Ice-making device and cold beverage apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an ice-making device and a cold beverage apparatus. The ice-making device comprises a liner, a feeding mechanism, an evaporator, and a sealing assembly; the liner and the feeding mechanism are detachably mounted on a housing of the cold beverage apparatus, separately; a chamber is defined between the liner and the feeding mechanism; the evaporator is rotatably mounted in the chamber, and is used for preparing a cold beverage product; the sealing assembly comprises a first sealing member and a second sealing member, the first sealing member is arranged on the liner, the second sealing member is arranged on the feeding mechanism, and the first sealing member and the second sealing member define a sealing structure for sealing a gap between the chamber and the evaporator. When the liner and the feeding mechanism are removed for cleaning, the first sealing member and the second sealing member can be simultaneously removed from the evaporator for replacement or maintenance, and the split-type design enables individual sealing members to be separately replaced upon wear, eliminating the need to replace the entire sealing assembly and reducing costs.

Description

Ice making equipment and cold drink equipment

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This disclosure claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2025109627577, filed on July 11, 2025, entitled "An Evaporator and a Cold Drink Device";

[0003] Priority is given to Chinese Patent Application No. 2025215736469, filed on July 25, 2025, entitled “A sealing device for a cold drink device and a cold drink device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure relates to the technical field of ice making, and particularly to an ice making apparatus and a cold drink device. Background Technology

[0005] With the upgrading of consumption and the development of food processing technology, the popularity of cold drink equipment in homes, restaurants, and commercial settings is increasing. This type of equipment completes the process of making slushies, slushies, and other cold drinks through an ice-making chamber. The ice-making chamber of existing cold drink facilities generally adopts a composite structure of "outer shell + evaporator drum". That is, the evaporator drum, as the core refrigeration component, is set inside the ice-making chamber enclosed by the outer shell. Through the evaporator, it comes into contact with liquids such as juice and milk, absorbs the heat from the liquid, and causes the liquid to freeze quickly to form slushies.

[0006] In cold beverage facilities, the evaporation drum is rotatably mounted on both sides of the ice-making chamber. A drive motor located outside the ice-making chamber drives the evaporation drum to rotate, thus preparing shaved ice. During the shaved ice making process, to prevent leakage of water from the raw materials or shaved ice after melting through the gap between the evaporation drum and the ice-making chamber, sealing rings are installed at both ends of the evaporation drum. These sealing rings are located at the end shaft of the evaporation drum and on the inner wall of the outer casing, forming a shaft seal. This sealing structure design effectively prevents water from the raw materials or shaved ice after melting from leaking to the outside of the ice-making chamber.

[0007] However, currently used sealing rings are generally of a one-piece structure. Because these rings wear down over time, their sealing effect decreases or they fail, requiring periodic replacement. This design makes replacement extremely cumbersome. The sealing ring is fitted onto the outside of the end shaft of the evaporator drum, which is rotatably mounted on both sides of the ice-making chamber and connected to the drive motor. To replace the sealing ring, the entire evaporator drum must be removed from the ice-making chamber before the old sealing ring can be removed, the new one fitted, and the drum reinstalled. This process not only consumes a significant amount of time and manpower but also risks unnecessary damage to the evaporator drum, the inner wall of the ice-making chamber, or other related components during disassembly and reinstallation, further increasing maintenance costs and the risk of equipment failure. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This disclosure provides an ice-making apparatus for a cold beverage device, comprising an inner liner, a feeding mechanism, an evaporator, and a sealing assembly. The inner liner and the feeding mechanism are detachably mounted on the housing of the cold beverage device, forming a chamber between the inner liner and the feeding mechanism. The evaporator is installed within the chamber and configured to rotate for preparing cold beverage products. The sealing assembly includes a first sealing element and a second sealing element. The first sealing element is disposed on the inner liner, and the second sealing element is disposed on the feeding mechanism. The first sealing element and the second sealing element form a sealing structure for sealing the gap between the chamber and the evaporator.

[0009] Furthermore, the first seal is detachably connected to the inner liner, and the second seal is detachably connected to the feeding mechanism.

[0010] Furthermore, the first sealing element includes a first sealing element body and a first sealing portion. One end of the first sealing element body is radially recessed to form a first recess for wrapping the upper part of the evaporator. The first sealing portion is a flange formed by extending the first sealing element body outward along the circumferential contour of the first recess.

[0011] Furthermore, the second seal includes a second seal body and a second sealing portion; one side of the second seal body is radially recessed to form a second recess for wrapping the lower part of the evaporator; the second sealing portion is a flange formed by the second seal body extending outward along the circumferential contour of the second recess.

[0012] The first recess and the second recess together form a sealed mounting cavity.

[0013] Furthermore, the end faces of the first seal at both ends of the first recess are first contact surfaces, which are used to contact the second seal; the end faces of the second seal at both ends of the second recess are second contact surfaces, which are used to contact the first seal.

[0014] Both the first contact surface and the second contact surface are planar.

[0015] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of both the first sealing part and the second sealing part is arc-shaped, and both the first recess and the second recess are semi-circular.

[0016] Furthermore, both sides of the inner liner are provided with a first mounting portion for installing the first sealing element; the first mounting portion is provided with a first mounting groove with an opening facing the evaporator, the shape and size of the first mounting groove are adapted to the body of the first sealing element, and the body of the first sealing element can be detachably installed inside the first mounting groove.

[0017] Furthermore, the feeding mechanism is provided with a second mounting part on each side for installing the second seal; the second mounting part is provided with a second mounting groove with an opening facing the evaporator, the shape and size of the second mounting groove are adapted to the body of the second seal, and the body of the second seal can be detachably installed inside the second mounting groove.

[0018] Furthermore, after the feeding mechanism and the inner liner are both assembled into the housing of the cold drink equipment, the position of the second mounting part corresponds to the position of the first mounting part, and the first mounting part and the second mounting part are in contact with each other so that the first sealing member and the second sealing member abut against each other.

[0019] Furthermore, the first sealing element also includes a plurality of first connecting members, one end of each of the plurality of first connecting members being fixedly connected to the side of the first sealing element body away from the first sealing portion, and the other end being detachably connected to the first mounting portion; the first sealing element body is provided with first positioning portions on both sides, and the first mounting groove is provided with first positioning grooves on both sides that are adapted to the first positioning portions, and the first positioning portions are detachably installed in the first positioning grooves.

[0020] Furthermore, the first connector includes a first snap-fit ​​portion, a first limiting portion, and a first guide portion connected in sequence, the first snap-fit ​​portion being fixedly connected to the first sealing body; the first mounting portion is provided with a plurality of first snap-fit ​​holes, the first snap-fit ​​holes being connected to the first mounting groove; the first connector is snapped into the first mounting portion through the cooperation between the first snap-fit ​​portion, the first limiting portion, the first guide portion, and the first snap-fit ​​holes.

[0021] Furthermore, the diameter and length of the first snap-fit ​​portion are adapted to the diameter and depth of the first snap-fit ​​hole, respectively; the diameter of the first limiting portion is larger than the diameter of the first snap-fit ​​hole; and the diameter of the first guide portion is smaller than the diameter of the first snap-fit ​​hole. The first guide portion and the first limiting portion pass through the first snap-fit ​​hole and snap onto the outside of the second mounting portion.

