Refrigerator

Abstract

Some embodiments of the present application relate to home appliance technologies, and in particular, to a refrigerator. The refrigerator according to some embodiments of the present application comprises a box body, a door body, a weighing apparatus, and a shelf. The weighing apparatus is connected to the door body by means of a provided base, affixing the weighing apparatus and the shelf on the door body, to reduce the amount of storage space occupied. By means of providing a cover, the weighing apparatus is covered on at least a portion of the base, and a weighing sensor is mounted between the cover and the base. In addition, a water blocking structure is disposed at an edge of the cover and an edge of the base.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 2024216627445, filed on July 15, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Some embodiments of this application relate to household appliance technology. In particular, they relate to a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0004] As living standards continue to improve, people are increasingly demanding additional functions from refrigerators. For example, installing a weighing device inside the refrigerator allows for weighing items while simultaneously storing them, providing real-time information on food weight.

[0005] In related technologies, the weighing device of a refrigerator includes a base and a storage container. A weighing sensor is installed inside the base and is in contact with the storage container to weigh the items inside. However, liquids inevitably exist inside refrigerators. When the storage container is detached from the base, the electrical components such as the weighing sensor inside the base are at risk of being corroded by water or other liquids, resulting in poor safety of the weighing device inside the refrigerator. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Some embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, including:

[0007] The box-like structure forms a storage compartment;

[0008] The door is rotatably mounted on the box to open or close the storage compartment;

[0009] A weighing device is located inside the storage room; the weighing device includes:

[0010] The base is installed on the door body;

[0011] A cover covers at least a portion of the base, and there is a gap between the cover and the base; a weighing sensor is disposed between the cover and the base; a water-blocking structure is provided on the edge of the cover and the edge of the base;

[0012] A shelf is configured to form a storage cavity; the shelf is mounted on top of the cover.

[0013] In some embodiments of this application, a horizontal limiting structure is provided between the shelf and the weighing device.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the edge of the cover is provided with a fitting portion; the edge of the base is provided with a protruding side, the protruding side is inserted into the fitting portion, and the protruding side and the fitting sidewall forming the fitting portion together form the water-blocking structure.

[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the edge of the base is provided with a fitting portion, the edge of the cover is provided with a protruding side, the protruding side is inserted into the fitting portion, and the protruding side and the fitting sidewall forming the fitting portion together form the water-blocking structure.

[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the edge of the base forms the fitting portion;

[0017] The cover includes:

[0018] The cover, and

[0019] A side rim is provided at the edge of the cover, forming the protruding side rim, and the weighing sensor is provided between the cover and the base.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, the base includes:

[0021] Base plate,

[0022] Inner sidewall, provided on the base plate, and

[0023] The outer side wall is provided on the base plate.

[0024] The inner sidewall and the outer sidewall are spaced apart; the inner sidewall is located on the side of the outer sidewall facing the center of the base plate; the inner sidewall, the outer sidewall, and the base plate between the inner sidewall and the outer sidewall form the fitting part; the weighing sensor is provided between the base plate and the cover.

[0025] In some embodiments of this application, the fitting portion and the protruding side have a first gap in the horizontal plane formed by the width and thickness directions of the door body, and the size of the first gap L1 is: L1≥0.5mm and L1≤1.0mm.

[0026] In some embodiments of this application, a second gap L2 is formed between the fitting portion and the protruding side along the height direction of the door body, the height direction being perpendicular to the horizontal plane; the ratio of the height of the protruding side inserted into the fitting portion to the height of the fitting portion is: the ratio is ≥1 / 3 and the ratio is ≤1 / 2.

[0027] In some embodiments of this application, the cover is provided with a limiting part, the base is provided with a mating part, the limiting part and the mating part are mated, and there is a gap between the limiting part and the mating part.

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, by providing a limiting part on the cover and a mating part on the base, the cooperation between the limiting part and the mating part improves the convenience of assembling the cover and the base, and can also limit the relative displacement between the cover and the base in the horizontal plane.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, the limiting part is a column disposed on the cover, the mating part is a recessed groove formed on the base, the column and the recessed groove are mated together, and there is a third gap between the sidewall of the column and the recessed groove, the size of the third gap L3 is: L3≥0.5mm and L3≤1.0mm.

[0030] In some embodiments of this application, the shelf includes:

[0031] The main body of the storage unit is constructed to form a storage cavity with an opening at the top, and

[0032] A limiting perimeter is provided at the bottom of the main body of the container;

[0033] The main body of the object is in contact with the top surface of the cover, and the limiting edge is provided around the outside of the cover, with a gap between the limiting edge and the cover; the horizontal limiting structure includes the limiting edge.

[0034] In some embodiments of this application, a hanging ear is formed on the base, and the hanging ear is hung on the door; a clearance portion is formed on the shelf to avoid the hanging ear, and there is a gap between the clearance portion and the hanging ear; the horizontal limiting structure includes the clearance portion and the hanging ear.

[0035] Some embodiments of this application also provide a refrigerator, which includes:

[0036] The box-like structure forms a storage compartment;

[0037] A door is rotatably mounted on the housing to open or close the storage compartment;

[0038] A weighing device, wherein the edge of the weighing device is provided with a water-blocking structure, and an installation cavity for installing a weighing sensor is formed inside the weighing device;

[0039] A shelf is installed on top of the weighing device. Attached Figure Description

[0040] To more clearly illustrate the implementation methods in some embodiments or related technologies of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0042] Figure 2 is a front view of the door, weighing device and shelf provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0043] Figure 3 is a structural schematic diagram of the weighing device and shelf provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0044] Figure 4 is a top view of the weighing device and shelf provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0045] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of AA in Figure 4;

[0046] Figure 6 is an exploded view of a weighing device and shelf provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0047] Figure 7 is a top view of a weighing device provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0048] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of BB in Figure 7;

[0049] Figure 9 is an enlarged schematic diagram of region P in Figure 8;

[0050] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cover of the weighing device provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0051] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the base provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0052] Figure 12 is an enlarged schematic diagram of region Q in Figure 5.

