EP4624834A1

EP4624834A1 - Refrigeration appliance

Info

Publication number: EP4624834A1
Application number: EP23934765.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Zhaowei LIN; Zhijie REN; Xin QUAN; Zhichao Zhu
Original assignee: Hefei Hualing Co Ltd; Midea Group Co Ltd; Hefei Midea Refrigerator Co Ltd
Current assignee: Hefei Hualing Co Ltd; Midea Group Co Ltd; Hefei Midea Refrigerator Co Ltd
Priority date: 2023-04-28
Filing date: 2023-06-29
Publication date: 2025-10-01
Also published as: WO2024221589A1; CN118856727B; EP4624834A4; CN118856727A

Abstract

Disclosed in the present application is a refrigeration appliance (10). The refrigeration appliance (I0) comprises: a refrigerator body (11), in which a first refrigeration compartment (12) and a second refrigeration compartment (13) that are both open at one side are formed, the second refrigeration compartment (I3) being located above the first refrigeration compartment (12); a first door body (I4) used for opening and closing the first refrigeration compartment (I2): a second door body (I5) used for opening and closing the second refrigeration compartment (I3), an ice-making assembly (200) arranged in the first refrigeration compartment (I2), an ice-fetching assembly (300) arranged on the second door body (I5); an ice-moving channel (I20) used for providing a path for the movement of ice cubes from the first refrigeration compartment (12) to the ice-fetching assembly (300); an ice-moving assembly (10I) arranged in the first refrigeration compartment (12) and used for driving the ice cubes made by the ice-making assembly (200) to move out of the ice-moving channel (120), and an ice outlet assembly (1000) arranged on the second door body (I5), the ice outlet assembly (1000) comprising a buffer chamber (I100), the buffer chamber (I100) being communicated with the ice-moving channel (I20) and the ice-fetching assembly (300), and a buffer mechanism (100I) being arranged in the buffer chamber (I100) and used for buffering the ice cubes entering the buffer chamber (1100)

