Ice cube blocking structure and ice cube making device

Abstract

An ice cube blocking structure and an ice cube making device. The ice cube blocking structure is provided in an ice cube storage tank, and a rotating disc is further provided in the ice cube storage tank; the ice cube blocking structure comprises a body portion and an ice cube blocking portion; the body portion is connected to the ice cube storage tank; and the ice cube blocking portion is connected to the body portion, the ice cube blocking portion is arranged between a rotating disc rotary region of the rotating disc and ice cubes stored in the ice cube storage tank, and the ice cube blocking portion is used for separating the rotating disc rotary region from the ice cubes.

Description

Ice retaining structure and ice making equipment

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application number 202311830216.6, filed on December 27, 2023, entitled “Ice retaining structure and ice making equipment,” the entire text of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the technical field of electrical equipment, and in particular to an ice retaining structure and ice making equipment. Background Art

[0004] An ice maker is a device that uses a compressor to cool water through an evaporator to produce ice. Automatic ice-dispensing ice makers are similar to the above-mentioned ice makers, but with the addition of an ice stirring and conveying mechanism to automatically dispense ice.

[0005] Traditional automatic ice-dispensing ice makers feature a turntable within the ice storage tank. This turntable rotates within the ice storage tank, delivering ice cubes to the ice outlet. The turntable's rotational area refers to the area between the ice outlet and the ice inlet along its rotational trajectory. As ice accumulates within the ice storage tank, this area can easily become stuck, causing the turntable to stall. This can cause significant inconvenience and negatively impact the user experience.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of this, the present application provides an ice retaining structure and an ice making device to solve the problem that when there are a lot of ice cubes in the ice storage tank of a traditional ice maker, the rotating part of the turntable is easily stuck with ice, causing the turntable to stall.

[0008] In a first aspect, the present application provides an ice retaining structure for being disposed in an ice storage liner, wherein a turntable is further disposed in the ice storage liner, and the ice retaining structure comprises:

[0009] A main body, used for connecting with the ice storage liner;

[0010] An ice blocking portion is connected to the main body and is used to be arranged between the turntable rotation area of ​​the turntable and the ice storage space of the ice storage liner. The ice blocking portion is used to separate the turntable rotation area and the ice storage space.

[0011] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application includes a main body and an ice-blocking part. The main body is used to connect with the ice storage tank, and the ice-blocking part is arranged between the turntable rotation area and the ice cubes stored in the ice storage tank, which can separate the turntable rotation area and the ice cubes. Due to the separation and blocking effect of the ice-blocking part, the turntable will not be stuck in the turntable rotation area during the rotation process even if there are a lot of ice cubes. Therefore, the problem of ice jam and stall of the turntable is completely solved, so that the turntable can rotate smoothly, improve the stability of automatic ice discharging, reduce equipment failure rate, reduce maintenance costs, and can significantly improve the product performance of the ice-making equipment and enhance the user experience.

[0012] In an optional embodiment, the shape and size of the ice blocking portion match the shape and size of the rotating area of ​​the turntable.

[0013] Beneficial effect: The ice retaining structure of the present application has a shape and size of the ice retaining part that matches the shape and size of the turntable rotation area, which can not only ensure that the ice retaining part can reliably separate the turntable rotation area and ice cubes, but also save manufacturing costs and reduce the occupancy of the internal space of the ice storage tank.

[0014] In an optional embodiment, the inner edge of the ice blocking portion is an arc-shaped edge concentric with the turntable.

[0015] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application has an inner edge of the ice-blocking portion that is an arc-shaped edge concentric with the turntable, which enables the ice-blocking portion to effectively avoid the outwardly protruding structure on the turntable, thereby preventing the ice-blocking portion from affecting the rotation of the turntable.

[0016] In an optional embodiment, the ice blocking portion is a curved ice blocking portion.

[0017] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application can be selected as an arc-shaped ice-blocking part as a whole. The ice-blocking part of this structure can not only effectively separate the turntable rotation area and the ice cubes, but also save manufacturing costs and reduce the occupation of the internal space of the ice storage tank. At the same time, it can also effectively avoid the protruding structure of the turntable to ensure the normal operation of the turntable.

[0018] In an optional embodiment, the ice retaining structure further includes a reinforcement structure.

[0019] Beneficial effects: The ice retaining structure of the present application also has a reinforcement structure, which can enhance the structural strength of the baffle structure, reduce the impact of ice cubes on the baffle structure, extend the service life of the ice retaining structure, and help improve product performance.

[0020] In an optional embodiment, the reinforcement structure is provided on the main body portion and / or the ice blocking portion.

[0021] Beneficial effects: The ice-blocking structure of the present application and the reinforcement structure can be arranged on the main body and the ice-blocking part or only on the main body or only on the ice-blocking part. The arrangement can be selected according to actual needs, and the arrangement is highly flexible.

[0022] In an optional embodiment, the reinforcement structure includes a compression rib, and the compression rib protrudes from the main body and / or the ice-blocking portion in a direction away from the turntable.

