embodiments, the ice-making mold may optionally include a connecting portion located between the enclosure and the housing, and located outside the ice-making chamber.

[0023] In this embodiment, the ice-making mold also includes a connecting part located between the enclosure and the shell. When the ice-making mold is connected to other components, the connecting part provides a connection position to prevent the connection of other components from damaging the side wall or enclosure of the ice-making chamber, thereby preventing leakage.

[0024] In some embodiments, optionally, in the ice-making state, the inner wall surface of the ice-making chamber has a spherical structure; and / or in the ice-making state, the diameter of the ice-making chamber is larger than the diameter of the plane where the opening is located; and / or the ice-making mold is a one-piece molded structure; and / or the ice-making mold includes a rubber mold or a silicone mold.

[0025] In this embodiment, during ice-making, the inner wall of the ice-making chamber has a spherical structure, resulting in ice blocks that are spherical or part of a sphere. Simultaneously, the opening and closing slits improve the integrity of the spherical ice blocks and facilitate their removal from the ice. Optionally, during ice-making, the diameter of the ice-making chamber is larger than the diameter of the plane containing the opening to improve the integrity of the ice ball. Furthermore, the opening and closing slits allow the ice ball to detach from the ice-making chamber through the outwardly expanding opening. Optionally, the ice-making mold is a one-piece molded structure to ensure the connection strength of the shell, enclosure, and connecting parts, while also ensuring the sealing effect of the ice-making chamber. Optionally, the ice-making mold includes a rubber mold or a silicone mold, giving it a certain degree of flexibility, allowing it to deform and thus open and close the opening and closing slits, thereby changing the size of the opening.

[0026] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an ice maker is also provided, comprising: an ice-making mold as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0027] The ice maker provided in the second aspect of this utility model, because it includes the ice-making mold proposed in any of the above embodiments, has all the beneficial effects of an ice-making mold.

[0028] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a refrigeration device is also provided, comprising: an ice-making mold as described in any of the above embodiments or an ice maker as described in any of the embodiments.

[0029] The refrigeration equipment provided in the third aspect of this utility model, since it includes the ice-making mold or ice maker proposed in any of the above embodiments, has all the beneficial effects of the ice-making mold or ice maker.

[0030] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will become apparent in the description that follows, or may be learned by practice of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 This shows one of the structural schematic diagrams of an ice-making mold in an ice-making state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is the second schematic diagram of the structure of an ice-making mold in the ice-making state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3 This shows one of the structural schematic diagrams of an ice-making mold in an ice-free state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a second schematic diagram showing the structure of an ice-making mold in an ice-free state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 One of the structural schematic diagrams of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0037] Figure 6 The second schematic diagram shows the structure of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 7 The third schematic diagram shows the structure of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8 The fourth schematic diagram shows the structure of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 9 The fifth schematic diagram shows the structure of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 10 The sixth schematic diagram shows the structure of an ice maker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] in, Figures 1 to 10 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0043] 1 Ice-making mold, 10 Shell, 102 Ice-making chamber, 1020 First shell wall, 1022 Second shell wall, 104 Opening, 106 Opening and closing seam, 12 Flexible baffle, 14 Enclosing part, 140 First enclosure wall, 142 Second enclosure wall, 144 Notch, 16 Connecting part, 2 Drive part, 20 Motor, 22 Ice probe rod, 24 Elastic element, 3 Pressure plate assembly, 32 Upper pressure plate, 34 Lower pressure plate, 4 Water injection part, 5 Ejection mechanism, 6 Rotating assembly, 60 Rotating shaft, 62 Driving arm, 64 Driven arm, 66 Coupling, 7 Bracket. Detailed Implementation

[0044] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this utility model, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0045] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0046] The following reference Figures 1 to 10This invention describes an ice-making mold 1, an ice maker, and a refrigeration device according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0047] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, an ice-making mold 1 is provided, comprising: a shell 10, the shell 10 including at least one ice-making chamber 102, the ice-making chamber 102 having an opening 104, and the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 having at least one opening and closing slit 106 extending to the opening 104, wherein the ice-making mold 1 can switch between an ice-making state and an ice-removing state through the opening and closing slit 106: in the ice-making state, the opening and closing slit 106 is closed; in the ice-removing state, the opening and closing slit 106 is opened, and a portion of the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 is separated through the opening and closing slit 106, so that the area of ​​the opening 104 in the ice-removing state is larger than the area of ​​the opening 104 in the ice-making state.

