Refrigerator

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of household appliances, in particular to a refrigerator which comprises a cabinet, has an inner cabinet, a fresh-keeping drawer which is arranged to be pulled out relative to the inner cabinet, the fresh-keeping drawer has a containing cavity, a water storage assembly, the water storage assembly comprises a supporting piece arranged in the inner cabinet and a water storage piece arranged in the containing cavity and movable relative to the supporting piece. The water storage piece can be completely hidden in the fresh-keeping drawer, and the visual aesthetic feeling of the whole machine is improved.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] As an indispensable home appliance in modern families, refrigerators have become increasingly sophisticated and functional with the development of technology, in order to meet users' needs for food preservation, storage, and other aspects.

[0003] In the process of conceiving and implementing this application, the applicant discovered at least the following problems: In order to meet users' needs for ice cubes, cold drinks, etc., existing refrigerators generally design the refrigerated water storage box on the side of the fruit and vegetable drawer, fixed to the top of the lower cover, placed side by side with the fruit and vegetable drawer, which is visible and affects the aesthetics.

[0004] The preceding description is intended to provide general background information and does not necessarily constitute prior art. Utility Model Content

[0005] The main objective of this application is to provide a refrigerator in which the water storage component can be completely hidden inside the crisper drawer, thereby improving the overall aesthetic appeal of the refrigerator.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides a refrigerator, comprising:

[0007] The box body has an inner liner;

[0008] The food storage drawer is designed to be pulled out relative to the inner liner of the box, and the food storage drawer has a receiving cavity;

[0009] Water storage components, including:

[0010] Support components are located inside the box.

[0011] The water storage component is located inside the receiving cavity and is movable relative to the supporting component.

[0012] The beneficial effects of this application are: by embedding the water storage component inside the refrigeration drawer, the water storage component is completely hidden inside the refrigeration drawer when not in use, which improves the overall visual aesthetics of the machine; in addition, the water storage component is independently installed on the inner liner of the cabinet by a support component, rather than being directly supported by the refrigeration drawer, which means that the pushing and pulling operation of the refrigeration drawer will not affect the water storage component, thus improving the stability of the water storage component.

[0013] Based on the above technical solution, the following improvements can be made to this application.

[0014] In some alternative implementations, the water storage element is suspended within the receiving cavity.

[0015] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the water storage component is suspended above the accommodating cavity of the refrigeration drawer by the support component, which cleverly utilizes the underutilized vertical space inside the refrigeration drawer and realizes the intensive use of three-dimensional space.

[0016] In some alternative implementations, the food storage drawer also includes:

[0017] The opening, along the depth of the cabinet, is located at the rear of the food storage drawer and is connected to the receiving cavity;

[0018] The water storage component is positioned to correspond to the opening, allowing the food storage drawer to be movable relative to the water storage component.

[0019] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the support is suspended in the cavity and the water storage component passes through the opening at the back of the fresh food drawer, so that the water storage component can make full use of the space behind the fresh food drawer, the structure is compact and does not occupy the effective volume of the refrigerator.

[0020] In some alternative embodiments, the support member is provided with:

[0021] The first sliding member extends along the depth direction of the housing;

[0022] The water storage unit is equipped with:

[0023] The second sliding member extends along the depth direction of the housing and slides on the first sliding member to allow the water storage member to be pulled out relative to the support member.

[0024] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the matching setting of the first sliding member and the second sliding member satisfies the push-pull setting between the water storage member and the support member, making it smoother for the user to pull out the water storage member.

[0025] In some alternative embodiments, the first sliding member is a groove with the groove opening facing the water storage component;

[0026] The second sliding element is a slide rail.

[0027] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: The sliding pair structure provides high-precision linear guidance for the movement of the water storage component relative to the support component. This ensures that the water storage component moves smoothly and without jamming during the pulling process, and its movement trajectory is precisely controllable. This not only improves the user's operating feel and experience, but also ensures that the water storage component can accurately return to the preset installation position when pushed back, achieving reliable connection with the refrigerator's water supply system and avoiding the risk of malfunctions such as water leakage or connection failure due to misalignment.

[0028] In some alternative embodiments, the support member further includes:

[0029] The first stop block is located in front of the first sliding member along the depth direction of the housing.

[0030] The water storage unit is equipped with:

[0031] The second stop block is located in front of the second sliding member along the depth direction of the housing.

[0032] The water storage component has an installation position, and when the water storage component is moved to the installation position, the first stop block and the second stop block abut against each other.

[0033] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the abutting cooperation of the first stop block and the second stop block forms a clear mechanical limit in the depth direction of the water storage component, preventing the water storage component from accidentally slipping backward.

