Refrigerator connection structure and combined refrigerator

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of refrigerators, and provides a refrigerator connecting structure and a combined refrigerator. The refrigerator connecting structure comprises: a first fixing plate used for being fixed on one of two single refrigerators; a first connecting hole is arranged on the first fixing plate; a second fixing plate used for being fixed on the other of the two single refrigerators, and the second fixing plate and the first fixing plate partially overlap in the thickness direction; a second connecting hole is arranged on the second fixing plate; an adjusting piece is rotatably arranged in the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole; the adjusting piece comprises a first part located in the first connecting hole and a second part located in the second connecting hole, the central axes of the first part and the second part are not collinear; when the first part rotates in the first connecting hole, the second part is driven to rotate around the central line of the first part, so that the first fixing plate and the second fixing plate are close to or away from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigerator technology, and more particularly to refrigerator connection structures and modular refrigerators. Background Technology

[0002] In the refrigerator industry, modular refrigerators have become an important product category due to their ability to be connected and embedded in cabinets from two or more individual refrigerators to achieve a seamless installation. However, in actual installation scenarios, the installation space dimensions of modular refrigerators are prone to fluctuations due to limitations in cabinet manufacturing precision, often resulting in the actual installation space being smaller than the preset dimensions.

[0003] Currently, the connecting components used to connect adjacent individual refrigerators in modular refrigerators mostly adopt a "fixed hole + screw" connection structure. This structure fixes the lateral dimensions of the connected individual refrigerators and cannot be changed. When the installation space is small, modular refrigerators are prone to problems in being pushed into the cabinet smoothly. Even if they are pushed in with difficulty, insufficient left and right clearance between the refrigerators can cause interference when opening the door, affecting the normal installation and user experience of the modular refrigerator. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the related art. To this end, this application proposes a refrigerator connection structure to solve the problem that the inaccurate installation space dimensions of existing refrigerators make it difficult to install modular refrigerators, allowing the lateral dimensions of the modular refrigerator to be finely adjusted to adapt to the installation space dimensions.

[0005] This application also proposes a modular refrigerator.

[0006] A refrigerator connection structure according to a first aspect embodiment of this application is used to connect two adjacent individual refrigerators. The refrigerator connection structure includes: A first fixing plate is used to fix it to one of the two individual refrigerators; the first fixing plate is provided with a first connecting hole; A second fixing plate is used to fix it to the other of the two individual refrigerators, and the second fixing plate and the first fixing plate partially overlap in the thickness direction; the second fixing plate is provided with a second connecting hole; An adjusting member is rotatably inserted into the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole; the adjusting member includes a first part located in the first connecting hole and a second part located in the second connecting hole, the central axes of the first part and the second part are not collinear; when the first part rotates in the first connecting hole, it drives the second part to rotate around the center line of the first part, so that the first fixing plate and the second fixing plate move closer to or further away from each other.

[0007] According to one embodiment of this application, both the first part and the second part are cylinders, and the diameter of the second part is smaller than the diameter of the first part; On a plane perpendicular to the axes of the first and second parts, the cross-sectional circle of the second part lies within the cross-sectional circle of the first part.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this application, the first connecting hole is a strip-shaped hole that extends in a direction perpendicular to the transverse arrangement of the single refrigerator, so that the adjusting member can move within the strip-shaped first connecting hole when it rotates.

[0009] According to one embodiment of this application, a limiting hole is provided on the side of the second fixing plate away from the first fixing plate, and the limiting hole communicates with the second connecting hole; The adjusting member further includes a third part located in the limiting hole to restrict the second part from moving from the second connecting hole to the first connecting hole.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this application, the adjusting member further includes a screwing portion, which is connected to the first portion and located at an end away from the second portion; The size of the screwing part is larger than the size of the first connecting hole, so as to restrict the first part from moving from the first connecting hole to the second connecting hole.

[0011] According to one embodiment of this application, the refrigerator connection structure further includes a guide; The first fixing plate is provided with a first guide hole, and the second fixing plate is provided with a second guide hole. At least one of the first guide hole and the second guide hole is a strip hole, and the strip hole extends along the direction of the transverse arrangement of the single refrigerator. The guide member passes through the first guide hole and the second guide hole to limit the relative movement direction of the first fixing plate and the second fixing plate.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this application, the number of the guide member, the first guide hole and the second guide hole are respectively set to be multiple, so that the first fixing plate and the second fixing plate are close to or far from each other along the lateral arrangement direction of the single refrigerator.

[0013] According to one embodiment of this application, the first fixing plate includes: A fixing section is used to fix it to one of the two individual refrigerator units. A mating section is connected to the second fixing plate; along the thickness direction of the first fixing plate and the second fixing plate, the mating section is higher than the fixing section, so that the mating section and the second fixing plate overlap. A connecting segment that connects the fixed segment and the mating segment.