Description

This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202310491529.7, entitled "refrigeration apparatus", filed on April 28, 2023 , which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of refrigeration devices, and in particular to a refrigeration apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Existing ice harvesting technologies of refrigeration apparatuses may usually rely on manual retrieval or utilize gravity to achieve automatic ice dispensing at a position below an ice storage container. In order to enhance convenience and achieve ice dispensing at ergonomic heights, some refrigeration apparatuses incorporate door-mounted ice dispensing mechanisms in upper refrigerator door bodies. However, during ice transfer from either a refrigeration chamber or a freezer compartment to a refrigeration door body, ice attains nonnegligible kinetic energy, resulting in substantial impact forces during ejection. This phenomenon generates objectionable noise that adversely affects user experience.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a refrigeration apparatus, in order to address the technical problem of excessive noise during ice discharge.
In a first aspect, a technical solution adopted by the present disclosure may provide a refrigeration apparatus. The refrigeration apparatus may comprise a cabinet body, defining a first refrigeration compartment and a second refrigeration compartment, the first refrigeration compartment and the second refrigeration compartment has an opening on one side, and the second refrigeration compartment is located above the first refrigeration compartment; a first door body, configured to expose or cover the first refrigeration compartment; a second door body, configured to expose or cover the second refrigeration space; an ice-making assembly, disposed in the first refrigeration compartment; an ice-retrieving assembly, disposed on the second door body; an ice transfer channel, configured to provide a path for an ice cube to move from the first refrigeration compartment to the ice-retrieving assembly; an ice transfer assembly, disposed in the first refrigeration compartment and configured to drive the ice cube produced by the ice-making assembly to move toward the ice transfer channel; and an ice-dispensing assembly, disposed on the second door body and comprising a buffer chamber, the buffer chamber is configured to communicate the ice transfer channel with the ice-retrieving assembly, the buffer chamber comprises a buffer mechanism, and the buffer mechanism is configured to cushion the ice cube entering the buffer chamber.
Some technical effects of the present disclosure may comprise the following. In the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, by arranging a buffer chamber with a buffer mechanism therein to cushion or provide buffer to the ice cube entering the buffer chamber, operational noise generated during the ice cube dispensing may be mitigated, and user experience may be improved.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To more clearly illustrate technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the accompanying drawings needed for describing the embodiments of the present disclosure will be briefly introduced in the following. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, and any ordinary skilled person in the art may obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative work.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing an overall structure of a refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 is another schematic view showing the overall structure of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 is a perspective schematic view of an ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 12 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 14 is a partial schematic view of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 15 is a partial schematic view of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 16 is a partial schematic view of an ice transfer assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing the overall structure of an ice transfer device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 18 is a schematic structural view showing a first configuration of a refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 19 is another schematic structural view showing the first configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 20 is a schematic structural view showing a second configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional structural schematic view of a door assembly in the second configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 22 is a schematic structural view showing a third configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 23 is an enlarged structural schematic view of portion A in FIG. 22.
FIG. 24 is a structural schematic view showing a fourth configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional structural schematic view of a door assembly in the fourth configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In order to make the above objectives, features, and advantages of the present disclosure more obvious and understandable, the specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The specific embodiments described here are only used to explain the present disclosure, and not to limit the present disclosure. Additionally, for ease of description, only a portion of the structure related to the present disclosure is shown in the accompanying drawings, not all of the structure. Based on the embodiments in the present disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary skilled persons in the art without creative labor are within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.
Reference to "embodiment" in the present disclosure means that specific features, structures, or characteristics described an embodiment may be comprised in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The term used in various sections in the specification does not necessarily refer to one same embodiment nor an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments. Any ordinary skilled person in the art shall explicitly and implicitly understand that the embodiments described in the present disclosure can be combined with other embodiments.
In the description of the present disclosure, the terms "first" and "second" are only used for descriptive purposes and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, the features limited to "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly comprise one or more of the aforementioned features. In the description of the present disclosure, the meaning of "multiple" refers to two or more, unless otherwise specifically limited.
In the description of the present disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and qualified, terms "mounted", "connected", "coupled" shall be understood in a broad sense. For example, the term may mean fixed connection, detachable connection, or connection to form one piece; or may mean mechanical connection, electrical connection or communicatively connection; or may mean direct connection or indirect connection through an intermediate medium; or may mean connection inside two elements or an interaction between the two elements. Any ordinary skilled person in the art shall understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present disclosure based on specific embodiments.
As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing the overall structure of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is another schematic view showing the overall structure of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a refrigeration apparatus 10. The refrigeration apparatus 10 may comprise a cabinet body 11, a first refrigeration compartment 12, a second refrigeration compartment 13, a first door body 14, a second door body 15, an ice-making assembly 200, an ice-dispensing assembly 1000, an ice-retrieving assembly 300, an ice transfer device 100. The first refrigeration compartment 12 and second refrigeration compartment 13 may be disposed within the cabinet body 11, each of the first refrigeration compartment and the second refrigeration compartment has an opening on one side, and the second refrigeration compartment is located above the first refrigeration compartment 12. The first door body 14 may be configured to expose or cover the first refrigeration compartment 12, while the second door body 15 may be configured to expose or cover the second refrigeration compartment 13. The second refrigeration compartment 13 may be positioned above the first refrigeration compartment 12. The ice-making assembly 200 may be disposed in the first refrigeration compartment 12. The ice-dispensing assembly 1000 and ice-retrieving assembly 300 may be mounted on the second door body 15. The ice transfer device 100 may comprise an ice transfer channel 120 and an ice transfer assembly 101. The ice transfer assembly 101 may be disposed within the first refrigeration compartment 12 and/or on the first door body 14. The ice transfer channel 120 may provide a movement path for ice to be transported from the first refrigeration compartment 12 to the second door body 15. The ice transfer channel 120 may be in communication with the ice-dispensing assembly 1000. The ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may be in communication with the ice-retrieving assembly 300. The ice transfer assembly 101 may communicate with the ice-making assembly 200. The ice transfer assembly 101 may be used to drive ice produced by the ice-making assembly 200 to move outward through the ice transfer channel 120. The first refrigeration compartment 12 may serve as a freezer compartment, while the second refrigeration compartment 13 may serve as a fresh food compartment. The ice transfer device 100 may enable transportation of ice from the first refrigeration compartment 12 to the ice-retrieving assembly 300 on the upper second door body 15. Thus, it is convenient for users to take ice, and improve user experience. The ice-making assembly 200 may be set in the first refrigeration compartment 12, the ice-making assembly 200 can share the cold source with the first refrigeration compartment 12. There is no need to separately set up an evaporator for ice making due to the ice-making assembly 200 being set in the second refrigeration compartment 13, saving costs and occupying space in the second refrigeration compartment 13, and improving the volume ratio of the second refrigeration compartment 13. The refrigeration apparatus 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure not only improves the efficiency of ice removal, but also solves the problems of inconvenient ice removal for users and space occupation in the second refrigeration compartment 13.
The first door body 14 and the second door body 15 may be mounted on the cabinet body 11 via rotational, sliding, or other mounting mechanisms as required.
Due to the ice transfer assembly 101 driving the ice to move out of the ice transfer channel 120, the ice may need to move from the first refrigeration compartment 12 to the second door body 15. Therefore, the ice may have a certain initial velocity. After the ice moves out of the ice transfer channel 120 and passes through the ice-retrieving assembly 300, the ice will collide with the ice-retrieving assembly 300, causing a certain amount of impact during the ice removal process and generating a large amount of noise, seriously affecting the user experience. Therefore, in some embodiments, the ice-retrieving assembly 1000 may be installed between the ice-retrieving assembly 300 and the ice transfer channel 120 to reduce the noise generated during the ice removal process.
The ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may comprise a buffer chamber 1100. The buffer chamber 1100 may communicate with the ice transfer channel 120. The buffer chamber 1100 may communicate with the ice-retrieving assembly 300. A buffer mechanism 1001 may be defined within the buffer chamber 1100 (see figures of relevant embodiments below). The buffer mechanism 1001 may be used to buffer the ice entering the buffer chamber 1100, so that the speed of the ice may be reduced, and the collision between the ice and the ice-retrieving assembly 300 at a relatively high speed may be reduced. The buffer mechanism 1001 may prevent the ice from undergoing significant collisions within the buffer chamber 1100 or prevent noise from being directly transmitted to the ice-retrieval assembly 300. The buffer mechanism 1001 may reduce the noise. The embodiments may generate substantial operational noise during ice dispensing and severely compromise user experience.
The buffer mechanism 1001 may have various configurations. Some embodiments of the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 are provided below to illustrate feasible implementations of the buffer mechanism 1001.
As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. FIG. 3 is a perspective schematic view of an ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
Some embodiments of the present disclosure may provide an ice-dispensing assembly 1000. The buffer mechanism 1001 may comprise a buffer surface 1111, the buffer chamber 1100 may have a buffer surface 1111. The buffer chamber 1100 may be provided with an inlet 1122 and an outlet 1121. The inlet 1122 may be positioned above the outlet 1121. The ice-dispensing assembly 1000 further may comprise an ice-discharge pipe section 1200, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may comprise an channel ice outlet port 1201. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with the buffer chamber 1100 via the channel ice outlet port 1201. The channel ice outlet port 1201 may be disposed at the inlet 1122, or the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may extend into the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122. The ice may enter the buffer chamber 1100 from the channel ice outlet port 1201 of the ice-discharge pipe section 1200, undergo buffering within the buffer chamber 1100, and then may exit through the outlet 1121.
The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be tangential to the buffer surface 1111 at the channel ice outlet port 1201, such that ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 from the channel ice outlet port 1201 may follow a helical motion along the buffer surface 1111. When the ice passes through the channel ice outlet port 1201 into the buffer chamber 1100, due to the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 being tangential to the buffer surface 1111 associated with the channel ice outlet port 1201, the ice may engage the buffer surface 1111 within the buffer chamber 1100. Under gravitational force, the ice may follow a helical path along the buffer surface 1111, whereby direct impact between the ice and the buffer chamber interior walls is prevented. By means of frictional contact between the ice and the buffer surface 1111, the ice velocity may be attenuated. The noise generated by ice-surface friction may be substantially less than impact noise against the buffer chamber 1100. By virtue of the tangential connection between the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 and the buffer surface 1111 at the channel ice outlet port 1201, the embodiments of the present disclosure may prevent high-energy collisions between incoming ice and the buffer chamber 1100, reduce operational noise during ice discharge, eliminate ice fracturing caused by impact; and enhance ice quality and user experience.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may extend into the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122. The channel ice outlet port 1201 may be located inside the buffer chamber 1100; or the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be positioned outside of the buffer chamber 1100. The channel ice outlet port 1201 may be disposed at the inlet 1122. In some embodiments, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may refer to a linearly extending passage in communication with the buffer chamber 1100. In some embodiments, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may extend in either a linear or curved configuration. Due to the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be tangential to the buffer surface 1111 at the channel ice outlet port 1201, the direction of ice movement upon exiting the channel ice outlet port 1201 may be tangential to the buffer surface 1111, thereby causing ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 from the channel ice outlet port 1201 to follow a helical path along the buffer surface 1111. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may interface with other passages to facilitate ice transportation. When incorporated in an ice transfer device 100 or the refrigeration apparatus 10, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with an ice transfer channel 120. In some embodiments, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with or be integrated with the ice transfer channel 120. Even the ice transfer channel 120 may directly communicate with the buffer chamber 1100. At this time, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may belong to the ice transfer channel 120. One side of the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with the buffer chamber 1100 and may extend linearly.
In some embodiments, resulting from the finite wall thickness of the ice-discharge pipe section 1200, in some embodiments, in order to enhance noise reduction, the inner wall surface of the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 is tangential to the buffer surface 1111 at the channel ice outlet port 1201. Due to the relatively small wall thickness, even if the outer wall surface is tangential to the buffer surface 1111, embodiments of the present disclosure may achieve superior collision avoidance and noise reduction compared to conventional solutions, as ice maintains helical movement along the buffer surface 1111 upon entering the buffer chamber 1100. No dimensional limitation may be imposed in this embodiment. The actual ice dimensions may vary within reasonable tolerances, and the inner diameter of the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may accommodate such variations. While perfect tangential alignment may not occur due to these dimensional variations, the configuration may ensure that ice generally follow the desired helical path along the buffer surface 1111, thereby effectively avoiding collisions and reducing noise.
In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may have a cylindrical configuration with an inner surface disposed in the buffer surface 1111. Ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 may follow a helical path along the buffer surface 1111 with decreasing velocity, exiting the outlet 1121 at reduced speed. The embodiments may minimize noise generation during both entry and movement within the buffer chamber 1100, as well as during final exit, resulting in significantly reduced overall operational noise and improved user experience.
In some embodiments, to accommodate the decelerating helical motion, the buffer surface 1111 may feature a gradually decreasing inner diameter, maintaining contact with the ice until the velocity of the ice has sufficiently decreased. In some embodiments, the buffer surface 1111 may maintain a constant cylindrical profile, the ice naturally disengages from the surface after achieving the desired velocity reduction, at which point the residual kinetic energy may be sufficiently low to prevent significant impact noise upon final discharge.
As further shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a perspective schematic view of an ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may be provided with a buffer plate 1112. The buffer plate 1112 may extend circumferentially within the buffer chamber 1100. The buffer plate 1112 may comprise the buffer surface 1111. After entering the buffer chamber 1100, ice may travel helically along the buffer surface 1111 defined by the buffer plate 1112. The ice may gradually decelerate and ultimately exit through the outlet 1121 at reduced velocity, thereby minimizing overall noise during ice discharge and enhancing user experience. The buffer plate 1112 may be disposed within the buffer chamber 1100 with a clearance gap between the buffer plate 1112 and the inner wall of the buffer chamber 1100. The gap may provide additional acoustic insulation, improving the noise reduction performance of the buffer chamber 1100. The buffer chamber 1100 may adopt various geometries comprising, but not limited to, cylindrical, cuboid forms, etc.
In some embodiments, the buffer plate 1112 may be defined as a cylindrical structure or a helical ribbon structure. The buffer surface 1111 of the buffer plate 1112 may exhibit either linear or curved profiles in vertical cross-section, ensuring continuous contact with ice during helical motion.
To further reduce friction-induced noise during helical ice movement, the buffer surface 1111 may be provided with a compliant material layer. The embodiments may provide quieter ice deceleration. The embodiments may effectively prevent ice fracturing caused by collisions, thereby improving ice quality and optimizing user experience. The compliant material layer may be adhesively bonded to the buffer surface 1111 and may comprise soft rubber, felt, foam, or similar materials, etc.
In some embodiments, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may extend into the interior of the buffer chamber 1100. The portion of the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be located within the buffer chamber 1100 and extends horizontally. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may achieve stable coupling with the buffer chamber 1100, while ensuring that ice tangentially contacts the buffer surface 1111 in a horizontal orientation. The embodiments of the present disclosure may prevent ice from projecting upward and colliding with the top wall of the buffer chamber 1100 and decelerate downward movement where gravitational acceleration would increase ice velocity.
In some embodiments, the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 additionally may comprise a guide baffle 1113. The guide baffle 1113 may be disposed within the buffer chamber 1100. The guide baffle 1113 may be located above the channel ice outlet port 1201, and the end of the guide baffle 1113 may extend below the channel ice outlet port 1201. Due to variable entry velocities of the ice into the buffer chamber 1100, high-velocity ice undergoing helical motion along the buffer surface 1111 may collide with either the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 or subsequent ice passing through the channel ice outlet port 1201. The guide baffle 1113 may mitigate this by redirecting ice completing one helical cycle back past the ice-discharge pipe section 1200, guiding them spirally below the channel ice outlet port 1201. The embodiments of the present disclosure may prevent inter-ice collisions and impacts against the conduit section 1200, thereby reducing operational noise, eliminating ice fracturing and enhancing user experience.