[0034] In some alternative implementations, at least one of the first stop block and the second stop block is an elastic element.

[0035] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: designing at least one of the first stop block and the second stop block as an elastic element brings multiple benefits: First, it can effectively absorb collision energy at the moment of contact, eliminate noise generated by hard impact, and improve the product quality; second, elastic deformation allows for a certain tolerance, reducing the processing and assembly precision requirements of parts; third, it provides users with a soft, cushioned feel when in place, optimizing the operating experience.

[0036] In some alternative implementations, the first slider includes:

[0037] The first sliding section is located in front of the first sliding member along the depth direction of the housing.

[0038] The second sliding section is connected to the first sliding section, and the first stop block is located at the connection between the first sliding section and the second sliding section;

[0039] Along the height direction of the box, the height of the first sliding section is less than the height of the second sliding section.

[0040] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: This setting can simultaneously satisfy installation and snap-in fixation, making it easier for users to push in more smoothly, and after installation, it can better snap the water storage component in.

[0041] In some alternative embodiments, the second slider is provided with:

[0042] The third stop block is located behind the second sliding member along the depth direction of the housing.

[0043] When the water storage unit is moved to the installation position, the third stop block abuts against the edge of the support.

[0044] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: it avoids connection problems caused by improper installation or over-insertion (such as water pipes not being able to be connected or poor contact of circuit contacts), and ensures the consistency and reliability of product assembly.

[0045] In some alternative embodiments, the support member further includes:

[0046] The elastic buckle is located on the rear side of the support and protrudes towards the water storage component along the depth direction of the tank.

[0047] The water storage unit also has:

[0048] The groove is shaped to match the elastic buckle. When the water storage unit is moved to the installation position, the elastic buckle snaps into the groove.

[0049] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: it provides users with very clear and powerful tactile and auditory feedback. This is much stronger and clearer than the feedback from a simple stop block, greatly improving the certainty of installation and the user experience.

[0050] The refrigerator provided in this application includes a cabinet with an inner liner; a fresh food drawer that is pulled out relative to the inner liner and has a receiving cavity; and a water storage assembly, which includes a support member disposed in the inner liner and a water storage member located in the receiving cavity, and the water storage member being movable relative to the support member.

[0051] By integrating the water storage unit into the refrigeration drawer, it is completely hidden inside the drawer when not in use, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the unit. Furthermore, the water storage unit is independently mounted on the inner liner via a support, rather than being directly supported by the refrigeration drawer. This ensures that the sliding operation of the refrigeration drawer does not affect the water storage unit, improving its stability. Attached Figure Description

[0052] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the 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 based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0053] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerator structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 2 This is a partial structural diagram of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the refrigerator's crisper drawer in an open state, provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the water storage component and the inner liner of the refrigerator provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0057] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of point I in the middle;

[0058] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the water storage component in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application from a first-view perspective of its installation position;

[0059] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the water storage component in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application from a second-view perspective of its installation position;

[0060] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A magnified view of a section at point II;

[0061] Figure 9 A first-view schematic diagram of the state where the water storage component in the refrigerator is not in the installation position, as provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A magnified view of a portion of point III;

[0063] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A magnified view of a portion of point IV in the middle;

[0064] Figure 12 A second-view schematic diagram of the state where the water storage component in the refrigerator is not in the installation position, as provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0065] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A magnified view of a portion of point V in the middle;

[0066] Figure 14 A third-view schematic diagram of the refrigerator's water storage component not in its installation position, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0067] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A magnified view of a portion of point VI in the middle.

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

[0069] 100 - Refrigerator;

[0070] 110 - Cabinet body; 111 - Inner liner; 120 - Door;

[0071] 130 - Food storage drawer; 131 - Opening;

[0072] 140 - Water storage component; 141 - Support member; 1411 - First sliding member; 1412 - First stop block; 141a - First sliding section; 141b - Second sliding section; 1413 - Elastic buckle; 1414 - First support frame; 1415 - Second support frame; 142 - Water storage component; 1421 - Second sliding member; 1422 - Second stop block; 1423 - Third stop block; 1424 - Groove;

[0073] 150 - Glass panel. Detailed Implementation

[0074] 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. All other obtained embodiments are within the scope of protection of this application. In the absence of conflict, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0075] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0076] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0077] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. 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. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0078] Currently, in order to meet users' needs for ice cubes, cold drinks, etc., existing refrigerators generally design the refrigerated water storage box on the side of the crisper drawer, fixed to the top of the lower cover, placed side by side with the crisper drawer, which is visible and affects the aesthetics.

