Terminal patch panel, refrigerator and household appliance

Abstract

The present application provides a terminal patch panel, a refrigerator and a household appliance. The terminal patch panel comprises a base, a first patch piece and a second patch piece; the first patch piece and the second patch piece are respectively provided with a first insertion hole and a second insertion hole; the first patch piece is arranged on the base; the second patch piece is rotatably connected to the base; the second patch piece has a first position state and a second position state; when in the first position state, the second patch piece abuts against the first patch piece; the second insertion hole is for insertion of a second type of terminal; when the second patch is in the second position state, the first insertion hole is for insertion of a first type of terminal.

Description

Terminal block, refrigerator and household appliances

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 2025103554089, filed on March 24, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application belongs to the field of electrical technology, and more specifically, relates to a terminal block, a refrigerator, and a household appliance. Background Technology

[0004] For ease of assembly, wiring harness terminals inside refrigerators and other appliances are generally fixed using power strips. Different refrigerator configurations require different wiring harness terminals, necessitating different power strip sockets. To achieve maximum power strip versatility, multiple sockets of different sizes are typically cut into a single power strip to accommodate various types of wiring harness terminals. However, this approach results in generally oversized power strips, leading to poor flatness of the sealing surface and potential leakage due to poor fit with the refrigerator liner. Furthermore, larger power strips require larger perforations in the refrigerator liner, reducing the rigidity of the perforation area. Moreover, multiple sockets on a power strip are usually not used simultaneously; a typical refrigerator load configuration only requires one power strip notch, necessitating additional sealing for the extra sockets. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Some embodiments of this application provide a terminal block, including:

[0006] Base;

[0007] A first connector piece is disposed on the base, and the first connector piece has a first socket for fixing a first type of terminal; and

[0008] The second connector is rotatably connected to the base, and the second connector has a second socket for fixing a second type of terminal;

[0009] The second connector has a first position state and a second position state;

[0010] The first position state is when the second plug piece is rotated to abut against the first plug piece, the first socket and the second socket at least partially overlap, and the second plug piece covers at least part of the periphery of the first socket. At this time, the second socket is used to plug in the second type of terminal.

[0011] The second position state is when the second connector is rotated to a clearance position so that the first socket of the first connector is exposed, at which time the first socket is used to plug in the first type of terminal.

[0012] In some embodiments, the base has a resting surface for the second plug-in piece to rest against when it rotates to the clearance position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second connector is provided with a first snap-fit ​​structure near the second socket for snapping into the inner wall of the first socket.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first snap-fit ​​structure includes a snap-fit ​​protrusion that is at least partially contoured to the first socket. The snap-fit ​​protrusion is formed by the second connector protruding from the side of the first connector. The outer wall of the snap-fit ​​protrusion is interference-fitted with the inner wall of the first socket.

[0015] In some embodiments, the number of the snap-fit ​​protrusions is multiple, and they are arranged at intervals around the second socket; or,

[0016] The snap-fit ​​protrusion is a circumferentially closed structure surrounding the second insertion hole.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first connector is provided with a first latch, and the second connector is in the first position state:

[0018] The first latch engages with the first locking hole on the second connector piece; or...

[0019] The first clip engages with the edge of the second connector piece.

[0020] In some embodiments, the docking surface is provided with a second snap-fit ​​structure, and the second plug-in piece is in the second position state:

[0021] The second snap-fit ​​structure passes through the second socket to snap the second connector piece into the resting surface; or, the second snap-fit ​​structure snaps into the edge of the second connector piece.

[0022] In some embodiments, the base, the first connector plate, and the second connector plate are integrally formed, and the first connector plate and the second connector plate are rotatably connected by a thin-walled structure.

[0023] Some embodiments of this application also provide a refrigerator, including a cabinet structure and the aforementioned terminal plug-in board, wherein the cabinet structure has mounting holes and the terminal plug-in board is fixed to the mounting holes.

[0024] Some embodiments of this application also provide a household appliance, including the aforementioned terminal block. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in some embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of some embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 is a perspective structural diagram of a terminal block provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the terminal block provided in some embodiments of this application in the first position state;

[0028] Figure 3 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the terminal block in Figure 2 and the second type of terminal plug-in connection;

[0029] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the terminal block provided in some embodiments of this application in the second position state;

[0030] Figure 5 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the terminal block in Figure 4 and the first type of terminal plug-in connection;

[0031] Figure 6 is a diagram of the internal structure of a refrigerator provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0032] In the figure, the following reference numerals are used: 100-terminal connector plate; 200-box structure; 10-first connector piece; 11-first socket; 20-second connector piece; 21-second socket; 22-first snap-fit ​​structure; 221-snap-fit ​​protrusion; 30-first type of terminal; 40-second type of terminal; 50-base; 51-resting surface; 511-second snap-fit ​​structure; 52-recessed structure. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0034] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly on that other component. When a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to that other component.