[0022] Furthermore, the second sealing element also includes a plurality of second connecting members, one end of each of the plurality of second connecting members being fixedly connected to the side of the second sealing element body away from the second sealing portion, and the other end being detachably connected to the second mounting portion; the second sealing element body is provided with second positioning posts on both sides, and the second mounting groove is provided with second positioning grooves on both sides that are adapted to the second positioning posts, and the second positioning posts are detachably installed in the second positioning grooves.

[0023] Furthermore, the second connector includes a second snap-fit ​​portion, a second limiting portion, and a second guide portion connected in sequence; the second snap-fit ​​portion and the second sealing body are fixedly connected; the second mounting portion is provided with a plurality of second snap-fit ​​holes, the second snap-fit ​​holes and the second mounting groove are connected; the second connector engages with the second mounting portion through the cooperation between the second snap-fit ​​portion, the second limiting portion, the second guide portion and the second snap-fit ​​holes.

[0024] Furthermore, the diameter and length of the second snap-fit ​​portion are adapted to the diameter and depth of the second snap-fit ​​hole, respectively; the diameter of the second limiting portion is larger than the diameter of the second snap-fit ​​hole; and the diameter of the second guide portion is smaller than the diameter of the second snap-fit ​​hole. The second limiting portion and the second guide portion pass through the second snap-fit ​​hole and snap onto the outside of the second mounting portion.

[0025] Furthermore, the evaporator includes an evaporating cylinder and a return gas pipe and a connecting pipe communicating with the evaporating cylinder, wherein the evaporating cylinder is connected to the return gas pipe and the connecting pipe respectively.

[0026] The evaporator is provided with an evaporation chamber. The return gas pipe is connected to an external compressor. The return gas section of the return gas pipe is connected to the evaporator and communicates with the evaporation chamber. The connecting pipe is connected to an external condenser or throttling device. The spray section of the connecting pipe is connected to the return gas section and communicates with the evaporation chamber.

[0027] The evaporator is equipped with an oil return component. The outlet end of the oil return component can communicate with the gas return section. The inlet end of the oil return component is close to the inner wall of the evaporator. The oil return component can rotate with the evaporator. When the inlet end of the oil return component rotates to the bottom of the evaporator, the lubricating oil at the bottom of the evaporator is collected into the gas return pipe and returned to the external compressor.

[0028] Furthermore, the outlet end of the oil return component is located in the middle of the end of the evaporator cylinder, and the inlet end of the oil return component is located on the peripheral edge of the end of the evaporator cylinder.

[0029] Furthermore, the side wall of the return gas section is provided with a return gas hole, all or part of which is located in the evaporation chamber, and the oil return component is provided on the side of the return gas hole, and the outlet end of the oil return component can communicate with the return gas hole.

[0030] Furthermore, one end of the evaporator is provided with a first side cover, which can rotate with the evaporator. The outlet end of the oil return component is located in the middle of the first side cover, and the inlet end of the oil return component is located on the peripheral edge of the first side cover. The oil return component can rotate with the first side cover.

[0031] Furthermore, an oil collection groove is provided on one side of the oil return component, and a hook-shaped groove is provided at one end of the oil return component located on the peripheral edge of the first side cover. The hook-shaped groove extends outward from the side of the oil return component and forms a concave structure in the shape of a "7" or an arc at the end. The hook-shaped groove is connected to the oil collection groove. When the first side cover rotates, the hook-shaped groove can scoop compressor oil into the oil collection groove.

[0032] Furthermore, when the evaporator drives the oil return component to rotate, one end of the oil return component located in the middle of the first side cover can correspond to the position of the air return hole, and the end of the oil collection groove can communicate with the air return hole.

[0033] Furthermore, the first side cover is also provided with a side fixing platform, which protrudes from the side of the first side cover and surrounds the periphery of the return air pipe. One side of the side fixing platform is provided with a clearance groove, the position of which corresponds to the position of the return air hole. One end of the oil return component located in the middle of the first side cover is provided in the clearance groove or on the side of the clearance groove. The oil collection groove can communicate with the clearance groove.

[0034] Furthermore, both the ejection section and the return section are inserted into the evaporation chamber, the ejection section is located within the return section, and the return section is slidably sealed to the first side cover.

[0035] Furthermore, the ejection section includes an ejection connection end and an ejection communication end located within the evaporation chamber, and the return gas section includes a return gas connection end and a return gas communication end located within the evaporation chamber. The ejection connection end is fixed to the return gas connection end, and the ejection communication end passes through the return gas section and is connected to the return gas connection end.

[0036] Furthermore, the return air pipe also includes a support section, one end of which is connected to an external compressor, and the other end of which is connected to the side of the return air connection end. Part of the connecting pipe is spirally wound in the support section, and the ejection connection end enters the return air section from the end of the return air connection end.

[0037] Furthermore, the end of the return gas connection is provided with a cap, the ejection connection passes through the cap from the return gas section and communicates with the evaporation chamber, and the ejection connection extends from the middle of the evaporation cylinder toward the side wall of the evaporation cylinder.

[0038] Furthermore, the evaporator also includes a mounting assembly, which includes a mounting plate, a bearing, and a connecting shaft. The mounting plate has a first mounting hole, the outer ring of the bearing is fixed in the first mounting hole, one end of the connecting shaft is fixed to the inner ring of the bearing, and the other end of the connecting shaft is connected to the end of the evaporator cylinder opposite to the first side cover. The mounting plate can be fixed to the outer shell of the cold drink equipment.

[0039] Furthermore, the evaporator also includes a second side cover, which is disposed at one end of the evaporator opposite to the first side cover. The ejection section and the return section both pass through the first side cover and are located inside the evaporation chamber. The end of the ejection section is disposed on the side of the second side cover, and the end of the return section is disposed on the side of the first side cover.

[0040] Accordingly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a cold drink device, including the ice-making device described above for a cold drink device.

[0041] The above-disclosed technical solution has the following beneficial technical effects:

[0042] 1. In this embodiment of the present disclosure, the evaporator is provided with an evaporating cylinder, a return pipe and a connecting pipe, wherein the evaporating cylinder is provided with an evaporation chamber. After the external compressor introduces refrigerant into the external condenser, the refrigerant enters the evaporating cylinder through the connecting pipe for evaporation and refrigeration. During this process, the evaporating cylinder rotates to make ice, and the evaporated refrigerant returns to the compressor through the return pipe to form a cycle. The lubricating oil that enters the evaporator along with the refrigerant will remain inside the evaporator and collect at the bottom. The evaporator is equipped with an oil return component. When the inlet end of the oil return port moves to a high position, the outlet end of the oil return component can communicate with the gas return section. The inlet end of the oil return component is close to the inner wall of the evaporator. The oil return component can rotate with the evaporator. Each time it rotates, the oil return component passes through the bottom of the evaporator and scrapes up the lubricating oil on the bottom inner wall. When it rotates to a high position, under the action of gravity, the lubricating oil can flow into the gas return section along the oil return component, thus forming an oil return. After repeated rotation and oil scraping, a high-efficiency oil return can be formed, ensuring the normal operation of the compressor and preventing lubricating oil from remaining at the bottom of the evaporator, thus ensuring the heat transfer efficiency of the evaporator. In addition, the oil return component is located inside the evaporator and does not occupy external space, which can save space, reduce volume, and meet the needs of household cold drink equipment.