[0079] To overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, the refrigerator provided in this application integrates the water storage component into the crisper drawer, so that the water storage component is completely hidden inside the crisper drawer when not in use, which improves the overall visual aesthetics of the refrigerator. In addition, the water storage component is independently installed on the inner liner of the refrigerator by a support component, rather than being directly supported by the crisper drawer. This ensures that the pushing and pulling operation of the crisper drawer will not affect the water storage component, thus improving the stability of the water storage component.

[0080] The contents of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can have a clearer and more detailed understanding of the contents of this application.

[0081] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerator structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is a partial structural diagram of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerator's crisper drawer in an open state, as provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the assembly of the water storage component and the inner liner of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of point I in the middle.

[0082] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, this application embodiment provides a refrigerator 100, including:

[0083] Box body 110, with inner liner 111;

[0084] The food storage drawer 130 is designed to be pulled out relative to the inner liner 111, and the food storage drawer 130 has a receiving cavity;

[0085] Water storage component 140, water storage component 140 includes:

[0086] Support member 141 is located inside the box liner 111;

[0087] The water storage component 142 is located inside the receiving cavity and is movably arranged relative to the support component 141.

[0088] With the above-described configuration, the refrigerator 100 of this application embodiment incorporates the water storage component 142 within the crisper drawer 130, so that the water storage component 142 is completely hidden inside the crisper drawer 130 when not in use, thus improving the overall aesthetic appeal of the refrigerator. Furthermore, the water storage component 142 is independently mounted on the inner liner 111 via the support member 141, rather than being directly supported by the crisper drawer 130. This ensures that the pushing and pulling operation of the crisper drawer 130 does not affect the water storage component 142, thereby improving the stability of the water storage component 142.

[0089] It should be noted that the following provides a detailed explanation of each structure.

[0090] [Box 110]

[0091] The refrigerator 100 of this application embodiment may include a cabinet 110 and a door 120. The cabinet 110 may be configured with a refrigeration compartment. The refrigeration compartment has an opening 131 for storing food and other items. There may be one or more refrigeration compartments. When there are multiple refrigeration compartments, the multiple refrigeration compartments may be divided into a refrigerator compartment, a freezer compartment, or a variable temperature compartment, etc.

[0092] For example, the refrigerator body 110 may include an outer shell and an inner liner 111, the outer shell defining the external boundary of the refrigerator 100. The inner liner 111 may be disposed inside the outer shell and connected to the outer shell. The inner liner 111 may be recessed inward to form a cooling compartment. An insulation layer may be filled between the outer shell and the inner liner 111, the insulation layer insulating the cooling compartment, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the refrigerator 100.

[0093] The box 110 adopts a hollow cuboid structure. It is understood that in other embodiments, the box 110 may also adopt a hollow shell structure of other shapes.

[0094] It should be noted that X represents the depth direction of the box 110, Y represents the width direction of the box 110, and Z represents the height direction of the box 110.

[0095] It should be noted that the refrigerator 100 also includes a refrigeration component, which is used to provide cooling for the interior of the refrigerator 100 in order to maintain a low temperature environment in each refrigeration compartment.

[0096] In some embodiments, the refrigeration assembly includes a compressor, condenser, evaporator, throttling device, etc. The specific structure and connection relationships of the refrigeration assembly can be found in related art, and will not be repeated here. The evaporator provides different amounts of cooling capacity to different types of storage spaces, resulting in different temperatures within these spaces. For example, the temperature inside a refrigerator compartment is generally between 2°C and 10°C, preferably between 4°C and 7°C. The temperature range inside a freezer compartment is generally between -22°C and -14°C.

[0097] Different types of items have different optimal storage temperatures, and consequently, different suitable storage spaces. For example, fruits and vegetables are best stored in the refrigerator or crisper drawer, while meat is best stored in the freezer.

[0098] [Gate 120]

[0099] It should be noted that the door 120 can be connected to the cabinet 110 to open or close the refrigeration compartment.

[0100] A door 120 is disposed on the front surface of the enclosure 110 to enclose the refrigeration compartment. The door 120 is configured to open and close the refrigeration compartment, specifically, the door 120 can open and close the front opening 131 of the enclosure 110. Doors 120 can be correspondingly arranged with refrigeration compartments; that is, each refrigeration compartment corresponds to one or more doors 120. The number of refrigeration compartments and doors 120, as well as the function of the refrigeration compartments, can be selected based on specific circumstances. One door 120 can be provided for the same refrigeration compartment. Alternatively, two doors 120 can be provided for the same refrigeration compartment.