[0035] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "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.

[0036] Furthermore, 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. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0037] For ease of assembly, wiring harness terminals inside refrigerators and other appliances are generally fixed using power strips. Different refrigerator configurations require different wiring harness terminals, necessitating different power strip sockets. To achieve maximum power strip versatility, multiple sockets of different sizes are typically cut into a single power strip to accommodate various types of wiring harness terminals. However, this approach results in generally oversized power strips, leading to poor flatness of the sealing surface and potential leakage due to poor fit with the refrigerator liner. Furthermore, larger power strips require larger perforations in the refrigerator liner, reducing the rigidity of the perforation area. Moreover, multiple sockets on a power strip are usually not used simultaneously; a typical refrigerator load configuration only requires one power strip notch, necessitating additional sealing for the extra sockets.

[0038] To alleviate or solve the above-mentioned technical problems, some embodiments of this application propose a terminal block 100, including a base 50, a first plug-in piece 10, and a second plug-in piece 20 rotatably connected to the first plug-in piece 10. The first plug-in piece 10 and the second plug-in piece 20 are respectively provided with a first socket 11 and a second socket 21. When the second plug-in piece 20 rotates close to the first plug-in piece 10, it blocks the first socket 11. At this time, the terminal block 100 can accommodate a second type of terminal 40. When the second plug-in piece 20 rotates away from the first socket 11, the first socket 11 is exposed, and the terminal block 100 can accommodate a first type of terminal 30. Thus, the terminal block 100 can accommodate two different types of terminals without occupying excessive space, and there is no need to seal unused sockets.

[0039] The terminal block 100 provided in some embodiments of this application will now be described.

[0040] Referring to Figure 1, the terminal block 100 includes:

[0041] Base 50;

[0042] A first connector 10 is disposed on a base 50, and the first connector 10 has a first socket 11 for fixing a first type of terminal 30; and

[0043] The second plug piece 20 is rotatably connected to the base 50, and the second plug piece 20 has a second plug hole 21 for fixing the second type of terminal 40;

[0044] The second connector 20 has a first position state and a second position state;

[0045] In the first position state, the second plug piece 20 is rotated to abut against the first plug piece 10, the first socket 11 and the second socket 21 at least partially overlap, and the second plug piece 20 covers at least part of the periphery of the first socket 11. At this time, the second socket 21 is used to plug in the second type of terminal 40.

[0046] The second position is when the second connector 20 is rotated to a clearance position so that the first socket 11 of the first connector 10 is exposed, at which time the first socket 11 is used to plug in the first type of terminal 30.

[0047] In some embodiments, the base 50 may be an integrally molded plastic injection part with a structure for fixed installation at the box liner hole, such as a snap-fit ​​structure, screw holes, or slot protrusions for tight connection with the inner liner. The surface of the base may be provided with a sealing flange or sealing ring groove for enhancing sealing performance. The first insertion hole 11 of the first insertion piece 10 may adopt a geometric shape corresponding to the terminal structure, such as rectangular, circular, or U-shaped. The periphery of the insertion hole may be provided with a reinforcing rib structure or a guide slope to enhance the structural rigidity and operational guidance of the insertion and removal terminals. The first insertion piece is fixed to the base, or it may be an integrally molded structure with the base. The second insertion piece 20 may be rotatably connected to the base 50 or the first insertion piece 10 by a hinge, pin, or knob connection. The rotation range of the second insertion piece is provided with a limiting structure to ensure that it rotates only within a preset angle range.