[0048] The ice-making mold 1 provided by this utility model includes a shell 10, which includes at least one ice-making chamber 102. The ice-making chamber 102 is provided with an opening 104, and the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 is provided with at least one opening and closing slit 106. The opening and closing slit 106 extends from the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 to the opening 104, so that a part of the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 is disconnected through the opening and closing slit 106, thereby allowing the ice-making mold 1 to switch between an ice-making state and an ice-removing state through the opening and closing slit 106. Wherein, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the ice mold 1 is in the ice-making state, the opening and closing joint 106 closes, causing the broken part of the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 to close, thereby preventing water leakage from the opening and closing joint 106; Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, when the ice mold 1 is in the detached state, the opening slit 106 opens, allowing a portion of the side wall of the ice chamber 102 to separate through the opening slit 106, thereby expanding the opening 104 outward. That is, the area of ​​the opening 104 in the detached state is larger than its area in the ice-making state, so that the ice cube can easily detach from the ice chamber 102 in the detached state. The ice mold 1 proposed in this application has an opening slit 106 extending to the opening 104 on the side wall of the ice chamber 102. During the opening and closing process of the opening slit 106, the area of ​​the opening 104 changes. When the opening slit 106 is closed, the area of ​​the opening 104 is smaller, making the ice cube more complete. When the opening slit 106 is open, the opening 104 expands outward, making the area of ​​the opening 104 larger, which makes it easier for the ice cube to detach from the ice chamber 102.

[0049] It is understandable that the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 is provided with an opening and closing slit 106 extending to the opening 104, so that a part of the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 is broken at the opening and closing slit 106. That is, the ice-making chamber 102 is still a whole. The opening and closing slit 106 does not divide the ice-making chamber 102 into several completely separate parts. The opening and closing slit 106 is provided on the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 near the opening 104, so that the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 near the opening 104 can open and close, thereby realizing the change of the area of ​​the opening 104, making the ice more intact in the ice-making state and easier to remove ice in the ice-removing state.

[0050] Optionally, at least a portion of the housing 10 is a flexible structure, which allows the housing 10 to deform, thereby enabling the opening and closing slit 106 to open or close.

[0051] Optionally, in the ice-making state, the area of ​​the plane containing the opening 104 is much smaller than the maximum area of ​​the cross-section of the ice-making chamber 102.

[0052] Optionally, when the opening slit 106 is open, the ends of the side walls of the ice-making chamber 102 that enclose the opening 104 are far apart, such that the two end faces forming the opening slit 106 are set at a preset angle. Optionally, the preset angle is greater than 0° and less than or equal to 30°.

[0053] In some embodiments, optionally, when there are multiple opening and closing seams 106, the multiple opening and closing seams 106 are arranged at circumferential intervals along the opening 104.

[0054] In this embodiment, when there are multiple opening and closing seams 106, the multiple opening and closing seams 106 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the opening 104, so that the opening 104 of the ice-making chamber 102 can be expanded outward through the opening and closing seams 106, thereby facilitating the de-icing of the ice-making chamber 102.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, along the circumference of the opening 104, an opening and closing slit 106 is provided on opposite sides of the ice-making chamber 102 to divide the sidewall of the ice-making chamber 102 into a first shell wall 1020 and a second shell wall 1022. A portion of the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 are connected, and the other portion is disconnected through the opening and closing slit 106. The first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 enclose the opening 104. In the unfrozen state, the ends of the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 that enclose the opening 104 are far apart from each other, so that the opening 104 is expanded outward. In the ice-making state, the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 are closed at the opening and closing slit 106.