[0053] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100: Box body; 101: Storage compartment; 200: Door; 300: Weighing device; 301: Mounting cavity; 302: Water-blocking structure; 310: Base; 311: Fitting part; 312: Base plate; 313: Inner side wall; 314: Outer side wall; 315: Fitting part; 316: Hanging ear; 317: Buckle; 318: Support; 319: Reinforcing rib; 320: Cover; 321: Protruding side; 322: Cover body; 323: Side edge; 324: Limiting part; 330: Weighing sensor; 400: Shelf; 401: Storage cavity; 410: Main storage body; 411: Bottom wall; 412: Circumferential side wall; 413: Clearance part; 420: Limiting edge. Detailed Implementation

[0054] To make the implementation methods and advantages of this application clearer, the exemplary implementation methods of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the exemplary embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described exemplary embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0055] It should be noted that the brief descriptions of terms in this application are only for the convenience of understanding the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. Unless otherwise stated, these terms should be understood in their ordinary and common meaning.

[0056] Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover but not exclusively include, for example, a product or device that includes a series of components is not necessarily limited to those that are explicitly listed, but may include other components that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such product or device.

[0057] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0058] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0059] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0060] As people's demands for additional functions in refrigerators gradually increase, some refrigerators are equipped with weighing devices to obtain the weight of items. However, these weighing devices often have poor waterproofing. The load cells are exposed when containers are removed, making them susceptible to liquid corrosion, especially since liquid items are unavoidable inside the refrigerator, or during refrigerator cleaning.

[0061] Considering the storage conditions of items in the refrigerator, placing the weighing device on the door is more beneficial for waterproofing than placing it inside the refrigerator body. Therefore, in some embodiments of the refrigerator of this application, the weighing device is placed on the door, and the storage container for the weighing device can utilize a door shelf to visually conceal the base of the weighing device, thus improving the overall integrity of the refrigerator door. In some embodiments, further consideration is given to improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device. In related technologies, the exposed weighing sensor results in poor waterproof performance of the weighing device. Therefore, a cover is considered to shield and protect electrical components such as the weighing sensor inside the base. Furthermore, the cover contacts the weighing sensor, and a gap exists between the cover and the base to ensure weighing accuracy.

[0062] During subsequent operations, horizontal movement was found between the cover and the base, affecting not only the accuracy of weighing but also causing abnormal noise during door opening and closing. Further investigation revealed that due to the presence of multiple load cells, the large area of ​​the cover, and the large contact area between the cover and the container, the cover and the container on top of it experienced horizontal displacement due to inertia during refrigerator door opening and closing, generating the abnormal noise. Furthermore, the gap between the cover and the base still posed a risk of water ingress. Therefore, an interlocking structure was incorporated between the cover and the base. This structure not only restricts horizontal movement but also provides waterproofing. In some embodiments, the interlocking structure can be a tongue-and-groove joint.

[0063] In some embodiments, the base has a fitting portion, and the edge of the cover is inserted into the fitting portion. Alternatively, the cover has a fitting portion, and a protruding structure on the base is inserted into the fitting portion on the cover. Since there is insufficient space on the cover for the fitting portion, but sufficient space on the base, and the fitting portion can be integrally formed, the fitting portion can be placed on the base, allowing the edge of the cover to be directly inserted into the fitting portion of the base, resulting in a simple structure and ease of manufacturing. In some embodiments, it has been found that when water enters the fitting portion of the base, the water tends to overflow towards the interior of the base, thereby corroding the electrical components inside. Therefore, an overflow structure is provided on the outer wall of the fitting portion to allow water to overflow outwards instead of into the base when water enters the fitting portion. For example, an overflow hole or overflow outlet is provided on the outer wall of the fitting portion to allow water in the fitting portion to overflow outwards.

[0064] In some embodiments, a simple overflow structure is considered. However, the overflow hole and outlet require additional machining of the base to form the overflow hole, increasing the number of steps. Alternatively, the overflow hole or outlet can be formed simultaneously during the one-piece injection molding of the base. This requires changing the molding die, and the relatively small size of the overflow hole and outlet complicates the mold design and manufacturing. In some embodiments, a simple and easily manufacturable overflow structure is considered. First, the overflow structure can be formed during the injection molding of the base without additional machining; second, the change to the molding die is minimal, facilitating molding.

[0065] In some embodiments, based on the overflow outlet, a larger overflow outlet is formed by reducing the overall height of the outer wall of the fitting portion, allowing water inside the fitting portion to overflow outwards. Furthermore, the overflow structure design does not complicate the base molding mold structure, making molding relatively easy and reducing processing costs. Therefore, by adding a cover that fits snugly into the base and providing an overflow structure on the base, the waterproof performance of the weighing device is improved. In some embodiments, the cover and base may have a concave-convex fit.

[0066] The technical solutions of some embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on some embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0067] First, it should be noted that in some embodiments of this application, the width direction of the door body corresponds to the X-axis direction in the figures; the thickness direction of the door body corresponds to the Y-axis direction in the figures; and the height direction of the door body, i.e., the up-down direction, corresponds to the Z-axis direction in the figures.