[0048] Referring to Figures 3 and 5, the terminal block 100 can accommodate two types of terminals: a first type terminal 30 and a second type terminal 40, which have different models. In some embodiments, the second connector 20 may or may not be located on the same plane in the first position state and the second position state. The first socket 11 passes through the first connector 10. When the first type terminal 30 is inserted into the first socket 11, it can be fixed at the first socket 11, thereby securing the first type terminal 30. The second socket 21 on the second connector 20 passes through the second connector 20. When the second type terminal 40 is inserted into the second socket 21, it can be fixed at the second socket 21. The second connector 20 is rotatable relative to the first connector 10. When the second plug piece 20 is rotated to the first position, the second plug piece 20 is abutting against the first plug piece 10, the first socket 11 and the second socket 21 are directly opposite each other, and the periphery of the first socket 11 is blocked by the second plug piece 20. Understandably, the centers of the first socket 11 and the second socket 21 are directly opposite each other, and the size of the first socket 11 is different from the size of the second socket 21. The size of the first socket 11 is larger than that of the second socket 21 in at least one direction. This allows the second plug piece 20 to block at least part of the periphery of the first socket 11. In some embodiments, the periphery of the first socket 11 is blocked by the structure of the second plug piece 20 near the second socket 21.

[0049] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, when the terminal block 100 needs to accommodate a second type of terminal 40, the second connector 20 rotates to connect with the first connector 10. The first socket 11 on the first connector 10 is at least partially blocked, while the second socket 21 on the second connector 20 is not blocked by the first connector 10. This is equivalent to the first socket 11 being blocked, with the second socket 21 exposed. At this time, the second type of terminal 40 can be inserted into the second socket 21, and the empty first socket 11 does not need to be sealed by the sealing structure. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, when the terminal block 100 needs to accommodate a first type of terminal 30, the second connector 20 rotates to connect with the resting surface 51. The second socket 21 of the second connector 20 is blocked by the resting surface 51, with the first socket 11 exposed. At this time, the first type of terminal 30 can be inserted into the first socket 11, and the empty second socket 21 does not need to be sealed by the sealing structure.

[0050] The terminal block 100 in some of the above embodiments includes a base 50, a first plug-in piece 10, and a second plug-in piece 20. The first plug-in piece 10 and the second plug-in piece 20 are respectively provided with a first socket 11 and a second socket 21. When it is necessary to fix a second type of terminal 40, the second plug-in piece 20 rotates to a position close to the first plug-in piece 10, the first socket 11 is blocked, and the second socket 21 is exposed. The second type of terminal 40 is then inserted and fixed into the second socket 21. When it is necessary to fix a first type of terminal 30, the second plug-in piece 20 rotates to a position where it is ready to move, the first socket 11 is exposed, and the first type of terminal 30 is inserted into the first socket 11. Thus, the terminal block 100 can accommodate two different types of terminals, but occupies a small volume. The block and the housing are not easily deformed, and after using one socket, the remaining socket does not need to be sealed, nor does it require a sealing structure.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first socket 11 is through-hole, and the hole wall may include a positioning groove, a guide bevel, a chamfer, or a limiting step to facilitate self-positioning and limiting fixation when the first type of terminal 30 is inserted. The socket opening may be provided with flexible locking teeth or fitting teeth to achieve the terminal's anti-pull-out locking function after insertion. The socket outline may be rectangular, D-shaped, trapezoidal, T-shaped, etc., to adapt to different connector standards. The first insert 10 carries the first type of terminal 30 and ensures that it has functions such as electrical connection, structural locking, and insulation isolation after insertion. Through structural improvements to the first socket 11, the insertion and extraction forces can be ensured to be within the expected range, improving assembly efficiency and reliability. The position and shape of the first socket 11 can be complementary to the second socket 21. The first socket 11 can be covered or exposed by the second plug piece 20 to achieve dynamic switching and mutual exclusion of socket functions. The size of the second socket 21 can be different from that of the first socket 11 in length, width, or diagonal direction, so as to achieve mutual exclusion of terminal size. The second plug piece 20 can undertake the main functions of socket covering and switching, and control the plug board 100 to adapt to different types of terminals in different position switching states. At the same time, it can realize automatic covering and spatial shielding of unused sockets, reducing the risk of environmental pollution and dust entry.