[0014] According to a second aspect of this application, a modular refrigerator includes the aforementioned refrigerator connecting structure and at least two adjacent individual refrigerators, with a connecting gap formed between the adjacent individual refrigerators. The refrigerator connecting structure is located at the connecting gap and is connected to the two adjacent individual refrigerators respectively, so as to adjust the size of the connecting gap.

[0015] According to one embodiment of this application, the individual refrigerator is configured as two; The refrigerator connection structure is configured in three groups, which are respectively located at the top, front, and rear of the modular refrigerator.

[0016] The above-described one or more technical solutions in the embodiments of this application have at least one of the following technical effects: In the refrigerator connection structure of this application, an adjusting member is rotatably mounted on a first fixed plate and a second fixed plate. The first and second parts of the adjusting member respectively engage with the first connecting hole of the first fixed plate and the second connecting hole of the second fixed plate. When the adjusting member rotates, since the central axes of the first and second parts are not collinear, the first part rotates on its own axis, and the second part revolves around the first part. The positional changes of the first and second parts are converted into relative movement between the first and second fixed plates. That is, the adjusting member, through its own rotation, pushes the first and second fixed plates closer together or further apart, thereby adjusting the gap between two adjacent individual refrigerators and thus achieving the effect of adjusting the lateral dimensions of the modular refrigerator. This refrigerator connection structure allows for fine-tuning of the lateral dimensions of the modular refrigerator, enabling flexible installation into cabinet spaces with lower dimensional accuracy, thus improving the installation efficiency and effect of the modular refrigerator.

[0017] Furthermore, both the first and second parts are cylindrical. Utilizing the smooth surface and uniform contact of the cylinder, the frictional resistance between the adjusting component and the inner walls of the first and second connecting holes is reduced during rotation. This ensures that the adjusting component maintains a smooth, uninterrupted rotation while driving the relative movement of the first and second fixed plates. It also ensures the stability of the eccentric motion trajectory of the first part's rotation and the second part's revolution around the first part during rotation, making the relative displacement between the first and second fixed plates accurate and controllable. This effectively improves the precision of the lateral dimension fine-tuning of the modular refrigerator, better adapting to the size requirements of the cabinet installation space.

[0018] Furthermore, the first connecting hole is a strip-shaped hole that extends along the direction perpendicular to the horizontal arrangement of the single refrigerator, providing the first part of the adjusting component with a moving space to adapt to its movement trajectory, ensuring that there is no structural interference when the adjusting component rotates.

[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or related technologies of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerator connection structure provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 (Can be installed at the front of a modular refrigerator).

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerator connection structure provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 .

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerator connection structure provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 .

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Sectional view of AA.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the adjusting member provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerator connection structure provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 4 (Can be installed on top of a modular refrigerator).

[0027] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerator connection structure provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 5 (Can be installed at the rear of a modular refrigerator).

[0028] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the combined refrigerator provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 .

[0029] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Enlarged view of the structure at point B (lower front part of the refrigerator).

[0030] Figure 10 for Figure 8 Enlarged view of the structure at point C (top of the refrigerator).

[0031] Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the combined refrigerator provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 .

[0032] Figure 12 for Figure 11 Enlarged view of the structure at point D (rear end of the refrigerator).

[0033] Figure label: 1. First fixing plate; 11. Fixing section; 111. First fixing hole; 112. First protrusion; 12. Mating section; 121. First connecting hole; 122. First guide hole; 123. Clearance hole; 124. Clearance area; 13. Connecting section; 2. Second fixing plate; 21. Second connecting hole; 22. Limiting hole; 23. Second guide hole; 24. Second fixing hole; 25. Second protrusion; 3. Adjusting component; 31. First part; 32. Second part; 33. Third part; 34. Tightening part; 4. Guide component; 51. First fastener; 52. Second fastener; 6. Single refrigerator; 61. Connecting gap. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are used to illustrate this application, but should not be used to limit the scope of this application.

[0035] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0036] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0037] In the embodiments of 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.

[0038] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples. "A plurality of" should be understood as two or more.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the first aspect of this application, a refrigerator connection structure is provided for connecting two adjacent individual refrigerators 6, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the refrigerator connection structure includes: a first fixing plate 1 for fixing to one of the two individual refrigerators 6; the first fixing plate 1 is provided with a first connecting hole 121; a second fixing plate 2 for fixing to the other of the two individual refrigerators 6, and the second fixing plate 2 and the first fixing plate 1 partially overlap in the thickness direction; the second fixing plate 2 is provided with a second connecting hole 21; an adjusting member 3 rotatably passes through the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21; the adjusting member 3 includes a first part 31 located in the first connecting hole 121 and a second part 32 located in the second connecting hole 21, the central axes of the first part 31 and the second part 32 are not collinear; when the first part 31 rotates in the first connecting hole 121, it drives the second part 32 to rotate around the central line of the first part 31, so that the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 move closer to or further away from each other.