In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may comprise a buffer section 1110 and a collection section 1120. The buffer section 1110 may be provided with a buffer surface 1111. The collection section 1120 may communicate with the bottom of the buffer section 1110 and may have an outlet 1121 at the base. The inner diameter of the collection section 1120 may decrease from the end communicating with the buffer section 1110 to the outlet 1121. The inner diameter of the collection section 1120 may define an inclined surface for guiding ice toward the outlet 1121. Upon entering the buffer chamber 1100, ice undergoes helical motion along the buffer surface 1111 in the buffer section 1110, gradually decelerating before dropping into the collection section 1120 and sliding along the inner surface of the collection section 1120 to exit through the outlet 1121.
To further reduce noise generated when ice impacts and slides along the inner surface of the collection section 1120, a compliant material layer may be applied to the inner surface. The embodiments may reduce noise during ice deposition and movement, preventing ice breakage while improving ice quality and user experience. The compliant material layer may be adhesively bonded to the inner surface of the collection section 1120. The compliant material layer may be made of soft rubber, felt, foam, or similar materials, etc.
In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may comprise a top cover 1130. The top cover 1130 may be mounted on the buffer section 1110, creating a semi-enclosed space. The semi-enclosed space may reduce noise transmission from the buffer chamber 1100, thereby lowering overall operational noise of the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 and enhancing user experience. The top cover 1130 may improve thermal insulation to minimize cold loss within the buffer chamber 1100, thereby preventing ice melting and maintaining quality. The top cover 1130 may prevent foreign matter from entering the buffer chamber 1100, reducing the risk of ice contamination and chamber clogging.
As shown in FIG. 6 to FIG. 8, FIG. 6 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
The embodiments of the present disclosure may provide an ice-dispensing assembly 1000. The buffer mechanism 1001 may comprise a buffer chute 1310. A buffer surface 1111 may be disposed within the buffer chamber 1100. The buffer chamber 1100 may comprise an inlet 1122 and an outlet 1121. The inlet 1122 may be located above the outlet 1121. The ice may enter the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122 and, after being buffered by the buffer chamber 1100, exit through the outlet 1121.
The ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may comprise a spiral baffle 1300. The spiral baffle 1300 may be disposed within the buffer chamber 1100. The spiral baffle 1300 may be arranged spirally along the buffer surface 1111 and cooperated with the buffer surface 1111. The spiral baffle 1300 may comprise the buffer chute 1310. The buffer chute 1310 may extend spirally toward the outlet 1121. Due to the guiding effect of the buffer chute 1310, the ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122 may move spirally along the buffer chute 1310. The relative friction between the ice and both the buffer surface 1111 and the spiral baffle 1300 may reduce the speed of the ice. The noise generated by the friction may be significantly lower than that produced by direct collisions between ice and the buffer chamber 1100. By providing the buffer chute 1310, collisions and deceleration of ice within the buffer chamber 1100 may be reduced, substantially reducing noise during ice discharge. The embodiments also prevent ice from breaking due to collisions, improving ice quality and optimizing user experience.
In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may comprise a buffer section 1110 and a collection section 1120. The buffer surface 1111 may be disposed in the buffer section 1110. The collection section 1120 may communicate with or be fluidly coupled to the bottom of the buffer section 1110 and may have the outlet 1121 at the bottom of the collection section 1120. The inner diameter of the collection section 1120 may gradually decrease from the end communicating with the buffer section 1110 to the outlet 1121. The inner diameter of the collection section 1120 may comprise an inclined surface for guiding ice toward the outlet 1121. After entering the buffer chamber 1100, ice may move spirally along the buffer chute 1310, gradually decreasing in speed until falling into the collection section 1120 and sliding along the inner surface of the collection section 1120 to exit through the outlet 1121.
To further reduce noise generated by friction during the spiral movement of ice along the buffer surface 1111, a soft material layer may be disposed on the buffer surface 1111, resulting in quieter spiral movement of ice along the buffer surface 1111 and faster deceleration. The embodiments may prevent ice from breaking due to collisions, thereby improving ice quality and optimizing user experience. The soft material layer may be adhered to the buffer surface 1111 and may be made of soft rubber, felt, foam, or similar materials, etc.
To further reduce noise generated when ice falls onto and moves along the inner surface of the collection section 1120, a soft material layer may be disposed on the inner surface of the collection section 1120. The embodiments may reduce noise during ice deposition and movement along the inner surface of the collection section 1120. The embodiments may effectively prevent ice breakage while improving ice quality and user experience. The soft material layer may be adhered to the inner surface of the collection section 1120 and may be made of soft rubber, felt, foam, or similar materials, etc.
For improved deceleration and noise reduction performance, the inlet 1122 may be disposed above the middle portion of the buffer section 1110. The starting end of the spiral baffle 1300 may be located above the inlet 1122, and the terminal end of the spiral baffle 1300 extends at least to the middle-lower portion of the buffer section 1110. Ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122 may be guided by the upper and lower portions of the spiral baffle 1300 to move helically along the buffer chute 1310. Since the inlet 1122 may be disposed above the middle portion of the buffer section 1110 and the terminal end of the spiral baffle 1300 may extend at least to the middle-lower portion of the buffer section 1110, the spiral baffle 1300 may have sufficient length. The buffer chute 1310 may be disposed between the spiral baffle 1300 and the buffer surface 1111 may be sufficiently long to enable full deceleration of ice through friction with both the buffer surface 1111 and the spiral baffle 1300. This configuration significantly may reduce noise generated during ice discharge while preventing ice breakage due to collisions, thereby improving ice quality and user experience.
In some embodiments, the inlet 1122 may be disposed at the top portion of the buffer section 1110. While the buffer chute 1310 may extend to the bottom portion of the buffer section 1110. Thereby maximizing spatial utilization within the buffer chamber 1100. With the buffer chute 1310 maintaining constant path length, positioning the inlet 1122 proximate to the top of the buffer section 1110 and extending the buffer chute 1310 to the bottom portion enables reduction of the overall chamber volume.
During ice movement along the buffer chute 1310, the progressively decreasing clearance between the lowermost spiral baffle 1300 and the inner surface of the collection section 1120 necessitates design considerations. In some embodiments, the minimum clearance between the spiral baffle 1300 and collection section 1120 may exceed the maximum ice dimension, ensuring unobstructed passage and preventing jamming. In some embodiments, the spiral baffle 1300 may extend fully to the base of the buffer section 1110. The ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may comprise a guide plate 1320. The guide plate 1320 may be interposed between the spiral baffle 1300 and collection section 1120. The guide plate 1320 may feature a top-end contoured to the buffer surface 1111. During the sliding process along the buffer chute 1310, the ice may seamlessly transition into contact with the guide plate 1320. As the inner diameter of the collection section 1120 gradually decreases, the spacing between the collection section 1120 and the spiral baffle 1300 may become larger in the direction closer to the central axis of the collection section 1120. The guide plate 1320 may be configured to gradually diverge from the buffer surface 1111 in a direction toward a terminal end of the spiral baffle 1300, thereby guiding the ice toward the middle of the collection section 1120. The minimum distance between the spiral baffle 1300 on the side of the guide plate 1320 opposite to the buffer surface 1111 and the collection section 1120 may be greater than the size of the ice, ensuring smooth passage of the ice through the space between the lowermost spiral baffle 1300 and the collection section 1120. The embodiments may prevent the ice from getting stuck in excessively narrow gaps.
To ensure smooth movement of ice along the buffer chute 1310 and reduce the time required for ice to pass through the buffer chute 1310, the distance between adjacent layers of the spiral baffle 1300 may be greater than the size of an ice. For example, the distance between adjacent layers of the spiral baffle 1300 may be twice the size of an ice. The ice may be decelerated to a reasonable range while moving smoothly along the buffer chute 1310. The path length of the buffer chute 1310 may be appropriately designed, ensuring a short transit time for ice through the buffer chute 1310, thereby improving ice discharge efficiency. In some embodiments, the distance between adjacent layers of the spiral baffle 1300 may be adjustable based on factors such as the size of the ice, the ice initial velocity upon entering the buffer chamber 1100, and the dimensions of the buffer chamber 1100, with no specific limitation imposed here.
In some embodiments, the spiral baffle 1300 may be configured in the region below the inlet 1122. At any point on the surface facing the top side of the buffer chamber 1100, an angle between a tangent line and the horizontal direction is equal to or greater than 20°and less than or equal to 30°, for example, 20°, 23°, 25°, 29°, or 30°. The ice may decelerate to a reasonable range while moving smoothly along the buffer chute 1310. The path length of the buffer chute 1310 may be optimized, minimizing the time required for ice to pass through, thereby enhancing ice discharge efficiency.
In some embodiments, the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may comprise an ice-discharge pipe section 1200. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may have an channel ice outlet port 1201. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with the buffer chamber 1100 via the channel ice outlet port 1201. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may extend into the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122. The channel ice outlet port 1201 may be located inside the buffer chamber 1100. In some embodiments, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be positioned outside the buffer chamber 1100. The channel ice outlet port 1201 may be disposed at the inlet 1122. When the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 is applied to the ice transfer device 100 or the refrigeration apparatus 10, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with an ice transfer channel 120 used for transporting ice. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be either coupled with the ice transfer channel 120 or integrally disposed with it. In some embodiments, the ice transfer channel 120 may directly communicate with the buffer chamber 1100. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be considered part of the ice transfer channel 120, and the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may refer to the section of the ice transfer channel 120. The ice transfer channel 120 may communicate with the buffer chamber 1100. Even the ice transfer channel 120 can be directly connected to the buffer chamber 1100. At this time, the ice outlet pipe section 1200 belongs to the ice transfer channel 120 and refers to a section of the ice transfer channel 120 that is connected to the buffer chamber 1100.
To ensure the ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 through the channel ice outlet port 1201 may follow a helical motion along the buffer chute 1310, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be configured to be tangent to the buffer surface 1111 at the channel ice outlet port 1201. The arrangement may guide the ice from the channel ice outlet port 1201 into the buffer chamber 1100, enabling the ice to move helically along the buffer chute 1310. When ice passes through the channel ice outlet port 1201 and enters the buffer chamber 1100, the tangential alignment between the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 and the buffer surface 1111 may ensure that the ice makes contact with the buffer surface 1111 inside the buffer chamber 1100. Under the influence of gravity, the ice then follow a helical trajectory along the buffer chute 1310, preventing them from colliding directly with the inner wall of the buffer chamber 1100 and detaching from the buffer chute 1310. By designing the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 to be tangent to the buffer surface 1111 at the channel ice outlet port 1201, collisions between the ice and the buffer chamber 1100 upon entry may be minimized. The embodiments may reduce noise during ice discharge, prevent ice breakage due to impact, improve ice quality, and enhance user experience.
In some embodiments, the spiral baffle 1300 may comprise a first spiral plate 1301 and a retaining plate 1302. The first spiral plate 1301 and the buffer surface 1111 are concentrically disposed defining the buffer chute 1310. The buffer chute 1310 may extend spirally toward the outlet 1121. The retaining plate 1302 may be positioned on the side of the first spiral plate 1301 opposite to the buffer surface 1111 and at least partially covers the region of the first spiral plate 1301 near the inlet 1122 or the channel ice outlet port 1201. The configuration ensures that ice moves helically along the buffer chute 1310. Since ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122 or the channel ice outlet port 1201 may detach from the buffer chute 1310 due to collisions, the retaining plate 1302 may restrict the movement of the ice, forcing the ice to travel exclusively along the buffer chute 1310. The embodiments may guarantee the ice to follow a helical path upon entering the buffer chamber 1100, allowing the buffer chute 1310 to reduce the speed of the ice. As a result, noise during ice discharge may be greatly reduced, ice breakage may be prevented, ice quality may be improved, and user experience may be optimized.
In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may have a cylindrical configuration. The buffer surface 1111 may be disposed on the inner side surface of the buffer chamber 1100. The buffer surface 1111 and the spiral baffle 1300 may collectively define the buffer chute 1310. In some embodiments, as the ice gradually decelerate, the inner diameter of the buffer surface 1111 may progressively decrease to accommodate the changing trajectory of their helical motion. The ice may remain in contact with the buffer surface 1111 even after their speed may be sufficiently reduced. The embodiments allow the buffer surface 1111 to continuously decelerate the ice and mitigate noise. The buffer surface 1111 may adopt a straight cylindrical form. When the ice travels helically along the buffer surface 1111 and decelerates to the point of detaching from the buffer chute 1310, the velocity of the ice may be reduced to a predetermined range. The ice may fall directly without generating significant impact or noise.
In some embodiments, a buffer plate 1112 may be disposed within the buffer chamber 1100. The buffer plate 1112 may extend circumferentially within the buffer chamber 1100. The buffer plate 1112 may define the buffer surface 1111. The buffer surface 1111 and the spiral baffle 1300 may be enclosed to define the buffer chute 1310. Since the buffer plate 1112 may be positioned inside the buffer chamber 1100, a gap may exist between the buffer plate 1112 and the inner wall of the buffer chamber 1100. The embodiments may provide additional sound insulation, further enhancing the noise-reduction performance of the buffer chamber 1100. In some embodiments, the buffer plate 1112 may be cylindrical or configured as a helical band.
As shown in FIG. 9 to FIG. 11, FIG. 9 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 10. is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments, in an ice-dispensing assembly 1000, the buffer chamber 1100 may comprise an inlet 1122 and an outlet 1121. The inlet 1122 may be disposed above the outlet 1121, such that the ice may enter the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122 and may exit through outlet 1121 after being buffered therein.
The buffer mechanism 1001 may comprise a spiral channel 1400. The spiral channel 1400 may be helically arranged within the buffer chamber 1100. The spiral channel 1400 may comprise a spiral inlet 1410, a spiral outlet 1430 and a spiral cavity 1420, the spiral cavity 1420 may connect the spiral inlet 1410 and spiral outlet 1430. The spiral cavity 1420 may communicate with the inlet 1122 through the spiral inlet 1410 and exclusively communicate with the outlet 1121 via the spiral outlet 1430 while extending helically from the inlet 1122 to the outlet 1121 to guide ice entering through the inlet 1122 to move helically along the spiral channel 1400. When the ice enters through the inlet 1122, the ice may pass through the spiral inlet 1410 into the spiral cavity 1420, the ice may move helically before exiting via the spiral outlet 1430 and dropping out through the outlet 1121. The spiral channel 1400 may comprise a semi-enclosed sound insulation structure since the spiral cavity 1420 only communicates with the outlet 1121 at the spiral outlet 1430 while other portions remain non-directly communicating with the outlet 1121, thereby preventing collision and friction noises generated within the spiral cavity 1420 from propagating directly to the outlet 1121 as the portion of spiral cavity 1420 between any collision point and the outlet 1121 acts as a sound barrier while ice gradually decelerates through collisions and friction before exiting, thus maintaining normal ice discharge functionality while achieving effective sound insulation with substantially reduced overall noise levels and significantly improved user experience.
The synergistic design of buffer chamber 1100 and spiral channel 1400 may provide excellent sound insulation that allows for controlled collisions within a minimized buffer chamber volume. Therefore, the overall volume of buffer chamber 1100 is relatively small.
In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may comprise a buffer surface 1111. The spiral channel 1400 may comprise a central column 1401 and a helical guide plate 1402. The central column 1401 may be disposed within the buffer chamber 1100. The helical guide plate 1402 may be disposed on the central column 1401. The helical guide plate 1402 may be helically arranged around the central column 1401. The distal edge of the helical guide plate 1402 may extend to the buffer surface 1111. The central column 1401, the helical guide plate 1402 and the buffer chamber 1100 collectively define the spiral cavity 1420. The uppermost spiral cavity 1420, the central column 1401, the buffer chamber 1100 together define the spiral inlet 1410. The lowermost helical guide plate 1402, central column 1401, buffer surface 1111 and inner bottom surface of the buffer chamber 1100 collectively define the spiral outlet 1430. By having one side of the helical guide plate 1402 communicating with the central column 1401 and the opposite side extending to the buffer surface 1111, the area above the outlet 1121 may be partially enclosed by the helical guide plate 1402 and central column 1401, thereby forming a semi-closed sound insulation structure. When ice collide with the upper spiral cavity 1420, central column 1401 or buffer surface 1111, sound waves cannot propagate directly to the outlet 1121, resulting in significantly reduced noise emission from the outlet 1121.
The buffer chamber 1100 may have a cylindrical configuration. The inner side surface of the buffer chamber 1100 may define the buffer surface 1111. In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may comprise a buffer plate 1112. The buffer plate 1112 may be disposed in spaced relation to an inner wall of the buffer chamber 1100. The buffer plate 1112 may be spaced apart from the inner wall of the buffer chamber 1100. The buffer plate 1112 may define the buffer surface 1111. Due to the buffer plate 1112 may be positioned within the buffer chamber 1100 while the buffer plate 1112 and the buffer chamber 1100 may maintain a clearance, the clearance may be capable of providing additional sound insulation effect, thereby further enhancing the noise reduction performance of the buffer chamber 1100.
In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may comprise a buffer section 1110, a collection section 1120, and a top cover 1130. The buffer section 1110 internally may comprise a buffer surface 1111. The collection section 1120 may communicate with the bottom of the buffer section 1110. The collection section 1120 may comprise an outlet 1121 at the bottom portion of the collection section 1120. The inner diameter of the collection section 1120 may gradually decrease from the end communicating with the buffer section 1110 toward the outlet 1121 to define an inclined surface for guiding ice to slide toward the outlet 1121. After entering the buffer chamber 1100, ice may undergo helical motion along the spiral channel 1400 while gradually decelerating until they ultimately fall into the collection section 1120 and slide along the inner surface of the collection section 1120 to exit through the outlet 1121. The top cover 1130 may be mounted atop the buffer section 1110. The buffer chamber 1100 may define a relatively enclosed space within, reducing transmission of noise generated by ice inside the buffer chamber 1100 to the exterior, thereby lowering overall noise levels of the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 and improving user experience. The top cover 1130 may enhance thermal insulation performance of the buffer chamber 1100 by reducing cold energy loss within the chamber and preventing ice melting, consequently improving ice quality. The top cover 1130 may prevent foreign matter from entering the buffer chamber 1100, reducing ice contamination and chamber blockage.