[0043] 2. In this embodiment, the sealing assembly consists of a first sealing element and a second sealing element, which are respectively installed on the removable inner liner and the feeding mechanism. The sealing structure formed by the first and second sealing elements not only reliably seals the gap between the chamber and the evaporator, but also significantly simplifies the replacement process of the sealing assembly. When the sealing assembly needs to be replaced, it is not necessary to remove the evaporator from the chamber. The first and second sealing elements can be removed from the evaporator simultaneously while the inner liner and feeding mechanism are being disassembled for cleaning. This allows for easy inspection of the wear condition of the first and second sealing elements, and allows for replacement of severely worn elements. This design significantly saves time and labor costs associated with replacement. Furthermore, the split design allows for individual replacement of worn sealing elements without replacing the entire sealing assembly, further improving the convenience and economy of seal maintenance and ensuring the sealing performance of the equipment during long-term use. Simultaneously, this split structure facilitates thorough cleaning of the first and second sealing elements, preventing material residue from affecting the sealing effect and equipment hygiene.

[0044] Furthermore, by avoiding the complete disassembly and reinstallation of the evaporator, the possibility of unnecessary damage to the evaporator, the inner wall of the chamber, and other related components during operation is reduced, thereby lowering equipment maintenance costs and the risk of failure due to component damage. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a sealing device for a cold drink equipment according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the sealing device at the sealing assembly in the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

[0047] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the sealing component in the sealing device of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

[0048] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the sealing device in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, after the second sealing element is installed behind the feeding mechanism;

[0049] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of point S in Figure 4;

[0050] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ice-making apparatus according to the second embodiment of this disclosure;

[0051] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the disassembled structure of the evaporator according to the third embodiment of this disclosure;

[0052] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the rotational movement of the oil scraper according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0053] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of the oil scraper and the vent hole according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure.

[0054] Figure 10 is a magnified view of part A in Figure 9;

[0055] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the evaporator according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0056] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the evaporator according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure.

[0057] Reference numerals: 1. Inner liner; 2. Feeding mechanism; 3. Sealing assembly; 4. Chamber; 5. Evaporator; 11. First mounting part; 21. Second mounting part; 31. First seal; 32. Second seal; 33. Sealing mounting cavity; 111. First mounting groove; 112. First snap-fit ​​hole; 113. First positioning groove; 211. Second mounting groove; 212. Second snap-fit ​​hole; 213. Second positioning groove; 311. First seal body; 312. First sealing part; 313. 314. First connecting member; 315. First positioning part; 316. First recess; 321. First contact surface; 322. Second sealing part; 323. Second connecting member; 324. Second positioning post; 325. Second recess; 326. Second contact surface; 3131. First snap-fit ​​part; 3132. First limiting part; 3133. First guide part; 3231. Second snap-fit ​​part; 3232. Second limiting part; 3233. Second guide part; 51. Evaporator; 52. Gas return pipe; 53. Connecting pipe; 54. Oil return component; 55. Mounting assembly; 511. Evaporation chamber; 512. First side cover; 513. Side fixing platform; 514. Second side cover; 5131. Clearance groove; 521. Gas return section; 5211. Gas return hole; 5212. Gas return connection end; 5213. Gas return connecting end; 522. Support section; 523. Sealing cap; 531. Spray section; 5311. Spray connection end; 5312. Spray connecting end; 541. Oil collection groove; 542. Hook-shaped groove; 551. Mounting plate; 552. Bearing; 553. Coupling shaft; 5511. First mounting hole. Detailed Implementation

[0058] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the disclosure will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these descriptions are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concepts of this disclosure. In this document, terms such as first, second, and third are used only to distinguish one feature from another and are not intended to claim or imply any order or relationship between these features.

[0059] As shown in Figures 1 to 6, the embodiments of this disclosure provide a sealing device for a cold beverage equipment, including an inner liner 1, a feeding mechanism 2, and a sealing assembly 3. The inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2 are respectively installed inside the housing of the cold beverage equipment (not shown in the figures). The inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2 enclose a chamber 4, and the inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2 can be repeatedly disassembled from the housing of the cold beverage equipment. An evaporator 5 is rotatably installed in the chamber 4, and a rotating shaft on one side of the evaporator 5 passes through the chamber 4 and is connected to an external drive motor. The evaporator 5 rotates in the chamber 4 to prepare cold beverage products such as smoothies or ice cream. The sealing assembly 3 includes a first sealing element 31 and a second sealing element 32. The first sealing element 31 is disposed on the inner liner 1, and the second sealing element 32 is disposed on the feeding mechanism 2. The first sealing element 31 and the second sealing element 32 enclose a sealing structure, which is used to seal the gap between the chamber 4 and the evaporator 5. The first sealing element 31 is detachably connected to the inner liner 1, that is, a groove adapted to the first sealing element 31 is provided on the inner liner 1, and the first sealing element 31 is partially embedded in the groove for limiting and fixing. Similarly, the second sealing element 32 is detachably connected to the feeding mechanism 2; or, the first sealing element 31 can be glued to the inner liner 1, and the second sealing element 32 can be glued to the feeding mechanism 2.

[0060] This embodiment of the sealing device for a cold drink equipment completely changes the traditional integrated sealing ring structure where the sealing assembly 3 is fitted onto the end shaft of the evaporator cylinder, by splitting the sealing component 3 into a first sealing element 31 and a second sealing element 32, which are respectively installed on the detachable inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2. This significantly simplifies the replacement process of the sealing elements. In this embodiment, both ends of the evaporator are rotatably mounted on the inner shell of the cold drink equipment through the chamber 4, and one end of the evaporator is connected to the drive motor. When the sealing assembly 3 needs to be replaced, it is not necessary to remove the entire evaporator cylinder from the chamber 4. Only the inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2 need to be removed, and the first sealing element 31 and the second sealing element 32 can be removed from the evaporator at the same time. This allows for the observation of the wear condition of the first sealing element 31 and the second sealing element 32 while cleaning the inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2, and the replacement of the first sealing element 31 or the second sealing element 32 with severe wear. This design significantly saves the time and labor costs required for replacement. Meanwhile, this split structure also facilitates the cleaning of the first seal 31 or the second seal 32. During use, the first seal 31 can be removed with the inner liner 1, and the second seal 32 can be removed with the feeding mechanism 2. While cleaning the inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2, it is convenient to thoroughly clean the two seals, avoiding the impact of raw material residue on the sealing effect and equipment hygiene.

