Water box assembly and water dispenser

Abstract

The utility model discloses a water box assembly and water dispenser relates to small household electrical appliances technical field, wherein, water box assembly includes two cavities of side by side arrangement, and the opposite side is equipped with the butt joint structure, and is equipped with the passageway of communication with the cavity on each butt joint structure, and is configured the sealing portion that can switch between the sealed position and the communication position. Two cavities are detachably connected through butt joint structure, and the sealing portion is switched to the communication position automatically when butting, realizes the fluid conduction, and resets to the sealed position after separating, prevents the leakage. The structure ensures the sealing simultaneously, makes one of the cavities (such as ice water box) detachable, is convenient for user to wash and drains, avoids the water breeding bacteria, and promotes the drinking water health and use safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of small household appliance technology, and in particular to a water box assembly and a water dispenser. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, ice-making water dispensers on the market typically require the ice water tank to be connected to multiple functional modules, including the water supply unit, ice maker, and water outlet. To ensure the sealing performance between these components, existing structures mostly employ fixed or non-removable connection methods. However, this type of structure has certain drawbacks in actual use, especially when cleaning and draining the ice water tank. Users often need to wipe the entire machine with a cloth or other auxiliary tools, or drain residual liquid through the drain hole located at the bottom.

[0003] The complex and inaccessible internal structure of ice water tanks makes cleaning incomplete, and some areas are difficult to drain completely. Prolonged use can lead to the growth of algae and bacteria, affecting drinking water hygiene and posing potential health risks to users. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an improved structural solution to overcome the problems of inconvenient cleaning and incomplete drainage in existing ice water tanks, thereby improving the overall hygiene performance and safety of the product. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main purpose of this utility model is to propose a water box assembly and a water dispenser, which aims to solve the problems of inconvenient cleaning and incomplete drainage of existing ice water boxes.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the water box assembly proposed in this utility model includes two cavities arranged side by side. Each of the two cavities has a docking structure on one side facing each other. Each docking structure has a communication channel communicating with the inner cavity of the corresponding cavity. Each cavity has a sealing part corresponding to the communication channel. The two sealing parts are movably arranged in the directions of approaching and moving away from each other. Each sealing part has a sealing position that seals the corresponding communication channel and a communication position that opens the communication channel during its movement.

[0006] The two cavities are detachably connected by the two docking structures. When the two cavities are sealed and docked, both sealing parts switch from the sealing position to the communicating position, so that the two communicating channels can be connected.

[0007] In one embodiment, each of the docking structures further includes a reset member, which is used to reset the corresponding sealing portion from the communicating position to the sealing position.

[0008] In one embodiment, the two sealing portions are located on opposite sides of two cavities arranged side by side, and each sealing portion is movable in a direction toward or away from the other cavity.

[0009] In one embodiment, the sealing portion includes:

[0010] A valve stem has a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other, the first end of the valve stem being located within the communicating channel, and the second end of the valve stem extending into the cavity; and

[0011] A sealing ring is fitted around the second end of the valve stem, and the sealing ring is laterally positioned to protrude from the side of the second end of the valve stem. The sealing ring is used to seal against the inner wall of the cavity when the sealing part moves to the sealing position.

[0012] In one embodiment, the sidewall of the valve stem is recessed with a positioning groove along its circumference, and the sealing ring is installed in the positioning groove.

[0013] In one embodiment, the water box assembly further includes a spring, which is sleeved around the valve stem and located outside the cavity. One end of the spring abuts against the outer wall of the cavity, and the other end abuts against the first end of the valve stem.

[0014] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the cavity is provided with a through hole communicating with the communication channel, and the docking structure includes a docking portion protruding from the outer wall of the cavity, the docking portion being arranged around the periphery of the through hole, and the docking portions of the two docking structures being sleeved together.

[0015] In one embodiment, the two mating portions have interlocking sleeve sections;

[0016] The water box assembly further includes a sealing sleeve fitted onto at least one of the mating portions, the sealing sleeve having a sealing section extending circumferentially along the mating portion and located between two of the fitting sections.

