Pipe quick coupling assembly and ice making device

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of pipeline connecting devices, and discloses a pipeline quick connecting assembly and an ice making equipment, the pipeline quick connecting assembly comprising a collecting pipe, a sealing element, a quick socket and a plurality of opening and closing pieces; the collecting pipe is provided with a first end and a second end, and the first end is used for communicating with a first pipeline; the sealing element is provided with an elastic layer, and the outer periphery of the elastic layer is sealingly connected with the second end; the inner periphery of the elastic layer is extended to form a cladding layer, and the part of the cladding layer located in the collecting pipe forms a double-layer structure; a socket is formed in the quick socket, and the opening and closing pieces are rotationally connected to one end of the socket; the opening and closing pieces are inserted into the double-layer structure, and the cladding layer covers the opening and closing pieces; the inner periphery of the cladding layer forms a plug-in channel, and one end of the plug-in channel is a clamping opening; an elastic element is connected between the opening and closing pieces and the quick socket, and the clamping opening is used for clamping and fixing a second pipeline. Through the above mode, the application not only can improve the convenience of the connection between pipelines, but also can be compatible with pipelines of different specifications.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of pipe connection device technology, specifically to a quick-connect pipe assembly and an ice-making device. Background Technology

[0002] For some devices that require the flow of liquids, such as ice makers and water dispensers, pipes are needed to connect the water to different areas.

[0003] Taking an ice maker as an example, to connect a tap water supply or other water supply equipment to an ice maker, a water pipe with the same specifications as the ice maker's water inlet is required. This water pipe is typically connected to the ice maker's water inlet via a socket or threaded connection for a sealed assembly. This method requires users to prepare matching water pipes in advance, and the process is time-consuming and laborious. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of the above problems, this application provides a quick-connect pipe assembly and an ice-making device, which can not only improve the convenience of connecting pipes, but also be compatible with pipes of different specifications.

[0005] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a quick-connect pipe assembly is provided, comprising: a manifold, a sealing element, a quick-connect socket, and a plurality of opening and closing tabs; the manifold has a first end and a second end opposite to each other, the first end being used to fix and communicate with a first pipe; the sealing element is made of a flexible material and has a telescopic layer, the telescopic layer being annular and capable of radial telescopic deformation, the outer periphery of the telescopic layer being sealed to the second end; a covering layer extends from the inner periphery of the telescopic layer to form a covering layer, the covering layer first extending from the inner periphery of the telescopic layer toward the interior of the manifold, and after bending, extending through the inner periphery of the telescopic layer to the outside of the second end, such that the portion of the covering layer located inside the manifold forms a double-layer structure. The quick-connect socket has a socket, and multiple hinged tabs are rotatably connected to the edge of one end of the socket, with the multiple hinged tabs arranged circumferentially around the socket. The ends of the multiple hinged tabs opposite to the quick-connect socket are inserted into a double-layer structure, and a covering layer covers the inner surface of the multiple hinged tabs, with the extended end of the covering layer fixedly connected to the quick-connect socket. The inner circumference of the covering layer forms a connection channel connecting the socket and the internal space of the manifold, and the end of the connection channel opposite to the socket is a clamping port. Each hinged tab is connected to the quick-connect socket with an elastic element, which provides a rotational elastic force to the hinged tab to reduce the area of ​​the clamping port. The clamping port is used to clamp and fix the second pipe inserted from the socket.

[0006] In one alternative embodiment, the inner wall of the second end is provided with an annular limiting groove, and the outer periphery of the expansion layer is sealed and locked in the limiting groove; and / or at least a portion of the expansion layer is wavy or serrated.

[0007] In one alternative embodiment, the quick-connect socket includes a first base and a second base. The first base has a first through hole, and the second base has a second through hole. The first base and the second base are connected to each other, and the first through hole and the second through hole communicate with each other to form a socket. The first base is disposed between the second base and the manifold, and the opening and closing piece is rotatably connected to the edge of the first through hole away from the second through hole. The end of the extended covering layer is clamped and fixed between the first base and the second base.

[0008] In one alternative embodiment, an annular protrusion is provided on the edge of the first through hole facing the second through hole, and an annular recess is formed at the end of the extended coating layer. The recess is engaged with the protrusion, and the second seat is pressed against the side of the recess facing away from the protrusion. The second seat is fixedly connected to the first seat.

[0009] In one alternative approach, the covering layer is a hollow frustum shape, and the inner wall of the opening and closing piece is projected onto the axial direction of the insertion channel in an arc shape that matches the covering layer.

[0010] In one alternative configuration, there are at least three flaps, which are evenly spaced along the circumference of the socket.