[0068] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, some embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, which includes a cabinet 100. The cabinet 100 is configured to form a storage compartment 101 for storing food and other items. The storage compartment 101 can be divided into a freezer compartment, a refrigerator compartment, and a variable temperature compartment, etc., according to different storage temperatures. Shelves can be provided in the storage compartment 101 to increase the placement space for items; drawers can be provided in the storage compartment 101, which can be pulled out relative to the depth of the refrigerator for convenient classification, storage, and retrieval of items.

[0069] In some embodiments, the refrigerator further includes a door 200 rotatably mounted on the cabinet 100 to open or close the storage compartment 101. In some embodiments, the door 200 is rotatably connected to the cabinet 100 via a hinge assembly. In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 and 3, the door 200 is provided with at least one shelf 400, which is configured to form a storage cavity 401 with a top opening for storing items. In some embodiments of this application, a shelf 400 is provided on the door 200 corresponding to the refrigerator compartment. In some embodiments, multiple shelves 400 may be provided on the door 200, and the multiple shelves 400 are spaced apart along the height direction of the door 200 (corresponding to the Z-axis direction in the figures) to further increase the storage space for items. In some embodiments, the refrigerator further includes a weighing device 300 located within the storage compartment 101 and configured to weigh the stored items. In some embodiments, the weighing device 300 is installed inside the housing 100, so that the weighing environment of the weighing device 300 is stable and is less affected by the opening and closing of the door 200.

[0070] In some embodiments, the weighing device 300 is installed on the door 200, without occupying storage space in the storage room 101. Furthermore, the weighing device 300 can weigh items within one of the shelves 400 without requiring an additional storage structure. In some embodiments, the shelf 400 cooperating with the weighing device 300 is identical to other shelf structures, eliminating the need for additional shelf molds and reducing processing costs. Of course, the weighing device 300 can be configured with a separate storage structure, allowing for weighing while storing items. In some embodiments, a weighing device 300 can be installed under each shelf 400 to weigh the items within each shelf 400.

[0071] In some embodiments, the shelf 400 can be designed as a modular structure, allowing users to adjust it according to their actual needs to accommodate different sizes of food or containers. Through sliding or insert-type connections, users can adjust the height, width, and number of shelves according to their storage requirements, thereby enhancing the refrigerator's adaptability. Removable isolation slots are added to the surface of the shelf 400 for classifying and storing different types of food (such as vegetables, fruits, and meats), ensuring no cross-contamination between foods and improving the efficiency of storage space utilization. The weighing device 300 can be designed to automatically compensate for errors caused by refrigerator vibration and door opening / closing. A built-in small processing unit analyzes current environmental conditions and automatically adjusts the weighing data to ensure accuracy. In conjunction with the weighing device 300, the refrigerator can track weight changes on each shelf. When the weight of an item decreases (e.g., food is removed), the system can automatically record this and update the item list inside the refrigerator, even reminding the user to replenish the missing item.

[0072] In some embodiments of this application, the weighing device 300 is located below and in contact with one of the shelves 400 to weigh the items inside the shelf 400; this creates a visually integrated effect between the weighing device 300 and the shelf 400, improving the overall integrity of the inside of the door 200. Furthermore, because there is a large gap between the weighing device 300 and the shelf 400 below it, its impact on the storage space of the shelf 400 is minimal.

[0073] In some embodiments, the projection of the weighing device 300 onto the bottom surface of the shelf 400 coincides with the bottom surface of the shelf 400, such that the length of the weighing device 300 is the same as the length of the bottom surface of the shelf 400, and the width of the weighing device 300 is the same as the width of the bottom surface of the shelf 400. This can increase the load-bearing area of ​​the weighing device 300 and make the integration of the weighing device 300 and the shelf 400 more significant.

[0074] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 4 and 5, a mounting cavity 301 is formed within the weighing device 300, and a weighing sensor 330 is mounted within the mounting cavity 301 for weighing. In some embodiments of this application, the weighing sensor 330 is located within the mounting cavity 301, improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300. In some embodiments of this application, at least a portion of the weighing device 300 contacts the weighing sensor 330, and this portion has a gap from other portions of the weighing device 300. This portion contacts the shelf 400, thereby enabling the weighing sensor 330 to weigh items within the shelf 400. In some embodiments, a water-blocking structure 302 is provided at the edge of the weighing device 300 to reduce the possibility of liquids such as water entering the interior of the weighing device 300 from the edge, thereby improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300.

[0075] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the weighing device 300 includes a base 310, which is mounted on the door 200. In some embodiments, the base 310 is hung on the door 200; in some embodiments, the base 310 is snapped onto the door 200. In some embodiments, the base 310 has hanging ears 316 on both sides along the width direction of the door, and the hanging ears 316 are connected to the door retaining ribs provided on the door. The connection method includes, but is not limited to, snap-fit, interference fit, etc., thereby fixing the base 310 to the door. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the hanging ears 316 along the thickness direction of the door gradually increase from top to bottom along the height direction, so that the hanging ears 316 are approximately tapered on the side. The connection position between the hanging ears 316 and the base 310 is relatively large, which helps to improve the stability and reliability of the connection between the hanging ears 316 and the base 310.

[0076] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the weighing device 300 further includes a cover 320 that covers at least a portion of the base 310, with a gap between the cover 320 and the base 310, thus suspending the cover 320 relative to the base 310. In some embodiments, the cover 320 covers a portion of the base 310, and the weighing sensor 330 and other electrical components of the weighing device 300 are located below the cover 320, serving a protective and shielding function. In some embodiments, the cover 320 is positioned over the outside of the base 310, which improves the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300 and maintains the overall appearance of the weighing device 300. In some embodiments, a mounting cavity 301 is formed between the cover 320 and the base 310, so that the weighing sensor 330 is located between the cover 320 and the base 310. Thus, the cover 320 shields and protects the weighing sensor 330, which is hidden at the bottom of the cover 320, improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300.