In some embodiments, the central column 1401 and helical guide plate 1402 may be disposed within the buffer section 1110. The central column 1401, helical guide plate 1402 and buffer surface 1111 may collectively define the spiral cavity 1420. The spiral inlet 1410 may be formed by the uppermost helical guide plate 1402, the central column 1401, the buffer surface 1111 and the inner surface of the top cover 1130, while the spiral outlet 1430 may be formed by the lowermost helical guide plate 1402, the central column 1401, the buffer surface 1111 and the inner surface of the collection section 1120.
In some embodiments, the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may comprise an ice-discharge pipe section 1200. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may have an channel ice outlet port 1201. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with the buffer chamber 1100 through the channel ice outlet port 1201. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may extend into the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122 with the channel ice outlet port 1201 located inside the buffer chamber 1100, or alternatively be positioned outside the buffer chamber 1100. The channel ice outlet port 1201 may be disposed at the inlet 1122. When implemented in an ice transfer device 100 or refrigeration apparatus 10, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with an ice transfer channel 120 for transporting ice, with the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 being either coupled to or integrally disposed with the ice transfer channel 120. The ice transfer channel 120 may directly communicate with the buffer chamber 1100. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may constitute part of the ice transfer channel 120, referring to the channel segment connecting the ice transfer channel 120 with the buffer chamber 1100. To minimize impact noise when ice enters the spiral inlet 1410 through the channel ice outlet port 1201, the starting end of the helical guide plate 1402 may be positioned below the channel ice outlet port 1201 or inlet 1122, thereby enlarging the spiral inlet 1410 to facilitate ice entry into the spiral cavity 1420 while reducing noise generation.
To further reduce noise generated by friction during the helical movement of ice along the spiral channel 1400, the buffer surface 1111 and/or the helical guide plate 1402 may be provided with a soft material layer. The soft material layer absorbs a portion of the noise, resulting in quieter operation during the helical movement of ice along the spiral channel 1400, faster deceleration, and effective prevention of ice breakage due to collisions, thereby improving ice quality and optimizing user experience. The soft material layer may be adhered to the surface of the buffer surface 1111 and/or the helical guide plate 1402 and may consist of materials such as soft rubber, felt, foam, or the like.
To further reduce noise generated when ice falls onto and moves along the inner surface of the collection section 1120, the inner surface of the collection section 1120 may also be provided with a soft material layer. Ensuring quieter operation as ice land on and slide along the inner surface of the collection section 1120, effectively preventing ice breakage due to collisions, improving ice quality, and optimizing user experience. The soft material layer may be adhered to the inner surface of the collection section 1120 and may consist of materials such as soft rubber, felt, foam, or the like.
To ensure smooth movement of ice along the spiral channel 1400 and reduce the time required for ice to pass through, the minimum spacing between adjacent layers of the helical guide plate 1402 may be greater than the size of an ice. For example, the minimum spacing between adjacent layers of the helical guide plate 1402 may be twice the size of an ice. The embodiments allow the ice to decelerate to a reasonable range while moving smoothly along the spiral channel 1400. The path length of the spiral channel 1400 may be optimized, ensuring a short transit time for ice through the channel and improving ice discharge efficiency. In some embodiments, the spacing between adjacent layers of the helical guide plate 1402 may be adjusted based on factors such as the size of the ice, their initial velocity upon entering the buffer chamber 1100, and the dimensions of the buffer chamber 1100, with no specific limitation imposed here.
In some embodiments, in the region below the channel ice outlet port 1201, the helical guide plate 1402 may be configured such that the angle between the tangent to any point on the surface facing the top of buffer chamber 1100 and the horizontal direction is greater than or equal to 20° and less than or equal to 30°, for example, 20°, 23°, 25°, 29°, or 30°. The embodiments ensure that the ice decelerate to a reasonable range while moving smoothly along the spiral channel 1400. The path length of the spiral channel 1400 may be optimized, minimizing the time required for ice to pass through, thereby enhancing ice discharge efficiency.
In some embodiments, the spiral channel 1400 may be defined as a tubular helical structure disposed within the buffer chamber 1100. The spiral channel 1400 may communicate with the the outlet 1121 of the buffer chamber 1100 through the spiral outlet 1430. The spiral channel 1400 may define a semi-enclosed sound insulation structure. When ice collide with or rub against the inner wall of the spiral cavity 1420, sound waves cannot propagate directly to the outlet 1121, significantly reducing noise emitted from the outlet 1121. Moreover, a gap exists between the spiral channel 1400 and the inner wall of the buffer chamber 1100, providing additional sound insulation and further enhancing noise reduction. As the ice gradually decelerates within the spiral channel 1400, the cross-sectional area of the spiral cavity 1420 gradually increases in the direction from the spiral inlet 1410 to the spiral outlet 1430 to facilitate the discharge of ice from the spiral outlet 1430. The embodiments may increase the speed at which ice passes through the spiral channel 1400, ensuring efficient ice discharge while maintaining effective noise reduction.
The tubular spiral channel 1400 may be in communication with the inlet 1122. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be present, the spiral channel 1400 may be either coupled to or integrally disposed with the ice-discharge pipe section 1200.
As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, FIG. 12 is a perspective schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the ice-dispensing assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
Some embodiments of the present disclosure may provide an ice-dispensing assembly 1000. The buffer chamber 1100 may be provided with an inlet 1122 and an outlet 1121. The inlet 1122 may be positioned above the outlet 1121. The ice may enter the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122 and may exit through the outlet 1121 after being buffered therein.
In some embodiments, the buffer mechanism 1001 may comprise a buffer brush assembly 1500. The buffer brush assembly 1500 may be disposed within the buffer chamber 1100 and positioned along the ice discharge path. The buffer brush assembly 1500 may decelerate ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122. The ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 through the inlet 1122 may possess an initial velocity. As the buffer brush assembly 1500 may be positioned along the discharge path and exhibits flexibility, the buffer brush assembly 1500 may prevent direct frontal collisions between ice and the inner walls of the buffer chamber 1100 before the ice falls to the outlet 1121. The interaction between ice and the buffer brush assembly 1500 may generate negligible noise and prevent ice fracturing, while effectively achieving deceleration and facilitating ice discharge through the outlet 1121. By incorporating the buffer brush assembly 1500, the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 of the present disclosure may convert rigid impacts into flexible collisions, thereby reducing noise, improving ice quality, and enhancing user experience.
In some embodiments, the buffer brush assembly 1500 may comprise at least one row brush assembly 1510. The row brush assembly 1510 may comprise at least one row brush 1501. Each row brush 1501 may comprise a flexibly configured flexible member 1511 extending therefrom. The flexible member 1511 may comprise: a deformable contact surface 1512 disposed along the extension of the flexible member 1511 and a terminal contact surface 1513 disposed at the distal end of the flexible member 1511. The deformable contact surface 1512 may be oriented toward the channel ice outlet port 1201. When ice collide with the deformable contact surface 1512, the deformable contact surface 1512 may surface deform to effectively absorb the kinetic energy of the ice, thereby reducing their velocity. The collision between ice and the deformable contact surface 1512 produces minimal noise and prevents ice fracturing. The row brush 1501 may be spaced apart along the axial extension direction of the inlet 1122. The embodiments may enable sequential collisions between multiple row brush 1501 and the ice, achieving progressive deceleration. The multi-stage deceleration process effectively may reduce ice velocity while maintaining low collision noise and preventing ice fracture.
When the row brush assembly 1510 comprises at least two row brush 1501, the at least two row brush 1501 may be spaced apart along the axial extension direction of the inlet 1122. The embodiments may enable multiple row brush 1501 to sequentially collide with the ice, progressively decelerating the ice and sufficiently reducing the velocity of the ice. The collisions between the ice and the deformable contact surface 1512 may produce minimal noise, and the ice cannot fracture upon impact.
In some embodiments, the buffer brush assembly 1500 may comprise a plate brush 1520. The plate brush 1520 may comprise an extended buffer member 1530. The buffer member 1530 may comprise a buffer extension surface 1540 defined along the length and a buffer end surface 1550 defined at the distal end of the buffer member 1530. The buffer end surface 1550 of the buffer member 1530 may face the inlet 1122. When ice collide with the buffer end surface 1550, the buffer end surface 1550 may deform and effectively absorb the kinetic energy of the ice, thereby reducing their speed. The collision between the ice and the buffer end surface 1550 may generate low noise, and the ice cannot fracture upon impact.
In some embodiments, the buffer brush assembly 1500 may comprise both the row brush assembly 1510 and the plate brush 1520. The plate brush 1520 may be positioned on the side of the row brush assembly 1510 opposite the inlet 1122. Since the row brush assembly 1510 may be located closer to the inlet 1122, high-speed ice initially collide with the deformable contact surface 1512 of the row brush 1501 and may pass through the flexible member 1511 before colliding again with subsequent row brush 1501 or the plate brush 1520 for further deceleration. The plate brush 1520 may be positioned at the rearmost location. Since the buffer brush assembly 1500 at the terminal end of the buffer member 1530 of the plate brush 1520 may face toward the inlet 1122, the initial end of the cushioning member 1530 requires support from rigid material. The ice may ultimately collide with the plate brush 1520 for deceleration and directional change before being discharged through the outlet 1121 of the buffer chamber 1100.
In accordance with standard patent specification terminology, the following describes in detail embodiments where the buffer brush assembly 1500 may comprise two row brush 1501 and one plate brush 1520.
The ice velocities may be classified into four progressively higher levels. Ice with primary-level velocity, upon contacting and being decelerated by the first row brush 1501, fall directly to the base of the buffer chamber 1100 and subsequently discharge through outlet 1121. Secondary-level velocity ice may penetrate the first row brush 1501, with a portion of the kinetic energy being absorbed by the row brush 1501, resulting in reduced velocity. The ice may continue moving until contacting the second row brush 1501. The ice may fall to the base of buffer chamber 1100 and may be discharged through outlet 1121. Tertiary-level velocity ice may pass through both row brush 1501 with substantial velocity reduction, then contact the plate brush 1520 before falling to the base of buffer chamber 1100 and discharging through outlet 1121. The ice with quaternary-level or higher velocity may maintain relatively high speed after passing through both row brush 1501, then collide with the plate brush 1520 where their kinetic energy is absorbed, ultimately falling to the base of buffer chamber 1100 and discharging through the channel ice outlet port 1201.
The combined configuration of row brush 1501 and plate brush 1520 may provide appropriate deceleration for ice across all velocity ranges, thereby achieving noise reduction, improved ice quality, and enhanced user experience. The number of row brush 1501 in the row brush assembly 1510, as well as the distances between adjacent row brush 1501 and between row brush 1501 and the plate brush 1520, may be adjusted according to the dimensions of the buffer chamber 1100 and ice velocities, with no specific limitations imposed herein.
In some embodiments, the flexible member 1511 of the row brush 1501 may extend from one sidewall of the buffer chamber 1100 to the opposite sidewall (where "sidewalls" refer to the lateral walls on either side of the inlet 1122 in the horizontal direction), or the flexible member 1511 of the row brush 1501 may extend from the top wall of the buffer chamber 1100 downward toward the base.
As the softness of the flexible extension surface 1512 of the flexible member 1511 varies according to the distance from the flexible end surface 1513, when the ice collides with the deformable contact surface 1512, the uneven force distribution may tend to cause the ice to deviate toward the chamber wall nearer to the terminal contact surface 1513, potentially resulting in collisions with the inner wall of the buffer chamber 1100. To prevent such occurrence, in some embodiments, each row brush 1501 may comprise two opposing sub-row brush 1502. The sub-flexible member 1503 of these two sub-row brushes 1502 may extend toward each other, with the distance between their terminal contact surface 1513 being smaller than the size of an ice. The deformable contact surface 1512 of both sub-flexible member 1503 collectively may provide buffering and deceleration for passing ice. The central axis of inlet 1122 may be positioned between the terminal contact surface 1513 of the two sub-row brush 1502. When ice moves from the inlet 1122 toward the row brush 1501, the forces exerted by the two sub-flexible member 1503 on the ice may be balanced, preventing excessive deviation toward one side and subsequent collision with the inner wall of buffer chamber 1100, thereby reducing noise, improving ice quality, and optimizing user experience.
In some embodiments, the two sub-flexible member 1503 may be symmetrically arranged about the central axis of inlet 1122, with their terminal contact surface 1513 in contact with each other. This balanced force distribution may ensure the ice moves centrally toward the next row brush 1501 or fall centrally to the base of buffer chamber 1100, avoiding collisions with the chamber walls and consequently reducing noise while improving ice quality and user experience.
To prevent rebounding ice from colliding with subsequent ice after impacting the plate brush 1520 or row brush 1501, in some embodiments, the buffer brush assembly 1500 may be inclined at a predetermined angle toward the inlet 1122. The inlet 1122 may be angled downward toward the base of buffer chamber 1100. The embodiments may cause ice to rebound toward the chamber base at an angle different from their initial trajectory after colliding with the row brush 1501 or plate brush 1520, thereby avoiding collisions with trailing ice and further reducing noise while improving ice quality and user experience.
The central axis of inlet 1122 may be oriented horizontally, ensuring that the ice entering the buffer chamber 1100 through inlet 1122 may make sufficient contact with the buffer brush assembly 1500. This horizontal orientation prevents upward movement that would increase vertical travel distance, while also preventing downward acceleration due to gravity that would increase initial velocity.
In some embodiments, the flexible member 1511 may comprise various flexible materials such as fiber bristles, soft rubber, felt, or the like. The flexible member 1511 may exhibit strong deformation capability and excellent elastic recovery, enabling effective absorption of ice kinetic energy, velocity reduction, and minimization of noise from ice collisions with the chamber walls, thereby improving ice quality and user experience. The high resilience of the flexible member 1511 may restore the shape after ice detachment, prepare for subsequent ice buffering and ensure long service life.
In some embodiments, the buffer member 1530 may comprise flexible materials such as fiber bristles, soft rubber, felt, or the like, possessing strong deformation capacity and good elastic recovery to effectively absorb kinetic energy, reduce ice velocity, minimize collision noise, improve ice quality, and enhance user experience. The buffer member 1530's strong resilience enables shape recovery after ice detachment for subsequent buffering applications, ensuring extended durability.
The flexible member 1511 and the buffer member 1530 may be mounted on bases secured within the buffer chamber 1100, or the flexible member 1511 may extend directly from the inner walls of the buffer chamber 1100 in their respective directions.
In some embodiments, the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may comprise an ice-discharge pipe section 1200. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may comprise an channel ice outlet port 1201. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may communicate with the buffer chamber 1100 through the pipe section 1200. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may extend from inlet 1122 into the buffer chamber 1100. The channel ice outlet port 1201 may be located inside the chamber, or the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be positioned outside the buffer chamber 1100. The channel ice outlet port 1201 of the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be disposed at inlet 1122. When the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 is implemented in the ice transfer device 100 or the refrigeration apparatus 10, the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may interface with an ice transfer channel 120 used for ice transportation. The ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may either detachably communicate with or be integrally disposed with the ice transfer channel 120. In some embodiments, the ice transfer channel 120 may directly communicate with the buffer chamber 1100. Meanwhile the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may constitute part of the ice transfer channel 120, and the channel segment may communicate the ice transfer channel 120 with the buffer chamber 1100.
In some embodiments, when the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 extends from the inlet 1122 into the buffer chamber 1100to facilitate the communication between the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 and the buffer chamber 1100. Meanwhile, the orientation and central axis position of the channel ice outlet port 1201 of the ice-discharge pipe section 1200 may be identical or substantially identical to those of the inlet 1122. The design of the buffer brush assembly 1500 based on the inlet 1122 in the aforementioned embodiments may be retained or further optimized based on the channel ice outlet port 1201, with no specific limitations imposed herein.
In some embodiments, the buffer chamber 1100 may comprise a buffer section 1110, a collection section 1120, and a top cover 1130. The buffer brush assembly 1500 may be disposed within the buffer section 1110. The collection section 1120 may communicate with the bottom of the buffer section 1110. The bottom portion of the collection section 1120 may define the outlet 1121. The inner diameter of the collection section 1120 may gradually decrease from the end communicating with the buffer section 1110 toward the outlet 1121, defining an inclined surface to facilitate the sliding of ice toward the outlet 1121. The top cover 1130 may be mounted on the top of the buffer section 1110. The buffer section 1110 may create a relatively enclosed space within the buffer chamber 1100. The embodiments may reduce the transmission of noise generated by ice inside the buffer chamber 1100 to the exterior, thereby lowering the overall noise level of the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 and improving user experience. In some embodiments, the top cover 1130 may enhance the thermal insulation performance of the buffer chamber 1100, minimize cold energy loss within the chamber, prevent ice melting, and improve ice quality. Furthermore, the top cover 1130 may prevent foreign matter from entering the buffer chamber 1100, reduce ice contamination and chamber clogging. The buffer section 1110 may take various forms, such as cylindrical, cuboid shapes, etc.
To further reduce noise generated when ice falls onto the inner surface of the collection section 1120 and moves along the inner surface, the inner surface of the collection section 1120 may be provided with a soft material layer. The soft material layer may significantly diminish noise during ice impact and movement along the collection section 1120, effectively prevent ice breakage due to collisions, thereby improving ice quality and optimizing user experience. The soft material layer may be adhered to the inner surface of the collection section 1120 and can consist of materials such as soft rubber, felt, foam, or the like.
The ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may be described in the embodiments of the present disclosure may be used individually or in combination after appropriate adjustments. No further details will be given here.
The embodiments may illustrate several feasible implementations of the buffer mechanism 1001. The following embodiments may provide a detailed description of the structure of the ice transfer assembly 101 in the refrigeration apparatus 10.
The ice transfer assembly 101 may accelerate ice through methods such as projection, ejection or the like, thereby facilitating their smooth passage through the ice transfer channel 120 and the ice-dispensing assembly 1000. The specific structure of the ice transfer assembly 101 may be implemented in various ways, several of which are enumerated below.