[0011] In one alternative embodiment, the fast socket is provided with a first hook hole, and the outer side of the opening and closing piece is provided with a second hook hole. The elastic element is a torsion spring, and the two ends of the torsion spring are respectively inserted into the first hook hole and the second hook hole.

[0012] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, an ice-making device is provided, including an ice-making chamber, a first pipe and a quick-connect assembly of the pipe as described above, wherein the first pipe is connected between the quick-connect assembly and the ice-making chamber, and the quick-connect assembly is used for inserting and fixing a second pipe connected to a water source.

[0013] In one alternative embodiment, the ice-making equipment also includes a water tank, a first pipe connecting the quick-connect pipe assembly and the water tank, and the water tank being connected to the ice-making chamber via a third pipe; a water pump is installed on the third pipe; and a solenoid valve is installed on the first pipe, or a solenoid valve and a flow meter are installed on the first pipe.

[0014] In one alternative approach, a filter and / or a pressure regulating valve are installed on the first pipeline.

[0015] The quick-connect pipe assembly provided in this application first fixes the first end of the manifold to the first pipe. Then, when the second pipe is inserted through the insertion hole, a large pushing force is applied to the second pipe to push open the opening and closing plate. This causes the opening and closing plate to expand and rotate outward against the elastic force of the elastic element. The expansion layer of the sealing element contracts under the push of the opening and closing plate, increasing the clamping area. The second pipe can then smoothly pass into the manifold and connect with the first pipe. After the second pipe is inserted into the manifold, the opening and closing plate, under the elastic force of the elastic element, clamps and seals the second pipe through the covering layer of the sealing element, thereby achieving a quick-connect connection of the second pipe.

[0016] Because the opening and closing plate can rotate and expand to different degrees depending on the specifications of the inserted second pipe, and the expansion layer and the covering layer can also deform to different degrees depending on the specifications of the inserted second pipe, it can be compatible with second pipes of different specifications.

[0017] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 and Figure 4 These are schematic cross-sectional views of the folded layer in the sealing element provided in the embodiments of this application, showing it in an elongated state and a shortened state, respectively. Figure 5 A cross-sectional structural diagram of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the quick-connect socket and the opening / closing plate in the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the application scenario of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in the embodiments of this application from a cross-sectional perspective; Figure 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in this application when the covering layer initially extends into the middle of the opening and closing piece; Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in this application, showing the assembly and connection of the covering layer, the opening and closing piece, and the quick-connect socket. Figure 11 and Figure 12 These are cross-sectional structural schematic diagrams of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in the embodiments of this application when inserting second pipes of different specifications; Figure 13 An exploded view of the bottom structure of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 14 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the ice-making equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the ice-making equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the ice-making equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an ice-making device provided in another embodiment of this application; Figure 18 This is a schematic flowchart of the ice-making control method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0019] The reference numerals in the detailed embodiments are as follows: 10. Ice maker; 50. Quick-connect pipe assembly; 61. First pipe; 62. Second pipe; 63. Third pipe; 70. Ice maker; 80. Water tank; 91. Water pump; 92. Solenoid valve; 93. Flow meter; 94. Filter; 95. Pressure regulator; 100. Manifold; 110. First end; 120. Second end; 121. Limiting groove; 200. Seal; 210. Expansion layer; 220. Covering layer; 221. Double-layer structure; 222. End; 2221. Recess; 223. Insertion channel; 224. Clamping port; 300, Quick-connect socket; 301, First base; 302, Second base; 310, Socket; 311, First through hole; 312, Second through hole; 313, Protrusion; 320, First hook hole; 330, Rotary connector; 331, First connecting hole; 400, opening / closing piece; 410, elastic element; 411, torsion spring; 420, second hook hole; 430, second connecting hole; 440, pin. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0022] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0023] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0024] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A exists, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship.

[0025] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0026] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" 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 are not intended to 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.

[0027] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0028] According to one aspect of an embodiment of this application, a quick-connect pipe assembly is provided; please refer to [the specific details]. Figure 1 and 2 , Figure 1 The image illustrates an application scenario of the quick-connect pipe assembly provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 An exploded view of the quick-connect pipe assembly is shown. As shown, the quick-connect pipe assembly 50 includes: a manifold 100, a seal 200, a quick-connect socket 300, and multiple opening / closing tabs 400.