[0023] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application includes a reinforcement structure including ribs, which protrude from the main body and / or the ice-blocking part in a direction away from the turntable. This reinforcement structure can be formed on the main body and / or the ice-blocking part in one step by stamping, casting, etc. The processing technology is relatively simple, which is conducive to reducing production costs.

[0024] In an optional embodiment, the ice blocking portion is a cantilever, one end of the ice blocking portion is connected to the main body, and the other end of the ice blocking portion extends along the shape of the rotating area of ​​the turntable.

[0025] Beneficial effects: The ice-blocking structure of the present application can be a cantilever structure. The ice-blocking part of this structure requires less manufacturing materials, which is beneficial to reducing production costs. It also occupies very little space in the ice storage tank, does not affect the ice storage capacity of the ice storage tank, and can meet user requirements.

[0026] In an optional embodiment, the main body and the ice blocking portion are provided with side folds near the side wall of the ice storage liner, and the side folds abut against the side wall of the ice storage liner.

[0027] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application, by setting side folds at the side positions of the main body and the ice-blocking part, and the side folds abut against the side walls of the ice storage liner, can enhance the supporting force of the ice storage liner on the ice-blocking structure, improve the setting firmness of the ice-blocking structure, and make its structure more reliable.

[0028] In an optional embodiment, the side fold is connected to the main body and the ice shield via anti-scratch fillets.

[0029] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application has side folds connected to the main body and the ice-blocking part through anti-scratch fillets, which can enhance the overall strength of the ice-blocking structure on the one hand, and prevent the ice-blocking structure from scratching the ice storage tank during assembly on the other hand.

[0030] In an optional embodiment, the ice-blocking structure further includes a connecting portion, one end of the ice-blocking portion is connected to the main body portion, the other end of the ice-blocking portion extends along the shape of the turntable rotation area and is connected to the main body portion through the connecting portion, and the main body portion separates the ice outlet of the ice storage liner from the ice storage space of the ice storage liner.

[0031] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application also includes a connecting portion, the other end of the ice-blocking portion extends along the shape of the turntable rotation area and is connected to the main body through the connecting portion, and the main body separates the ice outlet of the ice storage liner from the ice storage space of the ice storage liner. This ice-blocking structure is a fully isolated ice-blocking structure, which can completely separate the turntable rotation area and the ice cubes. Even if some ice cubes do not slide out of the turntable from the ice outlet, these ice cubes will not be stuck with the ice-blocking plate, further preventing the turntable from getting stuck in ice and stalling, making the baffle structure more reliable, making the turntable rotate smoother, and also improving the strength of the baffle structure, further improving the stability of automatic ice discharge.

[0032] In an optional embodiment, the connecting portion has an ice inlet notch, and ice cubes can enter the turntable through the ice inlet notch and rotate with the turntable.

[0033] Beneficial effect: The ice retaining structure of the present application is provided with an ice inlet notch, so that the ice cubes in the ice storage tank can enter the turntable through the ice inlet notch, and then rotate with the turntable to the ice outlet, thereby realizing the automatic ice outlet process.

[0034] In an optional embodiment, the ice inlet gap is an arc-shaped ice inlet gap concentric with the turntable.

[0035] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application has an arc-shaped ice-inlet gap that is concentric with the turntable. This arc-shaped ice-inlet gap matches the rotation trajectory of the turntable, which is conducive to the smooth entry of ice cubes and improves the automatic ice-out efficiency.

[0036] In an optional embodiment, an ice guide structure is provided at an edge of the ice inlet gap close to the main body.

[0037] Beneficial effect: The ice retaining structure of the present application is provided with an ice guiding structure at the edge of the ice inlet gap near the main body. The ice guiding structure can guide the ice cubes so that the ice cubes enter the turntable more smoothly, further prevent the occurrence of ice jamming, and further improve the reliability of the structure.

[0038] In an optional embodiment, the ice guide structure includes an ice guide fold, and the angle between the plane where the ice guide fold is located and the plane where the ice inlet notch is located is an acute angle.

[0039] Beneficial effects: The ice-blocking structure of the present application and the ice-guiding structure include an ice-guiding folded edge, and the angle between the plane where the ice-guiding folded edge is located and the plane where the ice-entry notch is located is an acute angle. This ice-guiding structure has a simple structure and is easy to form and manufacture, which is beneficial to reducing manufacturing costs and has a good guiding effect on ice cubes.

[0040] In an optional embodiment, the angle x between the plane where the ice guide folded edge is located and the plane where the ice inlet notch is located satisfies 40°≤x≤50°.

[0041] Beneficial effect: In the ice retaining structure of the present application, the angle x between the plane where the ice guide fold is located and the plane where the ice inlet notch is located satisfies 40°≤x≤50°. The ice guide fold in the above angle range has a good guiding effect on ice cubes and can effectively prevent the occurrence of ice jams.

[0042] In an optional embodiment, the ice-blocking structure further includes a supporting structure, which includes a first supporting portion, the first supporting portion being arranged on the main body and extending in a direction away from the ice storage space, and the end of the first supporting portion away from the main body abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage liner.