Projection Method

As shown in FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a partial schematic view of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The ice transfer assembly 101 may comprise an ice transfer unit 110 and a main rotating member 130. The ice transfer unit 110 may internally define an ice inlet 111, an ice transfer chamber 112, and an ice outlet 113. The ice inlet 111, the ice transfer chamber 112, and the ice outlet 113 may be interconnected. The ice transfer channel 120 may communicate with the ice transfer chamber 112 through the ice outlet 113. The main rotating member 130 may be rotatably disposed within the ice transfer chamber 112, with the ice inlet 111 and ice outlet 113 positioned around the periphery of the main rotating member 130. The main rotating member 130 may rotate in a first direction X and carry ice entering the ice transfer chamber 112 through the ice inlet 111 to project them from the ice outlet 113 into the ice transfer channel 120.
The ice transfer unit 110 of the ice transfer assembly 101 may be disposed in the first refrigeration compartment 12. The ice-retrieving assembly 300 and ice-dispensing assembly 1000 may be located on the second door body 15 above the first refrigeration compartment 12. The ice transfer channel 120 may provide a movement path for transferring ice from the first refrigeration compartment 12 to the second door body 15. The ice inlet 111 may communicate with the ice-making assembly 200, allowing ice to enter the ice transfer chamber 112 from the ice inlet 111. The main rotating member 130 may carry the ice to rotate along the first direction X and project the ice toward the ice outlet 113. The ice may have a certain initial velocity. The ice moves from the ice outlet 113 into the ice transfer channel 120 and ultimately to the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 and ice-retrieving assembly 300 via the ice transfer channel 120. Since the main rotating member 130 may continuously rotate at a certain speed, the ice from the ice-making assembly 200 may be rapidly and continuously projected to the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 and ice-retrieving assembly 300, enabling fast ice movement and high ice dispensing efficiency. The embodiments may rapid continuous ice dispensing with short user waiting time, prevent ice melting and maintain high ice quality without melting adhesion between ice.
By driving the ice to rotate via the main rotating member 130, the ice may gain initial velocity and move quickly to the ice-retrieving assembly 300, transferring directly from the first refrigeration compartment 12 to the ice-retrieving assembly 300 with high speed, which not only improves ice dispensing efficiency but also eliminates the need for an evaporator in the second refrigeration compartment 13 for ice preservation, further increasing the volumetric efficiency of the second refrigeration compartment 13.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG 14, the refrigeration apparatus 10 may comprise a transfer channel 150. The transfer channel 150 may communicate with the ice transfer chamber 112 through the ice inlet 111, and the transfer channel 150 may be used to communicate with the ice-discharge end of the ice-making assembly 200 to transfer ice to the ice transfer chamber 112. The ice inlet end of the transfer channel 150 may be positioned higher than the ice inlet 111, allowing ice to enter the ice transfer unit 110 along the transfer channel 150 under gravity; alternatively, the ice inlet end of the transfer channel 150 may be level with or lower than the ice inlet 111, the ice may be driven into the ice transfer chamber 112 by a power mechanism moving along the transfer channel 150. Therefore, the ice inlet 111 may be located in the upper part, lower part, or other positions of the ice transfer chamber 112, and ice can enter the ice transfer chamber 112 and engage with the main rotating member 130 with the assistance of gravity or other power mechanisms.
By adopting the ice transfer device 100, the main rotating member 130 rotates in the first direction X at a predetermined speed. The embodiments may carry and successfully project ice from the ice outlet 113 into the ice transfer channel 120, ultimately enabling the ice to move smoothly along the ice transfer channel 120 to the ice-retrieving assembly 300. However, in some embodiments - such as significant variations in ice size, relative displacement between ice and the main rotating member 130 during rotation, or failure to impart the required initial velocity when projecting ice into the ice transfer channel 120 ice may fail to properly reach the ice-retrieving assembly 300. The ice that fails to reach the dispensing assembly will fall back along the transfer channel into the ice transfer unit 110. To prevent ice jams from affecting the ice transfer device 100, in some embodiments as illustrated in FIG. 15, FIG. 15 is a partial schematic view of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ice transfer chamber 112 may comprise an ice return port 119. The ice transfer device 100 may comprise a return channel 160. The return channel 160 may communicate with the ice return port 119. The discharge end of the return channel 160 may be positioned lower than that of the ice transfer channel 120. The main rotating member 130 may rotate in a second direction Y to carry ice within the transfer chamber 112 and project them through the return port 119 into the return channel 160. The second direction Y may be opposite to the first direction X. The embodiments may allow for clearing procedures when ice falls back from the transfer channel. The ice supply through inlet 111 can be temporarily stopped while the rotating member 130 reverses direction to eject accumulated ice through the return channel 160. Since the return channel's discharge end may be lower than the main transfer channel's, ice exits at relatively reduced velocity, preventing pile-up and maintaining normal operation of the ice transfer device 100.
The transfer channel 150 may communicate the ice-making assembly 200 to the ice transfer unit 110. The intake end of the transfer channel 150 may communicate with the ice-making assembly 200. The discharge end of the transfer channel 150 may communicate with the ice transfer unit 110. The ice of the ice-making assembly 200 may be moved to the ice transfer unit 110 through the transfer channel 150. The discharge end of the return channel 160 is in communication with the transfer channel 150, and the main rotating member 130 can rotate in the second direction Y to send the blocked ice in the ice transfer unit 110 back to the transfer channel 150 for further dropping to the ice transfer unit 110. Alternatively, the discharge end of the return channel 160 may communicate with the ice-making assembly 200, and the main rotating member 130 can rotate in the second direction Y to return the blocked ice in the ice transfer unit 110 back to the ice-making assembly 200. The return channel 160 may communicate with the ice storage compartment of the ice-making assembly 200.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 15, the ice transfer unit 110 may comprise an acceleration zone 114. The inner wall of the acceleration zone 114 may be disposed around the periphery of the main rotating member 130 such that when the main rotating member 130 rotates in the first direction X, ice may sequentially pass through the ice inlet 111, acceleration zone 114 and ice outlet 113 before entering the ice transfer channel 120. When ice enters through the ice inlet 111, the surrounding configuration of the acceleration zone 114 inner wall may enable the main rotating member 130 to firmly grasp the ice. The main rotating member 130 may carry the ice through a sufficient rotation angle in the first direction X to achieve adequate acceleration. When the ice continues rotating to exit the acceleration zone 114 and align with the ice outlet 113, the ice may be released from peripheral constraint with sufficient velocity to propel into the ice transfer channel 120 and subsequently move along the ice transfer channel 120 to reach the ice-retrieving assembly 300. The provision of the acceleration zone 114 may ensure ice obtains sufficient initial velocity after proper acceleration to facilitate passage through the ice transfer channel 120. The initial velocity acquired by ice after passing through the acceleration zone 114 may be adjusted by modifying the operational range of the acceleration zone 114, the dimensions of the main rotating member 130 and the rotational speed. By adjusting various parameters, the ice may pass through the ice transfer channel 120 at an appropriate speed, ensuring that the ice can enter the ice-retrieving assembly 300 at a certain speed through the ice transfer channel 120 without causing collision noise due to excessive ice speed. Similarly when ice fails to reach the ice-retrieval assembly, the ice may fall back along the ice transfer channel 120 into the ice transfer unit 110. The main rotating member 130 may rotate in the second direction Y to propel the ice from the acceleration zone 114 through the ice return port 119 into the return channel 160. The acceleration zone 114 may enable ice to acquire adequate initial velocity when the main rotating member 130 rotates in the second direction Y for ejection through the ice return port 119 into the return channel 160.
In some embodiments, during rotation in the first direction X, ice entering the ice transfer chamber 112 through the ice inlet 111 may initially pass the ice return port 119 but at this stage the ice may have undergone insufficient rotation with the main rotating member 130 to achieve ejection velocity and therefore remain engaged with the main rotating member 130 until reaching alignment with the ice outlet 113 where sufficient velocity is attained for proper ejection. During rotation in the second direction Y, ice may initially pass the ice inlet 111 without achieving ejection velocity due to limited rotation angle and only upon reaching alignment with the ice return port 119 do they acquire sufficient velocity to be ejected therethrough.
In order to facilitate smoother passage of ice through the ice transfer channel 120 and improve the success rate of ice projection, in some embodiments, when the main rotating member 130 rotates in the first direction X, the peripheral surface of the main rotating member 130 may define a first motion trajectory for the ice. The tangential direction at the junction between the acceleration zone 114 and the ice outlet 113 may be oriented within the ice transfer channel 120, such that when the main rotating member 130 carries the ice to the junction between the acceleration zone 114 and the ice outlet 113 where the ice is about to disengage from the acceleration zone 114 and move toward the ice outlet 113, the direction of movement of the ice may be already aligned within the ice transfer channel 120, thereby enabling the ice to smoothly enter and pass through the ice transfer channel 120 to reach the ice-retrieving assembly 300, resulting in a high success rate of ice projection by the icetransfer device 100. When the tangential direction at the junction between the acceleration zone 114 and the ice outlet 113 coincides with the extending direction of the transfer section 121 of the ice transfer channel 120, the movement resistance of ice within the transfer section 121 may be reduced, consequently requiring less driving force from the main rotating member 130 to propel the ice through the ice transfer channel 120.
In order to facilitate easier passage of ice through the return channel 160 and improve the success rate of return ice projection, in some embodiments, when the main rotating member 130 rotates in the second direction Y, the peripheral surface of the main rotating member 130 defines a second motion trajectory for the ice. The tangential direction at the junction between the acceleration zone 114 and the ice return port 119 may be oriented within the return channel 160, such that when the main rotating member 130 carries the ice to the junction between the acceleration zone 114 and the ice return port 119. The ice is about to disengage from the acceleration zone 114 and move toward the ice return port 119. The direction of movement of the ice may be already aligned within the return channel 160, thereby enabling the ice to smoothly enter and pass through the return channel 160 to reach the ice-making assembly 200 and preventing clogging of the ice transfer unit 110. In some embodiments when the tangential direction at the junction between the acceleration zone 114 and the ice return port 119 coincides with the extending direction of the return channel 160, the movement resistance of ice within the return channel 160 may be reduced, consequently requiring less driving force from the main rotating member 130 to propel the ice through the return channel 160.
In some embodiments, the ice transfer device 100 may comprise a first sensor 171 and a second sensor 172. The first sensor 171 may be disposed at the ice inlet 111 or the transfer channel 150. The first sensor 171 may be used for detecting the passage of ice. The embodiments may indicate that ice may have entered the ice transfer chamber 112. The second sensor 172 may be disposed at the discharge end of the ice transfer channel 120. The second sensor 172 may be used for detecting the passage of ice. Such that may indicate that ice has successfully passed through the ice transfer channel 120 and moved to the ice-retrieving assembly 300.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is a partial schematic view of an ice transfer assembly of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The ice transfer unit 110 further comprises a transition zone 115 and a third sensor 173. The inner wall of the transition zone 115 may surround the outer periphery of the main rotating member 130. The transition zone 115 may communicate with the ice inlet 111 and the ice outlet 113 of the ice removal portion on the side opposite to the acceleration zone 114. The third sensor 173 may be disposed in the transition zone 115. The third sensor 173 may be disposed to detect the passage of ice. When the third sensor 173 detects ice passage, the third sensor 173 may indicate that the main rotating member 130 has failed to eject the ice toward the ice outlet 113, and the ice may be forced to pass through the transition zone 115, potentially causing an ice jam. Upon detecting ice passage, the third sensor 173 may trigger the ice-making assembly 200 to stop ice supply while controlling the main rotating member 130 to rotate in a second direction Y. The main rotating member 130 may be used to eject any ice clogged in the ice transfer chamber 112 back into the return ice channel 160, thereby preventing blockages.
During high-speed ice ejection, friction and collisions may occur within the chamber, potentially generating ice fragments. These fragments may be difficult to eject and may accumulate over time, impeding the rotation of the main rotating member 130. In some embodiments, the bottom of the ice transfer unit 110 may be provided with a through hole (not shown) communicating with the ice transfer chamber 112. The ice transfer device 100 may comprise a collection member 175. The collection member 175 may be disposed below the ice transfer unit 110. The through hole may allow ice fragments to pass while blocking whole ice. The collection member 175 may collect the fragments falling through the hole. Both the collection member 175 and the ice transfer unit 110 may be housed in the first refrigeration compartment 12 or the first door body 14, allowing the user to remove and clean the collection member 175 by opening the first refrigeration compartment 12.