[0017] This utility model also proposes a water dispenser, the water dispenser comprising:

[0018] The housing has a mounting cavity, a mounting channel communicating with the mounting cavity, and a water outlet;

[0019] Water supply components are installed in the housing;

[0020] An ice maker, used to cool the water inside its cavity;

[0021] A water box assembly is provided in the mounting cavity. Each cavity is also provided with a communication port. The communication ports of the two cavities are respectively connected to the ice box through a circulation pipeline. One of the two cavities is set as a water storage box and the other is set as an ice water box. The water storage box is also connected to the water supply assembly and the water outlet respectively.

[0022] The ice water box is detachably installed in the installation channel, and when the ice water box is installed in the installation channel, the docking structure between the ice water box and the water storage box is sealed and connected.

[0023] The water box assembly includes two cavities arranged side by side. Each of the two cavities has a docking structure on one side facing each other. Each docking structure has a communication channel that communicates with the inner cavity of the corresponding cavity. Each cavity has a sealing part corresponding to the communication channel. The two sealing parts are movably arranged in the directions of approaching and moving away from each other. Each sealing part has a sealing position that seals the corresponding communication channel and a communication position that opens the communication channel during its movement.

[0024] The two cavities are detachably connected by the two docking structures. When the two cavities are sealed and docked, both sealing parts switch from the sealing position to the communicating position, so that the two communicating channels can be connected.

[0025] In one embodiment, a baffle rib is provided on the bottom wall of the mounting channel, the baffle rib is disposed adjacent to the outer port of the mounting channel, and the baffle rib extends circumferentially along the mounting channel.

[0026] In one embodiment, a first switch valve is provided on the connecting pipe between the water storage box and the water supply component, and a first water pump is provided on the circulation pipe;

[0027] A second switching valve is installed on the connecting pipe between the water storage box and the water outlet.

[0028] In one embodiment, an instant heating module and a third switching valve are further provided on the connecting pipe between the water supply component and the water outlet.

[0029] In this invention, by providing two detachably connected cavities, users can individually remove the cavity used as the ice water tank from the entire unit as needed, facilitating cleaning and drainage. Simultaneously, this structure avoids the cleaning dead zones present in traditional non-detachable structures, ensuring thorough cleaning and complete drainage of the ice water tank interior, reducing hygiene risks associated with residual water. Furthermore, a switchable sealing part is provided at the connection point, ensuring smooth fluid flow when connected and effectively preventing liquid leakage when disassembled. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model 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 only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0031] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the water dispenser provided by this utility model;

[0032] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water tank (cavity);

[0033] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of a water dispenser;

[0034] Figure 5 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the two docking structures in the water box assembly provided by this utility model;

[0035] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the docking structure after the two cavities are connected.

[0036] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0037] 100. Water box assembly; 10. Cavity; 10a. Through hole; 20. Docking structure; a. Connecting channel; 21. Docking part; 30. Sealing part; 31. Valve stem; 311. First end; 312. Second end; 31a. Positioning groove; 32. Sealing ring; 40. Reset part; 50. Sealing sleeve; 51. Sealing section;

[0038] 200. Water dispenser; 1. Housing; 1a. Installation channel; 11. Baffle; 2. Water supply assembly; 3. Ice maker; b. Connecting port; 4. Water storage box; 5. Ice water box; 6. First switch valve; 7. First water pump; 8. Second switch valve; 9. Instant heating module; 12. Third switch valve.

[0039] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this utility model will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0041] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this utility model involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0042] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this utility model involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0043] Currently, ice-water dispensers on the market typically connect their ice water tanks to multiple functional modules, including the water supply unit, ice maker, and water outlet. To ensure proper sealing between these components, existing structures often employ fixed or non-removable connections. However, this design has certain drawbacks in practical use, particularly when cleaning and draining the ice water tank. Users often need to wipe the entire machine with a cloth or other tools, or drain residual liquid through the bottom drain hole. The complex and difficult-to-access internal structure of the ice water tank leads to incomplete cleaning, leaving some areas uncleaned. Prolonged use can result in the growth of algae and bacteria, affecting drinking water hygiene and posing potential health risks to users. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an improved structural solution to overcome the problems of inconvenient cleaning and incomplete drainage in existing technologies, thereby improving the overall hygiene and safety of the product.