[0040] It should be noted that "the second part 32 rotates about the center line of the first part 31" is a relative motion, describing the relative motion relationship between the first part 31 and the second part 32. Specifically, it can be: the first part 31 rotates on its own axis, and the second part 32 revolves around the first part 31; or, the first part 31 revolves around the second part 32, and the second part 32 rotates on its own axis; or, both the first part 31 and the second part 32 rotate. The following explanation uses the example of the first part 31 rotating on its own axis and the second part 32 revolving around the first part 31.

[0041] The first part 31 and the second part 32 of the adjusting member 3 are not collinear. When the adjusting member 3 is rotatably inserted through the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21, this eccentric shaft structure enables the adjusting member 3 to simultaneously achieve the rotation of the first part 31 in the first connecting hole 121 and the revolution of the second part 32 around the center line of the first part 31 during the rotation process. This motion is directly converted into the relative approach or distance movement of the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2. Since the first fixing plate 1 is fixed to one of the individual refrigerators 6 and the second fixing plate 2 is fixed to another adjacent individual refrigerator 6, the relative movement of the two plates can directly adjust the gap between the two individual refrigerators 6, thereby achieving fine-tuning of the horizontal dimensions of the modular refrigerator. This solves the technical problem of mismatch between the horizontal dimensions of the refrigerator and the installation space caused by the low accuracy of the cabinet installation space dimensions (such as manufacturing errors or on-site construction errors) during the installation of existing modular refrigerators. When the installation space is slightly smaller than the preset horizontal dimension of the refrigerator, the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 can be moved closer to each other by rotating the adjusting component 3, reducing the gap between the two individual refrigerators 6 and thus reducing the overall horizontal dimension. When the installation space is slightly larger than the preset dimension, the adjusting component 3 can be rotated in the opposite direction to move the two plates further apart. By reasonably controlling the gap, the overall aesthetics after installation are ensured, and excessive gaps are avoided from affecting the user experience. At the same time, no additional cutting or modification of the refrigerator or cabinet is required, which effectively improves the installation efficiency of the modular refrigerator and reduces the operational difficulty and cost during the installation process.

[0042] The first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 partially overlap in the thickness direction, optimizing the performance of the connection structure. On the one hand, the partial overlap design provides necessary movement space for the relative displacement of the two plates, avoiding structural interference during approach or distance, ensuring smooth adjustment, and improving the ease of operation. On the other hand, the overlapping area increases the contact area between the two fixing plates. When the adjusting component 3 applies force to both plates, the overlapping structure can distribute the force over a larger area, avoiding local stress concentration that could cause deformation or damage to the fixing plates, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection structure during long-term use.

[0043] Adjustment component 3 achieves adjustment through rotation, which has significant advantages over traditional bolt-type or snap-fit ​​adjustments. Traditional adjustment methods often require multiple disassemblies or repeated insertions and removals, making the operation cumbersome and difficult to precisely control the adjustment amount, easily leading to over- or under-adjustment. In this embodiment, however, adjustment component 3 directly passes through the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21. The operator only needs to rotate adjustment component 3 to drive the relative movement of the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2. The adjustment process does not require disassembly of any parts, greatly simplifying the operation process. At the same time, since the eccentricity between the first part 31 and the second part 32 of adjustment component 3 is fixed, the rotation angle of adjustment component 3 has a stable correspondence with the relative displacement of the first and second fixed plates. The operator can achieve precise fine-tuning of the gap size and lateral dimensions by controlling the rotation angle, further improving the ease of operation and adjustment accuracy during installation. Even non-professional installers can quickly master the operation method, reducing the skill requirements for installers.

[0044] In practical applications, the inner walls of the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21 can be surface-treated, such as by spraying a wear-resistant coating (PTFE coating) or embedding a wear-resistant bushing (copper bushing), to reduce frictional losses between the first part 31 and the first connecting hole 121 and the second part 32 and the second connecting hole 21 when the adjusting part 3 rotates. This not only improves the smoothness of the adjustment process and avoids adjustment difficulties caused by excessive frictional resistance, but also extends the service life of the adjusting part 3 and the fixed plate, reducing the problem of decreased adjustment accuracy due to wear after long-term use.

[0045] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, both the first part 31 and the second part 32 are cylinders, and the diameter of the second part 32 is smaller than the diameter of the first part 31. On a plane perpendicular to the axes of the first part 31 and the second part 32, the cross-sectional circle of the second part 32 is located within the cross-sectional circle of the first part 31.

[0046] In some cases, the first part 31 and the second part 32 can also be set as a frustum structure, so that the first part 31 and the second part 32 can be inserted into the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21 respectively.