[0043] Beneficial effects: The ice-blocking structure of the present application further includes a support structure, which includes a first support portion. The first support portion can effectively support the main body, thereby improving the structural strength of the ice-blocking structure and improving the structural reliability.

[0044] In an optional embodiment, the support structure further includes a second support portion, which is arranged on the ice-blocking portion and extends in a direction away from the ice cubes, and the end of the second support portion away from the ice-blocking portion abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage liner.

[0045] Beneficial effects: The ice-blocking structure of the present application, the supporting structure also includes a second supporting portion, the second supporting portion can effectively support the lower portion of the baffle structure (ie, the baffle portion), thereby improving the structural strength of the ice-blocking structure and improving the structural reliability.

[0046] In an optional embodiment, bending portions are provided on both sides of the main body, one end of the bending portion is connected to the main body, and the other end extends in a direction away from the ice cubes, and the bending portion abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage liner.

[0047] Beneficial effects: The ice-blocking structure of the present application is further provided with bent portions on both sides of the main body, and the bent portions abut against the inner wall of the ice storage liner, which can improve the structural strength of the baffle structure, improve its stability, and extend its service life.

[0048] In an optional embodiment, the main body and the ice storage liner are detachably connected via a connector.

[0049] Beneficial effects: The ice-blocking structure of the present application has a main body and an ice storage liner that are detachably connected via a connector, which is beneficial for the installation and replacement of the baffle structure and convenient for user operation and use.

[0050] In an optional embodiment, the side wall of the ice storage liner is clamped between the main body and the connecting member by a fastener.

[0051] Beneficial effect: The ice-blocking structure of the present application improves the installation of the baffle structure by sandwiching the side wall of the ice storage liner between the main body and the connecting piece, as the side wall of the ice storage liner is usually thin, while ensuring the structural strength of the ice storage liner.

[0052] In a second aspect, the present application provides an ice-making device, comprising an ice storage liner, wherein a turntable and the ice retaining structure as described above are provided in the ice storage liner.

[0053] Since the ice-making equipment of the present application includes the ice-blocking structure of the present application and has the same beneficial effects as the ice-blocking structure, details thereof will not be repeated here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present application or the technical solutions in the conventional technology, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the conventional technology descriptions. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the disclosed drawings without any creative work.

[0055] FIG1 is a front view schematic diagram of the ice retaining structure of the present application.

[0056] FIG2 is a perspective schematic diagram of the ice retaining structure of the present application in one direction.

[0057] FIG3 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the ice retaining structure of the present application in another direction.

[0058] FIG4 is a side view schematic diagram of the ice retaining structure of the present application.

[0059] FIG5 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the ice storage tank in the water purification device of the present application in one direction.

[0060] FIG6 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the ice storage tank in the water purification device of the present application in another direction.

[0061] FIG7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ice storage tank in the water purification device of the present application.

[0062] FIG8 is an enlarged schematic diagram of part A in FIG7 .

[0063] FIG9 is another schematic cross-sectional view of the ice storage tank in the water purification device of the present application.

[0064] FIG10 is another schematic cross-sectional view of the ice storage tank in the water purification device of the present application.

[0065] FIG11 is a front view of an ice retaining structure according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0066] FIG12 is a three-dimensional view of an ice retaining structure according to another embodiment of the present application in one direction.

[0067] FIG13 is a top view of an ice retaining structure according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0068] FIG14 is a three-dimensional view of an ice retaining structure according to another embodiment of the present application in another direction.

[0069] FIG15 is a perspective schematic diagram of an ice storage tank in a water purification device according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0070] FIG16 is a top view of an ice storage tank in a water purification device according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0071] FIG17 is a cross-sectional view of an ice storage tank in a water purification device according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0072] Description of reference numerals:

[0073] 1. Ice storage tank; 101. Ice storage space; 102. Ice outlet;

[0074] 2. Turntable; 201. Turntable rotation area; 202. Ice support structure;

[0075] 3. Ice guard; 301. Main body; 3011. Top fold; 3012. Top mounting hole; 3013. Middle mounting hole; 302. Ice guard; 303. Connecting part; 304. Ice inlet notch; 305. Air escape hole;

[0076] 4. Press the tendons;

[0077] 5. Ice guide folding;

[0078] 6. First support portion; 601. Folding edge of first support portion;

[0079] 7. Second supporting portion;

[0080] 8. Bending part;

[0081] 9. Connectors;

[0082] 10. Side folds;

[0083] 11. Anti-scratch rounded corners. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0084] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0085] Please refer to Figures 1-10. According to the embodiments of the present application, in the first aspect, an ice-blocking structure is provided, which is used to be arranged in an ice storage liner 1. A turntable 2 is also provided in the ice storage liner 1. The ice-blocking structure includes a main body 301 and an ice-blocking part 302. The main body 301 is used to be connected to the ice storage liner 1. The ice-blocking part 302 is connected to the main body 301. The ice-blocking part 302 is arranged between the turntable rotation area 201 of the turntable 2 and the ice cubes stored in the ice storage liner 1. The ice-blocking part 302 is used to separate the turntable rotation area 201 and the ice cubes.