[0061] By avoiding the complete disassembly and reinstallation of the evaporator, the possibility of unnecessary damage to the evaporator, the inner wall of chamber 4, and other related components during operation is reduced, thereby lowering equipment maintenance costs and the risk of failure due to component damage. Furthermore, the annular sealing structure formed by the first seal 31 and the second seal 32 can reliably seal the gap between chamber 4 and the evaporator, effectively preventing water leakage after the raw materials or ice melt during long-term use. The modular design allows for individual seal replacement after wear, eliminating the need to replace the entire sealing assembly 3, further improving the convenience and economy of seal maintenance and ensuring the sealing performance of the equipment during long-term use.

[0062] In one embodiment, the first seal 31 includes a first seal body 311 and a first seal portion 312, wherein one end of the first seal body 311 is radially recessed to form a first recess 315 for wrapping the upper part of the evaporator;

[0063] The first sealing portion 312 is a flange formed by the first sealing element body 311 extending outward along the circumferential contour of the first recess 315. The first sealing portion 312 allows the first sealing element 31 to make sealing contact with the upper surface of the evaporator. The two sides of the first sealing portion 312 protrude from the two sides of the first sealing element body 311, which can expand the sealing coverage area, reduce gaps caused by assembly errors between the evaporator and the chamber 4 or slight axial movement during operation, and improve sealing redundancy.

[0064] In one embodiment, the second seal 32 includes a second seal body 321 and a second seal portion 322; one side of the second seal body 321 is radially recessed to form a second recess 325 for wrapping the lower part of the evaporator;

[0065] The second sealing part 322 is a flange formed by the second sealing body 321 extending outward along the circumferential contour of the second recess 325. Since the two sides of the second sealing part 322 protrude from the two sides of the second sealing body 321 respectively, the sealing coverage can be expanded, the gaps caused by assembly errors between the evaporator and the chamber 4 or slight axial movement during operation can be reduced, and the sealing redundancy can be improved.

[0066] The first recess 315 and the second recess 325 enclose a sealed mounting cavity 33. The rotating shaft of the evaporator 5 is rotatably mounted in the sealed mounting cavity 33, and the first sealing part 312 and the second sealing part 322 respectively contact the rotating shaft surface of the evaporator, thereby achieving the function of sealing the gap between the chamber 4 and the evaporator.

[0067] In one embodiment, the end faces of the first sealing member 31 located at both ends of the first recess 315 are the first contact surfaces 316, and the first contact surfaces 316 are used to contact the second sealing member 32.

[0068] The end faces of the second sealing member 32 located at both ends of the second recess 325 are the second contact surfaces 326, which are used to contact the first sealing member 31; both the first contact surface 316 and the second contact surface 326 are planar.

[0069] By making both the first contact surface 316 and the second contact surface 326 flat, it is beneficial to make the connection between the first seal 31 and the second seal 32 fit more tightly, thereby further improving the sealing effect.

[0070] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the first sealing part 312 and the second sealing part 322 is arc-shaped, which allows the first sealing part and the second sealing part to fit more closely to the surface of the evaporator and form a good sealing contact.

[0071] In one embodiment, both the first recess 315 and the second recess 325 are semi-circular. Since the evaporator's shaft is typically cylindrical, the semi-circular shape of the first and second recesses allows them to enclose and form a circular, sealed mounting cavity that matches the evaporator's shaft.

[0072] In one embodiment, the inner liner 1 has first mounting portions 11 on both sides for mounting the first sealing element 31; the first mounting portion 11 has a first mounting groove 111 with an opening facing the evaporator, the shape and size of the first mounting groove 111 being adapted to the first sealing element body 311, and the first sealing element body 311 being detachably mounted inside the first mounting groove 111. The shape and size of the first mounting groove 111 are respectively matched with the shape and size of the first sealing element body 311, so that the first sealing element body 311 can be precisely mounted inside the first mounting groove 111.

[0073] The first sealing element body 311 is installed inside the first mounting groove 111, providing a stable mounting base for the first sealing element 31. This effectively limits its displacement during equipment operation, preventing positional shifts caused by evaporator rotation and other actions that could affect the sealing effect and enhance the stability of the sealing structure. Furthermore, since the first sealing element 31 protrudes from both sides of the first mounting portion 11, and the first sealing portion 312 is located outside the first mounting groove 111, it can better fit the evaporator cylinder, further preventing leakage from the gap between the chamber 4 and the evaporator. Moreover, during evaporator rotation, it first contacts the elastic first sealing element 31 rather than directly impacting the rigid first mounting portion 11, reducing impact wear during evaporator rotation, lowering equipment operating noise, and preventing damage to the first mounting portion 11 from direct impact, thus extending the equipment's service life and ensuring smooth evaporator rotation.

[0074] Furthermore, this structural design makes the disassembly and installation of the first seal 31 more targeted. The fit between the main body 311 of the first seal and the first mounting groove 111 facilitates quick positioning and operation. When replacing or cleaning the first seal 31, disassembly and assembly can be completed more easily, further reducing maintenance time and labor costs. At the same time, the first sealing part 312, protruding from the first mounting groove 111, has a better contact area and fit when forming a seal with the second seal 32. It can adapt to slight vibrations or displacements during equipment operation, ensuring sealing reliability during long-term use and reducing the risk of equipment failure due to sealing problems.

[0075] In one embodiment, the feeding mechanism 2 has second mounting portions 21 on both sides for mounting the second sealing element 32; the second mounting portion 21 has a second mounting groove 211 with an opening facing the evaporator, the shape and size of the second mounting groove 211 being adapted to the body 321 of the second sealing element, and the body 321 of the second sealing element being detachably mounted inside the second mounting groove 211. The effect of this structural design is the same as that of the first sealing element 31 described above, so it will not be repeated here;

[0076] It is worth noting that after the feeding mechanism 2 and the inner liner 1 are both assembled into the shell of the cold drink equipment, the position of the second mounting part 21 corresponds to the position of the first mounting part 11, and the first mounting part and the second mounting part are in contact with each other so that the first sealing member 31 and the second sealing member 32 abut against each other; or the gap between the first mounting part 11 and the second mounting part 21 is very small, the first contact surface of the first sealing member 31 protrudes from the first mounting part 11, the second contact surface of the second sealing member 32 protrudes from the second mounting part 21, and the first contact surface 316 and the second contact surface 326 abut against each other, so that the first sealing member 31 and the second sealing member 32 are in close contact and form an annular sealing structure.

[0077] In one embodiment, the first contact surface 316 may protrude from the first mounting portion 11, and the second contact surface 326 may also protrude from the second mounting portion 21. After the feeding mechanism 2 and the inner liner 1 are both assembled into the shell of the cold drink equipment, by controlling the installation position of the feeding mechanism 2 and the inner liner 1, the first seal and the second seal can press against each other to form a tighter connection and a better sealing effect.

[0078] Specifically, a fixing groove (not shown in the figure) for installing the inner liner 1 can be provided inside the shell of the cold drink equipment. The inner liner 1 is inserted into the fixing groove, and a limiting rib or other structure can be provided on the outside of the inner liner 1 to ensure that the inner liner 1 can be firmly fixed in the fixing groove. The feeding mechanism 2 is installed below the evaporator and is installed in conjunction with the inner liner 1. By limiting the installation position of the feeding mechanism 2, the first mounting part 11 and the second mounting part 21 can be arranged opposite each other and the cooperation relationship between them can be controlled (such as contact or leaving a small gap).