[0101] In some possible implementations of this application, the door 120 can be rotatably connected to the housing 110 about the height direction Z of the housing 110. The door 120 can be pulled or pushed to rotate relative to the housing 110, thereby opening or closing the refrigeration compartment.

[0102] In some embodiments, the door 120 is a rotating door structure. The door 120 is rotatably disposed on the front side of the housing 110, and in this case, the door 120 can be used as a general door structure, such as a refrigerator door, a variable temperature door, etc.

[0103] Specifically, the door 120 and the cabinet 110 can be connected by a hinge so that the door 120 of the refrigerator 100 can rotate around the axis of the hinge, thereby opening and closing the door 120 and opening and closing the corresponding refrigeration compartment.

[0104] In some embodiments, the door 120 can also be a sliding door structure. The door 120 is slidably disposed on the front side of the cabinet 110, and in this case, the door 120 can be used as a drawer door. Specifically, guide rails (not shown in the figure) are respectively provided on the left and right inner side walls of the cabinet liner, and the door 120 is connected to the guide rails on both sides, thereby realizing the sliding function of the door 120 and realizing the opening and closing of the refrigeration compartment by extending and retracting the guide rails.

[0105] [Food Storage Drawer 130]

[0106] It should be noted that the refrigerator 100 in this embodiment of the application also includes a fresh food drawer 130, in which fresh food is stored.

[0107] The design of the food storage drawer 130 allows users to easily pull out boxes for convenient storage and retrieval of food. Users can access or place food without reaching into the entire drawer, enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, the drawer 130 can be easily removed for convenient cleaning and maintenance, ensuring hygiene and cleanliness inside.

[0108] For example, the food storage drawer 130 is slidably disposed within the inner liner 111 via a common guide rail mechanism (not shown), such as on a shelf in a refrigerator compartment. The interior of the food storage drawer 130 has a receiving cavity for holding items.

[0109] Specifically, the position of the food storage drawer 130 can be flexibly adjusted as needed to make full use of the space inside. Users can arrange the food according to its size and shape to improve space utilization.

[0110] In addition, the food storage drawer 130 provides an independent storage space for food, making it easy to classify and organize. Users can divide the food into sections according to the type of food or the frequency of use, keeping the food storage drawer 130 neat and orderly.

[0111] In some embodiments, the food storage drawer 130 is provided with a partition, which is arranged along the depth direction of the box body 110 to divide the food storage drawer 130 into two parts along the width direction of the box body 110. One part stores fresh food, and the other part holds the water storage device 142.

[0112] [Water storage component 140]

[0113] It should be noted that the refrigerator 100 in this embodiment of the application also includes a water storage component 140, wherein the water storage component 140 includes a support member 141 and a water storage component 142. The support member 141 is fixed on the side wall of the inner liner 111 and provides an installation base for the water storage component 142. The water storage component 142 is movably mounted on the support member 141.

[0114] The water storage component 142 is installed inside the receiving cavity of the food storage drawer 130 and is mainly used to store drinking water or water for ice making.

[0115] It should be noted that the design of the water storage component 140 breaks away from the conventional pattern of the water storage component 142 being independently arranged in the door 120 or compartment of the traditional refrigerator 100. Instead, the water storage component 142 is built into the crisper drawer 130. This allows the water storage component 142 to be completely hidden inside the crisper drawer 130 when not in use, achieving a perfect integration with the internal space of the refrigerator 100. This eliminates the visual disjointedness caused by external components and enhances the unified, simple, and high-end visual aesthetics of the entire unit.

[0116] Furthermore, since the water storage component 142 is independently installed on the inner liner 111 via the support component 141, rather than being directly supported by the food storage drawer 130, the pushing and pulling operation of the food storage drawer 130 is completely decoupled from the water storage component 142. During the pushing and pulling of the food storage drawer 130, the water storage component 142 remains stationary, effectively avoiding the risk of water sloshing, splashing, or even tipping over due to the inertia of the food storage drawer 130, greatly improving the stability and reliability of use. At the same time, this design also reduces the structural strength requirements of the food storage drawer 130 itself.

[0117] In some embodiments, a glass panel 150 is provided on the food storage drawer 130, and there is a gap between the glass panel 150 and the support member 141 to accommodate structures such as cables.

[0118] In some alternative embodiments, the water storage element 142 is suspended within the receiving cavity.

[0119] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the water storage component 142 is suspended above the receiving cavity of the fresh food drawer 130 by the support component 141, which cleverly makes use of the underutilized vertical space inside the fresh food drawer 130 and realizes the intensive use of three-dimensional space.

[0120] In addition, this physical separation effectively avoids direct contact between food and water storage unit 142, ensuring the hygiene and safety of drinking water sources, and achieving dry and wet separation and clean and dirty zoning, thus improving the orderliness of room management.