[0086] The ice retaining structure of the embodiment of the present application has a separating and blocking effect of the ice retaining portion 302. Even if there are a lot of ice cubes, the turntable 2 will not get stuck in the turntable rotation area 201 during its rotation, thereby solving the problem of ice jamming and stalling of the turntable. The turntable 2 can rotate smoothly, the stability of automatic ice discharging is improved, the equipment failure rate is reduced, the maintenance cost is reduced, the product performance of the ice-making equipment is significantly improved, and the user experience is enhanced.

[0087] The ice storage tank 1 is a key component of the ice-making device, primarily used to store prepared ice cubes. It contains an ice storage space 101, the capacity of which can be customized based on the model and usage requirements of the ice-making device. An ice outlet 102 is located above the ice storage space 101, through which ice cubes are dispensed. An ice barrier 302 is located between the turntable's rotating area 201 and the ice storage space 101 within the ice storage tank 1, separating the two.

[0088] In order to realize the automatic transportation of ice cubes, a turntable 2 is provided in the ice storage liner 1, and the turntable 2 is rotatably arranged in the ice storage liner 1. Optionally, the turntable 2 is tilted as a whole. Specifically, the upper part of the turntable 2 is tilted in the direction away from the ice cubes (that is, away from the ice storage space 101), that is, the axial direction of the turntable 2 is not arranged in the horizontal direction, and the rotation direction of the turntable 2 can be set according to the specific structure, and can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise. In this embodiment, taking the perspective of Figure 10 as an example, the turntable 2 rotates clockwise. There is an ice supporting structure 202 on the outer edge of the turntable 2, which can lift the ice cubes to the ice outlet 102.

[0089] The turntable 2 has a turntable rotation zone 201. This zone is the area between the ice outlet 102 and the ice inlet on the turntable's rotation trajectory. The ice inlet is the entrance where ice cubes enter the turntable's ice support structure 202. Ice cubes are prone to getting stuck in this area, especially when there are a lot of ice cubes, which can easily cause the turntable 2 to stall. The turntable rotation zone 201 is generally located at the outer edge of the turntable.

[0090] The ice retaining structure is provided in the ice storage liner 1 to prevent ice cubes from getting stuck in the turntable rotation zone 101. Of course, the provision of the ice retaining structure should not adversely affect the internal capacity of the ice storage liner 1 and the automatic output process of ice cubes.

[0091] In some embodiments, the ice-blocking structure is specifically an ice-blocking plate 3. The plate-shaped barrier structure takes up little space, barely impacts the internal capacity of the ice storage liner 1, and does not adversely affect the automatic ice delivery process. Furthermore, the plate-shaped barrier structure is easy to manufacture, which helps control production costs.

[0092] The ice guard 3 can be made of a material that is resistant to low temperatures, corrosion-resistant, and has high structural strength. In some embodiments, the ice guard 3 is made of a stainless steel plate, which can effectively prevent the ice guard 3 from getting damp and rusting in the ice storage liner 1 for a long time, and the structural strength can meet the needs of use.

[0093] Specifically, the ice-blocking structure includes a main body 301 and an ice-blocking part 302 , which are interconnected to form a whole. Of course, in order to simplify the assembly process, the main body 301 and the ice-blocking part 302 can be integrally formed.

[0094] In some embodiments, the main body 301 is disposed above the ice-blocking portion 302 , and the main body 301 and the ice-blocking portion 302 are integrally formed with no obvious dividing line between the two. The main body 301 and the ice-blocking portion 302 together form a smooth, continuous plate-like structure.

[0095] The main body 301 is connected to the ice storage liner 1. Optionally, the main body 301 and the ice storage liner 1 are detachably connected to facilitate installation and subsequent replacement of the ice retaining structure.

[0096] In some embodiments, the top of the main body 301 is detachably connected to the ice storage liner 1. Specifically, the top of the main body 301 has a top folded edge 3011, which is integrally formed with the main body 301. One end of the top folded edge 3011 is connected to the main body 301, and the other end is bent away from the ice storage space 101. To match the inner wall structure of the ice storage liner 1, the angle α between the top folded edge 3011 and the main body 301 is an obtuse angle. In this embodiment, the angle α can be selected to be 105°.

[0097] Furthermore, the main body 301 and the ice storage liner 1 are detachably connected via a connector 9 .

[0098] At least two top mounting holes 3012 are formed on the top fold 3011. In some embodiments, there are two top mounting holes 3012, and the two top mounting holes 3012 are spaced apart. The connector 9 and the side wall of the ice storage liner 1 are also provided with corresponding mounting holes.

[0099] Furthermore, the side wall of the ice storage liner 1 is clamped between the main body 301 and the connecting member 9 by fasteners.