[0079] Furthermore, one end of the feeding mechanism 2 is detachably mounted on the inner liner 1, and the other end is detachably mounted on the housing of the beverage equipment. That is, one end of the feeding mechanism 2 is detachably connected to the inner liner 1, and the other end is detachably connected to the housing of the beverage equipment. This detachable connection can be, for example, a snap-fit ​​or plug-in connection. For instance, a locking block can be provided on the feeding mechanism 2, and a corresponding matching slot can be provided on the housing or inner liner 1 of the beverage equipment to facilitate the disassembly of the feeding mechanism 2. By controlling the installation position of the feeding mechanism 2, the first mounting part 11 and the second mounting part 21 can be brought into contact, and the first sealing element and the second sealing element can abut against each other.

[0080] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 31 further includes a plurality of first connecting members 313, one end of each of the plurality of first connecting members 313 being fixedly connected to the side of the first sealing member body 311 away from the first sealing part 312, and the other end being detachably connected to the first mounting part 11. The first sealing member 31 and the first mounting part 11 can be detachably connected through the first connecting members 313.

[0081] The first sealing element body 311 has a first positioning part 314 on each side, and the first mounting groove 111 has a first positioning groove 113 on each side that is adapted to the first positioning part 314. The first positioning part 314 is installed in the first positioning groove 113. The first positioning part 314 and the first positioning groove 113 are adapted to each other and are installed together, which makes the first sealing element 31 more securely installed, which is conducive to improving the sealing reliability and optimizing the performance of the sealing device in conjunction with other structures.

[0082] In one embodiment, the first connector 313 includes a first snap-fit ​​portion 3131, a first limiting portion 3132, and a first guide portion 3133 connected in sequence; the first snap-fit ​​portion 3131 is fixedly connected to the first sealing body 311; the first mounting portion 11 is provided with a plurality of first snap-fit ​​holes 112, the first snap-fit ​​holes 112 communicating with the first mounting groove 111; the diameter and length of the first snap-fit ​​portion 3131 are respectively adapted to the diameter and depth of the first snap-fit ​​hole 112, the diameter of the first limiting portion 3132 is larger than the diameter of the first snap-fit ​​hole 112, and the diameter of the first guide portion 3133 is smaller than the diameter of the first snap-fit ​​hole 112; the first limiting portion 3132 and the first guide portion 3133 pass through the first snap-fit ​​hole 112 and snap onto the outside of the first mounting portion 11. The diameter and length of the first snap-fit ​​portion 3131 are adapted to the first snap-fit ​​hole 112 to ensure a tight connection after insertion and prevent loosening. The small diameter of the first guide portion 3133 facilitates guiding the entire assembly through the first snap-fit ​​hole 112, improving installation smoothness. The large diameter of the first limiting portion 3132, after passing through the first snap-fit ​​hole 112, snaps onto the outside of the first mounting portion 11, firmly limiting it from the outside and preventing the first seal 31 from falling off, thus enhancing installation stability. Due to the overall structural design of the first seal 31, its installation and removal can be completed without tools, further simplifying the maintenance process and saving time and effort in the installation and removal of the first seal 31, while balancing installation firmness and ease of operation.

[0083] In one embodiment, the second sealing member 32 further includes a plurality of second connecting members 323, one end of each of the plurality of second connecting members 323 being fixedly connected to the side of the second sealing member body 321 away from the second sealing part 322, and the other end being detachably connected to the second mounting part 21. The second sealing member 322 and the second mounting part 21 can be detachably connected through the second connecting members 323.

[0084] The second sealing element body 321 has second positioning posts 324 on both sides, and the second mounting groove 211 has second positioning grooves 213 on both sides that are adapted to the second positioning posts 324. The second positioning posts 324 are installed in the second positioning grooves 213. The cooperation between the second positioning posts 324 and the second positioning grooves 213 further defines the installation position of the second sealing element body 321, making the installation of the second sealing element body 321 more stable, which is conducive to improving the sealing reliability and optimizing the performance of the sealing device in conjunction with other structures.

[0085] In one embodiment, the second connector 323 includes a second snap-fit ​​portion 3231, a second limiting portion 3232, and a second guide portion 3233 connected in sequence; the second snap-fit ​​portion 3231 and the second sealing body 321 are fixedly connected; the second mounting portion 21 is provided with a plurality of second snap-fit ​​holes 212, the second snap-fit ​​holes 212 and the second mounting groove 211 are connected; the diameter and length of the second snap-fit ​​portion 3231 are adapted to the diameter and depth of the second snap-fit ​​holes 212, the diameter of the second limiting portion 3232 is larger than the diameter of the second snap-fit ​​hole 212, the diameter of the second guide portion 3233 is smaller than the diameter of the second snap-fit ​​hole 212, and the second limiting portion 3232 and the second guide portion 3233 pass through the second snap-fit ​​hole 212 and snap onto the outside of the second mounting portion 21.

[0086] The diameter and length of the second snap-fit ​​portion 3231 are adapted to the second snap-fit ​​hole 212 to ensure a tight connection after insertion and prevent loosening. The small diameter of the second guide portion 3233 facilitates guiding the entire assembly through the second snap-fit ​​hole 212, improving installation smoothness. The large diameter of the second limiting portion 3232, after passing through the second snap-fit ​​hole 212, snaps onto the outside of the second mounting portion 21, firmly limiting it from the outside and preventing the second mounting portion 21 from falling off, thus enhancing installation stability. Due to the overall structural design of the second seal 32, its installation and removal can be completed without tools, further simplifying the maintenance process and saving time and effort in the installation and removal of the second seal 32, while balancing installation firmness and ease of operation.

[0087] This disclosure also provides an ice-making apparatus, including the sealing device and evaporator 5 described above for a cold drink device. Specifically, the ice-making apparatus includes, for example, an inner liner 1, a feeding mechanism 2, an evaporator 5, and a sealing assembly 3. The inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2 are respectively installed inside the housing of the cold drink device (not shown in the figure), and the inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2 enclose a chamber 4, and the inner liner 1 and the feeding mechanism 2 can be detached from the housing of the cold drink device; the evaporator 5 is rotatably installed in the chamber 4, and a rotating shaft on one side of the evaporator 5 passes through the chamber 4 and is rotatably connected to an external drive motor, and the evaporator 5 rotates in the chamber 4 to prepare slush or ice cream; the sealing assembly 3 includes a first sealing element 31 and a second sealing element 32, the first sealing element 31 is detachably connected to the inner liner 1, and the second sealing element 32 is detachably connected to the feeding mechanism 2, the first sealing element 31 and the second sealing element 32 enclose a sealing structure, and the sealing structure is used to seal the gap between the chamber 4 and the evaporator 5.

[0088] Accordingly, this disclosure also provides a cold drink device, including the sealing device or ice-making device described above for cold drink devices.