[0029] The manifold 100 has a first end 110 and a second end 120, with the first end 110 used to fix and communicate with the first pipe 61. Taking an ice maker as an example, the quick-connect assembly 50 can be installed on the housing of the ice maker, and the first pipe 61 can be a pipe installed inside the ice maker to lead water to the water tank of the ice maker. During product manufacturing, the first pipe 61 and the first end 110 can be assembled, fixed, and interconnected by means of heat fusion, bonding, sleeve connection, threaded connection, etc. Since the first pipe 61 and the manifold 100 do not require post-assembly by the user, they will not affect the user's use.

[0030] The seal 200 is made of a flexible material, such as silicone or rubber. The seal 200 has a stretchable layer 210, which is annular and can stretch and deform radially. Of course, the radial direction of the stretchable layer 210 is also the radial direction of the manifold 100.

[0031] Specifically, such as Figure 3The cross-sectional structure of the stretchable layer 210 in its extended state is shown. At least a portion of the stretchable layer 210 can be wavy as shown in the figure, when subjected to an outward radial force ( Figure 3 When the direction indicated by the middle arrow is reached, the expansion layer 210 contracts and deforms, reducing or completely filling the gaps between each wave, presenting... Figure 4 The state shown is as described. Of course, the wavy part on the stretchable layer 210 can also be replaced with a sawtooth shape, and its change state during stretching is consistent with the wavy shape. By setting at least a portion of the stretchable layer 210 to be wavy or sawtooth, the stretchable layer 210 can fold and stretch when subjected to radial force, thereby generating a greater degree of deformation.

[0032] Of course, in some other implementations, the stretchable layer 210 can also be a planar structure, which can stretch and deform by utilizing its own elastic deformation capability when subjected to radial force.

[0033] The outer periphery of the expansion layer 210 is sealed to the second end 120. Please refer to the following for details. Figure 5 The cross-sectional structure of the quick-connect pipe assembly 50 shown shows that the inner wall of the second end 120 can be provided with an annular limiting groove 121, and the outer periphery of the expansion layer 210 is sealed and locked in the limiting groove 121, thereby realizing the sealed connection between the expansion layer 210 and the second end 120.

[0034] During the actual assembly, the outer periphery of the telescopic layer 210 can be compressed radially inward to shrink the telescopic layer 210 and allow it to be properly inserted into the opening of the second end 120. After insertion, the telescopic layer 210 is released so that its outer periphery extends outward. At this time, the position of the telescopic layer 210 is adjusted so that its outer periphery is aligned with the limiting groove 121. Then, force is applied to the telescopic layer 210 to squeeze it into the limiting groove 121, thus completing the assembly of the two.

[0035] By using an annular limiting groove 121 on the inner wall of the second end 120 and inserting the outer periphery of the expansion layer 210 into the limiting groove 121, the assembly connection between the manifold 100 and the seal 200 can be made more stable, and a larger contact area can be formed between the expansion layer 210 and the inner wall of the second end 120 to ensure sealing performance.

[0036] Furthermore, the thickness of the expansion layer 210 can be slightly greater than the width of the limiting groove 121 to ensure that after the expansion layer 210 is inserted into the limiting groove 121, it forms an interference fit with the limiting groove 121, ensuring good sealing performance. Here, "thickness of the expansion layer 210" and "width of the limiting groove 121" refer to their respective dimensions along... Figure 5 The dimension in the direction indicated by the double arrow.

[0037] To ensure stability, after the outer periphery of the expansion layer 210 is inserted into the limiting groove 121, glue can be filled between the two to make them firmly connected and prevent the liquid in the manifold 100 from washing the expansion layer 210 out of the limiting groove 121.

[0038] In other embodiments, the outer periphery of the expansion layer 210 can be directly bonded and fixed to the end face or inner wall of the second end 120 using sealant, or the outer periphery of the expansion layer 210 can be pressed and fixed to the end face of the second end 120 using an annular pressure plate. These assembly methods can ensure that the expansion layer 210 seals the second end 120.

[0039] Please combine Figures 2 to 5 The inner periphery of the expansion layer 210 extends to form a covering layer 220. The covering layer 220 first extends from the inner periphery of the expansion layer 210 toward the inside of the manifold 100, and after bending, extends through the inner periphery of the expansion layer 210 to the outside of the second end 120. This extension method makes the part of the covering layer 220 located inside the manifold 100 form a double-layer structure 221.

[0040] Please combine further Figure 6 The connection structure between the fast socket 300 and the opening / closing piece 400 is shown in the figure. The fast socket 300 has a socket 310, and multiple opening / closing pieces 400 are rotatably connected to the edge of one end of the socket 310. The multiple opening / closing pieces 400 are arranged around the circumference of the socket 310.