[0044] This utility model proposes a water box assembly, which aims to solve the problems of inconvenient cleaning and incomplete drainage of existing ice water boxes.

[0045] Please see Figures 4 to 6 In one embodiment of this utility model, the water box assembly 100 includes two cavities 10 arranged side by side. Each of the two cavities 10 has a docking structure 20 on one side facing each other. Each docking structure 20 has a connecting channel a communicating with the inner cavity of the corresponding cavity 10. Each cavity 10 has a sealing part 30 corresponding to the connecting channel a. The two sealing parts 30 are movably arranged in directions of approach and distance from each other. Each sealing part 30 has a sealing position for sealing the corresponding connecting channel a and a connecting position for opening the connecting channel a during its movement. The two cavities 10 are detachably connected by the two docking structures 20. When the two cavities 10 are sealed together, both sealing parts 30 switch from the sealing position to the connecting position, allowing the two connecting channels a to connect.

[0046] It is understood that the two side-by-side cavities 10 are respectively provided with docking structures 20 on opposite sides, and each docking structure 20 has a communication channel a that connects to the inner cavity of the corresponding cavity 10. Each cavity 10 is also provided with a sealing part 30 at the position of the corresponding communication channel a. The sealing part 30 can move towards or away from the other cavity 10, for example, by sliding, rotating or elastically extending and retracting to achieve position switching. This arrangement not only saves space in the water box assembly 100, but also facilitates the switching of the sealing part 30 between the sealing position and the communication position, thereby facilitating the removal and placement of the two cavities 10.

[0047] In the specific implementation process, the sealing part 30 has two working states during its active stroke: one is the sealing position, in which the sealing part 30 closes the corresponding connecting channel a to prevent liquid leakage; the other is the connecting position, in which the sealing part 30 moves away from the connecting channel a, so that the channels between the two cavities 10 are interconnected, thereby allowing liquid to flow between the two.

[0048] When the two cavities 10 are detachably connected via their respective docking structures 20, the sealing part 30 automatically switches from a sealed position to a connected position due to the connection action, thereby opening their respective channels and enabling fluid flow. Conversely, after the connection is released, the sealing part 30 returns to the sealed position, closing the channels and preventing liquid leakage.

[0049] In practical applications, one of the chambers 10 can be used as an ice water box 5 to store cooled drinking water, while the other chamber 10 can be used as an interface component to connect other water supply components 2, such as a connecting pipe section with an inner cavity or a fixed water box, for fixed connection with other functional modules (such as ice making device, water outlet, etc.).

[0050] Because the two chambers 10 are connected by a detachable docking structure 20, users can remove the chamber 10, which serves as the ice water tank 5, from the main unit as needed for cleaning and drainage. This structure also avoids the cleaning dead zones present in traditional non-detachable structures, ensuring that the inside of the ice water tank 5 can be thoroughly cleaned and completely drained, effectively reducing hygiene risks associated with residual water.

[0051] By incorporating two detachably connected cavities 10 and a switchable sealing part 30 at the docking structure 20, the design ensures sealing performance while enhancing the ease of cleaning the ice water tank 5. This structure not only meets the stable connection requirements between different functional components in the water dispenser 200 system but also considers the convenience of daily maintenance for users. By designing one of the cavities 10 as a detachable ice water tank 5, users can easily remove it from the machine without additional tools, allowing for thorough cleaning and drainage of the interior. This prevents the growth of algae and bacteria caused by long-term water accumulation, significantly improving the product's hygiene and safety performance.

[0052] In addition, the overall structure of the water box assembly 100 is reasonably designed, and the switching mechanism of the sealing part 30 is stable and reliable. It can ensure smooth flow of fluid in the connected state and effectively prevent liquid leakage in the disassembled state.

[0053] Further, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In this embodiment, each docking structure 20 further includes a reset member 40, which is used to reset the corresponding sealing part 30 from the communicating position to the sealing position.

[0054] The reset element 40 can be specifically made of an elastic element, such as a spring, sheet, rubber gasket, or elastic plastic component, and its function is to provide a restoring force to the sealing part 30 toward the sealing position.