[0077] In some embodiments, in addition to the snap-fit ​​and hook-and-loop design, the connection between the base 310 and the door 200 can incorporate magnetic or electric locking technology for automatic calibration and fixation during installation, reducing human error and improving device stability. Simultaneously, the electric locking system allows for easy unlocking via a simple button operation when disassembly is required, enhancing ease of assembly and disassembly. Overload protection designs are added to the snap-fit ​​portion of the base 310 or the hook-and-loop 316, for example, by using a built-in spring mechanism or pressure sensor to detect the stress during installation, preventing structural damage or performance degradation due to excessive pressure or uneven installation. The cover 320 can be designed with a double-layer structure, with a sealing ring or elastic sealing strip in the middle to increase waterproofing and moisture resistance. This way, even with significant temperature or humidity changes inside the refrigerator, the cover 320 can effectively prevent water vapor from entering the base 310 area, preventing the load cell 330 from becoming damp or damaged. To prevent excessive moisture buildup inside the cover 320, tiny vent holes can be provided to ensure internal air circulation and prevent the accumulation of condensation, thereby maintaining the stability of the weighing device.

[0078] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG6, multiple weighing sensors 330 are provided, and the multiple weighing sensors 330 are arranged in a rectangular matrix. For example, four weighing sensors 330 are provided, respectively located at the four apex positions of the base 310. By providing multiple weighing sensors 330, the weight of items within the shelf 400 can be better distributed and detected, which helps to improve the accuracy and stability of weighing.

[0079] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 7 and 9, a water-blocking structure 302 is provided at the edge of the cover 320 and the edge of the base 310. The water-blocking structure 302 can be a retaining edge to reduce the possibility of water or other liquids entering the interior of the base 310 through the edge gap between the cover 320 and the base 310, thereby improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300. The top of the cover 320 contacts the shelf 400, so that the load cell 330 weighs the items in the shelf 400 through the cover 320 and the shelf 400. Since there is a gap between the cover 320 and the base 310, the shelf 400 is located on top of the cover 320. A horizontal limiting structure is provided between the shelf 400 and the weighing device 300 to limit the horizontal displacement of the shelf 400 and prevent the shelf 400 from falling off the weighing device 300. In some embodiments, the horizontal position includes movement along the X-axis direction and movement along the Y-axis direction. In some embodiments, a horizontal limiting structure is provided between the shelf 400 and the cover 320; in some embodiments, a horizontal limiting structure is provided between the shelf 400 and the base 310; in some embodiments, a horizontal limiting structure is provided between the shelf 400 and the cover 320, and a horizontal limiting structure is provided between the shelf 400 and the base 310.

[0080] Therefore, in some embodiments of this application, the weighing device 300 improves its waterproof performance by providing a cover 320 to shield the weighing sensor 330, thus preventing the weighing sensor 330 from being exposed to the outside and easily corroded by water; and a water-blocking structure 302 is provided at the edge of the cover 320 and the edge of the base 310 to reduce the possibility of water and other liquids entering the interior of the base 310 from the edge gap between the cover 320 and the base 310, thereby further improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300.

[0081] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the base 310 has an edge with a fitting portion 311; the cover 320 has an edge with a protruding side 321, which is inserted into the fitting portion 311. This configuration provides ample space for the fitting portion 311 on the base 310, and the protruding side 321 on the edge of the cover 320 has a simple structure, making the cover 320 structurally simple and easy to manufacture. In some embodiments, the fitting portion 311 is a recessed or grooved structure on the edge of the base 310, used to fit into the corresponding structure of the cover 320 (such as the protruding side 321) to achieve connection between the base 310 and the cover 320. In some embodiments, the fitting portion 311 is a groove with an upward-facing opening direction. When the base 310 is in normal use, this opening direction is perpendicular to the bottom surface of the base 310 and faces upward (as shown in Figures 8 and 9).

[0082] In some embodiments, the fitting portion 311 is a groove with its opening facing upwards. When water or other liquids enter the gap between the edges of the base 310 and the cover 320, the fitting portion 311 temporarily stores the liquid, reducing the possibility of liquid entering the interior of the base 310. In some embodiments, the edge of the base 310 forms a protruding side, and the edge of the cover 320 forms a fitting portion, with the protruding side inserted into the fitting portion. This arrangement of the edge of the cover 320 requires the provision of inner and outer double-layer sidewalls to form the fitting portion, which helps to improve the structural stability of the cover 320. In some embodiments, the fitting portion formed at the edge of the cover 320 opens downwards, preventing water accumulation within the fitting portion and further improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300.

[0083] In some embodiments, the protruding side 321 and the fitting sidewall forming the fitting portion 311 form a water-blocking structure 302. Under the action of the water-blocking structure 302, the possibility of water or other liquids entering the interior from the edges of the base 310 and the cover 320 is reduced, improving the waterproof performance between the base 310 and the cover 320. In some embodiments, when the fitting portion 311 is a groove, the fitting sidewall forming the groove is called the groove sidewall. In some embodiments, the fitting portion 311 is formed on the edge of the base 310, with the opening of the fitting portion 311 facing upwards, facilitating the installation of the cover 320. Furthermore, the space for forming the fitting portion 311 on the base 310 is sufficient, minimizing the impact on the structure of the base 310.