[0089] In the refrigeration systems of beverage machines such as smoothie makers and shaved ice machines, the oil return performance of the evaporator directly affects the reliability of the compressor and the system's energy efficiency. Existing evaporators in beverage machines mostly adopt a straight-through return gas structure design: the return gas pipe is directly connected to the evaporation chamber, and the lubricating oil carried by the refrigerant naturally separates with the airflow within the evaporation chamber and passively returns to the compressor due to the refrigerant flow. However, this structure has the following drawbacks: the evaporator is usually cylindrical, and when installed horizontally or at an angle, the lubricating oil tends to stagnate at the bottom of the evaporation chamber. Especially under low-load conditions, the reduced refrigerant flow rate causes an oil film to adhere to the inner wall of the evaporator cylinder, making effective return difficult and reducing oil return efficiency. Simultaneously, lubricating oil adhering to the inner wall of the evaporator cylinder increases thermal resistance, reducing heat transfer efficiency and cooling effect. To improve the oil return effect, existing evaporators typically require the addition of an external oil separator or complex spiral guide vanes. This not only increases the equipment size and manufacturing cost but also weakens the evaporator's heat exchange performance due to the interference of the flow field caused by the additional components. Especially for small devices such as home blenders, traditional oil return solutions are difficult to implement due to limited space.

[0090] Therefore, the present disclosure relates to an evaporator 5, as shown in FIG7, including an evaporator cylinder 51 and a return gas pipe 52 and a connecting pipe 53 communicating with the evaporator cylinder 51. The connection structure between the evaporator cylinder 51 and the return gas pipe 52 and the connecting pipe 53 adopts an axial connection structure, and the evaporator cylinder 51 is connected to the return gas pipe 52 and the connecting pipe 53 respectively.

[0091] The evaporator cylinder 51 is equipped with an evaporation chamber 511, where the refrigerant evaporates and absorbs heat to produce cooling. The outer wall of the evaporator cylinder 51 is also cooled to produce ice. The return gas pipe 52 is connected to an external compressor, allowing the refrigerant evaporated in the evaporation chamber 511 to return to the compressor for the next cycle. The return gas section 521 of the return gas pipe 52 is connected to the evaporator cylinder 51 and communicates with the evaporation chamber 511. The connecting pipe 53 is connected to an external condenser or throttling device. When the connecting pipe 53 is connected to an external condenser, it is preferably a capillary tube, which has a throttling effect. The ejection section 531 of the connecting pipe 53 is connected to the return gas section 521 and communicates with the evaporation chamber 511, allowing the throttled refrigerant or the refrigerant throttled in the connecting pipe 53 to be sent into the evaporation chamber 511 for evaporation.

[0092] The compressor requires a significant amount of lubricating oil to operate. During the operation of the refrigeration system, the refrigerant carries the lubricating oil, which migrates to components such as the condenser and evaporator. If the lubricating oil that has migrated to these components cannot be effectively returned, the amount of lubricating oil in the compressor will decrease, eventually leading to wear and tear and a reduced service life. Furthermore, lubricating oil adhering to the inner wall of the condenser or evaporator increases the thermal resistance of the condenser or evaporator, affecting heat transfer efficiency. Referring to Figure 2, to improve the oil return efficiency of the refrigerant within the evaporator cylinder 51, an oil return component 54 is provided inside the evaporator cylinder 51. When the inlet end of the oil return port moves to a higher position, the outlet end of the oil return component 54 can communicate with the gas return section 521. The inlet end of the oil return component 54 is close to the inner wall of the evaporator cylinder 51, meaning the oil return component 54 extends to the vicinity of the cylinder wall of the evaporator cylinder 51. The oil return component 54 can rotate with the evaporator cylinder 51. When the evaporator cylinder 51 rotates, the oil return component 54 rotates accordingly. When the inlet end of the oil return component 54 moves to a low position, it can scrape the bottom inner wall of the evaporator cylinder 51 once, thereby scraping up the lubricating oil film adhering to the bottom of the inner wall to form oil droplets. When the inlet end of the oil return component 54 rotates to a high position, the lubricating oil accumulated at the inlet end of the oil return component 54 flows into the return gas section 521 under the action of gravity through the outlet end of the oil return component 54, and finally returns to the compressor with the refrigerant flow. Through the continuous rotating scraping action of the oil return component 54, the residual oil film on the inner wall of the evaporator chamber 511 can be effectively removed, maintaining the direct heat exchange capacity of the metal surface and improving the oil return efficiency.

[0093] The beneficial effects of the embodiments disclosed herein are as follows:

[0094] In this embodiment, the evaporator 5 includes an evaporator cylinder 51, a return gas pipe 52, and a connecting pipe 53. The evaporator cylinder 51 contains an evaporation chamber 511. After an external compressor introduces refrigerant into an external condenser, the refrigerant enters the evaporator cylinder 51 through the connecting pipe 53 for evaporation and refrigeration. During this process, the evaporator cylinder 51 rotates to make ice, and the evaporated refrigerant returns to the compressor through the return gas pipe 52, forming a cycle. Lubricating oil that follows the refrigerant into the evaporator cylinder 51 remains inside and accumulates at the bottom. The evaporator cylinder 51 is equipped with an oil return component 54. When the inlet end of the oil return port moves to a high position, the outlet end of the oil return component 54 can communicate with the return gas section 521. The inlet end of the oil return component 54 is close to the inner wall of the evaporator cylinder 51, and the oil return component 54 can rotate with the evaporator cylinder 51. Each rotation passes through the evaporator cylinder 51 once. The bottom is scraped to remove the lubricating oil from the inner wall. When rotated to a high position, the lubricating oil can flow into the return gas section 521 along the oil return component 54 under the action of gravity, thus forming an oil return. After repeated rotation and oil scraping, an efficient oil return can be formed, ensuring the normal operation of the compressor and preventing lubricating oil residue at the bottom of the evaporator cylinder 51, thus ensuring the heat transfer efficiency of the evaporator. In addition, the oil return component 54 is located inside the evaporator cylinder 51, which does not occupy external space, thus saving space, reducing volume, and meeting the needs of household cold drink equipment.

[0095] Referring to Figure 8, the outlet end of the oil return component 54 is located in the middle of the end of the evaporator cylinder 51, specifically in the inner wall of the end of the evaporator cylinder 51 near the rotating shaft, which facilitates the lubricating oil to enter the return gas section 521 from the outlet end. The inlet end of the oil return component 54 is located on the peripheral edge of the end of the evaporator cylinder 51, which facilitates the periodic movement of the inlet end to the bottom area of ​​the evaporator cylinder 51 and the periodic movement of the inlet end to the upper area of ​​the evaporator cylinder 51.

[0096] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, a return air hole 5211 is provided on the side wall of the return air section 521. All or part of the return air hole 5211 is located in the evaporation chamber 511, which can provide return air for the evaporated refrigerant. It can also accelerate the flow of lubricating oil from the outlet end of the oil return component 54 to the return air hole 5211 through the negative pressure effect in the return air section 521. The oil return component 54 is located on the side of the return air hole 5211. When the inlet end of the oil return port moves to a high position, the outlet end of the oil return component 54 can communicate with the return air hole 5211. Through the close proximity design, the scraped lubricating oil can drip directly into the return air hole 5211 and enter the compressor through the return air hole 5211, avoiding secondary deposition of oil droplets in the evaporation chamber 511.