[0055] During actual assembly, the reset member 40 is positioned between the sealing part 30 and the docking structure 20. When the two cavities 10 are connected and pressure is applied, the sealing part 30 is pressed and moves from the sealing position to the connecting position. At this time, the reset member 40 is compressed or deformed. After the connection is released, the reset member 40 releases the stored elastic potential energy, pushing the sealing part 30 to automatically return to the sealing position, thereby closing the corresponding connecting channel a and preventing liquid leakage.

[0056] By setting a reset component 40 in the docking structure 20, the automatic reset function of the sealing part 30 is realized. This not only ensures that the sealing part 30 can return to the sealing position in time when disassembled, avoiding liquid leakage caused by misoperation or structural loosening, but also adapts to frequent connection and separation operations in different usage environments.

[0057] Specifically, please refer to Figure 5 In some specific embodiments, the sealing part 30 includes a valve stem 31 and a sealing ring 32. The valve stem 31 has a first end 311 and a second end 312 disposed opposite to each other. The first end 311 of the valve stem 31 is located in the communicating channel a, and the second end 312 of the valve stem 31 extends into the cavity 10. The sealing ring 32 is sleeved on the periphery of the second end 312 of the valve stem 31. The sealing ring 32 is disposed laterally protruding from the side of the second end 312 of the valve stem 31. The sealing ring 32 is used to seal against the inner wall of the cavity 10 when the sealing part 30 moves to the sealing position.

[0058] It is understood that the valve stem 31 has a first end 311 and a second end 312 that are disposed opposite to each other. The first end 311 is disposed inside the communication channel a and is used to control the opening and closing of the channel; the second end 312 extends into the cavity 10 as an installation structure that cooperates with the sealing ring 32.

[0059] A sealing ring 32 is fitted around the second end 312 of the valve stem 31, and its outer periphery protrudes laterally from the side of the valve stem 31, forming an extension. When the sealing part 30 is in the sealing position, the sealing ring 32 fits tightly against the inner wall of the cavity 10, thereby achieving a sealed isolation of the communication channel a; when the sealing part 30 moves to the communication position, the sealing ring 32 disengages from the inner wall of the cavity 10, opening the communication channel a and allowing liquid to flow between the two cavities 10.

[0060] Specifically, during the docking connection of the two cavities 10, the valve stem 31 is subjected to pressure from the other docking structure 20 and moves axially, causing the sealing ring 32 to move synchronously, so that it is separated from the contact state with the inner wall of the cavity 10, thereby releasing the sealing function; when the two cavities 10 are separated, under the action of the reset member 40 (as described above), the valve stem 31 and its sealing ring 32 return to their original positions, re-fit with the inner wall of the cavity 10, and restore the sealing function.

[0061] Furthermore, to ensure a more stable sealing effect for the sealing ring 32, please refer to [further details]. Figure 5 In this embodiment, the side wall of the valve stem 31 is recessed with a positioning groove 31a along its circumference, and the sealing ring 32 is installed in the positioning groove 31a.

[0062] Specifically, the positioning groove 31a is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the second end 312 of the valve stem 31, and its shape is adapted to the sealing ring 32, so that the sealing ring 32 can be stably embedded therein and maintain good axial and radial positioning.

[0063] During assembly, the sealing ring 32 is pre-fitted and fixed in the positioning groove 31a, and then the valve stem 31 is inserted into the corresponding position within the cavity 10. Because the sealing ring 32 is confined within the positioning groove 31a, it will not shift or fall off during the movement of the valve stem 31, thus ensuring that the sealing ring 32 is always in the correct sealing position. When the sealing part 30 switches between the sealing position and the communicating position, the valve stem 31 drives the positioning groove 31a and the sealing ring 32 inside it to move synchronously, achieving reliable contact or disengagement between the sealing ring 32 and the inner wall of the cavity 10.

[0064] This design not only improves the installation stability of the sealing ring 32 on the valve stem 31, but also effectively avoids problems such as misalignment and slippage of the sealing ring 32 that may occur in traditional assembly methods.