[0121] In some embodiments, the support member 141 is fixedly installed on the side wall of the inner liner 111 and extends back and forth along the depth direction of the box body 110. The water storage member 142 is movably disposed on the support member 141 and is suspended in the receiving cavity of the fresh food drawer 130.

[0122] like Figure 3 As shown, in some alternative embodiments, the food storage drawer 130 also includes:

[0123] Opening 131, along the depth direction of the box body 110, is located on the rear side of the food storage drawer 130, and opening 131 is connected to the receiving cavity;

[0124] The water storage component 142 is positioned corresponding to the opening 131 so that the food storage drawer 130 is movable relative to the water storage component 142.

[0125] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the support member 141 is suspended in the cavity, and the water storage member 142 passes through the opening 131 on the rear side of the fresh food drawer 130, so that the water storage component 140 can make full use of the space behind the fresh food drawer 130, with a compact structure and without taking up additional effective volume of the refrigerator 100.

[0126] It should be noted that the water storage component 142 is a container for holding water, such as a water tank. It passes through the opening 131 on the rear side of the food storage drawer 130 and is housed within the receiving cavity. This means that the food storage drawer 130 can be pulled back and forth independently of the water storage component 142.

[0127] In some embodiments, an opening 131 is provided on the rear side of the food storage drawer 130 (i.e. the side near the interior of the cabinet 110). The opening 131 is arranged along the depth direction of the cabinet 110 and communicates with the receiving cavity. When the food storage drawer 130 is pulled out, the water storage component 142 can pass through the opening 131, which means that the pulling out of the food storage drawer 130 will not affect the water storage component 142, or in other words, the position of the water storage component 142 will not affect the user opening or closing the food storage drawer 130.

[0128] Specifically, the water storage unit 142 is allowed to be independently fixed to the cabinet 110, while the refrigerator drawer 130 can be independently pushed and pulled out in its entirety. The direct technical advantage of this is that when the refrigerator drawer 130 is pushed and pulled to access items, the water storage unit 142 and the liquid inside remain stationary. This eliminates the risk of water sloshing, splashing, or even tipping over due to the inertia of the refrigerator drawer 130's opening and stopping, ensuring operational stability and reliability. At the same time, this design also reduces the load and structural strength requirements on the refrigerator drawer 130's guide rails, as it does not need to bear the additional weight of the water storage unit 142 (especially when fully loaded).

[0129] In some embodiments, the size of the opening 131 may be slightly larger than the size of the water storage component 142, and the specific size value is not limited here.

[0130] Figure 6 This is a first-view schematic diagram of the water storage component in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application, showing its state at the installation location. Figure 7 This is a second-view schematic diagram of the water storage component in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application, showing its state at the installation position. Figure 8 for Figure 7A magnified view of a portion of point II.

[0131] like Figures 4 to 8 As shown, in some alternative embodiments, the support member 141 is provided with:

[0132] The first sliding member 1411 extends along the depth direction of the housing 110;

[0133] Water storage component 142 is equipped with:

[0134] The second sliding member 1421 extends along the depth direction of the housing 110. The second sliding member 1421 slides on the first sliding member 1411 so that the water storage member 142 is pulled out relative to the support member 141.

[0135] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the matching arrangement of the first sliding member 1411 and the second sliding member 1421 satisfies the push-pull setting between the water storage member 142 and the support member 141, making it smoother for the user to pull the water storage member 142.

[0136] In some embodiments, the bottom or side of the support member 141 is provided with a first sliding member 1411 extending along the depth direction of the housing 110, and the bottom or side wall of the water storage member 142 is provided with a second sliding member 1421, the structure and position of the second sliding member 1421 matching the first sliding member 1411.

[0137] In some embodiments, there are at least two first sliding members 1411 and at least two second sliding members 1421. At least two first sliding members 1411 are disposed on opposite sides of the support member 141 along the width direction of the housing 110, and at least two second sliding members 1421 are disposed on opposite sides of the water storage member 142 along the width direction of the housing 110.

[0138] In some embodiments, the support member 141 includes a first support frame 1414 and a second support frame 1415. The first support frame 1414 is mounted on the inner liner 111 by a snap fastener or screw, and the second support frame 1415 is mounted on the first support frame 1414 by a snap fastener. The first sliding member 1411 is mounted on the second support frame 1415.

[0139] In some embodiments, in addition to being pulled out relative to the support member 141, the water storage member 142 can also be rotated relative to the support member 141.

[0140] In some alternative embodiments, the first sliding member 1411 is a groove with the groove opening facing the water storage member 142;

[0141] The second sliding member 1421 is a slide rail.