[0100] Since the sidewalls of the ice storage liner 1 are generally thin, the connector 9 is disposed on the outer wall of the ice storage liner 1, and the main body 301 is disposed on the inner wall of the ice storage liner 1, so that the sidewalls of the ice storage liner 1 are sandwiched between the main body 301 and the connector 9. The main body 301, the ice storage liner 1, and the connector 9 are then installed and connected using fasteners such as screws. This not only allows the installation of the baffle structure but also strengthens the structural strength of the sidewalls of the ice storage liner. Of course, the structural shape of the connector 9 should match the shape of the outer wall of the ice storage liner 1.

[0101] Furthermore, since the connection between the main body 301 and the ice storage liner 1 is at the top, to prevent warping in the middle of the ice shield, at least one central mounting hole 3013 is provided in the middle of the main body 301. This hole is suitable for receiving fasteners such as screws to further connect the main body 301, the ice storage liner 1, and the connector 9, ensuring a more secure fit and stability between the ice shield structure and the inner wall of the ice storage liner. In this embodiment, only one central mounting hole 3013 is provided.

[0102] Ice retainer 302 is positioned between turntable 2's rotating area 201 and the ice stored in ice storage liner 1. Ice retainer 302 serves to separate turntable 201 from the ice. The provision of ice retainer 302 physically separates the turntable's rotating area from the ice, maintaining a relatively independent, undisturbed space in turntable 201. This prevents ice from becoming lodged in turntable 201 when a large number of ice cubes are present. This facilitates smooth rotation of turntable 2 and improves the stability of the ice-making device's automatic ice dispensing.

[0103] In this embodiment, the ice blocking portion 302 is integrally formed with the main body 301 , and the ice blocking portion 302 extends downward from the main body 301 along the rotation trajectory of the turntable 2 for a distance.

[0104] Furthermore, the shape and size of the ice shield 302 matches the shape and size of the turntable rotation area 201. This ice shield 302 can not only reliably separate the turntable rotation area 201 and ice cubes, but also save manufacturing costs and reduce the space occupied by the ice storage liner 1.

[0105] Furthermore, the inner edge of the ice block 302 is an arc-shaped edge concentric with the turntable 2. This ice block 302 not only acts as an ice barrier, but also prevents the outwardly protruding structure of the turntable 2 from hitting the ice block 3 when the turntable 2 rotates, so that the ice block 3 can effectively avoid the ice block 3, thereby ensuring the service life of the ice block 3 and the smooth rotation of the turntable 2.

[0106] Furthermore, the ice block 302 is an arc-shaped ice block. This structure of the ice block 302 can effectively separate the turntable rotation area 201 from the ice cubes, save manufacturing costs, reduce the space occupied by the ice storage tank, and effectively avoid the protruding structure on the turntable 2, ensuring the normal rotation of the turntable 2.

[0107] Furthermore, the ice retaining structure also includes a reinforcement structure.

[0108] Since the ice retaining structure is a plate-like structure as a whole, in order to improve the strength of the baffle structure, a reinforcement structure is also provided on the baffle structure to enhance its structural strength, reduce the impact of ice cubes on the baffle structure, extend the service life of the ice retaining structure, and help improve product performance.

[0109] Furthermore, the reinforcement structure is provided on the main body portion 301 and / or the ice blocking portion 302 .

[0110] In order to better reinforce the baffle structure, in this embodiment, reinforcement structures are provided on both the main body portion 301 and the ice blocking portion 302 .

[0111] Of course, in other embodiments, the reinforcement structure may be provided only on the main body 301 or only on the ice blocking portion 302 to simplify the baffle structure and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0112] Specifically, the reinforcement structure includes ribs 4, which protrude from the main body 301 and ice retaining portion 302 in a direction away from the turntable 2 (toward the ice storage area). The shape of the ribs 4 adapts to the shapes of the main body 301 and ice retaining portion 302 to increase their installation area and thus enhance their reinforcement effect.

[0113] Side folds 10 are provided at positions of the main body 301 and the ice blocking portion 302 close to the side wall of the ice storage container 1 , and the side folds 10 abut against the side wall of the ice storage container 1 .

[0114] Specifically, one end of the side fold 10 is connected to the main body 301 and / or the ice barrier 302, and the other end extends toward the direction of ice storage. At least part of the outer surface of the side fold 10 abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage liner 1 to enhance the stability of the baffle structure.

[0115] Furthermore, the side fold 10 is connected to the main body 301 and the ice shield 302 via anti-scratch fillets 11. The anti-scratch fillets 11 have no sharp edges and a relatively smooth surface. The provision of the anti-scratch fillets 11 not only strengthens the overall strength of the ice shield structure, but also prevents the ice shield structure from scratching the ice storage liner 1 during assembly, thereby protecting the ice storage liner 1. The radius of the anti-scratch fillets 11 can be selected based on the specific dimensions of the ice shield structure, the installation space, and other factors.

[0116] Furthermore, the ice blocking portion 302 is a cantilever, one end of the ice blocking portion 302 is connected to the main body 301 , and the other end of the ice blocking portion 302 extends along the shape of the turntable rotation area 201 .