[0052] In some embodiments of this application, both the first socket 11 and the second socket 21 are square holes or have a structure similar to a square hole, such as a rectangular hole, or a hole structure formed by recesses in the sidewalls of a rectangular hole. In some embodiments, the dimension of the first socket 11 in a first direction is larger than the dimension of the second socket 21 in the first direction, where the first direction may be the length direction of the first socket 11. Thus, when the second connector 20 is connected to the first connector 10, the first socket 11 is blocked at least on both sides in the first direction. In some embodiments, the dimension of the first socket 11 in a second direction is larger than the dimension of the second socket 21 in the second direction, where the second direction may be the width direction of the first socket 11. Thus, when the second connector 20 is connected to the first connector 10, the first socket 11 is blocked at least on both sides in the second direction. In some embodiments of this application, the dimension of the first socket 11 in the first direction is larger than the dimension of the second socket 21 in the first direction, and the dimension of the first socket 11 in the second direction is larger than the dimension of the second socket 21 in the second direction. Thus, when the second connector 20 is connected to the first connector 10, all the inner walls of the first socket 11 are blocked. In some embodiments of this application, the first socket 11 and the second socket 21 may also be circular, with the diameter of the first socket 11 being larger than the diameter of the second socket 21, so that when the second connector 20 is connected to the first connector 10, the inner wall of the first socket 11 is blocked, and the second socket 21 is equipped with a second type of terminal 40.

[0053] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 1, 2, and 4, the second connector 20 is provided with a first engaging structure 22 near the second socket 21 for engaging with the inner wall of the first socket 11. When the second connector 20 rotates relative to the first connector 10 to connect with the first connector 10, the first engaging structure 22 can cooperate with the inner wall of the first socket 11 to engage the second connector 20 with the first connector 10, allowing the second type of terminal 40 to be directly inserted into the second socket 21 for use. The area near the second socket 21 of the second connector 20 can be understood as a plate structure near the region where the second socket 20 is located. By providing a first snap-fit ​​structure 22 near the second socket 21 on the second connector 20, the second connector 20 can engage with the first socket 11 through the first snap-fit ​​structure 22. The second connector 20 can be snapped onto the first connector 10, thereby stably mounting the second type of terminal 40 at the second socket 21. In some embodiments, there can be multiple first snap-fit ​​structures 22, which are arranged around the inner wall of the first socket 11, so that the second connector 20 can be more stably fixed onto the first connector 10.

[0054] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 1, 2, and 4, the first snap-fit ​​structure 22 includes a snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 that is at least partially contoured to the first socket 11. The snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is formed by the second connector 20 protruding from the side facing the first connector 10, and the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is interference-fitted with the inner wall of the first socket 11. The first snap-fit ​​structure 22 includes the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221, which is at least partially contoured to the first socket 11. The shape and size of the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 are at least the same as the shape and size of the inner wall of the first socket 11. When the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is inserted into the first socket 11, the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 fits snugly against the first socket 11, preventing the second connector 20 from falling freely off the first connector 10, thus making the connection between the second connector 20 and the first connector 10 more stable. In some embodiments, the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is press-fitted with the inner wall of the first socket 11. When the second connector 20 is fixed to the first connector 10, a slight external force is applied to the second connector 20 to press the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 into the first socket 11. Under the action of friction between the two, the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 are fixed to each other. In this way, there is no need to set up hooks or other structures. The structure of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is simple. It can be a straight sidewall, a curved sidewall, or a sidewall formed by bending and connecting multiple straight sidewalls.

[0055] In some embodiments, the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 may be disposed on the side of the second plug piece 20 facing the first plug piece 10 and close to the second socket 21; the cross-sectional shape of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is at least partially contoured to the inner wall of the first socket 11, such as square, rectangular, circular or irregular polygon, to achieve a good fit; the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 may be a vertical sidewall, an inner arc profile or a chamfered sidewall, etc., to provide different snap-fit ​​strengths or insertion and removal feel. The size of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is slightly larger than the inner cavity size of the first socket 11, forming an interference fit during insertion. Multiple snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 can be evenly distributed in symmetrical or opposite areas around the socket. Limiting shoulders, protruding ridges, or positioning ring ribs are provided at the bottom or outer wall of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221, which can limit the insertion depth when inserted into the first socket 11, preventing over-insertion that could lead to snap-fit ​​failure or structural deformation. The end of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 can have a barb structure, positioning protrusion, or soft locking teeth, which can be embedded in the inner wall structure of the first socket 11 after insertion to form a self-locking and anti-loosening effect. The protrusion 221 can have a beveled guide or chamfer in the insertion direction to improve insertion convenience and positioning accuracy. Multiple snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 can be arranged in an irregular or asymmetrical shape, so that the second plug piece 20 can only be inserted into the first plug piece 10 in a single direction, realizing the function of preventing incorrect assembly.