[0142] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: The sliding pair structure provides high-precision linear guidance for the movement of the water storage component 142 relative to the support component 141. This ensures that the water storage component 142 moves without shaking or jamming during the pulling process, and its movement trajectory is precisely controllable. This not only improves the user's operating feel and experience, but also ensures that the water storage component 142 can accurately return to the preset installation position when pushed back, achieving reliable connection with the water supply system of the refrigerator 100, and avoiding the risk of malfunctions such as water leakage or connection failure due to misalignment.

[0143] In this embodiment, the first sliding member 1411 can be a sliding groove. There are two first sliding members 1411, which are arranged at intervals. The two grooves of the two first sliding members 1411 are arranged opposite to each other, that is, the groove of one of the two first sliding members 1411 faces the groove of the other first sliding member 1411.

[0144] Figure 9 This is a first-view diagram illustrating the state of the water storage component in the refrigerator not being in its installation position, as provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 10 for Figure 9 A magnified view of a portion of point III. Figure 11 for Figure 10 A magnified view of a portion of point IV in the middle.

[0145] like Figures 4 to 11 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the support member 141 is further provided with:

[0146] The first stop block 1412 is located in front of the first slider 1411 along the depth direction of the housing 110.

[0147] Water storage component 142 is equipped with:

[0148] The second stop block 1422 is located in front of the second slider 1421 along the depth direction of the housing 110.

[0149] The water storage component 142 has an installation position, and when the water storage component 142 moves to the installation position, the first stop block 1412 and the second stop block 1422 abut against each other.

[0150] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: the abutting cooperation of the first stop block 1412 and the second stop block 1422 forms a clear mechanical limit in the depth direction of the water storage component 142, preventing the water storage component 142 from accidentally slipping backward.

[0151] In some embodiments, the support member 141 has a first stop block 1412 near the front end of the first slider 1411. The first stop block 1412 may be a rigid protrusion or an elastic element, such as a rubber block or a spring sheet, to provide cushioning and noise reduction.

[0152] In some embodiments, the water storage member 142 is provided with a second stop block 1422 near the front end of the second sliding member 1421. The second stop block 1422 is also preferably an elastic member.

[0153] The first stop block 1412 and the second stop block 1422 cooperate with each other so that when the water storage component 142 is installed in the installation position, they can lock into each other, thereby restricting the water storage component 142 in the installation position and ensuring the stability of the installation.

[0154] In some alternative embodiments, at least one of the first stop block 1412 and the second stop block 1422 is an elastic element.

[0155] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: designing at least one of the first stop block 1412 and the second stop block 1422 as an elastic element brings multiple benefits: First, it can effectively absorb collision energy at the moment of contact, eliminate noise generated by hard impact, and improve the product quality; Second, elastic deformation allows for a certain tolerance, reducing the processing and assembly precision requirements of parts; Third, it provides users with a soft, cushioned feel, optimizing the operating experience.

[0156] In some embodiments, the first stop block 1412 and the second stop block 1422 may be made of materials such as rubber, silicone, or springs.

[0157] Specifically, during the process of pushing the water storage component 142 back to the installation position, the first stop block 1412 and the second stop block 1422 will inevitably collide. If both are rigid components, a hard impact will be generated, resulting in a clear collision noise, which is considered a sign of low quality and a potential product defect.

[0158] Therefore, by introducing an elastic element, the impact kinetic energy is absorbed by the deformation of the elastic body, transforming the unpleasant rigid impact sound into a weak, muffled low sound, or even eliminating it completely, thus significantly reducing operating noise.

[0159] Furthermore, the elastic element undergoes adaptive deformation under contact pressure, effectively filling and compensating for assembly gaps caused by the aforementioned tolerances. This ensures surface contact between the first stop block 1412 and the second stop block 1422 within any tolerance range, thereby making the water storage component 142 more securely fixed in its installation position without any looseness. Avoiding localized stress concentration caused by rigid point contact improves the long-term reliability of the first stop block 1412, the second stop block 1422, and their mounting structure, preventing breakage due to long-term impact.

[0160] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in some alternative embodiments, the first slider 1411 includes:

[0161] The first sliding section 141a is located in front of the first sliding member 1411 along the depth direction of the housing 110.

[0162] The second sliding segment 141b is connected to the first sliding segment 141a, and the first stop block 1412 is located at the connection between the first sliding segment 141a and the second sliding segment 141b.

[0163] Along the height direction of the housing 110, the height of the first sliding section 141a is less than the height of the second sliding section 141b.