[0117] In some embodiments, ice shield 302 is a cantilever structure, meaning one end of ice shield 302 is connected to main body 301, while the other end is not connected to any other structure. However, the other end of ice shield 302 extends along the shape of turntable rotation area 201, covering at least a portion of turntable rotation area 201 and separating the turntable rotation area 201 from ice, thereby achieving the purpose of ice shielding. This cantilever ice shield structure is relatively simple and easy to manufacture. It requires less material and has a low manufacturing cost. It does not occupy too much space within the ice storage tank and is easy to install.

[0118] The embodiment of the present application further provides an ice-making device, comprising an ice storage liner 1 , in which a turntable 2 and the ice retaining structure of the above embodiment are arranged.

[0119] In this ice-making device, since an ice-blocking structure is provided in the ice storage tank 1, when there are a lot of ice cubes in the ice storage tank 1, the ice cubes are not easily stuck in the turntable rotation area 201, thereby solving the problem of ice jam and stall of the turntable, making the automatic ice discharging more stable, reducing the equipment failure rate and maintenance costs, and significantly improving the product performance of the ice-making device and enhancing the user experience.

[0120] In the embodiment of the present application, the ice-making device is specifically an automatic ice-dispensing ice-making machine that can realize automatic delivery of ice cubes. The ice storage tank 1 is mainly used to store prepared ice cubes. The capacity of the ice storage space 101 inside the ice storage tank 1 can be set according to actual needs. A turntable 2 is also provided inside the ice storage tank 1. The turntable 2 is rotatably arranged in the ice storage tank 1. In this embodiment, the turntable 2 is tilted as a whole. Specifically, the upper part of the turntable 2 is tilted away from the ice cubes, that is, the axial direction of the turntable 2 is not arranged in the horizontal direction. The rotation direction of the turntable 2 can be set according to the specific structure and can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. In this embodiment, taking the perspective of Figure 10 as an example, the turntable 2 rotates clockwise. There is an ice-supporting structure on the outer edge of the turntable 2, which can lift the ice cubes to the ice outlet 102. The ice outlet 102 is arranged at the upper part of the ice storage tank 1.

[0121] The turntable 2 has a turntable rotation area 201. This area is the area between the ice outlet 102 and the ice inlet on the turntable's rotation trajectory. The ice inlet is where ice enters the turntable's ice support structure 202. Ice can easily get stuck in this area, especially when there are a lot of ice, which can cause the turntable 2 to stall.

[0122] Of course, the automatic ice-dispensing ice-making machine of this embodiment also has other structures and components that conventional ice-making machines have, which will not be described in detail here.

[0123] The following describes the baffle process of the ice-blocking structure in the ice-making device of this embodiment:

[0124] First, as the ice making process of the ice making device is completed, the prepared ice cubes are stored in the ice storage tank 1; the turntable 2 rotates in the ice storage tank 1, and the ice cubes can enter the turntable 2 from the ice inlet of the turntable 2. The ice cubes entering the turntable 2 can rotate with the turntable 2 until they rotate to the ice outlet, and the ice cubes slide out from the ice outlet, realizing the automatic output process of the ice cubes;

[0125] In the above process, the turntable rotation area 201 is covered by the ice blocking portion 302 of the baffle structure, so that the ice cubes in the ice storage liner 1 are separated from the turntable rotation area 201, and the ice cubes will not get stuck in the turntable rotation area 201 and cause the turntable 2 to be blocked, so that the turntable 2 can always maintain a smooth rotation state.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 11 to FIG. 17 , the present application further provides another embodiment of an ice-blocking structure. The difference between this embodiment and the previous embodiment is that the shape of the baffle structure of this embodiment is different from that of the previous embodiment.

[0127] Specifically, the ice-blocking structure of this embodiment also includes a connecting portion 303, one end of the ice-blocking portion 302 is connected to the main body 301, and the other end of the ice-blocking portion 302 extends along the shape of the turntable rotation area 201 and is connected to the main body 301 through the connecting portion 303. The main body 301 separates the ice outlet 102 of the ice storage liner 1 from the ice storage space 101 of the ice storage liner 1.

[0128] It should be noted that the main body 301 is arranged above the ice-blocking part 302 and the connecting part 303, and the main body 301, the ice-blocking part 302 and the connecting part 303 are formed as one piece, and there is no obvious dividing line between the three. The main body 301, the ice-blocking part 302 and the connecting part 303 together form a smooth, continuous plate-like structure. The structural strength of this shape of ice-blocking structure is higher.

[0129] This ice-blocking structure is a fully isolated ice-blocking structure. The main body 301 has a larger coverage area and can cover the upper part of the turntable 2 and the ice outlet position, thereby separating the ice outlet 102 from the ice storage space 101. Even if some ice cubes do not slide out of the turntable 2 from the ice outlet, these ice cubes will not be stuck with the ice-blocking plate 3, further preventing the turntable 2 from being stuck in ice and stalled, thereby improving the reliability of the ice-making equipment.