[0084] Referring again to Figures 9 and 10, the cover 320 includes a cover body 322 and a side edge 323 disposed at the edge of the cover body 322. A load cell 330 is disposed between the cover body 322 and the base 310. The top surface of the cover body 322 contacts the shelf 400. The side edge 323 is located at the edge of the cover body 322 and at the bottom side of the cover body 322. When the cover body 322 is rectangular, the side edge 323 includes four sides. The side edge 323 forms a protruding side 321. The side edge 323 is inserted into the fitting part 311. The cooperation between the side edge 323 and the fitting part 311 improves the edge waterproof performance.

[0085] In some embodiments of this application, the cover 320 supports the shelf 400 by providing a cover body 322, and protects and shields the weighing sensor 330; by providing a side edge 323 forming a protruding side edge 321, which cooperates with the fitting part 311 to improve the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300, and the provision of the side edge 323 also helps to improve the structural strength of the cover 320 and reduce the deformation of the cover 320 that would affect the weighing accuracy. In some embodiments, the side edge 323 of the cover 320 forms a protruding side edge 321, which has a simple structure, helps to reduce processing costs, and eliminates the need for an additional complex water-blocking structure 302.

[0086] Referring again to Figures 9 and 11, in some embodiments, the base 310 includes a base plate 312 parallel to the cover 322, and a weighing sensor 330 is located between the base plate 312 and the cover 322. Lugs 316 are located on both sides of the base plate 312 along the width direction of the door. In some embodiments, reinforcing ribs 319 are provided on the base plate 312 to improve the structural strength of the base 310. In some embodiments, multiple reinforcing ribs 319 are provided and arranged in a grid pattern to further improve the structural strength of the base 310. A gap exists between the reinforcing ribs 319 and the cover 320 to prevent the reinforcing ribs 319 from contacting the cover 320 and affecting the accuracy of weighing.

[0087] In some embodiments, the base 310 further includes an inner sidewall 313 and an outer sidewall 314, which are fitting sidewalls of the fitting portion 311, forming a water-blocking structure 302 together with the side edge 323. Both the inner sidewall 313 and the outer sidewall 314 are disposed on the base plate 312, and there is a gap between them. The inner sidewall 313 is disposed on the side of the outer sidewall 314 facing the center of the base plate 312, and the outer sidewall 314 is located on the side of the inner sidewall 313 away from the center of the base plate 312. The inner sidewall 313, the outer sidewall 314, and the base plate 312 between the inner sidewall 313 and the outer sidewall 314 form the fitting portion 311. This arrangement not only forms the fitting portion 311, but also provides a dual water-blocking function with the inner sidewall 313 and the outer sidewall 314, further improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300.

[0088] Furthermore, in some embodiments of this application, the cooperation between the cover 320 and the base 310 through the protruding side 321 and the fitting portion 311 can also limit the horizontal displacement of the cover 320, reduce the possibility of the cover 320 moving horizontally relative to the base 310, and improve the stability of the weighing device 300 structure. It should be noted that the fitting portion 311 is located inside the lug 316, that is, the outer wall 314 at the lug 316 is located inside the lug 316, to prevent the lug 316 from affecting the insertion of the protruding side 321 of the cover 320 into the fitting portion 311.

[0089] In some embodiments, an overflow structure is provided on the outer side wall 314, such as an overflow hole or overflow outlet. When liquid enters the fitting part 311, the liquid can overflow outward through the overflow structure, reducing the possibility of liquid entering the inner side wall 313, thereby reducing the possibility of liquid corroding electrical components such as the weighing sensor 330 inside the base 310, and further improving the waterproof performance of the weighing device 300.

[0090] In some embodiments, the height of at least a portion of the outer wall 314 is less than the height of the inner wall 313. This allows liquid to overflow through the thinner portion of the outer wall 314 when liquid enters the fitting portion 311, reducing the likelihood of liquid entering the inner sidewall 313. In some embodiments, the height of a portion of the outer wall 314 can be reduced by machining, offering flexibility in machining methods. In some embodiments, the outer wall 314 can be formed simultaneously with the base 310 during integral molding, so that the height of a portion of the outer wall 314 is lower than the height of the inner wall 313, eliminating the need for additional machining and improving production efficiency.

[0091] In some embodiments, to further enhance waterproofing, a soft sealing gasket (e.g., silicone or rubber sealing ring) can be added between the inner wall 313 and the outer wall 314. When the cover 320 is installed, the sealing gasket can fit tightly against the base 310, providing an additional waterproof layer and effectively preventing liquid penetration. The gap between the outer wall 314 and the inner wall 313 can be designed to have a "self-cleaning" function. Utilizing the natural movement of liquid flow or condensation, the design can be shaped like a "V" or cone to guide water flow to the overflow hole, thereby improving liquid drainage efficiency and preventing water accumulation. Multiple overflow holes or outlets, rather than just one, can be provided on the outer wall 314 to further improve liquid drainage efficiency. Multiple overflow holes can be evenly distributed at different locations on the outer wall 314, especially in low-lying areas, to ensure that incoming liquid can be drained in a timely manner, avoiding excessive water accumulation on the base 310 and the internal sensor 330.