[0164] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: This setting can simultaneously satisfy installation and snap-in fixation, making it easier for users to push in more smoothly, and after installation, it can better snap the water storage component 142 in.

[0165] In other words, the height difference design creates a step or slope on the sliding path. As the water storage component 142 is gradually pushed into the installation position, its second sliding component 1421 needs to be guided from the lower first sliding section 141a to the higher second sliding section 141b. This process requires the user to apply a small upward component force to overcome gravity.

[0166] In some embodiments, the first stop block 1412 is disposed on the first sliding segment 141a and is located at the connection between the first sliding segment 141a and the second sliding segment 141b.

[0167] Specifically, the first sliding member 1411 can be further divided into two segments: a first sliding segment 141a located at the front and a second sliding segment 141b connected thereafter. A first stop block 1412 is located at the connection between these two segments. Along the height direction (vertical direction) of the housing 110, the depth (or height) of the first sliding segment 141a is less than the depth of the second sliding segment 141b, forming a height difference.

[0168] Continue to refer to Figures 4 to 11 In some alternative embodiments, the second slider 1421 is provided with:

[0169] The third stop block 1423 is located behind the second slider 1421 along the depth direction of the housing 110.

[0170] When the water storage component 142 is moved to the installation position, the third stop block 1423 abuts against the edge of the support component 141.

[0171] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: it avoids connection problems caused by improper installation or over-insertion (such as water pipes not being able to be connected or poor contact of circuit contacts), and ensures the consistency and reliability of product assembly.

[0172] In some embodiments, the third stop block 1423 has a stop edge that can abut against the edge of the support member 141, which can further ensure that the water storage member 142 is installed in place.

[0173] Figure 12 This is a second-view schematic diagram of a refrigerator's water storage component not in its installation position, provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 13 for Figure 12 A magnified view of a portion of point V in the middle. Figure 14 This is a third-view schematic diagram of the water storage component in a refrigerator not in its installation position, provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 15 for Figure 14 A magnified view of a portion of point VI in the middle.

[0174] like Figures 12 to 15 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the support member 141 is further provided with:

[0175] The elastic buckle 1413 is located on the rear side of the support member 141 along the depth direction of the box 110 and protrudes towards the water storage member 142.

[0176] Water storage component 142 also has:

[0177] The groove 1424 is shaped to match the shape of the elastic buckle 1413. When the water storage component 142 is moved to the installation position, the elastic buckle 1413 is engaged in the groove 1424.

[0178] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: it provides users with very clear and powerful tactile and auditory feedback. This is much stronger and clearer than the feedback from a simple stop block, greatly improving the certainty of installation and the user experience.

[0179] The specific analysis is as follows: When the water storage component 142 reaches the installation position, the elastic buckle 1413 quickly snaps into the groove 1424 under the action of its own deformation recovery force, producing a clicking sound and tactile vibration.

[0180] This provides users with unmistakable audible and tactile feedback, ensuring they know for certain that the water reservoir 142 is installed correctly. Simultaneously, the snap-fit ​​connection provides continuous locking force, effectively resisting vibrations during refrigerator 100 operation and ensuring the water reservoir 142 will not loosen during long-term use, resulting in extremely high connection reliability.

[0181] In some embodiments, the support member 141 is provided with an elastic buckle 1413 on its rear side (at one end near the inner wall of the housing 110), which can elastically deform toward the water storage member 142. Correspondingly, a groove 1424 matching the shape of the elastic buckle 1413 on the support member 141 is also provided at a corresponding position on the water storage member 142.

[0182] It should be noted that both the food storage drawer 130 and the water reservoir 142 are in the pushed-in position. The water reservoir 142 is in its installed position. In this position, the second stop 1422 of the water reservoir 142 abuts against the first stop 1412 of the support member 141 to prevent the water reservoir 142 from slipping backward due to its own inertia or vibration. In addition, the third stop 1423 abuts against the edge of the support member 141, and the elastic buckle 1413 on the rear side of the support member 141 engages in the groove 1424 of the water reservoir 142, providing an additional locking to ensure that the water reservoir 142 is securely held on the support member 141.

[0183] When it is necessary to add water or clean the water storage unit 142, the user first grasps the handle of the refrigerator drawer 130 and pulls the entire refrigerator drawer 130 out of the inner liner 111. Since the water storage unit 142 is fixed to the support 141, it is still located within the receiving cavity of the refrigerator drawer 130 at this time. After the refrigerator drawer 130 is fully pulled out, the user can directly access the water storage unit 142. At this time, the user can perform minor operations on the water storage unit 142 (such as checking the water level).