[0056] In this embodiment, along the circumference of the opening 104, the opening and closing slits 106 are provided on opposite sides of the ice-making chamber 102, dividing the sidewall of the ice-making chamber 102 into a first shell wall 1020 and a second shell wall 1022. A portion of the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 are connected, while the other portion is disconnected at the opening and closing slits 106. The first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 can move away from or towards each other at the disconnection point, thereby allowing the ice-making mold 1 to switch between an ice-making state and an ice-removing state. In the ice-removing state, the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 enclose one end of the opening 104, moving away from each other, thus expanding the opening 104 and increasing its area, making it easier for ice to detach. In the ice-making state, the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 close at the opening and closing slits 106, returning the area of ​​the opening 104 to its initial state and improving the integrity of the ice.

[0057] It is understood that the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 are not completely disconnected; they are only separated by an opening and closing seam 106 near the opening 104. When de-icing is required, the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 are driven away from each other, causing the opening 104 to expand outward.

[0058] Optionally, when the opening and closing slit 106 is open, the ends of the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 that form the opening are far apart from each other, so that the two end faces of the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 that form the opening and closing slit 106 are set at a preset included angle.

[0059] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, when there are multiple ice-making chambers 102, the multiple ice-making chambers 102 are arranged in at least one row, and the opening and closing slits 106 are provided on opposite sides of the ice-making chambers 102 along the arrangement direction A of the multiple ice-making chambers 102. In this case, along the arrangement direction A of the multiple ice-making chambers 102, any two adjacent first shell walls 1020 are connected at the break point, and any two adjacent second shell walls 1022 are connected at the break point.

[0060] In this embodiment, with multiple ice-making chambers 102, the number of ice cubes prepared at one time is increased, enabling the production of small ice cubes. Multiple ice-making chambers 102 are arranged in at least one row, and opening / closing slits 106 are positioned on opposite sides of the ice-making chambers 102 along the arrangement direction A, allowing the multiple ice-making chambers 102 to open and close simultaneously. Along the arrangement direction A of the multiple ice-making chambers 102, any two adjacent first shell walls 1020 are connected at the break point, and any two adjacent second shell walls 1022 are connected at the break point. This means that the multiple ice-making chambers 102 are connected at the break points, making them a single unit. This increases the connection strength between the multiple ice-making chambers 102 and also prevents leakage from the break points of the ice-making chambers 102.

[0061] It is understandable that the opening and closing seam 106 is set on opposite sides of the ice-making chambers 102 along the arrangement direction A of the multiple ice-making chambers 102, so that the first shell walls 1020 of the multiple ice-making chambers 102 are all located on one side of the arrangement direction A, and the second shell walls 1022 of the multiple ice-making chambers 102 are all located on the other side of the arrangement direction A. This allows the multiple ice-making chambers 102 to open and close simultaneously, and through the connection of adjacent first shell walls 1020 and adjacent second shell walls 1022, leakage of the ice-making chambers 102 at the opening and closing seam 106 can be avoided.

[0062] It is understandable that two adjacent first shell walls 1020 are connected at the break point, that is, the two adjacent first shell walls 1020 are connected at their closest ends, and two adjacent second shell walls 1022 are connected at the break point, that is, the two adjacent second shell walls 1022 are connected at their closest ends, so that along the arrangement direction A of the multiple ice-making chambers 102, the multiple first shell walls 1020 are connected sequentially, and the multiple second shell walls 1022 are connected sequentially.

[0063] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice-making mold 1 may optionally include a flexible baffle 12, which closes two of the multiple opening and closing slits 106 located at both ends along the arrangement direction A of the plurality of ice-making chambers 102.

[0064] In this embodiment, the ice-making mold 1 further includes a flexible baffle 12. Multiple ice-making chambers 102 are arranged in a row, and two adjacent first shell walls 1020 are connected at the break point, and two adjacent second shell walls 1022 are connected at the break point. Two of the multiple opening and closing seams 106 located at both ends are closed by the flexible baffle 12. This allows the two opening and closing seams 106 located at the beginning and end of the arrangement direction A of the multiple ice-making chambers 102 located on the outside to be closed by the flexible baffle 12. This ensures that the first shell walls 1020 and the second shell walls 1022 can open and close by the flexible baffle 12, and that the opening and closing seams 106 are closed by the flexible baffle 12 to prevent leakage.