[0097] Referring to Figure 11, in the first embodiment of this disclosure, one end of the evaporator 51 is provided with a first side cover 512. The first side cover 512 can rotate with the evaporator 51. When the first side cover 512 rotates synchronously with the evaporator 51, it can simultaneously drive the inlet end and outlet end of the oil return component 54 to move. The outlet end of the oil return component 54 is located in the middle of the first side cover 512, and the inlet end of the oil return component 54 is located on the peripheral edge of the first side cover 512. The oil return component 54 can rotate with the first side cover 512, and by utilizing the periodic action of low-level oil scraping and high-level flow guiding during rotation, a continuous oil return cycle is formed.

[0098] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, an oil collection groove 541 is provided on one side of the oil return component 54, which can accommodate lubricating oil. Simultaneously, the oil collection groove 541 guides the lubricating oil from the inlet end to the outlet end of the oil return component 54. For efficient oil scraping, a hook-shaped groove 542 is provided at one end of the oil return component 54 located on the peripheral edge of the first side cover 512. The hook-shaped groove 542 extends outward from the side of the oil return component 54 and forms a "7"-shaped or arc-shaped concave structure at its end. When rotated, the "7"-shaped or arc-shaped concave structure can penetrate deep into the oil layer at the bottom of the evaporator 51, guiding the accumulated lubricating oil into the oil collection groove 541 through a "scooping" action. Simultaneously, the "7"-shaped or arc-shaped concave structure facilitates the transition of lubricating oil from the hook-shaped groove 542 into the oil collection groove 541. The hook-shaped groove 542 is connected to the oil collection groove 541. When the first side cover 512 rotates, the hook-shaped groove 542 can scoop compressor oil into the oil collection groove 541.

[0099] Referring to Figure 8, when the evaporator 51 drives the oil return component 54 to rotate, when the hook-shaped groove 542 moves to a high position, one end of the oil return component 54 located in the middle of the first side cover 512 can correspond to the position of the return air hole 5211. At this time, the oil return component 54 is in an inclined or vertical state, and the end of the oil collection groove 541 can be aligned with the return air hole 5211, thereby achieving communication with the return air hole 5211. The arrow in Figure 8 indicates the rotation direction of the evaporator 51.

[0100] Referring to Figure 9, the first side cover 512 is also provided with a side fixing platform 513. The side fixing platform 513 protrudes from the side of the first side cover 512 and surrounds the periphery of the return air pipe 52. The side fixing platform 513 is used to fix the oil return component 54 and protect the return air section 521. A clearance groove 5131 is provided on one side of the side fixing platform 513. The position of the clearance groove 5131 corresponds to the position of the return air hole 5211. The cross-section of the groove 131 is larger than the cross-section of the vent 5211, so that the lubricating oil in the oil collection groove 541 can drip into the vent 5211 through the clearance groove 5131. One end of the oil return component 54 located in the middle of the first side cover 512 is provided in the clearance groove 5131 or on the side of the clearance groove 5131. When the hook groove 542 moves to the high position, the oil collection groove 541 can communicate with the clearance groove 5131.

[0101] Referring to Figure 10, the ejection section 531 includes an ejection connection end 5311 and an ejection communication end 5312 located in the evaporation chamber 511. The return gas section 521 includes a return gas connection end 5212 and a return gas communication end 5213 located in the evaporation chamber 511. The ejection connection end 5311 is fixed to the return gas connection end 5212. The ejection communication end 5312 passes through the return gas section 521 and is connected to the return gas connection end 5212. By using an axial nesting structure, the ejector section 531 and the return section 521 are coaxially integrated, thus completely embedding the refrigerant delivery path of the ejector section 531 inside the cavity of the return section 521. This avoids the need for additional external piping and significantly reduces the lateral or radial space occupied by the overall evaporator structure. At the same time, by using the wall of the return section 521 as a mechanical support carrier for the ejector section 531, the refrigerant flow path from the ejector section 531 to the evaporator cavity 511 directly passes through the interior of the return section 521, eliminating the bending space required by traditional split piping arrangements. This achieves a compact axial dimension of the evaporator, further reducing the size of the equipment and meeting the needs of household appliances.

[0102] In addition, due to the coaxial integrated layout, compared with the traditional spiral winding layout, the resistance of the refrigerant flowing in the injection section 531 and the return section 521 can be reduced, and the impact of the fluctuation of the intake pressure and return pressure on the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator chamber 511 can be balanced.

[0103] Furthermore, the return air pipe 52 also includes a support section 522. One end of the support section 522 is connected to an external compressor, and the other end of the support section 522 is connected to the side of the return air connection end 5212. The support section 522 is inclined or perpendicularly connected to the return air connection end 5212. The support section 522 can connect and fix the return air connection end 5212. At the same time, part of the connecting pipe 53 is spirally wound around the support section 522. The support section 522 can fix the connecting pipe 53. At the same time, the spiral winding method reduces the arrangement space of the connecting pipe 53 and ensures the stability of the connecting pipe 53. The ejector connection 5311 passes through the return gas section 521 from the end of the return gas connection 5212, so that the refrigerant flow path from the ejector section 531 to the evaporator chamber 511 directly passes through the interior of the return gas section 521, eliminating the bending space required by the traditional split-type pipeline layout, realizing the compactness of the axial dimension of the evaporator, while reducing the friction resistance of the traditional spiral-wound pipe layout and improving the refrigerant flow.

[0104] Referring to Figure 9, the end of the return gas connection 5213 is provided with a cap 523. The ejection connection 5312 passes through the cap 523 from the return gas section 521 and communicates with the evaporation chamber 511. The cap 523 seals the axial position of the return gas connection 5213. During gas return, the return gas flows into the return gas hole 5211 through the gap between the side fixing platform 513 and the return gas pipe 52. The return gas connection 5213 located in the evaporation chamber 511 returns gas through the return gas hole 5211 on the side wall. The cap 523 not only fixes the ejection connection 5312, but also prevents the refrigerant ejected from the ejection connection 5312 from directly returning to the axial direction of the return gas connection 5213, thus avoiding a "short circuit". Specifically, the ejector end 5312 extends from the middle of the evaporator cylinder 51 toward the side wall of the evaporator cylinder 51. The end of the ejector end 5312 forms a "7" shape. The refrigerant is ejected from the ejector end 5312 and sprayed toward the side wall of the evaporator cylinder 51 so that the refrigerant can quickly diffuse and evaporate in the evaporator chamber 511. Since the air inlet of the return section 521 is the return air hole 5211 located in the side fixed platform 513, the two are far apart. Because it is far away from the return air hole 5211, the refrigerant can be fully evaporated in the evaporator chamber 511 and then return through the return air hole 5211.

[0105] Referring to Figure 12, in the second embodiment, the distance between the ejection connection end 5312 and the return gas connection end 5213 is further increased. Specifically, the evaporator cylinder 51 further includes a second side cover 514, which is located at the end of the evaporator cylinder 51 opposite to the first side cover 512. The ejection section 531 and the return gas section 521 both pass through the first side cover 512 and are located within the evaporation chamber 511. The end of the ejection section 531 is located on the side of the second side cover 514, and the end of the return gas section 521 is located on the side of the first side cover 512. This allows the ejection connection end 5312 and the return gas connection end 5213 to be located at opposite ends within the evaporator cylinder 51, with a significant distance between them. This allows the refrigerant ejected from the ejection connection end 5312 to evaporate fully within the evaporation chamber 511, resulting in sufficient heat exchange and improved refrigeration efficiency. The arrows in Figures 11-12 indicate the flow path of the refrigerant.