[0056] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 and 5, there are multiple snap-fit ​​protrusions 221, which are arranged sequentially and at intervals around the second socket 21. When the second connector 20 is connected to the first connector 10, each snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is interference-fitted to the corresponding position of the first socket 11. There is a gap between two adjacent snap-fit ​​protrusions 221, making it easier for each snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 to be inserted into the first socket 11 when all snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 are inserted at the same time. Even if there are certain processing tolerances in the forming of the snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 and the first socket 11, it will not cause the snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 to be unable to be inserted into the first socket 11. Moreover, the snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 in this embodiment are easier to process, resulting in a higher yield rate. In some embodiments, the structure of each snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 may be the same or different, and can be designed according to the corresponding position of the first socket 11. In some embodiments, there are two snap-fit ​​protrusions 221, respectively disposed on opposite sides of the second socket 21. Correspondingly, when the second connector 20 is fixed to the first connector 10, the two snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 are also tightly abutted against opposite sides of the first socket 11. In some embodiments, there are four snap-fit ​​protrusions 221, respectively disposed on the four sides of the second socket 21. Correspondingly, when the second connector 20 is fixed to the first connector 10, the four snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 are also tightly abutted against the four sides of the first socket 11. In some embodiments, the snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 are circumferentially closed structures surrounding the second socket 21. It can be understood that the snap-fit ​​protrusions 221 are continuous structures in the circumferential direction surrounding the second socket 21. When the second connector 20 is fixed to the first connector 10, each sidewall of the second socket 21 is tightly abutted against each other at each position of the snap-fit ​​protrusions 221. Because the contact area between the inner wall of the first socket 11 and the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 is large, the locking force between the two is large. After the snap-fit ​​protrusion 221 extends into the first socket 11, the second plug piece 20 is less likely to come loose from the first plug piece 10.

[0057] In some embodiments of this application, the first snap-fit ​​structure 22 includes a connecting portion and a hook. The two ends of the connecting portion are respectively connected to the second plug piece 20 and the hook. When the second plug piece 20 is connected to the first plug piece 10, the connecting portion passes through the first socket 11, and the hook engages with the first plug piece 10 near the first socket 11, thus causing the second plug piece 20 and the first plug piece 10 to engage with each other. In some embodiments, there are two first snap-fit ​​structures 22, which are respectively engaged with opposite sides of the first socket 11.

[0058] In some embodiments of this application, the first plug piece 10 is provided with a first latch, and the second plug piece 20 is correspondingly provided with a first locking hole. When the second plug piece 20 is in a first position state, the first latch and the first locking hole on the second plug piece 20 engage with each other. Thus, the second plug piece 20 can be latched onto the first plug piece 10. In some embodiments, the inner wall of the first socket 11 is not used to engage with the second plug piece 20; instead, the first latch on the first plug piece 10 and the first locking hole on the second plug piece 20 directly engage with each other, without being limited by the first socket 11. In some embodiments, the first plug piece 10 is provided with a first locking hole, and the second plug piece 20 is provided with a first latch. When the second plug piece 20 is in a first position state, the first latch and the first locking hole on the second plug piece 20 engage with each other.

[0059] In some embodiments of this application, the first connector 10 is provided with a first latch, and when the second connector 20 is in the first position state, the first latch engages with the edge of the second connector 20. When the second connector 20 is in the first position state, the first latch engages with the edge of the second connector 20, thus connecting the second connector 20 to the first connector 10. In this embodiment, it is not necessary to provide a locking hole on the second connector 20; the first latch engages with the second connector 20 using the edge of the second connector 20, making the structure of the second connector 20 relatively simple. In some embodiments, the second connector 20 and the first connector 10 are magnetically attracted to each other in the first position state. Specifically, the first connector 10 is provided with a first magnetic attracting element, and the second connector 20 is provided with a second magnetic attracting element, so that when the second connector 20 rotates close to the first connector 10, the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 are magnetically attracted and fixed together.

[0060] In some embodiments, the connecting part can be a plate-like or frame-like structure to enhance structural strength; the interior of the frame-like connecting part can be hollow to reduce weight and facilitate forming with the hook. A hinge-like weak zone or a movable bearing structure is provided between the connecting part and the hook; after the hook is inserted into the first socket 11, it can spring outward or rotate to lock, achieving detachability. In some embodiments, the hook is located on one side of the connecting part, snapping into one side edge of the first plug piece 10, which is simple in structure, convenient to insert and remove, and suitable for compact locations. The first socket 11 is surrounded by an annular or partial limiting groove or stepped structure for the hook to be inserted and limited; the snapping area is provided with reinforcing ribs to increase the stress surface and improve structural reliability. The first plug piece 10 is locally thickened or has a baffle near the edge of the socket to provide a hook hook base surface.