[0065] In one specific implementation, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The water box assembly 100 also includes a spring, which is sleeved around the valve stem 31 and located outside the cavity 10. One end of the spring abuts against the outer wall of the cavity 10, and the other end abuts against the first end 311 of the valve stem 31.

[0066] Specifically, one end of the spring abuts against the outer wall of the cavity 10, and the other end abuts against the first end 311 of the valve stem 31, thereby providing the valve stem 31 with an elastic restoring force toward the sealing position.

[0067] In actual operation, when the two cavities 10 are connected, the first end 311 of the valve stem 31 is subjected to pressure from the docking structure 20 and moves towards the inside of the cavity 10, compressing the spring and causing the sealing ring 32 to move synchronously, so that the sealing ring 32 is separated from the contact state with the inner wall of the cavity 10, thereby opening the communication channel a; when the two cavities 10 are separated, under the action of the spring restoring its deformation, the valve stem 31 is pushed back to the initial position, thereby causing the sealing ring 32 to re-fit against the inner wall of the cavity 10 and restore the sealing function.

[0068] By installing a spring around the valve stem 31, with one end abutting the outer wall of the cavity 10 and the other end abutting the first end 311 of the valve stem 31, the spring acts directly on the valve stem 31, applying a uniform and controllable reset force. This allows the sealing ring 32 to smoothly conform to the inner wall of the cavity 10 during the reset process, avoiding adverse phenomena such as bias pressure and leakage, thereby improving the stability of the overall sealing performance. Furthermore, the spring's location outside the cavity 10 facilitates future maintenance and replacement.

[0069] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The inner wall of the cavity 10 is provided with a through hole 10a communicating with the communication channel a. The docking structure 20 includes a docking part 21 protruding from the outer wall of the cavity 10. The docking part 21 is arranged around the periphery of the through hole 10a. The docking parts 21 of the two docking structures 20 are sleeved together.

[0070] The docking structure 20 includes a docking portion 21 disposed on the outer wall of the cavity 10. The docking portion 21 protrudes outward from the outer wall of the cavity 10 and is disposed around the through hole 10a. When the two cavities 10 are connected to each other, the docking portions 21 of the two docking structures 20 are connected by fitting together, with one docking portion 21 inserted into the interior of the other docking portion 21, forming a stable and sealed connection structure.

[0071] Specifically, the mating part 21 can be in the form of an annular boss, with its outer circumferential surface matching the inner circumferential surface of the other mating part 21, ensuring a tight fit between the two and preventing liquid leakage. During the connection process, the two cavities 10 achieve axial positioning through the sleeve engagement of the mating parts 21, while simultaneously driving their respective sealing parts 30 to switch to the communication position, thus opening the communication channel a and realizing the fluid transmission function.

[0072] Further, please refer to Figure 5 In this embodiment, the two docking portions 21 have interlocking segments; the water box assembly 100 further includes a sealing sleeve 50 sleeved on the end of at least one of the docking portions 21, the sealing sleeve 50 having a sealing segment 51 extending circumferentially along the docking portion 21 and located between the two interlocking segments.

[0073] Each of the two docking parts 21 has a socket section for interlocking. The socket section is usually an annular structure. The outer peripheral surface of one docking part 21 and the inner peripheral surface of the other docking part 21 form a mating surface to realize the insertion connection between the two cavities 10.

[0074] In addition, the water box assembly 100 also includes a sealing sleeve 50, which is fitted onto the end of at least one mating portion 21, preferably on the mating portion 21 on the insertion side. The sealing sleeve 50 includes a sealing section 51 for achieving a sealing function. The sealing section 51 extends circumferentially along the mating portion 21 and is located between the two mating sections after the two mating portions 21 are fitted together. Through its own elasticity and compression deformation, it tightly adheres to the contact surface of the two mating sections, thereby forming an effective sealing barrier between them.

[0075] In actual assembly, the sealing sleeve 50 can be made of rubber, silicone, or other materials with good elasticity and water resistance. When the two cavities 10 are joined, the sealing section 51 of the sealing sleeve 50 is clamped between the two sleeve sections and undergoes radial expansion under axial pressure, thereby filling the gap between them and preventing liquid from leaking from the connection.