[0092] In some embodiments, the height of the outer sidewall 314 is less than the height of the inner sidewall 313. This allows liquid inside the fitting portion 311 to overflow, and also simplifies the molding process when the outer sidewall 314 is integrally formed using the base 310. In some embodiments, the difference between the height of the outer sidewall 314 and the height of the inner sidewall 313 is: ≥3mm and ≤5mm. For example, the difference between the height of the outer sidewall 314 and the height of the inner sidewall 313 is: ≥3mm and 4mm; ≥4mm and ≤5mm, etc. For example, the difference between the height of the outer sidewall 314 and the height of the inner sidewall 313 is 3mm, 3.3mm, 3.5mm, 3.8mm, 4mm, 4.2mm, 4.5mm, 4.8mm, or 5mm, etc. This design reduces the possibility of liquid overflowing into the fitting portion 311 if the height difference between the outer wall 314 and the inner wall 313 is too small; it also reduces the possibility of the fitting portion 311 being too shallow if the height difference between the outer wall 314 and the inner wall 313 is too large. In some embodiments, limiting this difference to the range of 3mm to 5mm ensures that the outer wall 314 is low enough to form an effective overflow path, allowing liquid that accidentally enters the fitting portion 311 to overflow preferentially away from the interior of the base, effectively protecting the internal components. At the same time, it also ensures that the outer wall still has a certain structural strength and water-repellent capability, and that the overall depth of the fitting portion 311 and the height of the inner and outer walls are matched to meet normal fitting and waterproofing requirements.

[0093] In some embodiments of this application, referring to FIG9, a first gap exists between the fitting portion 311 and the protruding side 321 in the horizontal plane. Specifically, the fitting portion 311 and the protruding side 321 have a first gap along the X-axis direction in the horizontal plane, and the fitting portion 311 and the protruding side 321 have a first gap along the Y-axis direction in the horizontal plane. This arrangement reduces the possibility of the cover 320 contacting the base 310, thereby improving the weighing accuracy of the weighing device 300. If the size of the first gap L1 is less than 0.5 mm, the protruding side 321 and the fitting sidewall of the fitting portion 311 are likely to contact, resulting in lower weighing accuracy.

[0094] In some embodiments, the size of the first gap L1 is greater than or equal to 0.5 mm. This ensures sufficient clearance between the protruding side 321 and the mating sidewall of the mating portion 311, reducing the likelihood of contact and facilitating accurate weighing. If the size of the first gap L1 is greater than 1.0 mm, the gap between the protruding side 321 and the mating sidewall of the mating portion 311 is large, making the cover 320 prone to moving horizontally relative to the base 310. This not only results in poor stability but also affects weighing accuracy. In some embodiments, the size of the first gap L1 is less than or equal to 1.0 mm. This arrangement avoids excessively large gaps between the protruding side 321 and the mating sidewall of the mating portion 311, ensuring horizontal restraint between them.

[0095] In some embodiments, the size of the first gap L1 is: L1≥0.5mm and L1≤1.0mm. For example, the size of the first gap L1 is: L1≥0.5mm and L1≤0.6mm; L1≥0.6mm and L1≤0.7mm; L1≥0.7mm and L1≤0.8mm; L1≥0.8mm and L1≤0.9mm; or L1≥0.9mm and L1≤1.0mm, etc. For example, the size of the first gap L1 is 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1.0mm, etc. This setting can reduce the possibility of contact between the protruding side 321 and the fitting sidewall of the fitting part 311, and also ensure the horizontal limit between the protruding side and the fitting part 311, thereby ensuring the accuracy and stability of the weighing device 300. It should be noted that, for the portion of the protruding side 321 extending along the X-axis, the size of the first gap L1 is the distance between the protruding side 321 and the mating sidewall of the mating portion 311 along the Y-axis; for the portion of the protruding side 321 extending along the Y-axis, the size of the first gap L1 is the distance between the protruding side 321 and the mating sidewall of the mating portion 311 along the X-axis. Furthermore, there is a first gap between the protruding side 321 and the inner sidewall 313 of the mating portion 311, and a first gap between the protruding side 321 and the outer sidewall 314 of the mating portion 311. The two first gaps may be the same or different; some embodiments of this application do not limit this. In some embodiments, limiting the first gap L1 to the range of 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm effectively avoids accidental contact and friction caused by excessively small gaps, ensuring that the load cell can respond independently and accurately to load changes. Furthermore, the reasonable gap fit provides sufficient horizontal restraint for the cover 320, preventing excessive swaying and ensuring the structural stability and weighing accuracy of the weighing device when subjected to lateral forces or vibrations. This range represents an improved balance between ensuring weighing accuracy and structural stability.

[0096] In some embodiments of this application, the fitting portion 311 and the protruding side 321 have a second gap L2 along the height direction (corresponding to the Z-axis direction in the figures), and the height direction is perpendicular to the horizontal plane. Specifically, the base plate 312 of the base 310 and the protruding side 321 have a second gap L2 along the height direction to avoid the base plate 312 from contacting the protruding side 321 and affecting the accuracy of weighing.

[0097] In some embodiments, the ratio of the height of the protruding side 321 inserted into the fitting portion 311 to the height of the fitting portion 311 is: the ratio ≥ 1 / 3 and the ratio ≤ 1 / 2. That is, the height of the protruding side 321 inserted into the fitting portion 311 is 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of the height of the fitting portion 311. This setting can reduce the impact on the horizontal limiting effect caused by the protruding side 321 being inserted too deeply, and also reduce the possibility of the protruding side 321 contacting the base plate 312 if the protruding side 321 is inserted too deeply. In some embodiments, limiting this ratio to the range of 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 can ensure that the protruding side 321 has sufficient insertion depth to provide a stable and reliable horizontal limiting effect, effectively resist lateral forces, and maintain the stability and weighing accuracy of the cover 320. At the same time, it also avoids the risk of contact with the base plate of the fitting portion due to excessive insertion, and takes into account the compactness of the structure and the manufacturability. It is an improved choice between ensuring the limiting effect and avoiding interference.