[0065] Optionally, the flexible baffle 12 and the housing 10 are an integral structure.

[0066] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice-making mold 1 may optionally include: an enclosure portion 14, which is connected to the housing 10 and surrounds the opening 104. Along the circumference of the opening 104, the enclosure portion 14 is discontinuously disposed corresponding to the opening and closing seam 106 to form a first enclosure wall 140 and a second enclosure wall 142. The first enclosure wall 140 and the second enclosure wall 142 can drive the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 to separate or close.

[0067] In this embodiment, the ice-making mold 1 further includes an enclosure portion 14, which is connected to the housing 10. The enclosure portion 14 surrounds the opening 104 and is disconnected from the corresponding opening and closing seam 106, so that the enclosure portion 14 is divided into a first enclosure wall 140 and a second enclosure wall 142. The first enclosure wall 140 and the second enclosure wall 142 can drive the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 to separate or close, thereby improving the convenience of switching the state of the ice-making chamber 102.

[0068] Optionally, the first enclosure wall 140 is connected to the first shell wall 1020, and the second enclosure wall 142 is connected to the second shell wall 1022.

[0069] Optionally, along the arrangement direction A of the multiple ice-making chambers 102, the disconnection points of the first enclosure 140 and the second enclosure 142 located at the beginning and end are also closed by flexible baffles 12.

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, in the ice-making state, along the circumference of the opening 104, the first enclosure wall 140 and the second enclosure wall 142 enclose a gap 144 at the break, and the plurality of ice-making chambers 102 are connected through the gap 144.

[0071] In this embodiment, during ice-making, the first enclosure 140 and the second enclosure 142 form a gap 144 at the point of disconnection along the circumference of the opening 104. This allows multiple ice-making chambers 102 to be connected through the gap 144, enabling simultaneous water injection into multiple ice-making chambers 102 through the same water inlet during ice-making. For example, during water injection, each water inlet corresponds to one ice-making chamber 102. When the ice-making chamber 102 corresponding to the water inlet is full, water flows through the gap 144 to adjacent ice-making chambers 102 until all ice-making chambers 102 are full.

[0072] It is understandable that the ends of the first enclosure 140 and the second enclosure 142 that are close to each other form a gap 144.

[0073] Optionally, the two ends of the first enclosure wall 140 and the second enclosure wall 142 that are close to each other are inclined in opposite directions from the side closer to the shell 10 to the side farther away from the shell 10, so that the first enclosure wall 140 and the second enclosure wall 142 enclose a notch 144, and the sides of the first enclosure wall 140 and the second enclosure wall 142 that are close to the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 are in contact, so that the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 fit tightly at the break point to avoid leakage.

[0074] Optionally, the end of the notch 144 near the housing 10 is on the same plane as the opening 104 to ensure that the ice in the ice-making chamber 102 has the same shape as the ice-making chamber 102.

[0075] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice-making mold 1 may optionally include a connecting portion 16 located between the enclosure portion 14 and the housing 10, and located outside the ice-making chamber 102.

[0076] In this embodiment, the ice-making mold 1 further includes a connecting part 16, which is located between the enclosure part 14 and the housing 10. When the ice-making mold 1 is connected to other components, the connecting part 16 is used to provide a connection position to prevent the connection of other components from damaging the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102 or the integrity of the enclosure part 14, thereby preventing leakage.

[0077] In some embodiments, optionally, in the ice-making state, the inner wall surface of the ice-making chamber 102 has a spherical structure; and / or in the ice-making state, the diameter of the ice-making chamber 102 is larger than the diameter of the plane where the opening 104 is located; and / or the ice-making mold 1 is an integrally molded structure; and / or the ice-making mold 1 includes a rubber mold or a silicone mold.