[0041] like Figure 5 As shown, multiple hinged tabs 400 are inserted into the double-layer structure 221 at one end opposite to the quick-connect socket 300. A covering layer 220 covers the inner surface of the multiple hinged tabs 400, and the extended end 222 of the covering layer 220 is fixedly connected to the quick-connect socket 300 to ensure that the covering layer 220 encloses and seals the space from the socket 310 to the manifold 100. The inner circumference of the covering layer 220 forms a plug-in channel 223 that connects the socket 310 and the internal space of the manifold 100. The end of the plug-in channel 223 opposite to the socket 310 is a clamping opening 224.

[0042] Please refer to it again. Figure 2 and Figure 6 and further combine Figure 7 The cross-sectional structure of the quick-connect pipe assembly 50 shown in the figure shows that each opening / closing piece 400 is connected to the quick-connect socket 300 by an elastic element 410. The elastic element 410 is used to provide a rotational elastic force to the opening / closing piece 400 to reduce the area of ​​the clamping opening 224, specifically to provide a rotational elastic force to the opening / closing piece 400 to reduce the area of ​​the clamping opening 224. Figure 7 The elastic force that rotates in the direction indicated by the middle arrow.

[0043] like Figure 1 Stereoscopic perspective and Figure 8 In the usage scenario shown from the mid-section perspective, the second pipe 62 (i.e., the external pipe) is inserted into the socket 310 and passes through the insertion channel 223 and the clamping port 224 in sequence before entering the manifold 100, thereby connecting the first pipe 61 and the second pipe 62.

[0044] During assembly, the hinge 400 can be rotatably mounted on the quick-connect socket 300 first, and the elastic element 410 can be connected between the two. Next, the covering layer 220 is inserted between the multiple hinge 400s, while the ends of the multiple hinge 400s facing away from the quick-connect socket 300 extend into the double-layer structure 221, forming... Figure 9 As shown, after insertion, the end 222 of the covering layer 220 is fixedly connected to the quick-connect socket 300. For example, the connection and fixation of the end 222 of the covering layer 220 to the quick-connect socket 300 can be achieved by means of bonding, heat fusion, or clamping. After fixation, it is in the form of... Figure 10 The state shown is as indicated. Finally, the seal 200 is assembled and connected to the manifold 100, presenting the desired state. Figure 7 As shown, the assembly of the quick-connect pipe assembly 50 is complete.

[0045] During the manufacturing of the ice maker, the quick-connect pipe assembly 50 can be installed through the housing. The first pipe 61 inside the ice maker is assembled, fixed, and connected to the first end 110. When it is necessary to connect the ice maker to tap water or other water supply equipment, the second pipe 62 (specifically, the outlet pipe of the tap water pipe or other water supply equipment) is inserted from the socket 310 into the insertion channel 223. When the second pipe 62 abuts against the covering layer 220 at the clamping port 224, a large pushing force is applied to the second pipe 62 to push the opening and closing plate 400 to expand and rotate outward against the elastic force of the elastic element 410. The telescopic layer 210 contracts under the push of the opening and closing plate 400, the area of ​​the clamping port 224 increases, and the second pipe 62 smoothly passes through the clamping port 224 and enters the interior of the manifold 100.

[0046] After the second pipe 62 is inserted into the manifold 100, the opening and closing plate 400, under the elastic force of the elastic member 410, makes the clamping opening 224 always tend to shrink in area. This makes the second pipe 62 firmly clamped and fixed by the covering layer 220 at the clamping opening 224, and the covering layer 220 is effectively sealed to the outer wall of the second pipe 62.

[0047] Based on the above description of the process of inserting the second pipe 62, please refer to further details. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The figure shows the cross-sectional structure when two different specifications (i.e., different diameters) of the second pipe 62 are inserted, as shown below. Figure 11As shown, when a smaller diameter second pipe 62 is inserted, the opening and closing plate 400 rotates and expands to a relatively small extent, and the area of ​​the clamping opening 224 is small. When a larger diameter second pipe 62 is inserted, the opening and closing plate 400 rotates and expands to a relatively large extent, and the area of ​​the clamping opening 224 is large. Regardless of the diameter of the second pipe 62, as long as it is within the variable area range of the clamping opening 224, it can be inserted into the manifold 100 and clamped and fixed by the opening and closing plate 400, and sealed by the covering layer 220, thereby achieving compatibility and adaptation with second pipes 62 of different specifications.