Ejection Method

As shown in FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing the overall structure of an ice transfer device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
The ice transfer assembly 101 may comprise a transfer channel 150, a sorting assembly 180, and an ejection assembly 190. The ice transfer channel 120 may comprise an ice outlet 1222, an ice inlet 1221, and an ejection zone 1223. The ice outlet 1222 may be positioned above the ice inlet 1221. The ejection zone 1223 may be located below the ice inlet 1221. The transfer channel 150 may communicate with the ice transfer channel 120 through the ice inlet 1221. The sorting assembly 180 may be disposed within the transfer channel 150 to sequentially deliver ice into the ice transfer channel 120. As the ejection zone 1223 is situated below the ice inlet 1221, the sorting assembly 180 may transport ice individually through the ice inlet 1221, allowing the ice to move from the ice inlet 1221 to the ejection zone 1223 under gravitational force. The ejection assembly 190 may be arranged at one end of the ice transfer channel 120 distal from the ice outlet 1222. The ejection assembly 190 may be disposed to propel a predetermined quantity of ice from the ejection zone 1223 toward the ice outlet 1222. Through coordinated operation between the sorting assembly 180 and the ejection assembly 190, the sorting assembly 180 may deliver ice sequentially into the ice transfer channel 120. The ejection assembly 190 may drive the predetermined quantity of ice in the ejection zone 1223 to be ejected toward the ice outlet 1222.
The sorting assembly 180, the transfer channel 150, and the ejection assembly 190 may be disposed in the first refrigeration compartment 12. The ice dispensing assembly 1000 and the ice-retrieving assembly 300 may be mounted on the second door body 15 positioned above the first refrigeration compartment 12. The ice transfer channel 120 may provide a transfer path for ice moving from the first refrigeration compartment 12 to the second door body panel 15. The sorting assembly 180 may communicate with the ice-making assembly 200. The ejection assembly 190 may propel ice toward the ice outlet 1222, imparting initial velocity to the ice as they move from the ejection zone 1223 toward the ice outlet 1222, ultimately traveling along the ice transfer channel 120 to reach the ice dispensing assembly 1000 and ice-retrieving assembly 300. By continuously ejecting ice at a controlled velocity, the ejection assembly 190 may enable rapid and sequential transfer of ice from the ice-making assembly 200 to the ice dispensing assembly 1000 and ice-retrieving assembly 300. The embodiments may ensure swift ice movement, high retrieval efficiency, and continuous ice dispensing capability, significantly reducing user wait time while maintaining ice quality by minimizing melting and preventing ice agglomeration.
The ejection assembly 190 may propel the ice, imparting initial velocity for rapid movement to the ice-retrieving assembly 300. This direct transfer from the first refrigeration compartment 12 to the ice-retrieving assembly 300 may achieve high-speed ice delivery, significantly enhancing retrieval efficiency. The embodiments may eliminate the need for an evaporator in the second refrigeration compartment 13 for ice preservation, thereby increasing the compartment's effective storage capacity.
In some embodiments, the predetermined quantity may be one, two, or more ice, with the ejection assembly's 190 driving force calibrated accordingly. To ensure successful ice ejection, the driving force of ejection assembly 190 may be disposed to propel a greater number of ice than the predetermined quantity toward the outlet. In a single operation, ejection assembly 190 may drive one ice, two ice, or other quantities of ice located in ejection zone 1223 to be propelled toward outlet 1222.
The ejection assembly 190 may comprise a push plate 191 and an electromagnetic actuator 192. The push plate 191 may be movable along the extension direction of ice transfer channel 120 and may be set in ice transfer channel 120. The electromagnetic actuator 192 may be mounted on the side of the push plate 191 opposite the ice outlet 1222. The output shaft of the electromagnetic actuator 192 may be operatively communicating with the push plate 191. The electromagnetic actuator 192 may drive the push plate 191 to project a predetermined distance from the ejection zone 1223 toward the ice outlet 1222, thereby imparting initial velocity to the ice for movement toward the outlet. The electromagnetic actuator 192 may return the push plate 191 to the ejection zone 1223. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic actuator 192 provides controlled operation through current switching for extension/retraction of the push plate 191. Further, by controlling current amplitude modulation, the electromagnetic actuator 192 can regulate the projection speed of the push plate 191, and correspondingly adjust the ejection velocity of ice.
In some embodiments, the transfer channel 150 may comprise a transport section 152, a guide section 153, and a hopper section 154. The sorting assembly 180 may be disposed within the transport section 152. The transport section 152 may comprise an inlet end 1521 and an outlet end 1522. The outlet end 1522 may be positioned higher than the ice inlet 1221. The guide section 153 may fluidly communicate the outlet end 1522 with the ice inlet 1221. The hopper section 154 may be disposed at the inlet end 1521. The hopper section 154 may be positioned above the inlet end 1521. The hopper section 154 may be used to receive ice entering the transport section 152. Since the outlet end 1522 is elevated relative to the ice inlet 1221 and the outlet end 1522 and the ice inlet 1221 may be connected via the guide section 153, ice may naturally move from the outlet end 1522 through the guide section 153 to the ice inlet 1221 under gravitational force. The hopper section 154 may have a gradually increasing diameter from the connection point with the transport section 152 to the distal end of the transport section 152, facilitating the entry of ice discharged from the ice-making assembly 200 into the transfer channel and improving the success rate of ice transfer.
In some embodiments, the outlet end 1522 of the transport section 152 may be positioned higher than the inlet end 1521 of the transport section 152, requiring the sorting assembly 180 disposed within the transport section 152 to transport ice from the lower position to the higher position. The embodiments may enable the sorting assembly 180 to partially elevate the ice, bring them closer to the second refrigeration compartment 13, thereby reducing the vertical distance the ice needs to travel upward along the ice transfer channel 120. As a result, the driving force required by the ejection assembly 190 to propel the ice upward may be decreased, improving the success rate of ice ejection while maintaining an energyefficient ice transfer system with reliable operation.
The sorting assembly 180 for sequentially delivering ice into the ice transfer channel 120 may be implemented in various configurations. In some embodiments, the transport section 152 may be linear-shaped, and the sorting assembly 180 may comprise: a drive wheel set 181, a conveyor belt 182, partition plates 183, and a first power component (not shown). The drive wheel set 181 may be disposed within the transport section 152 and comprise at least two spaced-apart drive wheels 1811 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the transport section 152. The drive wheels 1811 may be rotatably supported by the transport section 152. The conveyor belt 182 may be wound around the drive wheel set 181. The first power component may drive the rotation of the drive wheels 1811, thereby causing the conveyor belt 182 to move accordingly. Multiple partition plates 183 may be spaced along the conveyor belt 182. Each adjacent pair of partition plates 183 may define a compartment for holding a single ice. The partition plates 183 may push the ice toward the guide section 153 with improved stability on the conveyor belt 182. The partition plates 183 may prevent ice agglomeration by maintaining physical separation between individual cubes. When ice reaches the end of the sorting assembly 180 proximate to the guide section 153, the partition plates 183 may rotate from above to below the conveyor belt 182, releasing the ice which then falls into the guide section 153 by gravity and proceeds into the ice transfer channel 120. The rotational speed of the drive wheels 1811 by the first power component may be adaptively adjustable according to the ejection speed of ice by the ejection assembly 190 from the ice transfer channel 120.
To ensure proper delivery of ice into the ice transfer channel 120 by the sorting assembly 180, the ice transfer device 100 may comprise a first sensor 1224. The first sensor 1224 may be positioned at the ice inlet 1221. The first sensor 1224 may detect ice passage, indicating entry of ice into the ice transfer chamber. Upon detection by the first sensor 1224, the ice may pass through the ice inlet 1221 and descend to the ejection zone 1223, whereupon the ejection assembly 190 may prepare to execute an ejection cycle to propel the ice toward the ice outlet 1222.
In order to ensure that the ejection assembly 190 may smoothly eject the ice out of the ice outlet 1222 of the ice transfer channel 120, in some embodiments, the ice transfer device 100 may also comprise a second sensor 1225. The second sensor 1225 may be set at the ice outlet 1222. The second sensor 1225 may be used to sense the passage of ice, indicating that ice may have successfully moved through the ice transfer channel 120 to the ice retrieval component 300. When the second sensor 1225 senses the passage of the ice, the sorting assembly 180 can continue to deliver ice to the ice transfer channel 120, and the ejection assembly 190 may prepare for the next ice ejection operation. After the ejection component 190 performs one ejection operation, the second sensor 1225 still does not sense the passage of ice, indicating that the ice may have not passed through the ice outlet 1222 but still fall back to the ejection area 1223 along the ice transfer channel 120 after ejection. At this time, ice blockage may occur. The sorting assembly 180 may be controlled to pause ice feeding and the ejection assembly 190 may be controlled to perform another ejection operation to eject the unsuccessful ice again.
In some embodiments, the ice transfer device 100 may also comprise a weight sensor. The weight sensor may be set on the push plate 191. If ice enters the ice transfer channel 120 and falls onto the pushing plate 191, the weight sensor may sense the change in the ice. The ejection assembly 190 may prepare for one ejection operation to drive the ice located in the ejection area 1223 to eject towards the ice outlet 1222; If the ejection component 190 ejects the ice towards the ice outlet 1222, but the ice still falls back to the ejection area 1223 along the ice transfer channel 120 without passing through the ice outlet 1222, the weight sensor can sense the weight change again, and then control the sorting assembly 180 to pause ice feeding and control the ejection component 190 to perform another ejection operation, ejecting the ice that was not successfully ejected again.
The first sensor 1224 may operate in conjunction with either the second sensor 1225 or the weight sensor to precisely monitor ice status throughout the ice transfer device 100.
The preceding embodiments detail multiple implementable configurations for the ice transfer assembly 101, while the following description may address the ice transfer channel 120 arrangement.
The ice transfer channel 120 in the refrigeration apparatus 10 may be disposed within the interior of the first refrigeration compartment 12 and/or second refrigeration compartment 13; along sidewalls of the compartments; within door assemblies of said compartments, or near rotational axes of said compartments, etc. That is to say, the ice transfer channel 120 in the refrigeration apparatus 10 may be disposed at any position accommodating the ice transfer channel 120. Subsequent examples will illustrate configuration schemes for positioning the ice transfer channel 120 within the refrigeration apparatus 10.