[0130] The shape and size of the ice-blocking portion 302 match those of the turntable rotation area 201. The ice-blocking portion 302 extends downward from the main body 301 along the rotation trajectory of the turntable 2. This ice-blocking portion 302 can not only reliably separate the turntable rotation area 201 and the ice cubes, but also save manufacturing costs and reduce the occupancy of the internal space of the ice storage liner 1.

[0131] Furthermore, the inner edge of the ice block 302 is an arc-shaped edge concentric with the turntable 2. This ice block 302 not only acts as an ice barrier, but also prevents the outwardly protruding structure of the turntable 2 from knocking over the ice block 3 during rotation, effectively avoiding the ice block 3, thereby ensuring the service life of the ice block 3 and the smooth rotation of the turntable. Specifically, the ice block 302 is an arc-shaped ice block. This structure of the ice block 302 not only effectively separates the turntable rotation area 201 from the ice, but also saves manufacturing costs and reduces the space occupied by the ice storage tank. At the same time, it effectively avoids the protruding structure of the turntable, ensuring the normal operation of the turntable.

[0132] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 303 is also an arc-shaped connecting portion, and the arc-shaped connecting portion is concentrically arranged with the arc-shaped ice-blocking portion. Optionally, the arc-shaped connecting portion and the arc-shaped ice-blocking portion are both concentrically arranged with the turntable 2, so that the ice-blocking portion 302 and the connecting portion 303 together form an air-avoidance hole 305. The air-avoidance hole 305 is used to avoid protruding structures on the turntable 2. In this embodiment, the air-avoidance hole 305 is a circular hole.

[0133] Furthermore, the connecting portion 303 has an ice inlet notch 304 , and ice cubes enter the turntable 2 through the ice inlet notch 304 and rotate with the turntable 2 .

[0134] In this embodiment, the ice inlet gap 304 is an arc-shaped ice inlet gap, which extends along the rotation trajectory of the turntable 2, so that the ice cubes can smoothly enter the turntable 2 from the ice inlet gap 304. After the ice cubes enter the turntable 2 from the ice inlet gap 304, the ice supporting structure 202 of the turntable 2 lifts the ice cubes and then rotates with the turntable 2.

[0135] Furthermore, an ice guide structure is provided at the edge of the ice inlet notch 304 near the main body 301. The ice guide structure can guide the ice cubes so that the ice cubes enter the turntable 2 more smoothly, further prevent the occurrence of ice jams, and further improve the structural reliability.

[0136] Specifically, the ice deflector structure includes an ice deflector flange 5. The plane of the ice deflector flange 5 forms an acute angle with the plane of the ice inlet notch 304. The ice deflector flange 5 is located at the end of the ice inlet notch 304 away from the ice retaining portion 302. One end of the ice deflector flange 5 is connected to the main body 301, while the other end is disconnected from any other structure.

[0137] Furthermore, the ice guide fold 5 is a planar structure, and the angle x between the plane where the ice guide fold 5 is located and the plane where the ice inlet notch 304 is located satisfies 40°≤x≤50°. Optionally, the angle x between the plane where the ice guide fold 5 is located and the plane where the ice inlet notch 304 is located is 45°.

[0138] Of course, in other embodiments, the angle between the plane where the ice guide fold 5 is located and the plane where the ice inlet notch 304 is located can also be 40°, 42°, 50°, etc.

[0139] Furthermore, the ice retaining structure includes a support structure that enhances its stability. The support structure comprises a first support portion 6 , which is disposed on the main body 301 and extends away from the ice. The end of the first support portion 6 , away from the main body 301 , abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage liner 1 . This first support portion 6 provides support and prevents the ice retaining plate 3 from bending due to excessive ice accumulation.

[0140] The first support portion 6 has a bent first support portion fold 601 at the end away from the main body 301. The first support portion fold 601 can fit and abut against the inner wall of the ice storage liner 1, so that the abutment of the first support portion 6 against the inner wall of the ice storage liner 1 is more stable and secure.

[0141] Furthermore, the support structure also includes a second support portion 7 , which is arranged on the ice blocking portion 302 and extends in a direction away from the ice cubes. The end of the second support portion 7 away from the ice blocking portion 302 abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage liner 1 .

[0142] In this embodiment, the second support portion 7 is disposed at the bottom of the ice-blocking structure. The second support portion 7 abuts against and supports the bottom of the ice storage liner 1 , which can further improve the stability and load-bearing strength of the ice-blocking plate 3 .

[0143] Optionally, in order to prevent the second supporting portion 7 from scratching the ice storage liner 1 , an elastic soft sleeve, such as a silicone sleeve, may be provided on the second supporting portion 7 .

[0144] Furthermore, bent portions 8 are provided on both sides of the main body 301. One end of the bent portion 8 is connected to the main body 301, and the other end extends away from the ice. The bent portion 8 abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage liner 1. The bent portion 8 fits against the inner wall of the ice storage liner 1, ensuring that the ice shield 3 completely separates the ice.