[0184] If it is necessary to remove the water reservoir 142 for adding a large amount of water or for thorough cleaning, the user only needs to apply a forward pulling force to the water reservoir 142. This force will overcome the clamping force between the elastic buckle 1413 and the groove 1424, causing the elastic buckle 1413 to deform elastically and disengage from the groove 1424, and the water reservoir 142 can then slide forward along the first sliding member 1411 (slide groove).

[0185] During the sliding process, when the second sliding member 1421 (slide rail) of the water storage component 142 moves from the higher second sliding section 141b to the lower first sliding section 141a, it just passes the first stop block 1412. This process provides a clear operating feel, indicating to the user that the water storage component 142 is being removed. After the water storage component 142 is fully pulled out, the user can clean it or add water.

[0186] When reinstalling the water storage component 142, align the slide rail of the water storage component 142 with the slide groove of the support component 141 and push it backward. When the second stop block 1422 contacts and passes the first stop block 1412, the water storage component 142 is basically in place. Continue pushing backward until the elastic buckle 1413 clicks into the groove 1424, at which point the water storage component 142 has accurately returned to its installation position.

[0187] The refrigerator provided in this application includes a cabinet with an inner liner; a fresh food drawer that is pulled out relative to the inner liner and has a receiving cavity; and a water storage assembly, which includes a support member disposed in the inner liner and a water storage member located in the receiving cavity, and the water storage member being movable relative to the support member.

[0188] By integrating the water storage unit into the refrigeration drawer, it is completely hidden inside the drawer when not in use, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the unit. Furthermore, the water storage unit is independently mounted on the inner liner via a support, rather than being directly supported by the refrigeration drawer. This ensures that the sliding operation of the refrigeration drawer does not affect the water storage unit, improving its stability.

[0189] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0190] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0191] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A refrigerator (100), characterized in that, include: The box body (110) has an inner liner (111); The food storage drawer (130) is designed to be pulled out relative to the inner liner (111) of the box, and the food storage drawer (130) has a receiving cavity; Water storage component (140), the water storage component (140) comprising: A support member (141) is provided in the inner liner (111) of the box. A water storage component (142) is located inside the receiving cavity, and the water storage component (142) is movably disposed relative to the support component (141).

2. The refrigerator (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water storage component (142) is suspended inside the receiving cavity.

3. The refrigerator (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The food storage drawer (130) also includes: An opening (131) is located along the depth direction of the box body (110), the opening (131) is located on the rear side of the food storage drawer (130), and the opening (131) is connected to the receiving cavity; The water storage component (142) is positioned corresponding to the opening (131) so that the food preservation drawer (130) is movably positioned relative to the water storage component (142).

4. The refrigerator (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The support member (141) is provided with: The first sliding member (1411) extends along the depth direction of the housing (110); The water storage component (142) is provided with: The second sliding member (1421) extends along the depth direction of the housing (110) and slides on the first sliding member (1411) so that the water storage member (142) is pulled out relative to the support member (141).

5. The refrigerator (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first sliding member (1411) is a sliding groove, and the groove opening faces the water storage member (142). The second sliding member (1421) is a slide rail.

6. The refrigerator (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support member (141) is further provided with: The first stop block (1412) is located in front of the first slider (1411) along the depth direction of the housing (110). The water storage component (142) is provided with: The second stop block (1422) is located in front of the second slider (1421) along the depth direction of the housing (110); The water storage component (142) has an installation position, and when the water storage component (142) moves to the installation position, the first stop block (1412) and the second stop block (1422) abut against each other.

7. The refrigerator (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, At least one of the first stop block (1412) and the second stop block (1422) is an elastic element.

8. The refrigerator (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first slider (1411) includes: The first sliding segment (141a) is located in front of the first sliding member (1411) along the depth direction of the housing (110). The second sliding segment (141b) is connected to the first sliding segment (141a), and the first stop block (1412) is located at the connection between the first sliding segment (141a) and the second sliding segment (141b). Along the height direction of the housing (110), the height of the first sliding section (141a) is less than the height of the second sliding section (141b).

9. The refrigerator (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second slider (1421) is provided with: The third stop block (1423) is located behind the second slider (1421) along the depth direction of the housing (110). When the water storage component (142) is moved to the installation position, the third stop block (1423) abuts against the edge of the support component (141).

10. The refrigerator (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The support member (141) is further provided with: The elastic buckle (1413) is located on the rear side of the support (141) and protrudes towards the water storage component (142) along the depth direction of the box (110). The water storage component (142) also has: The groove (1424) is shaped to match the shape of the elastic buckle (1413). When the water storage component (142) moves to the installation position, the elastic buckle (1413) is engaged in the groove (1424).

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