[0061] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 4 and 5, the base 50 is provided with a resting surface 51 for the second plug-in piece 20 to rest against when it rotates to the clearance position. The resting surface 51 ensures that the second plug-in piece 20 is stably held in the second position, preventing it from rotating in the opposite direction and obstructing the first socket 11. In some embodiments, the second plug-in piece 20 may not need to rest against other structures when it rotates to the clearance position. In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 4 and 5, the resting surface 51 is provided with a second snap-fit ​​structure 511. When the second plug-in piece 20 is in the second position: the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 passes through the second socket 21, causing the second plug-in piece 20 to snap onto the resting surface 51. In the second position, the second plug-in piece 20 needs to be connected to the resting surface 51, exposing the first socket 11. Specifically, the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 on the resting surface 51 snaps onto the second socket 21 of the second plug-in piece 20. By providing a second snap-fit ​​structure 511 on the docking surface 51, and by engaging the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 with the second socket 21, the second plug piece 20 can be fixed in a second position, exposing the first socket 11 for insertion of the first type of terminal 30.

[0062] In some embodiments, the outer peripheral wall of the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 is press-fitted with the inner peripheral wall of the second socket 21, thereby fixing the second connector 20 to the resting surface 51. In some embodiments, the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 includes a snap-fit ​​portion that is at least partially contoured to the second socket 21. The snap-fit ​​portion is formed by the second connector 20 protruding from the side facing the resting surface 51, and the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​portion is press-fitted with the inner wall of the second socket 21. The second snap-fit ​​structure 511 includes a snap-fit ​​portion that is at least partially contoured to the second socket 21. The shape and size of the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​portion are at least the same as the shape and size of the inner wall of the second socket 21. When the snap-fit ​​portion is inserted into the second socket 21, the snap-fit ​​portion fits snugly against the second socket 21, and the second connector 20 will not fall off the first connector 10, making the connection between the second connector 20 and the resting surface 51 more stable.

[0063] In some embodiments, there are multiple snap-fit ​​portions, which are arranged sequentially and at intervals around the second socket 21. When the second connector 20 is connected to the resting surface 51, each snap-fit ​​portion is interference-fitted to the corresponding position of the second socket 21. There is a gap between two adjacent snap-fit ​​portions, making it easier for each snap-fit ​​portion to be inserted into the second socket 21 when all snap-fit ​​portions are inserted simultaneously. Even if there are certain processing tolerances in the forming of the snap-fit ​​portion and the second socket 21, it will not cause the snap-fit ​​portion to be unable to be inserted into the second socket 21. Moreover, the snap-fit ​​portion in this embodiment is easier to process and has a higher yield rate. In some embodiments, the snap-fit ​​portion is a circumferentially closed structure. It can be understood that the snap-fit ​​portion is a continuous structure in the circumferential direction around the second socket 21. When the second connector 20 is fixed to the resting surface 51, each sidewall of the second socket 21 abuts against each position of the snap-fit ​​portion. Because the contact area between the inner wall of the second socket 21 and the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​part is large, the locking force between the two is large. After the snap-fit ​​part is inserted into the second socket 21, the second plug piece 20 is less likely to come loose from the resting surface 51.

[0064] In some embodiments of this application, the docking surface 51 is provided with a second snap-fit ​​structure 511. When the second plug-in piece 20 is in the second position state, the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 snaps into the edge of the second plug-in piece 20. In the second position state, the second plug-in piece 20 is connected to the docking surface 51 by the snap-fit ​​between the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 and the edge of the second plug-in piece 20. In some embodiments, it is not necessary to provide a snap-fit ​​hole on the second plug-in piece 20; the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 snaps into the second plug-in piece 20 using its edge, making the structure of the second plug-in piece 20 relatively simple. In some embodiments, the second plug-in piece 20 is magnetically attracted to the first plug-in piece 10 in the second position state. Specifically, the docking surface 51 is provided with a third magnetic attractor, and the second plug-in piece 20 is provided with a fourth magnetic attractor, so that when the second plug-in piece 20 rotates close to the docking surface 51, the docking surface 51 and the second plug-in piece 20 are magnetically attracted and fixed together.