[0047] The central axis of the first part 31 and the central axis of the second part 32 are parallel and not collinear. In some cases, the central axis of the first part 31 and the central axis of the second part 32 may also intersect at an angle and not be collinear.

[0048] Both the first part 31 and the second part 32 are cylindrical. Relying on the smooth surface and uniform contact of the cylindrical body, the frictional resistance between the adjusting part 3 and the inner wall of the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21 is reduced when the adjusting part 3 rotates. This allows the adjusting part 3 to maintain a smooth and uninterrupted rotation during the relative movement of the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2. It also ensures that the eccentric motion trajectory of the first part 31 rotating on its own axis and the second part 32 revolving around the first part 31 is stable when the adjusting part 3 rotates. This makes the relative displacement of the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2 accurate and controllable, effectively improving the precision of the horizontal dimension fine adjustment of the modular refrigerator and better adapting to the size requirements of the cabinet installation space.

[0049] The diameter of the second part 32 is smaller than that of the first part 31, and the cross-sectional circle of the second part 32 is located within the cross-sectional circle of the first part 31 on a plane perpendicular to the axis. The first part 31 and the second part 32 can be directly connected without the need for other intermediate connecting components. This simplifies the overall structure of the adjusting component 3, reduces the number of parts, reduces assembly steps, and eliminates the need for additional assembly operations between intermediate connecting components and the first part 31 and the second part 32, thereby improving the production and assembly efficiency of the adjusting component 3.

[0050] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first connecting hole 121 is a strip-shaped hole that extends in a direction perpendicular to the transverse arrangement of the single refrigerator 6, allowing the adjusting member 3 to move within the strip-shaped first connecting hole 121 when it rotates. The strip-shaped hole can be in the form of an oblong hole.

[0051] The first connecting hole 121 is a strip-shaped hole that extends along the direction perpendicular to the transverse arrangement of the individual refrigerators 6, providing the first part 31 of the adjusting member 3 with a moving space to adapt to its movement trajectory, ensuring that there is no structural interference when the adjusting member 3 rotates. Since the central axes of the first part 31 and the second part 32 of the adjusting member 3 are not collinear, the first part 31 will have a displacement requirement during the rotation of the adjusting member 3. If the first connecting hole 121 is a traditional circular hole, the hole wall will restrict the displacement of the first part 31, causing the adjusting member 3 to be unable to rotate smoothly, and causing the two adjacent individual refrigerators 6 to move back and forth.

[0052] Limiting the displacement requirement to the direction of "perpendicular to the horizontal arrangement of the individual refrigerators 6" can achieve a certain self-locking function while ensuring the smooth "rotation + lateral movement" of the adjusting component 3. That is, the strip hole extends in the direction perpendicular to the horizontal arrangement of the individual refrigerators 6 (the length direction of the strip hole is perpendicular to the direction in which the two individual refrigerators 6 approach or move away from each other), so as to prevent the adjusting component 3 from moving within the first connecting hole 121 on its own without manual adjustment, thus changing the horizontal dimension of the combined refrigerator.

[0053] According to one embodiment of this application, a limiting hole 22 is provided on the side of the second fixing plate 2 away from the first fixing plate 1, and the limiting hole 22 communicates with the second connecting hole 21; the adjusting member 3 also includes a third part 33, which is located in the limiting hole 22 to restrict the second part 32 from moving from the second connecting hole 21 to the first connecting hole 121.

[0054] The size of the third part 33 can be set to be larger than the size of the second connecting hole 21, so that the third part 33 cannot enter the second connecting hole 21 due to size limitations, thus serving as a limiting function. Of course, the third part 33 can also be engaged with the limiting hole 22 by snap-fit, interference fit, or other methods to serve as a limiting function.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, the third part 33 is a flat plate-like structure. Before installation, the third part 33 of the adjusting member 3 can be in the shape of a frustum, and the size of the frustum is smaller than the size of the second connecting hole 21, so that the third part 33 passes through the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21 in sequence and enters the limiting hole 22. When the third part 33 reaches the preset limiting hole 22, the frustum-shaped third part is transformed into a flat plate by applying force (such as hammering). At this time, the size of the third part 33 is larger than the size of the second connecting hole 21, and the third part 33 is limited in the limiting hole 22, so that the adjusting member 3 is installed on the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 by "riveting".