[0048] After the second pipe 62 is inserted into the insertion channel 223, it will first come into contact with the covering layer 220 before reaching the clamping port 224. At this time, a large thrust is applied to the second pipe 62, which will cause the second pipe 62 and the covering layer 220 to generate an interaction force. In order to prevent the covering layer 220 from being displaced toward the manifold 100 due to the force of the second pipe 62, and thus causing the covering layer 220 to slip off, this application further proposes an implementation method.

[0049] Specifically, please refer to [the relevant document] again. Figures 2 to 5 and further combine Figure 13 The exploded view of the bottom of the quick-connect assembly 50 shows the quick-connect socket 300, which includes a first base 301 and a second base 302. The first base 301 has a first through hole 311, and the second base 302 has a second through hole 312. The first base 301 and the second base 302 are interconnected, and the first through hole 311 and the second through hole 312 communicate to form a socket 310. The first base 301 is positioned between the second base 302 and the manifold 100. A hinged piece 400 is rotatably connected to the edge of the first through hole 311 opposite to the second through hole 312. The extended end 222 of the covering layer 220 is clamped and fixed between the first base 301 and the second base 302.

[0050] By setting the first seat 301 and the second seat 302 to clamp and fix the end 222 of the covering layer 220, it is better to ensure that the covering layer 220 is not easily displaced when subjected to the force of the inserted second pipe 62, and to ensure that the covering layer 220 can provide a reliable sealing effect on the outer periphery of the second pipe 62.

[0051] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, an annular protrusion 313 is provided on the edge of the first through hole 311 facing the second through hole 312, and an annular recess 2221 is formed at the end 222 of the covering layer 220. The recess 2221 is engaged with the protrusion 313, and the second seat 302 abuts against the side of the recess 2221 facing away from the protrusion 313. The second seat 302 and the first seat 301 can be connected as follows: Figure 13As shown, they are fixed together by opening threaded holes and inserting threaded fasteners. Of course, they can also be assembled and fixed together by snap-fit ​​or other methods.

[0052] By providing a protrusion 313 at the edge of the first through hole 311 and a recess 2221 that fastens to the protrusion 313 at the end of the covering layer 220, and by pressing and fixing the recess 2221 to the protrusion 313 by the second seat 302, the recess 2221 and the protrusion 313 are mutually engaged and limited along the radial direction of the first through hole 311, thereby making the covering layer 220 less prone to displacement when subjected to the force of the second pipe 62.

[0053] For the commonly used circular cross-section second pipe 62, in order to better clamp and seal the second pipe 62 at the clamping opening 224, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 6 The covering layer 220 is a hollow frustum shape, and the inner wall of the opening and closing piece 400 is axially aligned with the insertion channel 223. Figure 3 The orthographic projection in the vertical direction is an arc shape that matches the covering layer 220. This arrangement allows the covering layer 220 to be more tightly clamped and adhered to the outer wall of the second pipe 62 under the force of the opening and closing piece 400, thereby sealing the outer periphery of the second pipe 62.

[0054] The opening and closing tabs 400 can be set to at least three, and the at least three opening and closing tabs 400 are evenly spaced along the circumference of the insertion hole 310. This not only allows the multiple opening and closing tabs 400 to rotate and expand better when subjected to the force of the inserted second pipe 62, providing insertion space for the second pipe 62, but also allows the covering layer 220 to be pressed against the outer wall of the second pipe 62 at at least three positions along the circumference of the second pipe 62 after the second pipe 62 of different specifications is inserted into place, so as to ensure that the outer circumference of the second pipe 62 is reliably sealed.

[0055] exist Figure 2 In the specific embodiment shown, four opening and closing tabs 400 are evenly arranged around the circumference of the insertion hole 310 to ensure that the second pipe 62 can be better clamped, fixed, and sealed. Of course, this does not constitute a limitation on the specific number of opening and closing tabs 400. In some other embodiments, only two opening and closing tabs 400 may be provided, or more may be provided.

[0056] To facilitate the assembly of the elastic element 410 with the quick-connect socket 300 and the opening / closing piece 400, such as Figure 6As shown, in some embodiments, the quick-connect socket 300 is provided with a first hook hole 320, the outer side of the opening and closing piece 400 is provided with a second hook hole 420, and the elastic element 410 is a torsion spring 411. The two ends of the torsion spring 411 are respectively inserted into the first hook hole 320 and the second hook hole 420, thereby conveniently assembling and connecting the torsion spring 411 with the quick-connect socket 300 and the opening and closing piece 400, so that the torsion spring 411 can stably provide the opening and closing piece 400 with a clamping force to hold the second pipe 62.

[0057] Of course, in some other embodiments, the elastic element 410 may also be an elastic block or a compression spring, etc. By connecting the elastic block or compression spring in a compressed state between the quick socket 300 and the outside of the opening and closing piece 400, the elastic block or compression spring can provide the opening and closing piece 400 with a clamping force to hold the second pipe 62.