[0076] This utility model also proposes a water dispenser 200, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 1 to 4 The water dispenser 200 includes a housing 1, a water supply component 2, an ice maker 3, and a water box component 100. The specific structure of the water box component 100 is as described in the above embodiments. Since the water dispenser 200 adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here. The housing 1 has an installation cavity, an installation channel 1a communicating with the installation cavity, and a water outlet; a water supply component 2 is installed on the housing 1; an ice box 3 is used to cool the water in its inner cavity; a water box component 100 is disposed in the installation cavity, and each cavity 10 is also provided with a communication port b. The communication ports b of the two cavities 10 are respectively connected to the ice box 3 through circulation pipes. One of the two cavities 10 is configured as a water storage box 4, and the other is configured as an ice water box 5. The water storage box 4 is also respectively connected to the water supply component 2 and the water outlet; wherein, the ice water box 5 is detachably installed in the installation channel 1a. When the ice water box 5 is installed in the installation channel 1a, the docking structure 20 of the ice water box 5 and the water storage box 4 are sealed and docked.

[0077] Understandably, the water tank assembly 100 includes two side-by-side cavities 10, which serve as a water storage tank 4 and an ice water tank 5, respectively. The water storage tank 4 is a fixed structure, providing a stable connection with other functional modules (such as the water supply assembly 2, the ice maker 3, and the water outlet), ensuring the continuity and reliability of the entire system's operation. The ice water tank 5, on the other hand, is a detachable structure, allowing users to regularly remove it for cleaning and drainage, effectively preventing bacterial growth and hygiene hazards caused by residual water.

[0078] The water storage box 4 and the ice water box 5 are connected by a mating part 21 and are equipped with a sealing section 51 to ensure good sealing performance when connected.

[0079] By setting up a circulation pipeline, the cold water that has not completely frozen can return from the ice box 3 to the ice water box 5 for further cooling or storage, thus avoiding waste of water resources.

[0080] It should be noted that the ice water tank 5 has a much larger volume than the water storage tank 4, in order to meet the needs of large-capacity ice water storage and adapt to scenarios where multiple people continuously draw water. At the same time, its detachable design also ensures ease of cleaning, solving the problems of difficult thorough cleaning and incomplete drainage in traditional non-detachable structures.

[0081] It should be noted that after the water dispenser 200 is started, the water supply component 2 provides water to the water storage box 4. The water supply component 2 can be an inlet pipe connected to an external water purification system, or it can be an inverted bottled water device; both can provide a stable and safe initial water source for the system. The water storage box 4, as a fixed core node, receives raw water from the water supply component 2 and, through an internal pumping system, transports the water to the ice maker 3 for refrigeration.

[0082] The ice container 3 is equipped with a refrigeration device (such as a compressor refrigeration system or a semiconductor refrigeration module) that can rapidly cool or even freeze the water flowing into it. During this process, some of the water is completely frozen into ice cubes, while the remaining partially frozen water remains liquid. This portion of liquid cold water is pumped back to the ice water container 5 for storage through a circulation pipeline, thus achieving the dual function of "ice making + ice water making".

[0083] The ice water box 5 and the water storage box 4 are connected by a sealed docking structure 20 to allow fluid to flow between them. When the ice water box 5 is installed into the installation channel 1a of the housing 1 and docking is completed, the connecting channel a between the two is automatically opened, allowing water to circulate between them; at the same time, the ice water box 5 is also connected to the ice maker 3 through a circulation pipe, forming a complete refrigeration cycle path.

[0084] In addition to connecting the water supply component 2 and the ice maker 3, the water storage box 4 is also directly connected to the water outlet of the water dispenser 200. Users can obtain low-temperature water returned from the ice water box 5 by operating the water outlet valve, thus achieving the function of instant drinking.

[0085] Further, please refer to Figure 2 When disassembling or assembling the ice water box 5, if the ice water box 5 is set in an open form, there is a possibility of water spilling out. In this embodiment, the bottom wall of the installation channel 1a is provided with a baffle 11, which is located near the outer port of the installation channel 1a and extends along the circumference of the installation channel 1a.