[0056] A limiting hole 22 is provided on the side of the second fixing plate 2 away from the first fixing plate 1, and the limiting hole 22 communicates with the second connecting hole 21. At the same time, the third part 33 of the adjusting member 3 is located in the limiting hole 22, thereby limiting the axial movement of the adjusting member 3 and preventing the adjusting member 3 from coming out of the second connecting hole 21. During the process of the adjusting member 3 rotating and driving the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 to move relative to each other, the adjusting member 3 may be subjected to vibration, compression, etc., causing the adjusting member 3 to tend to move axially (through direction) towards the first connecting hole 121. The third part 33 is located in the limiting hole 22, which can directly block the second part 32 from moving towards the first connecting hole 121. By physically blocking and limiting the axial displacement of the adjusting member 3, it is ensured that the adjusting member 3 is always stably inserted into the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21, avoiding connection failure due to axial dislodgement and ensuring the overall connection stability of the modular refrigerator.

[0057] The limiting hole 22 is located on the side of the second fixing plate 2 away from the first fixing plate 1 and communicates with the second connecting hole 21. No complex processing of the second fixing plate 2 is required; a recessed hole structure on one side is sufficient to serve as the limiting hole 22, maximizing the preservation of the overall thickness and structural strength of the second fixing plate 2. The limiting hole 22 not only cooperates with the third part 33 for positioning but also accommodates the third part 33 to prevent it from protruding from the surface of the second fixing plate 2.

[0058] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the adjusting member 3 also includes a screwing part 34, which is connected to the first part 31 and located at the end away from the second part 32; the size of the screwing part 34 is larger than the size of the first connecting hole 121 to restrict the first part 31 from moving from the first connecting hole 121 to the second connecting hole 21.

[0059] The screwing part 34 is connected to the first part 31 and located at the end away from the second part 32. Its size is larger than the size of the first connecting hole 121, thus realizing the axial limiting function of the adjusting member 3. During the process of the adjusting member 3 rotating and driving the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2 to move relative to each other, the adjusting member 3 will tend to move towards the second connecting hole 21 due to the force. Because the screwing part 34 is larger than the first connecting hole 121, it will be blocked by the outer surface of the first fixed plate 1 and cannot pass through the first connecting hole 121, thereby firmly restricting the movement of the first part 31 towards the second connecting hole 21. Combined with the third part 33 limiting the other side of the axial direction in the limiting hole 22 of the second fixed plate 2, the two form a complete bidirectional axial constraint, stably restricting the adjusting member 3 on the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2, avoiding the problem of the adjusting member 3 disengaging due to axial movement, and ensuring that the adjusting member 3 always maintains the cooperation state with the first connecting hole 121 and the second connecting hole 21, providing a structural basis for long-term stable adjustment.

[0060] The screwing part 34 may be provided with a cross groove or an operating structure that facilitates manual screwing, so as to improve the convenience and adaptability of adjustment operation.

[0061] The adjusting component 3 can be an integral component. In other words, the screwing part 34 can be integrally formed with the first part 31 to ensure the coaxiality of the two and avoid radial shaking when the adjusting component 3 rotates due to eccentric connection.

[0062] In practical applications, an elastic gasket (such as a silicone gasket) can be provided on the end face of the screwing part 34 that contacts the first fixed plate 1. On the one hand, the elastic gasket can buffer the friction between the screwing part 34 and the first fixed plate 1, preventing the screwing part 34 from scraping the surface of the first fixed plate 1 when the adjusting member 3 rotates, thus protecting the first fixed plate 1 from damage; on the other hand, the elastic deformation of the gasket can fill the tiny gap between the two, further limiting the shaking of the adjusting member 3 and improving rotational stability.

[0063] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the refrigerator connection structure also includes a guide member 4; a first guide hole 122 is provided on the first fixed plate 1, and a second guide hole 23 is provided on the second fixed plate 2. At least one of the first guide hole 122 and the second guide hole 23 is a strip hole, and the strip hole extends along the direction of the transverse arrangement of the single refrigerator 6; the guide member 4 passes through the first guide hole 122 and the second guide hole 23 to limit the relative movement direction of the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2. Of course, the guide structure can also adopt the form of "slide rail-slider", such as: a slider is provided on the first fixed plate 1 and a slide rail is provided on the second fixed plate 2, so that the slider slides in the slide rail to achieve guidance.

[0064] Guide member 4 passes through the first guide hole 122 and the second guide hole 23, restricting the relative movement direction of the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2, ensuring that they move closer or further apart mainly along the lateral arrangement direction of the single refrigerator 6, and avoiding any offset or torsion perpendicular to the lateral direction. During the relative movement of the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 driven by the adjusting member 3, the guide member 4, through its cooperation with the first guide hole 122 and the second guide hole 23, forms a rigid constraint, causing the relative movement trajectory of the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 to extend laterally, avoiding offset and torsion in other directions, and improving the installation quality of the modular refrigerator.

[0065] At least one of the first guide hole 122 and the second guide hole 23 is a strip-shaped hole extending laterally. While realizing the guiding function, it also reserves the necessary space for the relative movement of the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2, so as to avoid interference between the guiding structure and the adjustment function.