[0078] In this embodiment, during ice-making, the inner wall of the ice-making chamber 102 has a spherical structure, resulting in ice blocks that are spherical or part of a sphere. Simultaneously, the opening / closing slit 106 enhances the integrity of the spherical ice blocks and facilitates their removal from the ice. Optionally, during ice-making, the diameter of the ice-making chamber 102 is larger than the diameter of the plane containing the opening 104 to improve the integrity of the ice ball. Furthermore, the opening / closing slit 106 allows the ice ball to detach from the ice-making chamber 102 through the outwardly expanding opening 104 while still in the ice-free state. Optionally, the ice-making mold 1 is a one-piece molded structure to ensure the connection strength of the shell 10, the enclosure 14, and the connecting part 16, while also ensuring the sealing effect of the ice-making chamber 102. Optionally, the ice-making mold 1 includes a rubber mold or a silicone mold, giving it a certain degree of flexibility, allowing it to deform and open / close the opening / closing slit 106, thereby changing the size of the opening 104.

[0079] like Figures 5 to 10 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, an ice maker is also provided, comprising: an ice mold 1 as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0080] The ice maker provided by this utility model includes the ice mold 1 proposed in any of the above embodiments, and therefore has all the beneficial effects of the ice mold 1.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice maker may optionally include: a drive unit 2, connected to the ice mold 1, for driving the ice mold 1 to rotate between the ice-making position and the ice-removing position, and switching the ice mold 1 between the ice-making state and the ice-removing state; when the ice mold 1 is in the ice-making position, the ice mold 1 is in the ice-making state, and when the ice mold 1 is in the ice-removing position, the ice mold 1 is in the ice-removing state.

[0082] In this embodiment, the ice maker further includes a drive unit 2, which is connected to the ice-making mold 1 and is used to drive the ice-making mold 1 to rotate between an ice-making position and an ice-removing position. The drive unit 2 also enables the ice-making mold 1 to switch between an ice-making state and an ice-removing state. Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, when the ice mold 1 is in the ice-making position, it is in the ice-making state, allowing it to form more complete ice blocks. Figure 10 As shown, when the ice mold 1 is in the ice-free position, the ice mold 1 is in the ice-free state, and the ice block can be removed from the ice chamber 102 in the ice-free position.

[0083] In specific applications, such as Figure 6As shown, the drive unit 2 includes a motor 20, which is connected to the ice-making mold 1 and is used to drive the ice-making mold 1 to move between the ice-making position and the ice-removing position.

[0084] Optionally, such as Figure 7 As shown, the drive unit 2 also includes an elastic member 24, which is connected to the side wall of the ice-making chamber 102. When the ice-making mold 1 is in the ice-free state, the elastic member 24 is in a deformed state so that the ice-making mold 1 can be switched to the ice-making state.

[0085] Optionally, the drive unit 2 also includes a drive mechanism connected to the ice mold 1, which drives the side wall of the ice mold 1 to move, so that the ice mold 1 switches to the ice-free state.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice maker may optionally include: a pressure plate assembly 3, which is wrapped around at least a portion of the outer side wall of the ice mold 1 and is disconnected from the opening and closing seam 106, and the drive unit 2 is connected to the pressure plate assembly 3.

[0087] In this embodiment, the ice maker further includes a pressure plate assembly 3, which wraps around at least a portion of the outer wall of the ice mold 1 and is disconnected from the opening and closing seam 106, allowing the pressure plate assembly 3 to open and close through the ice mold 1, thereby enabling the opening and closing of the opening and closing seam 106. The drive unit 2 is connected to the pressure plate assembly 3 and drives the ice mold 1 to move, causing the ice mold 1 to move between an ice-making position and an ice-removing position, and switching between the ice-making state and the ice-removing state. The pressure plate assembly 3 improves the sealing performance of the ice mold 1 in the ice-making state. Furthermore, when the ice mold 1 has a flexible structure, the pressure plate assembly 3 provides a connection point for the drive unit 2, preventing direct connection to the ice mold 1 from causing unreliable opening and closing of the ice mold 1.

[0088] Optionally, the elastic element 24 is connected to the pressure plate assembly 3.

[0089] like Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice maker may optionally include a water injection section 4, which is disposed opposite to the opening 104 at the ice-making position, for injecting water into the ice-making mold 1.

[0090] In this embodiment, the ice maker also includes a water injection unit 4, which is used to inject water into the ice-making chamber 102 when the ice mold 1 is in the ice-making position.