[0086] Specifically, the baffle 11 is a ring or multiple spaced protrusions that surround the lower part of the inner wall of the installation channel 1a. Its height is slightly higher than the bottom surface of the installation channel 1a, forming a physical barrier to prevent liquid from flowing out.

[0087] In actual use, when the user removes the ice water box 5 from the installation channel 1a for cleaning or drainage, a small amount of residual liquid may spill out. If this liquid is not effectively intercepted, it may flow along the installation channel 1a into the installation cavity inside the water dispenser 200, and eventually onto the bottom surface of the water dispenser 200, causing contamination or even affecting the safe operation of the equipment. However, by installing baffles 11 on the bottom wall of the installation channel 1a, the spilled liquid can be effectively intercepted without adding a complex control mechanism, keeping it in the vicinity of the installation channel 1a and preventing it from continuing to flow into the external environment.

[0088] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 4 A first switch valve 6 is provided on the connecting pipe between the water storage box 4 and the water supply component 2, and a first water pump 7 is provided on the circulation pipe; a second switch valve 8 is provided on the connecting pipe between the water storage box 4 and the water outlet.

[0089] A first switch valve 6 is installed on the connecting pipe between the water storage box 4 and the water supply component 2 to control whether the water source from the water supply component 2 flows into the water storage box 4; at the same time, a first water pump 7 is installed on the circulation pipe connecting the water storage box 4, the ice water box 5 and the ice making box 3 to drive the water flow in the circulation path to achieve the function of continuous cooling or ice making of water.

[0090] In addition, a second switch valve 8 is installed on the connecting pipe between the water storage box 4 and the water outlet of the water dispenser 200. This valve is used to control whether cold water from the water storage box 4 or the ice water box 5 is supplied to the water outlet. When the user needs to take water, the second switch valve 8 is opened, and water can flow from the water storage box 4 or the ice water box 5 through the pipe to the water outlet; when not taking water, the valve is closed to prevent liquid leakage or backflow.

[0091] During actual operation, when the system starts up and enters the ice-making or cooling mode, the first switch valve 6 opens, allowing raw water from the water supply component 2 to enter the water storage box 4; subsequently, the first water pump 7 starts, transporting the water in the water storage box 4 to the ice-making box 3 through the circulation pipeline for cooling. During this process, some of the water is completely frozen into ice blocks, while the remaining unfrozen water is returned to the ice water box 5 for storage through the circulation loop.

[0092] When the water level in the ice container 3 reaches the set upper limit (i.e., "full"), the first water pump 7 stops working to avoid overfilling and overflow. At the same time, the first switch valve 6 automatically closes, cutting off the water supply and ensuring the system is in a stable ice-making state. At this time, the system focuses on refrigeration, further cooling the water that has been delivered to the ice water container 5 until the entire ice-making and ice water-making process is completed.

[0093] When a user needs to draw water, the control system opens the second switch valve 8, allowing the low-temperature water in the ice water box 5 to flow through the water storage box 4 to the water outlet for the user's use.

[0094] For further information, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 4 In this embodiment, an instant heating module 9 and a third switching valve 12 are also provided on the connecting pipe between the water supply component 2 and the water outlet.

[0095] Specifically, the connection path is part of the hot water supply channel, used to heat room temperature water from water supply component 2 (such as an external water purification system or bottled water) and deliver it to the outlet to realize the hot water intake function.

[0096] The instant heating module 9 can use existing mature technologies such as electric heating film heating, PTC heating element or electromagnetic induction heating to heat the water flowing through it instantly to meet the user's hot water needs; while the third switch valve 12 is used to control the opening and closing of the hot water passage to prevent hot water backflow or mixing of hot and cold water in non-hot water intake state, ensuring the safety and stability of system operation.

[0097] In actual use, when the user selects the hot water mode, the controller opens the third switch valve 12 and starts the instant heating module 9, so that the water flows out from the outlet after being heated; when the user selects the ice water or warm water mode, the third switch valve 12 is closed, and the cold water passage between the ice water box 5 and the outlet is switched to output low temperature water.