[0066] The guide member 4 can be a guide post, and its cross-section can be circular or rectangular. When the cross-section of the guide member 4 is rectangular, the first guide hole 122 and the second guide hole 23 can be set as rectangular holes to ensure guiding accuracy.

[0067] According to one embodiment of this application, the number of guide members 4, the first guide hole 122, and the second guide hole 23 are respectively set to be multiple, so that the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 are close to or far apart from each other along the transverse arrangement direction of the single refrigerator 6. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The example shown is a setting of 2.

[0068] The guide component 4, the first guide hole 122, and the second guide hole 23 are set to be multiple, which strengthens the constraint accuracy of the relative movement direction of the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2 and achieves precise guidance.

[0069] Of course, the guide component 4, the first guide hole 122 and the second guide hole 23 can each be set to only 1.

[0070] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first fixing plate 1 includes: a fixing section 11 for fixing to one of the two individual refrigerators 6; a mating section 12 for connecting to the second fixing plate 2; along the thickness direction of the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2, the mating section 12 is higher than the fixing section 11 so that the mating section 12 and the second fixing plate 2 overlap; and a connecting section 13 for connecting the fixing section 11 and the mating section 12.

[0071] The fixing section 11 of the first fixing plate 1 is fixed to one of the two individual refrigerators 6, providing a stable installation reference for the entire connection structure. Along the thickness direction of the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2, the mating section 12 is higher than the fixing section 11, creating the necessary space for the mating section 12 to overlap with the second fixing plate 2 in the thickness direction. The mating section 12 is higher than the fixing section 11 to smoothly overlap with the second fixing plate 2 in the thickness direction, ensuring that the adjusting member 3 can be stably inserted and rotated for adjustment.

[0072] The connecting segment 13 connects the fixed segment 11 and the mating segment 12, achieving a high transition between the fixed segment 11 and the mating segment 12. The connecting segment 13 can be a smoothly transitioning curved segment, connecting the fixed segment 11 and the mating segment 12 through a gentle transition shape (such as a slope or arc surface), avoiding excessive local stress, and ensuring that the first fixed plate 1 is not easily deformed or damaged under long-term stress.

[0073] This segmented structure also enhances the adaptability of the first fixing plate 1—the fixing section 11 can be designed according to the mounting surface size and mounting hole position of the single refrigerator 6 to ensure a firm fixation with the refrigerator; the mating section 12 can optimize the layout of the first connecting hole 121 according to the size of the second fixing plate 2 and the position of the second connecting hole 21 to improve the fitting accuracy with the adjusting component 3; and the connecting section 13 can adjust the transition length and shape according to the actual height difference between the fixing section 11 and the mating section 12.

[0074] The first fixing plate 1 can be a one-piece component.

[0075] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1As shown, the refrigerator connection structure also includes a first fastener 51 and a second fastener 52. The first fixing plate 1 is provided with a first fixing hole 111, and the second fixing plate 2 is provided with a second fixing hole 24. The first fastener 51 passes through the first fixing hole 111 to fix the first fixing plate 1 to one of the two individual refrigerators 6; the second fastener 52 passes through the second fixing hole 24 to fix the second fixing plate 2 to the other of the two individual refrigerators 6. The first fastener 51 and the second fastener 52 can be screws.

[0076] The first fastener 51 passes through the first fixing hole 111 to fix the first fixing plate 1 to the single refrigerator 6. The rigid fastening method provides a continuous and stable axial constraint force, which can effectively resist the lateral force on the first fixing plate 1 during adjustment. The design of the second fastener 52 passing through the second fixing hole 24 is similar.

[0077] The fitting of the fixing holes and fasteners greatly simplifies the operation process. During assembly, it is only necessary to attach the first fixing plate 1 to the refrigerator mounting surface, align the first fixing hole 111 with the refrigerator mounting position, insert the first fastener 51 and tighten it. There is no need to rely on welding, bonding or other processes that require professional tools or waiting for curing, which reduces the skill requirements of the installers. At the same time, this detachable structure facilitates later maintenance.

[0078] According to one embodiment of this application, the first fixing plate 1 is further provided with a clearance hole 123, which is a strip-shaped hole extending along the transverse arrangement direction of the single refrigerator 6; the second fastener 52 passes through the second fixing hole 24 and the clearance hole 123, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown; or, an avoidance area 124 is provided at the edge of the first fixing plate 1, the avoidance area 124 forming a movable space for the second fastener 52 in the lateral arrangement direction of the single refrigerator 6, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown.