[0058] Furthermore, to facilitate the assembly of the hinge 400 onto the quick-connect socket 300, such as... Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the quick-connect socket 300 is provided with a rotating connector 330, the rotating connector 330 having at least two opposing first connecting holes 331, and the opening / closing piece 400 being provided with a second connecting hole 430 (e.g., Figure 2 As shown in the figure, after aligning the two ends of the second connecting hole 430 with the first connecting holes 331 on both sides, the opening and closing piece 400 can be conveniently assembled on the quick socket 300 by sequentially inserting the pin 440 into the first connecting hole 331 on one side, the second connecting hole 430 and the first connecting hole 331 on the other side.

[0059] To prevent the pin 440 from coming out of the first connecting hole 331 due to the rotation of the opening and closing plate 400, a head with an increased cross-sectional area can be provided at one end of the pin 440, and a thread can be provided at the other end. The pin 440 passes through the first connecting hole 331, the second connecting hole 430 on one side and the first connecting hole 331 on the other side in sequence from the threaded end and then comes out. By locking a nut at this end, the two ends of the pin 440 are respectively limited by the nut and its head with an increased cross-sectional area, so that it will not come out of the first connecting hole 331.

[0060] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, an ice-making device is provided. The device in the embodiments of this application can be a standalone ice maker, including commercial ice makers, household ice makers, countertop ice makers, and under-counter ice makers; it can also be a refrigerator, water dispenser, or other device that includes an ice-making module.

[0061] The following explanation uses an ice maker as an example. Please refer to [link / reference] for details. Figures 14 to 16 ,in Figure 14 and Figure 15 The image shows the three-dimensional structure and cross-sectional structure of the ice maker. Figure 16 The internal structure of the ice maker is shown.

[0062] As shown in the figure, the ice maker 10 includes an ice-making chamber 70, a first pipe 61, and a quick-connect assembly 50 provided in any of the above embodiments. The first pipe 61 connects the quick-connect assembly 50 and the ice-making chamber 70, and the quick-connect assembly 50 is used for inserting and fixing a second pipe 62 connected to a water source.

[0063] As mentioned above, the second pipe 62 can be a pipe connected to tap water or a pipe connected to a water supply device. When the ice maker 10 uses the quick-connect assembly 50 provided in the above embodiment, it can not only achieve quick connection of the second pipe 62, but also be compatible with second pipes 62 of different specifications.

[0064] If the second pipe 62 is a tap water pipe, it has its own pressure. If the second pipe 62 is a water supply equipment pipe, the water supply equipment can provide pressure. Therefore, when ice is needed, water will enter the ice-making chamber 70 through the second pipe 62, the quick-connect pipe assembly 50 and the first pipe 61 in sequence under pressure, so that the evaporator can cool and freeze the water in the ice-making chamber 70.

[0065] In order to enable various methods of water intake for ice making, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a water tank 80, a first pipe 61 connecting the quick-connect assembly 50 and the water tank 80, and the water tank 80 is also connected to the ice-making chamber 70 via a third pipe 63. A water pump 91 is installed on the third pipe 63, and a solenoid valve 92 and a flow meter 93 are installed on the first pipe 61.

[0066] A water inlet can be provided on the water tank 80, and users can directly inject water into the water tank 80 through the water inlet using a container. Of course, tap water or water from water supply equipment can also flow into the water tank 80 in sequence through the second pipe 62, the quick-connect pipe assembly 50 and the first pipe 61.

[0067] During ice making, if the water tank 80 contains enough water for one ice-making operation, the water pump 91 starts and pumps the water stored in the water tank 80 into the ice-making chamber 70 for ice making. If the water tank 80 contains insufficient water or no water, the solenoid valve 92 is activated to allow pressurized tap water or water from a water supply device to enter the water tank 80 sequentially through the second pipe 62, the quick-connect pipe assembly 50, and the first pipe 61. During this process, the flow meter 93 measures the flow rate of the water entering the water tank 80. When the preset or required flow rate is reached, the solenoid valve 92 closes, blocking the water supply from the second pipe 62 to the water tank 80. Then, the water pump 91 pumps the water from the water tank 80 into the ice-making chamber 70 for ice making.

[0068] Furthermore, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments, a filter 94 may also be installed on the first pipe 61 to filter the water flowing into the water tank 80 from the second pipe 62, so as to ensure that the water used for ice making is clean and hygienic.