[0098] Furthermore, the water dispenser 200 can also be equipped with a hot and cold water mixing structure, so that the cold water passage between the ice water box 5 and the water outlet and the hot water supply pipe converge at the front of the water outlet, and the hot and cold water are mixed on demand through a proportional adjustment device, thereby outputting warm water at the set temperature to meet the diverse drinking water needs of users.

[0099] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the patent scope of the present utility model. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the technical concept of the present utility model and the contents of the present utility model specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A water tank assembly (100), characterized in that, The system includes two cavities (10) arranged side by side. Each of the two cavities (10) has a docking structure (20) on one side facing each other. Each docking structure (20) has a communication channel (a) that communicates with the inner cavity of the corresponding cavity (10). Each cavity (10) has a sealing part (30) corresponding to the communication channel (a). The two sealing parts (30) are movably arranged in the directions of approaching and moving away from each other. Each sealing part (30) has a sealing position that seals the corresponding communication channel (a) and a communication position that opens the communication channel (a) during its movement. The two cavities (10) are detachably connected by the two docking structures (20). When the two cavities (10) are sealed and docked, the two sealing parts (30) switch from the sealing position to the communicating position, so that the two communicating channels (a) can communicate.

2. The water box assembly (100) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the docking structures (20) further includes a reset member (40), which is used to reset the corresponding sealing part (30) from the communicating position to the sealing position.

3. The water box assembly (100) as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The two sealing parts (30) are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the two cavities (10) arranged side by side, and each sealing part (30) is movable in a direction closer to or further away from the other cavity (10).

4. The water box assembly (100) as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sealing part (30) includes: A valve stem (31) has a first end (311) and a second end (312) disposed opposite to each other, the first end (311) of the valve stem (31) being located within the communicating channel (a), and the second end (312) of the valve stem (31) extending into the cavity (10); and, A sealing ring (32) is sleeved around the second end (312) of the valve stem (31). The sealing ring (32) is provided to protrude laterally from the side of the second end (312) of the valve stem (31). The sealing ring (32) is used to seal against the inner wall of the cavity (10) when the sealing part (30) moves to the sealing position.

5. The water box assembly (100) as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The valve stem (31) has a positioning groove (31a) recessed along its circumference on its side wall, and the sealing ring (32) is installed in the positioning groove (31a).

6. The water box assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The water box assembly (100) also includes a spring, which is sleeved around the valve stem (31) and located outside the cavity (10). One end of the spring abuts against the outer wall of the cavity (10), and the other end abuts against the first end (311) of the valve stem (31).

7. The water box assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the cavity (10) is provided with a through hole (10a) communicating with the communication channel (a). The docking structure (20) includes a docking part (21) protruding from the outer wall of the cavity (10). The docking part (21) is arranged around the periphery of the through hole (10a). The docking parts (21) of the two docking structures (20) are sleeved together.

8. The water box assembly (100) as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The two docking parts (21) have interlocking segments; The water box assembly (100) further includes a sealing sleeve (50) fitted onto the end of at least one of the mating portions (21), the sealing sleeve (50) having a sealing section (51) extending circumferentially along the mating portion (21) and located between two of the fitting sections.

9. A water dispenser (200), characterized in that, include: The housing (1) has a mounting cavity, a mounting channel (1a) communicating with the mounting cavity, and a water outlet; Water supply assembly (2) is installed in the housing (1); An ice box (3) is used to cool the water inside its cavity; The water box assembly (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 is provided in the mounting cavity, and each cavity (10) is further provided with a communication port (b). The communication ports (b) of the two cavities (10) are respectively connected to the ice box (3) through a circulation pipeline. One of the two cavities (10) is configured as a water storage box (4) and the other is configured as an ice water box (5). The water storage box (4) is also respectively connected to the water supply assembly (2) and the water outlet. The ice water box (5) is detachably installed in the installation channel (1a). When the ice water box (5) is installed in the installation channel (1a), the docking structure (20) of the ice water box (5) and the water storage box (4) are sealed together.

10. The water dispenser (200) as described in claim 9, characterized in that, A first switch valve (6) is provided on the connecting pipe between the water storage box (4) and the water supply component (2), and a first water pump (7) is provided on the circulation pipe; A second switch valve (8) is provided on the connecting pipe between the water storage box (4) and the water outlet.

Images