[0065] In some embodiments of this application, the first connector 10 and the resting surface 51 are located on the same plane, and the second connector 20 needs to rotate 180 degrees to rotate from the first position state to the second position state. In some embodiments of this application, the first connector 10 and the resting surface 51 are set at an obtuse angle, and the second connector 20 needs to rotate 90 to 180 degrees to rotate from the first position state to the second position state. When the first connector 10 and the resting surface 51 are set at an obtuse angle, firstly, the rotation angle of the second connector 20 can be reduced, and secondly, when the angle between the first connector 10 and the resting surface 51 is large, it will not affect the insertion of the wire harness terminal.

[0066] In some embodiments, the docking surface 51 can be a planar docking surface, a raised docking surface, a recessed docking surface, or an arc-shaped guide surface. The second snap-fit ​​structure 511 is designed as a snap-fit ​​structure such as a hook, boss, or spring, which snaps into the edge of the second connector piece 20; the second snap-fit ​​structure 511 is a pop-out or telescopic pin that snaps into a preset hole / groove on the second connector piece 20.

[0067] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 1 and 5, the base 50 has a recessed structure 52, and the first connector 10 is the inner wall of the recessed structure adjacent to the resting surface 51. The recessed structure 52 is formed by the base 50, and both the recessed structure 52 and the base 50 are thin-walled structures. The first connector 10 is one of the inner walls of the recessed structure, and this inner wall of the recessed structure is adjacent to the resting surface 51. In this way, the second connector 20 can easily rotate between the first connector 10 and the resting surface 51. By providing the recessed structure 52 on the base 50, an inner wall (first connector 10) adjacent to the resting surface 51 is constructed inside the recessed structure 52, so that there is a certain angle between the first connector 10 and the resting surface 51, which facilitates the installation of the wire harness terminal, especially when the second connector 20 is connected to the resting surface 51, so as to prevent the wire harness terminal from interfering with the second connector 20. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional dimension of the recessed structure 52 gradually decreases from the base 50 to the direction away from the base 50, so that the inner wall of the recessed structure 52 is inclined relative to the base 50, and correspondingly, the first insert piece 10 and the resting surface 51 are set at an obtuse angle.

[0068] In some embodiments of this application, the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 are rotatably connected by a pivot. In some embodiments, a hinge shaft is provided at the connection point of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20, and the hinge shaft passes through the first connector 10 and the second connector 20. In some embodiments, one of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 has a protruding shaft, and the other has a recessed shaft hole. The rotatable connection of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 is achieved through the cooperation of the protruding shaft and the recessed shaft hole. In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 1 and 5, the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 are rotatably connected by a thin-walled structure. The thickness of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 is greater than the thickness of the thin-walled structure, and the thin-walled structure can be bent and deformed, so that the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 can rotate relative to each other.

[0069] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 1 and 5, the base 50, the first connector 10, and the second connector 20 are integrally formed, and the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 are rotatably connected by a thin-walled structure. The thickness of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 is greater than the thickness of the thin-walled structure, which can be bent and deformed. The integral formation of the base 50, the first connector 10, and the second connector 20 can be understood as the integral formation of the terminal plug board 100, which can be obtained in one process without subsequent installation. By setting a thin-walled structure between the first connector 10 and the second connector 20, the rotatable connection of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 is achieved, and the integral formation of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 allows the terminal plug board 100 to be integrally formed, eliminating the need for subsequent installation of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20, and allowing for direct processing and use.

[0070] Referring to Figure 6, some embodiments of this application also provide a refrigerator, which includes a cabinet structure 200 and a terminal plug-in plate 100 as described in some of the above embodiments. The cabinet structure 200 has mounting holes, and the terminal plug-in plate 100 is fixed to the mounting holes. The cabinet structure 200 can be the refrigerator's inner liner. When the terminal plug-in plate 100 is fixed to the mounting holes, it blocks the mounting holes. Regardless of whether the second plug-in piece 20 is fixed to the first plug-in piece 10 or the resting surface 51, no other sealing structure is required for additional sealing. The refrigerator provided in some embodiments of this application uses the aforementioned terminal plug-in plate 100. The terminal plug-in plate 100 includes a base 50, a first plug-in piece 10, and a second plug-in piece 20. The first plug-in piece 10 and the second plug-in piece 20 are respectively provided with a first socket 11 and a second socket 21. When it is necessary to fix the second type of terminal 40, the second plug piece 20 rotates to be close to the first plug piece 10, the first socket 11 is blocked, and the second socket 21 is exposed. The second type of terminal 40 is then inserted and fixed into the second socket 21. When it is necessary to fix the first type of terminal 30, the second plug piece 20 rotates to a recessed position, the first socket 11 is exposed, and the first type of terminal 30 is inserted into the first socket 11. In this way, the terminal block 100 can accommodate two different types of terminals, but occupies a small volume. The terminal block and the housing are not easily deformed. Moreover, after using one socket, the other remaining socket does not need to be sealed, nor does it require a sealing structure.