[0069] Additionally, regarding the case where the second pipe 62 is a tap water pipe, such as Figure 17 As shown in the figure, in some embodiments, a pressure regulating valve 95 may also be installed on the first pipe 61 upstream of the solenoid valve 92. The pressure regulating valve 95 can pressurize or depressurize the water entering the water tank 80 from the first pipe 61 according to the pressure of the tap water source, so as to ensure that the water pressure in the first pipe 61 is stable and avoid damage to the solenoid valve 92 and other equipment in the pipeline.

[0070] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, an ice-making control method is also provided. This method is applied to the ice maker 10 provided in the above embodiments. A sensor is provided in the water tank 80 of the ice maker 10. The sensor may be a liquid level sensor or a pressure sensor, etc., which is used to detect the amount of water stored in the water tank.

[0071] This ice-making control method can be executed by a controller integrated into the ice maker 10, or by a terminal device (such as a mobile phone, computer, etc.) capable of communicating with the ice maker 10. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 18 The ice-making control method includes the following steps: Step 510: In response to the ice-making command, the sensor detects whether the water level in the water tank has reached the preset level.

[0072] Ice-making commands are issued by the user. For ice makers with integrated controllers and buttons or touchscreens, users can send ice-making commands to the controller by triggering the buttons or touchscreen. For ice makers controlled via a terminal device, users can send ice-making commands to the ice maker by clicking the ice-making option in the terminal device's program. Ice-making commands can also be issued according to program settings.

[0073] The sensor is responsible for detecting whether the water level in the tank has reached the preset level. This preset level is set in advance in the program, and its specific value is not limited, but it must ensure that the preset level is greater than or equal to the amount of water required for one ice-making cycle in the ice-making chamber. For example, the preset level could be the amount of water needed for one ice-making cycle, or the amount of water when the tank is full.

[0074] If the detection result of step 510 is yes, it indicates that the water in the tank meets the requirements for one ice making. Therefore, step 530 is executed: control the water pump to start, so as to pump the water in the tank into the ice making chamber.

[0075] If the result of step 510 is negative, it indicates that the water in the tank is insufficient for one ice-making operation. This could be due to insufficient water in the tank or a lack of water for a single ice-making operation. Therefore, steps 550a-570a need to be performed first to fill the tank with water, ensuring that the water in the tank meets the requirements for at least one ice-making operation. Then, proceed to step 530 to pump the water from the tank into the ice-making chamber for ice production.

[0076] Step 550a: Control the solenoid valve to open so that pressurized water from the water source is injected into the water tank in sequence through the second pipe, the quick-connect pipe assembly and the first pipe; Step 570a: When the sensor detects that the water level in the tank has reached the preset level, the solenoid valve is closed.

[0077] In step 570a above, the closing of the solenoid valve is determined by the change in water volume in the tank after water injection, detected by the sensor. In other embodiments, the closing of the solenoid valve can also be determined by the injected water volume detected by the flow meter; specifically, step 570a can be replaced by step 570b as follows.

[0078] Step 570b: When the flow meter detects that the injected water volume has reached the preset injection volume, the solenoid valve is closed.

[0079] The preset water volume is pre-set in the program. For example, the water tank is configured with a capacity greater than or equal to the water consumption for two ice-making cycles, and both the preset water volume and the preset water filling volume are set to the water consumption for one ice-making cycle. When step 510 detects that the water volume in the tank is insufficient for one ice-making cycle, step 550a is executed to fill the tank with water. At the same time, the flow meter detects the amount of water passing through, which is the amount of water injected into the tank. In step 570b, when the flow meter detects that the injected water volume reaches the water consumption for one ice-making cycle, the solenoid valve is closed. At this time, the water volume stored in the tank is the sum of the water volume before filling and the water consumption for one ice-making cycle.

[0080] Because the amount of water before filling is less than the amount of water used for one ice-making cycle, the sum of the water volume before filling and the amount of water used for one ice-making cycle is less than the tank capacity (greater than or equal to the amount of water used for two ice-making cycles). Based on this, even if the amount of water in the tank is not monitored by a sensor during the filling process, the amount of water injected into the tank can be monitored by a flow meter to ensure that the water in the tank will not overflow.

[0081] In addition to the two methods mentioned above, the difference between the preset water volume and the current water volume in the tank can be calculated first, and the solenoid valve can be closed when the flow meter detects that the water volume has reached the difference, so that the water volume in the tank reaches the preset water volume. Specifically, if the detection result in step 510 is negative, the following steps 540c-570c are executed first to inject water, and then the process jumps to step 530 mentioned above.