[0091] like Figures 8 to 10As shown, in some embodiments, the ice maker may optionally include an ejection mechanism 5, which is disposed opposite to the ice mold 1 at the ice-off position, for ejecting ice blocks from the ice-making chamber 102.

[0092] In this embodiment, the ice maker also includes an ejection mechanism 5, which is positioned opposite to the ice mold 1 at the ice-free position, thereby ejecting the ice blocks from the ice-making chamber 102 at the ice-free position.

[0093] Optionally, during the process of the drive unit 2 driving the ice-making mold 1 to the ice-removing position, the ejection mechanism 5 blocks the movement of the ice-making mold 1 between the ice-making position and the ice-removing position, such as... Figures 8 to 10 As shown, when the ejector mechanism 5 contacts the ice-making mold 1, the drive unit 2 continues to drive the ice-making mold 1 to move, causing the ejector mechanism 5 to open the opening and closing slit 106 of the ice-making mold 1, thus switching the ice-making mold 1 to the ice-free state. At the same time, the ejector mechanism 5 ejects the ice ball. In this embodiment, through the cooperation of the ejector mechanism 5 and the drive unit 2, both the opening and closing of the ice-making mold 1 and the ejection of the ice block can be realized.

[0094] Optionally, the ice maker also includes a support 7, on which the drive unit 2, the water injection unit 4, and the ejection mechanism 5 are all mounted.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a refrigeration device is also proposed, comprising: an ice-making mold 1 as proposed in any of the above embodiments or an ice maker as proposed in any of the embodiments.

[0096] The refrigeration equipment provided by this utility model includes the ice-making mold 1 or ice maker proposed in any of the above embodiments, and therefore has all the beneficial effects of the ice-making mold 1 or ice maker.

[0097] Optionally, the refrigeration equipment includes refrigerators or freezers.

[0098] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, an ice maker is installed in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator for making small spherical ice.

[0099] The ice maker includes a drive unit (e.g., drive section 2), a rotating assembly 6, an ice mold assembly, and a mounting bracket 7.

[0100] Drive unit: includes motor 20 and ice probe rod 22, used for driving and ice probing.

[0101] Rotating unit: includes coupling 66, rotating shaft 60, two active arms 62, and four driven arms 64, used to drive the ice mold to rotate and open. The rotating shaft 60 is connected to the motor 20 through the coupling 66. One end of the two driven arms 64 is rotatably connected to the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022 through the pressure plate assembly 3 (including two upper pressure plates 32 and two lower pressure plates 34). The other end of the two driven arms 64 is rotatably connected to one end of the active arm 62. The other end of the active arm 62 is mounted on the rotating shaft 60. The motor 20 drives the ice mold 1 to rotate through the rotating shaft 60.

[0102] Ice mold assembly: includes a ball mold (e.g., ice mold 1, optionally a silicone part), two upper pressure plates 32 (pressed against the outer walls of the first enclosure 140 and the second enclosure 142), and two lower pressure plates 34 (pressed against the outer walls of the first shell wall 1020 and the second shell wall 1022). After the upper pressure plates 32 and the lower pressure plates 34 clamp the ball mold, they rotate with the rotating unit. The ball mold serves as the ice-making chamber 102 for making ice.

[0103] Support 7: The motor 20 and the rotating unit are mounted on the support 7, which also provides the ejection mechanism 5 to push the bottom of the ball mold to complete the separation from the ice.

[0104] Optionally, in the initial state (e.g., the ice-making state), the diameter of the circle at the opening 104 of the ice mold is much smaller than the diameter of the ice ball, so after the ice mold is broken open, pressure is applied from the bottom to detach the ice ball.