[0071] In some embodiments of this application, a sealing element is provided between the terminal block 100 and the housing structure 200 to seal the gap between them. In some embodiments, the sealing element is sealing foam. In some embodiments, the sealing element has a double-sided adhesive structure, with one side of the sealing element adhered to the terminal block 100 and the other side adhered to the housing structure 200. In some embodiments, a sealing element is provided between the first plug-in plate of the terminal block 100 and the housing structure 200.

[0072] Some embodiments of this application also provide a household appliance, which includes the terminal plug board 100 in any of the above embodiments. The household appliance may be a refrigerator, washing machine, air conditioner, dishwasher, etc. The household appliance provided in some embodiments of this application adopts the above-mentioned terminal plug board 100. The terminal plug board 100 includes a base 50, a first plug piece 10 and a second plug piece 20. The first plug piece 10 and the second plug piece 20 are respectively provided with a first socket 11 and a second socket 21. When it is necessary to fix a second type of terminal 40, the second plug piece 20 is rotated to be close to the first plug piece 10, the first socket 11 is blocked, and the second socket 21 is exposed. The second type of terminal 40 is inserted and fixed in the second socket 21. When it is necessary to fix a first type of terminal 30, the second plug piece 20 is rotated to a clearance position, the first socket 11 is exposed, and the first type of terminal 30 is inserted in the first socket 11. In this way, the terminal block 100 can be equipped with two different types of terminals, but it occupies a small volume. The terminal block and the box are not easily deformed. Moreover, after using one of the sockets, the other remaining socket does not need to be sealed, nor does it need to be designed with a sealing structure.

[0073] The above description is merely some embodiments of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A terminal block, comprising: Base; A first connector piece is disposed on the base, and the first connector piece has a first socket for fixing a first type of terminal; as well as The second connector is rotatably connected to the base, and the second connector has a second socket for fixing a second type of terminal; The second connector has a first position state and a second position state; The first position state is when the second plug piece is rotated to abut against the first plug piece, and the second plug piece covers at least part of the periphery of the first socket, at which time the second socket is used to plug in the second type of terminal; The second position state is when the second connector is rotated to a clearance position so that the first socket of the first connector is exposed, at which time the first socket is used to plug in the first type of terminal.

2. The terminal block as described in claim 1, wherein, The first socket and the second socket at least partially overlap.

3. The terminal block as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The base is provided with a resting surface so that the second plug piece can rest against it when it rotates to the clearance position.

4. The terminal block as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second connector has a first snap-fit ​​structure near the second socket for snapping into the inner wall of the first socket.

5. The terminal block as described in claim 4, wherein, The first snap-fit ​​structure includes a snap-fit ​​protrusion that is at least partially contoured to the first socket. The snap-fit ​​protrusion is formed by the second plug-in piece facing the side of the first plug-in piece, and the outer wall of the snap-fit ​​protrusion is interference-fitted with the inner wall of the first socket.

6. The terminal block as described in claim 5, wherein, The number of the snap-fit ​​protrusions is multiple, and they are arranged at intervals around the second socket; or, The snap-fit ​​protrusion is a circumferentially closed structure surrounding the second insertion hole.

7. The terminal block as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first connector is provided with a first latch, and the second connector is in the first position state: The first latch engages with the first locking hole on the second connector piece; or... The first clip engages with the edge of the second connector piece.

8. The terminal block as described in claim 3, wherein, The docking surface is provided with a second snap-fit ​​structure, and the second plug-in piece is in the second position state as follows: The second snap-fit ​​structure passes through the second socket to snap the second connector piece into the resting surface; or, the second snap-fit ​​structure snaps into the edge of the second connector piece.

9. The terminal block as described in any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The base, the first connector piece, and the second connector piece are integrally formed, and the first connector piece and the second connector piece are rotatably connected by a thin-walled structure.

10. A refrigerator, comprising a cabinet structure and a terminal plug-in board according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the cabinet structure has mounting holes and the terminal plug-in board is fixed to the mounting holes.

11. A household appliance comprising the terminal block as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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