[0082] Step 540c: Calculate the water volume difference between the preset water volume and the current water volume in the tank; Step 550c: Control the solenoid valve to open, so that pressurized water from the water source is injected into the water tank in sequence through the second pipe, the quick-connect pipe assembly and the first pipe; Step 570c: When the flow meter detects that the injected water volume reaches the above-mentioned water volume difference, the solenoid valve is closed.

[0083] For this scheme, the preset water volume is not limited to the water volume used for ice making in one session. It can be set to the water volume used for ice making in one session or the water volume when the water tank is full. There is no specific limitation.

[0084] The ice-making control method provided by any of the above embodiments can realize the automated water supply control of the ice maker. Ice making no longer depends on manual water addition. Users only need to start the ice-making process and wait for the ice to be made. Therefore, it can greatly improve the user experience.

[0085] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way.

Claims

1. A quick-connect pipe assembly, characterized in that, include: Manifold, seals, quick-connect sockets, and multiple hinge plates; The manifold has a first end and a second end, the first end being fixed to and connected to the first pipe; The sealing element is made of a flexible material and has a telescopic layer. The telescopic layer is annular and can expand and contract radially. The outer periphery of the telescopic layer is sealed to the second end. The inner periphery of the expansion layer extends to form a covering layer. The covering layer first extends from the inner periphery of the expansion layer toward the inside of the manifold, and after bending, extends through the inner periphery of the expansion layer to the outside of the second end, so that the portion of the covering layer located inside the manifold forms a double-layer structure. The fast socket has a socket, and a plurality of opening and closing tabs are rotatably connected to the edge of one end of the socket, and the plurality of opening and closing tabs are arranged circumferentially along the socket. One end of each of the multiple opening and closing tabs is inserted into the double-layer structure away from the quick-connect socket. The covering layer covers the inner surface of the multiple opening and closing tabs, and the extended end of the covering layer is fixedly connected to the quick-connect socket. The inner periphery of the covering layer forms an insertion channel that connects the insertion hole and the internal space of the manifold, and the end of the insertion channel opposite to the insertion hole is a clamping port; Each of the opening / closing tabs is connected to the quick-connect socket by an elastic element, which provides a rotational force to the opening / closing tab to reduce the area of ​​the clamping opening, which is used to clamp and fix the second pipe inserted from the socket.

2. The quick-connect pipe assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the second end is provided with an annular limiting groove, and the outer periphery of the telescopic layer is sealed and engaged within the limiting groove; and / or At least a portion of the expansion layer is wavy or serrated.

3. The quick-connect pipe assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The quick-connect socket includes a first base and a second base. The first base has a first through hole, and the second base has a second through hole. The first base and the second base are connected to each other, and the first through hole and the second through hole are interconnected to form the socket. The first seat is disposed between the second seat and the manifold, and the opening and closing plate is rotatably connected to the edge of the first through hole away from the second through hole; The extended end of the covering layer is clamped and fixed between the first seat and the second seat.

4. The quick-connect pipe assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, An annular protrusion is provided on the edge of the first through hole facing the second through hole, and an annular recess is formed at the end of the extended coating layer. The recess is fastened to the protrusion, and the second seat abuts against the side of the recess facing away from the protrusion, and the second seat is fixedly connected to the first seat.

5. The quick-connect pipe assembly according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The covering layer is in the shape of a hollow frustum, and the inner wall of the opening and closing piece is projected onto the axial direction of the insertion channel in an arc shape that matches the covering layer.

6. The quick-connect pipe assembly according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, There are at least three opening and closing tabs, and the at least three opening and closing tabs are evenly spaced along the circumference of the insertion hole.

7. The quick-connect pipe assembly according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The quick-connect socket is provided with a first hook hole, and the outer side of the opening and closing piece is provided with a second hook hole. The elastic element is a torsion spring, and the two ends of the torsion spring are respectively inserted into the first hook hole and the second hook hole.

8. An ice-making device, characterized in that, The device includes an ice-making chamber, a first pipe, and a quick-connect pipe assembly according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the first pipe connects the quick-connect pipe assembly and the ice-making chamber, and the quick-connect pipe assembly is used for inserting and fixing a second pipe connected to a water source.

9. The ice-making equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, The ice-making equipment also includes a water tank, the first pipe connects the quick-connect pipe assembly and the water tank, and the water tank is also connected to the ice-making chamber via a third pipe; A water pump is installed on the third pipeline; The first pipeline is equipped with a solenoid valve, or the first pipeline is equipped with a solenoid valve and a flow meter.

10. The ice-making equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first pipeline is equipped with a filter and / or a pressure regulating valve.

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