First Implementation Scheme

As shown in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19. FIG. 18 is a schematic view showing a first configuration of a refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 19 is another schematic structural view of the first configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
The ice transfer channel 120 may comprise a first section 125, a second section 126, and a third section 127 sequentially connected. The second section 126 may be rotationally coupled to the first section 125 and/or the third section 127. The first section 125 may be located in the first refrigeration compartment 12 or the first door body 14. The first section 125 may communicate with the ice outlet of the ice transfer assembly 101. The second section 126 may be positioned between the first door body 14 and the second door body 15. The third section 127 may be disposed in the second door body 15 and communicating with the ice-discharge pipe section 1200. The rotation axis of the second door body 15 may be located within the second section 126. The ice transfer assembly 101 may drive ice into the ice transfer channel 120. The ice may sequentially pass through the first section 125, second section 126, and third section 127 before entering the ice dispensing assembly 1000.
Since the second section 126 is positioned between the first door body 14 and the second door body 15, and the rotation axis of the second door body 15 lies within the second section 126, the third section 127 and the second section 126 may remain aligned during the opening and closing of the second door body 15. This ensures sealed pipe connections between the sections, preventing condensation issues caused by poor sealing.
In some embodiments, the rotation axis of the second door body 15 may coincide with the central axis of the second section 126 to maintain optimal alignment between the third section 127 and the second section 126 during door movement. In some embodiments, manufacturing tolerances or pipe cross-sectional shapes may cause slight offset between the rotation axis and the central axis of the second section 126. However, as long as the rotation axis remains within the second section 126, the door movement will not affect the alignment or ice transfer efficiency.
The first section 125 extends from the ice transfer assembly 101 to communicate with the second section 126 and the second section 126 is located between the first door body 14 and the second door body 15. When the ice transfer assembly 101 is installed in the first refrigeration compartment 12, the first door body 14 may comprise a relief groove to accommodate the first section 125, allowing the first section 125 to extend from the first refrigeration compartment 12 and communicate with the second section 126. The ice transfer assembly 101 may be fixed to the first refrigeration compartment 12. The first section 125 may connect the ice transfer assembly 101 and the second section 126 while remaining stationary. The first section 125 may operate independently of the first door body 14. The first door body 14 is rotationally mounted on the cabinet body 11. In at least one alternative embodiment, the first refrigeration compartment 12 may comprise a first drawer, with the first door body 14 mounted on it. The drawer may be slidably installed in the cabinet body 11, allowing for pull-out access while maintaining the ice transfer path.
As shown in FIG. 18, the ice transfer assembly 101 may alternatively be disposed on the first door body 14. When the first door body 14 is rotationally mounted to the cabinet body 11, the rotation axis of the cabinet body 11 may be located within the second section 126, and given that the second section 126 is positioned between the first door body 14 and the second door body 15, the first section 125 and the second section 126 may maintain continuous alignment during the opening and closing movements of the first door body 14. The embodiments may ensure effective sealing between the first section 125 and the second section 126, thereby preventing condensation issues caused by inadequate connection sealing. In some embodiments, the ice inlet 111 of the ice transfer unit 110 may disengage from the ice-making assembly 200 when the first door body 14 is opened, yet re-engages with the ice outlet of the ice-making assembly 200 upon door closure without affecting the proper transfer of ice from the ice-making assembly 200 to the ice transfer unit 110. The ice outlet of the ice-making assembly 200 may refer to either the ice outlet of the ice storage container in the ice-making assembly 200 or the ice outlet of the transfer channel 150.
To achieve relative rotation between the second door body 15 and the cabinet body 11 while maintaining proper alignment of the ice transfer channel 120 sections, in some embodiments, the second refrigeration compartment 13 may comprise coaxially arranged first and second rotating shaft components (not shown in the figures). The second door body 15 may be connected to the cabinet body 11 through a first rotating shaft on the side away from the first door body 14. The second rotating shaft component may be disposed at the side of the second door body 15 adjacent to the first door body 14. The second rotating shaft component defines the second section 126. The first section 125 and the second section 126 may be either fixedly communicated or integrally formed. The second section 126 and the third section 127 may be rotationally coupled. The embodiments may ensure that the first section 125 and the second section 126 may remain continuously aligned, and the rotation of the second door body 15 drive synchronous movement of both the third section 127 and the second section 126. In some embodiments, the first section 125 and the second section 126 may be rotationally connected. The second section 126 and the third section 127 may be fixedly connected or integrally formed. The embodiments may maintain alignment between the first section 125 and the second section 126, with the rotation of the second door body 15 driving movement of the third section 127.
In some embodiments, the second refrigeration compartment 13 may comprise first and second coaxial rotating shaft member. The second door body 15 may rotatably communicate with the cabinet body 11 via the first rotating shaft member at a side distal to the first door body 14. The second rotating shaft member may be disposed at a side of the second door body 15 proximate to the first door body 14. The second rotating shaft member may constitute the second section 126. Both ends of the second section 126 may be sleeved over the third section 127 and first section 125, or inserted into the third section 127 and first section 125. The embodiments provide that: The second section 126 maintains relative rotation with both the first section 125 and third section 127 at respective ends, ensuring stable interconnection therebetween. The sleeved or inserted connection between the second section 126 and the first/third sections 125/127 guarantees unimpeded ice passage through the sequential sections to the ice-retrieving assembly 300. In particular implementations, the second section 126 may remain stationary relative to the cabinet body 11; or the second section 126 may rotatably communicate with the cabinet body 11. The present disclosure imposes no limitation on this configuration.

Second Implementation Scheme

As shown in FIG. 20 and FIG. 21. FIG. 20 is a schematic view showing a second configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional structural view of a door assembly in the second configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
The ice transfer channel 120 may comprise sequentially communicated first sub-channel 123 and second sub-channel 124. The second sub-channel 124 may be disposed within the second door body 15, with a portion extending through the handle 16. The second sub-channel 124 may communicate with the ice dispensing assembly 1000. The first sub-channel 123 may communicate with the ice outlet 113 of the ice transfer assembly 101. The ice transfer assembly 101 may propel ice through the ice transfer channel 120. The ice may pass through the first sub-channel 123 and second sub-channel 124 before reaching the ice-retrieving assembly 300. By integrating the handle 16 with the second sub-channel 124, the handle 16 may be designed as a hollow conduit with the second sub-channel 124 disposed within the second door body 15 and partially housed within the handle 16. During opening/closing operations of the second door body 15, the handle 16 may bear the door operating load. During ice dispensing, ice may be conveyed through the second sub-channel 124 to the ice-retrieving assembly 300. The embodiments may reduce the spatial occupancy of the second sub-channel 124 within the second refrigeration compartment 13, thereby increasing the volumetric efficiency of the second refrigeration compartment 13.
The second sub-channel 124 may comprise an ice transfer segment 121, a connecting segment 128, and a guiding segment 122. The ice transfer segment 121 may be disposed within the handle 16. The first sub-channel 123 may communicate the ice transfer segment 121 through the connecting segment 128. The guiding segment 122 may communicate with the ice transfer segment 121 and curves toward the ice-dispensing assembly 1000. The guiding segment 122 may be positioned higher than the ice-dispensing assembly 1000, facilitating the ice to fall from the guiding segment 122 into the ice-retrieving assembly 300 under gravity. The inner walls of the ice transfer segment 121, the connecting segment 128, and the guiding segment 122 are smoothly transitioned.
In order to ensure that the ice can smoothly enter the ice-dispensing assembly 1000 through the first sub-channel 123 and the second sub-channel 124, the ice may have a movement trajectory when moving in the ice transfer channel 120. The angle between the tangent direction of each position of the movement trajectory and the direction of gravity may be greater than 90° and less than or equal to 180° , so that the ice can smoothly rise along the first sub-channel 123 and the second sub-channel 124, avoiding falling due to excessive turning angle. Furthermore, the angle between the tangent direction of each position of the moving trajectory and the direction of gravity is greater than 135° and less than or equal to 180. The path of the ice rising along the ice transfer channel 120 may be smoother, requiring less power, less collision, and less sound, thus enhancing the overall user experience.
In some embodiments the guiding segment 122 may be positioned higher than the ice-dispensing assembly 1000, requiring a downward curvature to communicate with the ice-dispensing assembly 1000. When the ice descends along the guiding segment 122, the angle between their movement direction and the direction of gravity is less than 90°. Therefore, the aforementioned movement trajectory may refer to the upward movement of the ice within the ice transfer channel 120 and cannot comprise the downward falling trajectory of the ice after entering the guiding segment 122 toward the ice-dispensing assembly 1000.
Under the action of the ice transfer assembly 101, the ice may quickly pass through the ice transfer channel 120. The time the ice spends in the ice transfer segment 121 inside the handle 16 is short, minimizing the impact of the external ambient temperature of the appliance device 10 on the ice. In some embodiments, an insulating layer may additionally be wrapped around the exterior of the handle 16. The insulating layer may reduce heat exchange between the interior of the handle 16 and the external environment, preventing both the degradation of ice quality due to high ambient temperatures and the formation of condensation on the outer surface of the handle 16 due to excessively low temperatures. This further enhances the user experience.
Since the ice transfer device 100 is typically installed in a refrigeration apparatus 10 with double doors, the handle 16 may be positioned away from the pivot axis of the second door body 15. To facilitate the alignment of the ice transfer assembly 101 with the second sub-channel 124, the ice transfer assembly 101 may be disposed on the first door body 14. The first sub-channel 123 may be arranged on the first door body 14. The ice transfer assembly 101 may move synchronously with the opening and closing of the first door body 14. When the first door body 14 is closed relative to the cabinet body 11, the first sub-channel 123 and the second sub-channel 124 may be aligned. In some embodiments, since the first sub-channel 123 is located on the first door body 14 while the second sub-channel 124 is located on the second door body 15, a small gap exists between the first door body 14 and the second door body 15. Under normal circumstances, this gap is sufficiently narrow to allow ice to pass directly through. In some embodiments, the connecting segment 128 may be located near the first door body 14 and may protrude from the second door body 15, and the end of the connecting segment 128 near the first door body 14 may be directly facing the first sub channel 123. The connecting segment 128 may protrude from the second door body 15 to further reduce the gap between the street connecting section 128 and the first sub channel 123, thereby reducing the loss of cooling capacity.
In some single-door refrigerators, the ice transfer assembly 101 may be installed inside the first refrigeration compartment 12, and the ice transfer assembly 101 may be installed on the side wall near the handle 16. The first sub-channel 123 may be arranged within the first compartment. A partition layer 102 may be provided between the first refrigeration compartment 12 and the second refrigeration compartment 13, and an intermediate channel 129 may be disposed within the partition layer 102. The first sub-channel 123 may communicate with the second sub-channel 124 through the intermediate channel 129. The second door body 15 may protrude inward into the second refrigeration compartment 13 to ensure proper alignment between the second sub-channel 124 and the intermediate channel 129.
In some embodiments, the first door body 14 may be pivotally mounted to the cabinet body 11. In some embodiments, the first refrigeration compartment 12 may comprise a first drawer slidably mounted to the cabinet body 11. The first door body 14 may be fixed to the first drawer. When the ice transfer unit 110 is set at the first door body 14, as the first door body 14 rotates or pushes the switch, the ice transfer unit 110 and the first sub-channel 123 may move with the first door body 14. At this point, the first sub-channel 123 may be misaligned with the second sub-channel 124 as the first door body 14 is opened. After the first door body 14 is closed, the first sub-channel 123 and the second sub-channel 124 may be set facing each other without affecting the passage effect of the ice.