[0105] like Figures 8 to 10 The four main operating states of the entire ice maker are shown: Figure 5 As shown, in the horizontal state (e.g., the ice-making state), the tension spring (e.g., elastic element 24) tightens the two sides of the ice mold to form the ice-making chamber 102, and water is added through the water inlet of the water injection section 4 to make ice; as Figure 8 As shown, after ice making is completed, the ice mold 1 immediately begins to rotate away from the ice and moves to the position of the ejection mechanism 5; as Figure 9 As shown, the ice mold 1 then continues to rotate, and the ejector mechanism 5 applies pressure to the ice mold 1, forcing the two driven arms 64 to open against the force of the tension spring, thereby expanding the opening 104 of the ice mold; as Figure 10 As shown, the ice mold 1 then continues to rotate, and the ejection mechanism 5 forces the ice ball to detach from the ice mold, completing the ice removal action.

[0106] The ice-making mold 1 proposed in this application produces ice balls that are more complete, balancing the integrity of the ice ball with ease of removal from the ice. Furthermore, the mechanism has high motion efficiency, enabling the simultaneous production of multiple small spherical ice balls. Moreover, a single motor 20 simultaneously performs the opening 104 and ejection actions, reducing the number of components required.

[0107] Alternatively, the opening 104 of the ice mold can be opened by fixing one side of the ice mold to the pivot 60 and then blocking the other side during rotation.

[0108] In this utility model, the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "linking" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0109] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0110] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. An ice-making mold, characterized in that, include: A housing, the housing including at least one ice-making chamber having an opening, and a side wall of the ice-making chamber having at least one opening / closing slit extending to the opening. The ice-making mold can switch between an ice-making state and an ice-removing state through the opening and closing seam: in the ice-making state, the opening and closing seam is closed; in the ice-removing state, the opening and closing seam is open, and a portion of the side wall of the ice-making chamber separates through the opening and closing seam, so that the area of ​​the opening in the ice-removing state is larger than the area of ​​the opening in the ice-making state.

2. The ice-making mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, When there are multiple openings and closing seams, the multiple openings and closing seams are spaced apart circumferentially along the opening.

3. The ice-making mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the circumference of the opening, the opening and closing seam is provided on opposite sides of the ice-making chamber to divide the side wall of the ice-making chamber into a first shell wall and a second shell wall. A portion of the first shell wall and the second shell wall are connected, and the other portion is disconnected through the opening and closing seam. The first shell wall and the second shell wall together enclose the opening. In the ice-free state, the first shell wall and the second shell wall are separated from each other at one end of the opening, so that the opening is set outward; in the ice-making state, the first shell wall and the second shell wall are closed at the opening and closing seam.

4. The ice-making mold according to claim 3, characterized in that, When there are multiple ice-making chambers, the multiple ice-making chambers are arranged in at least one row, and the opening and closing seams are located on opposite sides of the ice-making chambers along the arrangement direction of the multiple ice-making chambers. Along the arrangement direction of the plurality of ice-making chambers, any two adjacent first shell walls are connected at the break point, and any two adjacent second shell walls are connected at the break point.

5. The ice-making mold according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A flexible baffle is provided along the arrangement direction of the plurality of ice-making chambers, and two of the plurality of opening and closing seams located at both ends are closed by the flexible baffle.

6. The ice-making mold according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: An enclosure portion is connected to the housing and surrounds the opening. Along the circumference of the opening, the enclosure portion is discontinuously disposed corresponding to the opening and closing seam to form a first enclosure wall and a second enclosure wall. The first enclosure wall and the second enclosure wall can drive the side wall of the ice-making chamber to separate or close.

7. The ice-making mold according to claim 6, characterized in that, In the ice-making state, along the circumference of the opening, the first enclosure and the second enclosure close together at the break point to form a gap, and the plurality of ice-making chambers are connected through the gap.

8. The ice-making mold according to claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: The connecting part is located between the enclosure and the housing, and is located outside the ice-making chamber.

9. The ice-making mold according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, In the ice-making state, the inner wall surface of the ice-making chamber has a spherical structure; and / or In the ice-making state, the diameter of the ice-making chamber is larger than the diameter of the plane containing the opening; and / or The ice-making mold is a one-piece molded structure; and / or The ice-making mold includes a rubber mold or a silicone mold.

10. An ice maker, characterized in that, include: The ice-making mold as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A refrigeration device, characterized in that, include: Ice-making mold as described in any one of claims 1 to 9; or The ice maker as described in claim 10.

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