[0098] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, in some embodiments, a limiting portion 324 is provided on the cover 320; referring to Figure 11, a mating portion 315 is provided on the base 310, and the limiting portion 324 and the mating portion 315 cooperate to limit the horizontal displacement of the cover 320. When the limiting portion 324 is a protrusion on the cover 320, the mating portion 315 is a recess on the base 310; when the limiting portion 324 is a recess on the cover 320, the mating portion 315 is a protrusion on the base 310; and the protrusion and the recess cooperate to limit the relative displacement between the cover 320 and the base 310 in the horizontal plane.

[0099] In some embodiments of this application, a gap exists between the limiting part 324 and the mating part 315. Specifically, the limiting part 324 and the mating part 315 have a gap in the horizontal plane, and also a gap along the height direction. This arrangement reduces the contact between the limiting part 324 and the mating part 315, thus minimizing the impact on weighing accuracy. In some embodiments of this application, by providing a limiting part 324 on the cover 320 and a mating part 315 on the base 310, the cooperation between the limiting part 324 and the mating part 315 improves the ease of assembly between the cover 320 and the base 310, and also limits the relative displacement between the cover 320 and the base 310 in the horizontal plane.

[0100] In some embodiments, the cover 320 is provided with a plurality of limiting portions 324, and the base 310 is provided with a plurality of mating portions 315. The positions of the mating portions 315 correspond to the positions of the limiting portions 324, and the number of mating portions 315 and limiting portions 324 are the same, so as to improve the stability of the fit between the cover 320 and the base 310. The plurality of limiting portions 324 can be arranged in various ways. For example, the plurality of limiting portions 324 can be arranged in a rectangular matrix on the cover 320, resulting in a simple structure.

[0101] In some embodiments, the limiting part 324 is a column provided on the cover 320. Compared to providing a recessed structure on the cover 320, providing a column on the cover 320 results in a simpler structure and better structural stability of the cover 320. The mating part 315 is a groove formed on the base 310, and the column mates with the groove. For example, the base 310 is provided with a protruding structure, such as a boss or a cylinder, and the groove is a fitting part provided on the protruding structure. This arrangement, while forming the groove, also improves the structural stability of the base 310. Referring to Figure 9, there is a third gap between the column and the sidewall of the groove. This arrangement reduces the possibility of contact between the column and the groove, ensuring the accuracy of weighing. If the size of the third gap L3 is less than 0.5 mm, the column and the sidewall of the groove are likely to contact, resulting in lower weighing accuracy.

[0102] In some embodiments, the third gap L3 is greater than or equal to 0.5 mm. This ensures sufficient clearance between the column and the sidewall of the trough, reducing the likelihood of contact and improving weighing accuracy. If the third gap L3 is greater than 1.0 mm, the gap between the column and the sidewall of the trough is too large, making it easy for the cover 320 to move horizontally relative to the base 310. This not only results in poor stability but also affects weighing accuracy. In some embodiments, the third gap L3 is less than or equal to 1.0 mm. This setting prevents excessive clearance between the column and the sidewall of the trough, ensuring horizontal positioning between the column and the trough. In some embodiments, the size of the third gap L3 is: L3≥0.5mm and L3≤1.0mm. For example, the size of the third gap L3 is: L3≥0.5mm and L3≤0.6mm; L3≥0.6mm and L3≤0.7mm; L3≥0.7mm and L3≤0.8mm; L3≥0.8mm and L3≤0.9mm; or L3≥0.9mm and L3≤1.0mm, etc. Exemplarily, the size of the third gap L3 is 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1.0mm, etc. This setting reduces the possibility of contact between the column and the sidewall of the settling tank, and also ensures horizontal positioning between the column and the settling tank, thereby ensuring the accuracy and stability of the weighing device 300. In some embodiments of this application, the column and the bottom wall of the settling tank have a gap along the height direction, reducing the possibility of contact between the column and the bottom wall of the settling tank. In some embodiments, the third gap L3 is limited to a range of 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm. This ensures sufficient clearance between the column and the sidewall of the settling tank, avoiding weighing errors caused by excessive constraint or friction and guaranteeing the independence of the load cell's operation. It also provides effective horizontal limiting, restricting excessive displacement of the cover 320 on the base 310, thus enhancing structural stability and the reliability of the weighing results. This range represents a good trade-off between achieving relatively accurate weighing and stable limiting.

[0103] Referring to Figure 11, in some embodiments, the shelf 400 includes a storage body 410, which forms a storage cavity 401 with a top opening for storing items. In some embodiments, the storage body 410 includes a bottom wall 411 and circumferential side walls 412 disposed on the bottom wall 411, the circumferential side walls 412 and the bottom wall 411 together enclosing the storage cavity 401 with a top opening. The bottom surface of the storage body 410 contacts the top surface of the cover 320.

[0104] In some embodiments, the shelf 400 further includes a limiting edge 420, which is disposed at the bottom of the main body 410. Specifically, the limiting edge 420 is disposed at the edge of the bottom surface of the bottom wall 411. The limiting edge 420 surrounds the outside of the cover 320, and the limiting edge 420 and the cover 320 cooperate with each other to limit the horizontal displacement of the shelf 400 and reduce the possibility of relative movement between the shelf 400 and the weighing device 300. Thus, the horizontal limiting structure includes the aforementioned limiting edge 420.

[0105] In some embodiments of this application, the shelf 400 is used to store items by providing a storage body 410. The limiting edge 420 can improve the structural strength of the shelf 400, and the limiting edge 420 constitutes at least part of a horizontal limiting structure to restrict horizontal displacement between the shelf 400 and the weighing device 300. In some embodiments of this application, there is a gap between the limiting edge 420 and the cover 320, which facilitates the assembly of the shelf 400 and the cover 320.