Third Implementation Scheme

As shown in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23. FIG. 22 is a schematic structural view of a third configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 is an enlarged structural view of portion A in FIG. 22.
The ice transfer assembly 101 may be disposed within the first refrigeration compartment 12. The ice transfer channel 120 may comprise a first sub-channel 123 and a second sub-channel 124 connected in series. The second sub-channel 124 may be arranged on the second door body 15. The first sub-channel 123 may be disposed within the first refrigeration compartment 12. The second sub-channel 124 may communicate with the ice-dispensing assembly 1000. The first sub-channel 123 may communicate with an ice outlet of the ice transfer assembly 101. The ice transfer assembly 101 may be disposed to drive ice into the ice transfer channel 120. The ice may sequentially pass through the first sub-channel 123 and the second sub-channel 124 before entering the ice-dispensing assembly 1000.
By arranging the second sub-channel 124 on the second door body 15, the internal space of the second refrigeration compartment 13 may not be occupied, thereby improving the volumetric efficiency of the refrigeration apparatus 10. This configuration may produce external protrusions and optimize the aesthetic appearance of the ice.
Since the ice transfer assembly 101 is located within the first refrigeration compartment 12, a partition layer 102 may be provided in the cabinet body 11 to facilitate alignment between the first sub-channel 123 and the second sub-channel 124. The partition layer 102 may be disposed between the first refrigeration compartment 12 and the second refrigeration compartment 13. The partition layer 102 may comprise an intermediate channel 129. The intermediate channel 129 may connect the first sub-channel 123 and the second sub-channel 124. The second door body 15 may protrude inward into the second refrigeration compartment 13. An inlet end of the second sub-channel 124 may directly face an outlet end of the intermediate channel 129, ensuring proper alignment between the second sub-channel 124 and the intermediate channel 129. During opening of the second door body 15, the second sub-channel 124 may disengage from the intermediate channel 129, whereas when the second door body 15 is closed against the cabinet body 11, the second sub-channel 124 may re-align with the intermediate channel 129. By positioning the first sub-channel 123 within the first refrigeration compartment 12 and connecting the intermediate channel 129 to the second sub-channel 124 via the intermediate channel 129, the entire ice transfer channel 120 may be contained within the first refrigeration compartment 12 and the second refrigeration compartment 13.
In some embodiments, the ice-making assembly 200 may be positioned closer to a rear wall relative to the ice transfer assembly 101.
To optimize alignment between the ice transfer channel 120 and an ice transfer unit 110, ensuring that ice ejected from the ice transfer unit 110 can more easily ascend along the ice transfer channel 120, the second sub-channel 124 may be disposed on a side of the ice-retrieving assembly 300 proximate to a pivot axis of the second door body 15. In coordination with the placement of the ice transfer assembly 101, the second sub-channel 124 and the first sub-channel 123 may be linearly communicated, thereby facilitating smoother passage of ice through the ice transfer channel 120 to the ice-dispensing assembly 1000.

Fourth Implementation Scheme

As shown in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25, FIG. 24 is a schematic structural view of a fourth configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional structural view of a door assembly in the fourth configuration of the refrigeration apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
The ice transfer channel 120 may comprise a first sub-channel 123 and a second sub-channel 124 communicated sequentially. The first sub-channel 123 may be disposed on the first door body 14. The second sub-channel 124 may be disposed on the second door body 15. The second sub-channel 124 may communicate with the ice-dispensing assembly 1000, and the first sub-channel 123 may communicate with the ice outlet 113 of the ice transfer unit 110. The ice transfer assembly 101 may be configured to drive ice to move outward through the ice transfer channel 120. The ice sequentially passes through the first sub-channel 123 and the second sub-channel 124 before entering the ice-dispensing assembly 1000.
By arranging the first sub-channel 123 on the first door body 14 and the second sub-channel 124 on the second door body 15, the configuration neither occupies internal space of the first refrigeration compartment 12 nor the second refrigeration compartment 13, thereby improving the volumetric efficiency of the refrigeration apparatus 10. The embodiments may prevent additional protrusions on the exterior of the refrigeration apparatus 10 and optimize the appearance of the refrigeration apparatus 10.
A certain gap may exist between the first door body 14 and the second door body 15. The certain gap may be sufficiently small to allow direct passage of ice there between. In some embodiments, the end of the second sub-channel 124 adjacent to the first door body 14 may protrude from the second door body 15, with said end being arranged opposite to the first sub-channel 123. The embodiments may reduce the gap between the second sub-channel 124 and the first sub-channel 123, thereby minimizing cold energy loss. During the opening process of the first door body 14 and/or the second door body 15, the second sub-channel 124 may become misaligned with the first sub-channel 123. When the first door body 14 and the second door body 15 are closed on the cabinet body 11, the second sub-channel 124 may align with and connects to the first sub-channel 123.
When the refrigeration apparatus 10 is a refrigeration apparatus with double doors, the second door body 15 may comprise two second sub-door bodies. The second sub-door bodies may be relatively narrow. The second sub-door bodies may leave limited space for positioning the ice retrieval assembly 300. Since the ice-making assembly 200 is located near one side wall and the ice transfer portion 110 is positioned on the first door body 14, to facilitate alignment with the ice transfer channel 120 and enable ice ejected from the ice transfer portion 110 into the ice transfer channel 120 to more easily ascend along the ice transfer channel 120, the second sub-channel 124 of the ice transfer channel 120 may be located on the side of the ice retrieval assembly 300 closer to the rotation axis of the second door body 15. Coordinated with the positioning of the ice transfer portion 110, the second sub-channel 124 and the first sub-channel 123 may be linearly communicated. The embodiments may facilitate the movement of ice through the ice transfer channel 120 to the ice discharge assembly 1000.
In some single-door refrigerators, the second door body 15 is a single door with relatively greater width, providing more space for positioning both the ice discharge assembly 1000 and the ice retrieval assembly 300. The second sub-channel 124 of the ice transfer channel 120 may optionally be positioned either away from or close to the rotation axis of the second door body 15. In this arrangement, coordinated with the positioning of the ice transfer portion 110, the second sub-channel 124 and the first sub-channel 123 are linearly communicated, facilitating ice movement through the ice transfer channel 120 to the ice discharge assembly 1000.
Certainly, the ice transfer channel 120 may alternatively be positioned at other locations of the refrigeration apparatus 10 in coordination with the structure of the cabinet body 11 or the position of other components such as the ice transfer portion 110, which is not limited herein.
The term "a plurality of" herein means at least two, such as two, three, and so on, unless a specific limitation is stated. In addition, the terms "comprise", "have", and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, a method, a system, a product or an apparatus comprising a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may further comprise steps or units that are not listed, or comprise other steps or units that are inherently comprised in the process, the method, the system, the product or the apparatus. The term "and/or" is merely a description of an association relationship of objects, indicating that three relationships may exist. For example, A and/or B may mean that, the A is present alone, both A and B are present, and the B is present alone. In addition, the character "/" herein generally indicates that an object before the character "or" an object after the character.
The above provides only the embodiments of the present disclosure and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure. Any equivalent structure or equivalent process transformation performed based on the specification and the accompanying drawings of the present disclosure, applied directly or indirectly in other related technical fields, shall be comprised in the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

A refrigeration apparatus, comprising:
a cabinet body, defining a first refrigeration compartment and a second refrigeration compartment, wherein the first refrigeration compartment and the second refrigeration compartment has an opening on one side, and the second refrigeration compartment is located above the first refrigeration compartment;

a first door body, configured to expose or cover the first refrigeration compartment;

a second door body, configured to expose or cover the second refrigeration space ;

an ice-making assembly, disposed in the first refrigeration compartment;

an ice-retrieving assembly, disposed on the second door body;

an ice transfer channel, configured to provide a path for an ice cube to move from the first refrigeration compartment to the ice-retrieving assembly;

an ice transfer assembly, disposed in the first refrigeration compartment and configured to drive the ice cube produced by the ice-making assembly to move toward the ice transfer channel; and

an ice-dispensing assembly, disposed on the second door body and comprising a buffer chamber, wherein the buffer chamber is configured to communicate the ice transfer channel with the ice-retrieving assembly, the buffer chamber comprises a buffer mechanism, and the buffer mechanism is configured to cushion the ice cube entering the buffer chamber.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the buffer chamber has an inlet and an outlet, the inlet is located above the outlet, the buffer chamber communicates with the ice-retrieving assembly through the outlet, the buffer chamber has the inlet , and the ice transfer channel communicates with the buffer chamber through the inlet.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the buffer mechanism comprises a buffer chute, and a buffer surface is defined within the buffer chamber;
the ice-dispensing assembly further comprises a spiral baffle disposed in the buffer chamber and arranged spirally along the buffer surface, the spiral baffle and the buffer surface are surround to form the buffer chute extending spirally in a direction toward the outlet; and

wherein the buffer chute is configured to guide the ice cube entering the buffer chamber through the inlet to move spirally along the buffer chute.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein the ice-dispensing assembly comprises an ice-discharge pipe section, and the ice-discharge pipe section has an channel ice outlet port;
wherein the channel ice outlet port is disposed at the inlet, or the ice-discharge pipe section extends from the inlet into the buffer chamber;

wherein the buffer mechanism comprises a buffer surface disposed within the buffer chamber, the ice-discharge pipe section is tangential to the buffer surface at a position corresponding to the channel ice outlet port, and the ice-discharge pipe section is configured to guide the ice cube entering the buffer chamber through the channel ice outlet port to move spirally along the buffer surface.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the buffer mechanism comprises a spiral channel, the spiral channel is spirally arranged in the buffer chamber;
wherein the spiral channel comprises:
a spiral inlet;

a spiral outlet; and

a spiral cavity, communicating the spiral inlet and the spiral outlet, wherein the spiral cavity is in communication with the inlet via the spiral inlet and in communication with the outlet solely through the spiral outlet, the spiral cavity extends spirally in a direction from the inlet toward the outlet and is configured to guide the ice cube entering the buffer chamber through the inlet to move spirally along the spiral channel.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the buffer mechanism comprises a buffer brush assembly, the buffer brush assembly is disposed in the buffer chamber;
the buffer brush assembly is arranged on an ice discharge path and is configured to decelerate the ice cube entering the buffer chamber through the inlet.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the ice transfer channel comprises a first sub-channel and a second sub-channel sequentially communicated with each other, the first sub-channel is in communication with an ice outlet of the ice transfer assembly, and the second sub-channel is mounted on the second door body and in communication with the inlet.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the second door body comprises a handle having a hollow structure, and a portion of the second sub-channel is arranged inside the handle.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in claim 7 or 8, wherein the first sub-channel is disposed in the first refrigeration compartment or on the second door body.
The refrigeration apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the ice transfer channel comprises a first part, a second part, and a third part, and the first part, the second part, and the third part are successively in communication with each other;
the second part is rotatably connected to the first part and/or the third part;

the first part is located in the first refrigeration compartment or on the first door body and communicates with the ice transfer assembly, the second part is located between the first door body and the second door body, the third part is disposed on the second door body and communicates with the inlet, and a rotation axis of the second door body is located within the second part.