[0079] The clearance holes 123 (strip-shaped holes extending along the transverse direction of the single refrigerator 6) or the edge clearance area 124 on the first fixed plate 1 serve the core function of providing space for the second fastener 52 to move with the second fixed plate 2, thus avoiding structural interference when the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2 move relative to each other. When the adjusting component 3 drives the first fixed plate 1 and the second fixed plate 2 to move closer or further apart, the second fastener 52 will move synchronously with the second fixed plate 2 in the transverse direction. The strip-shaped extension direction of the clearance holes 123 and the movable space formed by the clearance area 124 can precisely match the movement trajectory of the second fastener 52, allowing it to slide freely in the transverse direction. This ensures the continuous and smooth relative movement of the first and second fixed plates 2, and guarantees the stable realization of the transverse dimension adjustment function of the modular refrigerator.

[0080] Meanwhile, this clearance structure can also improve the installation tolerance and adaptability of the connection structure. In actual installation, due to factors such as the processing error of the second fixing plate 2 and the opening deviation of the second fixing hole 24, the actual position of the second fastener 52 may be slightly offset from the design position. The length of the clearance hole 123 or the spatial range of the clearance area 124 can accommodate this slight offset, allowing the second fastener 52 to be smoothly inserted or moved without additional adjustment, reducing the probability of rework during installation and reducing operational complexity.

[0081] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, a first protrusion 112 is provided on the top corner of the first fixing plate 1 away from the second fixing plate 2, and a second protrusion 25 is provided on the top corner of the second fixing plate 2 away from the first fixing plate 1; the first protrusion 112 and the second protrusion 25 are used to install the cover plate.

[0082] The first protrusion 112 and the second protrusion 25 can be directly used as positioning fulcrums for the cover plate. The cover plate can be quickly aligned by cooperating with the first protrusion 112 and the second protrusion 25 (e.g., snap-fit, abutment), without the need for additional measurement or marking. This ensures that the cover plate can flatly cover the entire connection structure, completely hiding the first fixing plate 1, the second fixing plate 2, the adjusting part 3, and other components. This avoids visual clutter caused by the exposure of the internal structure, significantly improving the neatness and coordination of the appearance of the modular refrigerator after installation, and meeting users' needs for the aesthetic appearance of home appliances.

[0083] The shielding structure formed by the first protrusion 112 and the second protrusion 25 in conjunction with the cover plate effectively protects the refrigerator's connection structure from external environmental influences. In daily use, the kitchen environment contains pollutants such as dust, oil, and moisture. If the connection structure is directly exposed, these pollutants can easily enter the first connection hole 121, the second connection hole 21, or the gaps in the adjusting component 3, causing the adjusting component 3 to become stuck, accelerating wear on the hole walls, and potentially leading to adjustment function failure after prolonged use. However, the cover plate, fixed by the protrusions, forms a closed protective space, preventing pollutants from entering the core area of ​​the connection structure, maintaining the cleanliness of the adjusting component 3 and the connection holes, and ensuring smooth adjustment over the long term. Furthermore, this shielding structure also improves reliability, preventing accidental contact with the first fixing plate 1, the second fixing plate 2, and the adjusting component 3.

[0084] The refrigerator connection structure provided in this application embodiment can adjust the width of the combined refrigerator (combined refrigerator) according to the installation needs, eliminating the problem of not being able to fit or interference when opening the door caused by the cabinet installation size being too small. At the same time, it can also solve the problem of excessive left and right gaps after the combined refrigerator is installed when the installation size is too large.

[0085] A combined refrigerator according to a second aspect embodiment of this application, such as Figure 8As shown, the modular refrigerator includes the aforementioned refrigerator connection structure and at least two adjacent individual refrigerators 6. A connection gap 61 is formed between the adjacent individual refrigerators 6. The refrigerator connection structure is located at the connection gap 61 and is connected to the two adjacent individual refrigerators 6 respectively, so as to adjust the size of the connection gap 61.

[0086] The modular refrigerator places its connecting structure at the connection gap 61 between adjacent individual refrigerators 6, and connects to both individual refrigerators 6 respectively. The size of the connection gap 61 can be precisely controlled directly through the adjustment function of the connecting structure, solving the problem of poor installation adaptability caused by the fixed gap in traditional modular refrigerators. The rotation of the adjusting component 3 drives the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 to move closer or further apart, thereby narrowing or widening the connection gap 61. This improves the modular refrigerator's adaptability to installation spaces of different sizes, while reducing installation difficulty and cost, ensuring efficient installation without component damage.

[0087] In practical use, decorative strips can be installed at the connection gap 61 for further concealment to improve aesthetics.

[0088] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 8 As shown, there are two individual refrigerators 6; the refrigerator connection structure is set in three sets, which are respectively set at the top, front and rear of the combination refrigerator. The refrigerator connection structure located at the front of the combination refrigerator can be specifically set at the bottom of the front, that is, the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2 are respectively connected to the bottom beams of the two adjacent individual refrigerators 6, so as to avoid affecting the normal opening of the combination refrigerator.