[0106] Referring to Figure 6, in some embodiments, a hanging ear 316 is formed on the base 310, which is hung on the door, thereby installing the base 310 on the door. In some embodiments, a clearance portion 413 is formed on the shelf 400 to avoid the hanging ear 316. Specifically, the clearance portion 413 is formed on the circumferential sidewall 412 of the storage body 410. In some embodiments, the clearance portion 413 is a clearance groove. There is a gap between the clearance portion 413 and the hanging ear 316. Specifically, there is a gap between the sidewall of the clearance portion 413 along the Y-axis direction and the hanging ear 316, and there is a gap between the sidewall of the clearance portion 413 along the X-axis direction and the hanging ear 316. The horizontal limiting structure includes the clearance portion 413 and the hanging ear 316. Thus, through the cooperation between the clearance portion 413 and the hanging ear 316 on the shelf 400, the horizontal displacement of the shelf 400 is limited. In some embodiments of this application, the relative displacement between the shelf 400 and the weighing device 300 in the horizontal plane is limited by the cooperation between the limiting edge 420 and the cover 320, and the cooperation between the clearance part 413 and the hanging ear 316 on the shelf 400. There is no need to set up an additional horizontal limiting structure, which helps to simplify the structure of the shelf 400.

[0107] Referring again to Figure 12, in some embodiments of this application, the load cell 330 is mounted between the cover 320 and the base 310. In some embodiments, the load cell 330 is fixed to the base 310, with the weighing end of the load cell 330 contacting the cover 320. This fixation of the load cell 330 to the base 310 facilitates the assembly of the cover 320 and the base 310. In some embodiments, the load cell 330 is fixed to the cover 320, with the weighing end of the load cell 330 contacting the mounting base 310. This arrangement, where the load cell 330 and at least part of the wiring are located on the cover 320, reduces the possibility of the load cell 330 being corroded by liquids such as water. The load cell 330 can be mounted in various ways, including snap-fit ​​and screw-fit. Referring to Figure 11, taking the load cell 330 fixed on the base 310 as an example, the base 310 is provided with a support member 318 and a buckle 317. Both the support member 318 and the buckle 317 are set on the bottom plate 312 of the base 310. The support member 318 serves to support the load cell 330, and the buckle 317 engages with the load cell 330 to restrict the load cell 330 to the support member 318. With this configuration, the fixing structure of the load cell 330 is simple and the installation is simple and convenient.

[0108] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

[0109] For ease of explanation, the above description has been provided in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Various modifications and variations can be obtained based on the above teachings. The selection and description of the above embodiments are for the purpose of better explaining the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the described embodiments and various different variations of embodiments suitable for specific use considerations.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet configured to form a storage compartment; a door rotatably mounted on the cabinet to open or close the storage compartment; a weighing device located in the storage compartment; the weighing device comprising: a base mounted on the door; a cover covering at least part of the base, and having a gap between the cover and the base; a weighing sensor is arranged between the cover and the base; an edge of the cover and an edge of the base are provided with a water retaining structure; a shelf configured to form a storage cavity; the shelf is mounted on the top of the cover.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, horizontal limiting structure is arranged between the shelf and the weighing device. 3.The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, one of the edges of the cover and the base is provided with a fitting part; the other of the edges of the cover and the base is provided with a protruding side edge, which is inserted into the fitting part, and the protruding side edge and the fitting side wall forming the fitting part together form the water retaining structure.

4. The refrigerator of claim 3, wherein, the edge of the base forms the fitting part; the cover comprises: a cover body, and a side wall provided on the edge of the cover body, the side wall forms the protruding side edge, and the weighing sensor is arranged between the cover body and the base.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein, the base comprises: a bottom plate, an inner side wall provided on the bottom plate, and an outer side wall provided on the bottom plate, wherein the inner side wall and the outer side wall have a gap therebetween; the inner side wall is provided on a side of the outer side wall facing the center of the bottom plate, and the inner side wall, the outer side wall and the bottom plate therebetween form the fitting part; the height of the outer side wall is less than the height of the inner side wall at least in part; and the weighing sensor is arranged between the bottom plate and the cover body. 6.The refrigerator of claim 3, wherein, a first gap is formed between the fitting part and the protruding side edge in a horizontal plane in the width direction and the thickness direction of the door; the size of the first gap L1 is: L1≥0.5mm, and L1≤1.0mm; and / or a second gap is formed between the fitting part and the protruding side edge in the height direction of the door, which is perpendicular to the horizontal plane; the ratio of the height of the protruding side edge inserted into the fitting part to the height of the fitting part is: the ratio≥1 / 3, and the ratio≤1 / 2.

7. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, a limiting part is arranged on the cover, and a cooperating part is arranged on the base, the limiting part cooperates with the cooperating part, and a gap is formed between the limiting part and the cooperating part.

8. The refrigerator of claim 7, wherein, the limiting part is a column arranged on the cover, the cooperating part is a sink formed on the base, the column cooperates with the sink, a third gap is formed between the side wall of the column and the sink, and the size of the third gap L3 is: L3≥0.5mm, and L3≤1.0mm.

9. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 2-6, wherein, the shelf comprises: a storage main body configured to form a storage cavity with an open top, and a limiting side wall arranged on the bottom of the storage main body. The horizontal limiting structure comprises the limiting surrounding edge.

10. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 2-6, wherein, The horizontal limiting structure comprises the avoiding part and the hanging ear.

11. A refrigerator, wherein, It comprises: a box body configured to form a storage compartment; a door body rotatably installed on the box body to open or close the storage compartment; a weighing device, an edge of the weighing device being provided with a water retaining structure, and the weighing device being formed with an installation cavity for installing a weighing sensor; a shelf installed on the top of the weighing device.

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