[0106] Referring to Figure 7, for ease of installation, the evaporator also includes a mounting assembly 55. The mounting assembly 55, through its integrated design that fixes the evaporator cylinder 51 on one side, significantly simplifies the installation and disassembly process of the evaporator. Specifically, the mounting assembly 55 includes a mounting plate 551, a bearing 552, and a coupling 553. The mounting plate 551 can be fixed to the outer casing of the beverage cooling device. The mounting plate 551 has a first mounting hole 5511. The outer ring of the bearing 552 is fixed within the first mounting hole 5511. One end of the coupling 553 is fixed to the inner ring of the bearing 552, and the other end of the coupling 553 is connected to the end of the evaporator cylinder 51 opposite to the first side cover 512. During installation, the bearing 552 is first installed in the first mounting hole 5511, and then the connecting shaft 553 is connected to the bearing 552. At this time, the connection between the evaporator 51 and the mounting plate 551 is realized. The mounting plate 551 and the evaporator 51 are connected to form an integral structure. Then, the integral structure is inserted into the outer shell of the cold drink equipment, and the connection is formed after the mounting plate 551 is fixed.

[0107] This disclosure also relates to a cold drink device (not shown in the accompanying drawings), including an evaporator as described above. The evaporator has an evaporation chamber 511. After an external compressor introduces refrigerant into an external condenser, the refrigerant enters the evaporation cylinder 51 through the connecting pipe 53 for evaporation and cooling. During this process, the evaporation cylinder 51 rotates to make ice, and the evaporated refrigerant returns to the compressor through the return gas pipe 52, forming a cycle. Lubricating oil that follows the refrigerant into the evaporation cylinder 51 remains inside and accumulates at the bottom of the evaporation cylinder 51. The evaporation cylinder 51 is equipped with an oil return component 54. When the inlet end of the oil return port moves to a high position, the outlet end of the oil return component 54 can communicate with the return gas section 521. The inlet end of the oil return component 54 is close to the inner wall of the evaporation cylinder 51. The oil return component 54 can rotate with the evaporation cylinder 51. Each rotation passes through the evaporation cylinder 51 once. The bottom is scraped to remove the lubricating oil from the inner wall. When rotated to a high position, the lubricating oil can flow into the return gas section 521 along the oil return component 54 under the action of gravity, thus forming an oil return. After repeated rotation and oil scraping, an efficient oil return can be formed, ensuring the normal operation of the compressor and preventing lubricating oil residue at the bottom of the evaporator cylinder 51, thus ensuring the heat transfer efficiency of the evaporator. In addition, the oil return component 54 is located inside the evaporator cylinder 51, which does not occupy external space, thus saving space, reducing volume, and meeting the needs of household cold drink equipment.

[0108] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative or explanatory of the principles of this disclosure and do not constitute a limitation thereof. Therefore, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure should be included within the protection scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the appended claims are intended to cover all variations and modifications falling within the scope and boundaries of the appended claims, or equivalent forms of such scope and boundaries.

Claims

1. An ice-making device for cold beverage equipment, characterized in that, The device includes an inner liner, a feeding mechanism, an evaporator, and a sealing assembly. The inner liner and the feeding mechanism are detachably mounted on the housing of the cold beverage equipment. The inner liner and the feeding mechanism enclose a chamber. The evaporator is installed in the chamber and is configured to rotate for preparing cold beverage products. The sealing assembly includes a first sealing element and a second sealing element. The first sealing element is disposed on the inner liner, and the second sealing element is disposed on the feeding mechanism. The first sealing element and the second sealing element together form a sealing structure for sealing the gap between the chamber and the evaporator.

2. The ice-making apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sealing element includes a first sealing element body and a first sealing portion. One end of the first sealing element body is radially recessed to form a first recess for wrapping the upper part of the evaporator. The first sealing portion is a flange formed by extending the body of the first sealing element outward along the circumferential contour of the first recess.

3. The ice-making apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second seal includes a second seal body and a second seal portion; one side of the second seal body is radially recessed to form a second recess for wrapping the lower part of the evaporator; The second sealing portion is a flange formed by extending the body of the second sealing element outward along the circumferential contour of the second recess; The first recess and the second recess together form a sealed mounting cavity.

4. The ice-making apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The end faces of the first sealing member located at both ends of the first recess are the first contact surfaces, which are used to contact the second sealing member; The end faces of the second seal located at both ends of the second recess are the second contact surfaces, which are used to contact the first seal. Both the first contact surface and the second contact surface are planar.

5. The ice-making apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first seal is detachably connected to the inner liner, and the second seal is detachably connected to the feeding mechanism.

6. The ice making device of claim 1, wherein, The evaporator includes an evaporating cylinder and a return gas pipe and a connecting pipe connected to the evaporating cylinder, and the evaporating cylinder is connected to the return gas pipe and the connecting pipe respectively. The evaporator is provided with an evaporation chamber. The return gas pipe is connected to an external compressor. The return gas section of the return gas pipe is connected to the evaporator and communicates with the evaporation chamber. The connecting pipe is connected to an external condenser or throttling device. The spray section of the connecting pipe is connected to the return gas section and communicates with the evaporation chamber. The evaporator is equipped with an oil return component. The outlet end of the oil return component can communicate with the gas return section. The inlet end of the oil return component is close to the inner wall of the evaporator. The oil return component can rotate with the evaporator. When the inlet end of the oil return component rotates to the bottom of the evaporator, the lubricating oil at the bottom of the evaporator is collected into the gas return pipe and returned to the external compressor.

7. The ice making device according to claim 6, wherein The outlet end of the oil return component is located in the middle of the end of the evaporator cylinder, and the inlet end of the oil return component is located on the peripheral edge of the end of the evaporator cylinder.

8. The ice-making apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The side wall of the return gas section is provided with a return gas hole, all or part of which is located in the evaporation chamber. The oil return component is located on the side of the return gas hole, and the outlet end of the oil return component can communicate with the return gas hole.

9. The ice-making apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, One end of the evaporator is provided with a first side cover, which can rotate with the evaporator. The outlet end of the oil return component is located in the middle of the first side cover, and the inlet end of the oil return component is located on the peripheral edge of the first side cover. The oil return component can rotate with the first side cover.

10. The ice-making apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The oil return component has an oil collection groove on one side. The oil return component has a hook-shaped groove at one end located on the peripheral edge of the first side cover. The hook-shaped groove extends outward from the side of the oil return component and forms a "7"-shaped or arc-shaped concave structure at the end. The hook-shaped groove is connected to the oil collection groove. When the first side cover rotates, the hook-shaped groove can scoop compressor oil into the oil collection groove.

11. A cold drink equipment, characterized in that, Includes the ice-making apparatus as described in any one of claims 1-10.

Images