[0089] The shapes and structures of the three sets of refrigerator connection structures can be completely identical or different. For example, depending on the positional space or interference on the first fixing plate 1 and the second fixing plate 2, avoidance holes 123 or avoidance areas 124 can be selected, one or two sets of guide structures can be selected, and the dimensions of each component can be adjusted.

[0090] Two individual refrigerators 6, together with three sets of refrigerator connection structures respectively set at the top, front and rear of the combined refrigerator, can form a comprehensive three-dimensional constraint system, realize the uniform adjustment of the connection gap 61, and improve the appearance and dust prevention effect of the combined refrigerator.

[0091] The distributed layout of the three sets of connection structures can effectively distribute the force and enhance the overall load-bearing capacity and durability of the connection system.

[0092] In practical applications, the specific number of refrigerator connection structures can be adjusted according to actual needs; for example, it can be set to four sets.

[0093] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate this application and are not intended to limit this application. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of this application do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of this application and should be covered within the scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A refrigerator connection structure for connecting two adjacent individual refrigerators (6), characterized in that, include: A first fixing plate (1) is used to fix it to one of the two individual refrigerators (6); the first fixing plate (1) is provided with a first connecting hole (121). The second fixing plate (2) is used to fix it to the other of the two single refrigerators (6), and the second fixing plate (2) and the first fixing plate (1) partially overlap in the thickness direction; the second fixing plate (2) is provided with a second connecting hole (21). The adjusting member (3) is rotatably inserted into the first connecting hole (121) and the second connecting hole (21); The adjusting member (3) includes a first part (31) located in the first connecting hole (121) and a second part (32) located in the second connecting hole (21). The central axes of the first part (31) and the second part (32) are not collinear. When the first part (31) rotates in the first connecting hole (121), it drives the second part (32) to rotate around the center line of the first part (31), so that the first fixing plate (1) and the second fixing plate (2) move closer to or further away from each other.

2. The refrigerator connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first part (31) and the second part (32) are cylinders, and the diameter of the second part (32) is smaller than the diameter of the first part (31); On a plane perpendicular to the axes of the first part (31) and the second part (32), the cross-sectional circle of the second part (32) is located within the cross-sectional circle of the first part (31).

3. The refrigerator connection structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first connecting hole (121) is a strip-shaped hole and extends in a direction perpendicular to the transverse arrangement of the single refrigerator (6), so that the adjusting member (3) can move within the strip-shaped first connecting hole (121) when it rotates.

4. The refrigerator connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second fixing plate (2) has a limiting hole (22) on the side away from the first fixing plate (1), and the limiting hole (22) communicates with the second connecting hole (21); The adjusting member (3) further includes a third part (33) located in the limiting hole (22) to restrict the second part (32) from moving from the second connecting hole (21) to the first connecting hole (121).

5. The refrigerator connection structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The adjusting member (3) further includes a screwing part (34), which is connected to the first part (31) and located at the end away from the second part (32); The size of the screwing part (34) is larger than the size of the first connecting hole (121) to restrict the first part (31) from moving from the first connecting hole (121) to the second connecting hole (21).

6. The refrigerator connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes guide components (4); The first fixing plate (1) is provided with a first guide hole (122), and the second fixing plate (2) is provided with a second guide hole (23). At least one of the first guide hole (122) and the second guide hole (23) is a strip hole, and the strip hole extends along the direction of the transverse arrangement of the single refrigerator (6). The guide member (4) passes through the first guide hole (122) and the second guide hole (23) to restrict the relative movement direction of the first fixing plate (1) and the second fixing plate (2).

7. The refrigerator connection structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The number of the guide member (4), the first guide hole (122) and the second guide hole (23) are set to be multiple, so that the first fixing plate (1) and the second fixing plate (2) are close to or far from each other along the lateral arrangement direction of the single refrigerator (6).

8. The refrigerator connection structure according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The first fixing plate (1) includes: A fixing section (11) is used to fix it to one of the two individual refrigerators (6); The mating section (12) is connected to the second fixing plate (2); along the thickness direction of the first fixing plate (1) and the second fixing plate (2), the mating section (12) is higher than the fixing section (11) so that the mating section (12) and the second fixing plate (2) overlap; The connecting segment (13) connects the fixed segment (11) and the mating segment (12).

9. A modular refrigerator, characterized in that, Includes a refrigerator connection structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 and at least two adjacent individual refrigerators (6), with a connection gap (61) formed between the adjacent individual refrigerators (6), the refrigerator connection structure being located at the connection gap (61) and connected to the two adjacent individual refrigerators (6) respectively, so as to adjust the size of the connection gap (61).

10. The modular refrigerator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The single refrigerator (6) is configured as two; The refrigerator connection structure is configured in three groups, which are respectively located at the top, front, and rear of the modular refrigerator.

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