[0145] The support structure provides a stable support for the ice retaining structure and improves its structural strength. As the turntable 2 rotates, ice cubes enter through the ice inlet notch 304 and slide out of the ice outlet 102 as the turntable 2 rotates. However, the ice retaining plate 3 isolates the turntable's rotating area 201 from the ice cubes.

[0146] The technical features of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. In order to make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above-mentioned embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0147] The above-described embodiments merely represent several implementation methods of the present application. While the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that a person of ordinary skill in the art may make various modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit of the present application, and these modifications and improvements fall within the scope of protection of the present application. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present patent application shall be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An ice blocking structure, characterized in that, It is used to be arranged in the ice storage inner container (1), and a turntable (2) is also arranged in the ice storage inner container (1). The ice blocking structure includes: A main body part (301) for connecting with the ice storage inner container (1); An ice blocking part (302) connected to the main body part (301). The ice blocking part (302) is used to be arranged between the turntable rotation area (201) of the turntable (2) and the ice storage space (101) of the ice storage inner container (1), and the ice blocking part (302) is used to separate the turntable rotation area (201) and the ice storage space (101).

2. The ice blocking structure according to claim 1, wherein The shape and size of the ice blocking part (302) match the shape and size of the turntable rotation area (201).

3. The ice blocking structure according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The inner edge of the ice blocking part (302) is an arc edge concentric with the turntable (2).

4. The ice blocking structure according to claim 3, wherein The ice blocking part (302) is an arc-shaped ice blocking part.

5. The ice baffle structure according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The ice blocking structure further includes a reinforcement structure; The reinforcement structure is arranged on the main body part (301) and / or the ice blocking part (302).

6. The ice blocking structure according to claim 5, wherein, The reinforcement structure includes a rib (4), and the rib (4) protrudes from the main body part (301) and / or the ice blocking part (302) in a direction away from the turntable (2).

7. The ice blocking structure according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The ice blocking part (302) is a cantilever. One end of the ice blocking part (302) is connected to the main body part (301), and the other end of the ice blocking part (302) extends along the shape of the turntable rotation area (201).

8. The ice blocking structure according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Side flanges (10) are arranged at positions of the main body part (301) and the ice blocking part (302) close to the side wall of the ice storage inner container (1), and the side flanges (10) are in contact with the side wall of the ice storage inner container (1).

9. The ice baffle structure according to claim 8, wherein The side flanges (10) are connected to the main body part (301) and the ice blocking part (302) through anti-scratch round corners (11).

10. The ice blocking structure according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The ice blocking structure further includes a connecting part (303). One end of the ice blocking part (302) is connected to the main body part (301), and the other end of the ice blocking part (302) extends along the shape of the turntable rotation area (201) and is connected to the main body part (301) through the connecting part (303). The main body part (301) separates the ice outlet (102) of the ice storage inner container (1) from the ice storage space (101) of the ice storage inner container (1).

11. The ice blocking structure according to claim 10, characterized in that, The connecting part (303) has an ice inlet notch (304), and ice cubes can enter the turntable (2) through the ice inlet notch (304) and rotate with the turntable (2).

12. The ice blocking structure according to claim 11, characterized in that, The ice inlet notch (304) is an arc-shaped ice inlet notch concentric with the turntable (2).

13. The ice blocking structure according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, A ice guiding structure is arranged at the edge of the ice inlet notch (304) close to the main body part (301).

14. The ice blocking structure according to claim 13, wherein The ice guiding structure includes an ice guiding flange (5), and the included angle between the plane where the ice guiding flange (5) is located and the plane where the ice inlet notch (304) is located is an acute angle.

15. The ice blocking structure according to claim 14, characterized in that, The included angle x between the plane where the ice guiding flange (5) is located and the plane where the ice inlet notch (304) is located satisfies 40°≤x≤50°.

16. The ice blocking structure according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, The ice blocking structure further includes a support structure, and the support structure includes a first support portion (6). The first support portion (6) is disposed on the main body portion (301) and extends in a direction away from the ice storage space (101). The end of the first support portion (6) away from the main body portion (301) abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage inner container (1).

17. The ice blocking structure according to claim 17, wherein, The support structure further includes a second support portion (7). The second support portion (7) is disposed on the ice blocking portion (302) and extends in a direction away from the ice storage space (101). The end of the second support portion (7) away from the ice blocking portion (302) abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage inner container (1).

18. The ice blocking structure according to any one of claims 1-17, characterized in that, Bending portions (8) are provided on both sides of the main body portion (301). One end of the bending portion (8) is connected to the main body portion (301), and the other end extends in a direction away from the ice storage space (101). The bending portion (8) abuts against the inner wall of the ice storage inner container (1).

19. The ice blocking structure according to any one of claims 1-18, characterized in that, The main body portion (301) and the ice storage inner container (1) are detachably connected through a connecting member (9); Preferably, the side wall of the ice storage inner container (1) is clamped between the main body portion (301) and the connecting member (9) through a fastening member.

20. An ice-making device, characterized in that, It includes an ice storage inner container (1), and a turntable (2) and the ice blocking structure according to any one of claims 1-19 are provided in the ice storage inner container (1).

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