WO2021018294A1 - 制冷电器和可调搁物架组件 - Google Patents

制冷电器和可调搁物架组件 Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2021018294A1
WO2021018294A1 PCT/CN2020/106297 CN2020106297W WO2021018294A1 WO 2021018294 A1 WO2021018294 A1 WO 2021018294A1 CN 2020106297 W CN2020106297 W CN 2020106297W WO 2021018294 A1 WO2021018294 A1 WO 2021018294A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
adjustable
water
shelf
valve
piston
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/CN2020/106297
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Inventor
施罗德·迈克尔·古德曼
亨特·马修
Original Assignee
青岛海尔电冰箱有限公司
海尔智家股份有限公司
海尔美国电器解决方案有限公司
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
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Publication date
Application filed by 青岛海尔电冰箱有限公司, 海尔智家股份有限公司, 海尔美国电器解决方案有限公司 filed Critical 青岛海尔电冰箱有限公司
Priority to CN202080052747.5A priority Critical patent/CN114127498B/zh
Publication of WO2021018294A1 publication Critical patent/WO2021018294A1/zh

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    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25DREFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D25/00Charging, supporting, and discharging the articles to be cooled
    • F25D25/02Charging, supporting, and discharging the articles to be cooled by shelves
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47FSPECIAL FURNITURE, FITTINGS, OR ACCESSORIES FOR SHOPS, STOREHOUSES, BARS, RESTAURANTS OR THE LIKE; PAYING COUNTERS
    • A47F3/00Show cases or show cabinets
    • A47F3/06Show cases or show cabinets with movable or removable shelves or receptacles
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25DREFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D23/00General constructional features
    • F25D23/12Arrangements of compartments additional to cooling compartments; Combinations of refrigerators with other equipment, e.g. stove
    • F25D23/126Water cooler
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25DREFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D2325/00Charging, supporting or discharging the articles to be cooled, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • F25D2325/021Shelves with several possible configurations

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to household appliances, and in particular to an adjustable shelf assembly for adjusting the height of the shelf in a refrigeration appliance, and a refrigeration appliance.
  • Household appliances such as refrigerators usually include boxes that define internal compartments. If it is a refrigeration appliance, the refrigeration compartment can be limited to contain the food to be stored.
  • the refrigeration appliance may also include various storage components installed in the refrigeration room, which are designed to facilitate the storage of food therein. Such storage components may include racks, storage boxes, shelves or drawers, which are used to hold food and help place and place food in the refrigerated room.
  • Some existing refrigeration appliances include one or more shelves for holding or supporting food in the refrigeration room.
  • the height or position of one or more shelves can be changed according to the needs of users.
  • the shelf can be detachably supported on a bracket that is permanently fixed on the refrigerator.
  • a plurality of predetermined installation heights can be defined on the bracket through the slot for accommodating the shelf.
  • the shelf To change the height of the shelf, the shelf must be removed from the bracket. Usually, this requires the user to rotate or lift the shelf on the bracket.
  • the shelf must be at least partially taken out of the refrigerated room.
  • Adjusting the height of such existing systems may require very complicated steps. For example, before adjusting the shelf, it is usually necessary to remove all food supported on the shelf. If the food is not taken out in advance, when the shelf is not supported by the bracket, the user will be in danger of spilling or falling the food. Even if all the food has been taken out, it is very difficult for some users to align the shelf and the bracket correctly.
  • the shelf has only a limited number of predetermined heights determined by the brackets. In turn, this limits the user's options for configuring the height of the shelves and the total available space in the refrigeration room.
  • an electrical appliance that can easily and reliably adjust the height of the shelf in the electrical appliance will be very useful.
  • a refrigeration appliance that can easily change the height of the shelf will be very useful.
  • a refrigeration appliance may include a box, an inner liner, and an adjustable shelf assembly.
  • the inner liner can be located in the box.
  • the inner liner can define a refrigeration compartment.
  • the adjustable shelf assembly can be installed in the refrigerated compartment.
  • the adjustable shelf assembly may include a selectively sealed shelf tube, a supporting piston, a shelf bracket, a first valve, and a second valve.
  • the selectively sealed shelf tube may define a fluid inlet to receive the passing water and a fluid outlet to discharge the passing water.
  • the supporting piston is slidably disposed in the selectively sealed storage tube to move between the top position and the basic position according to the amount of water in the selectively sealed storage tube.
  • the shelf bracket can be fixed to the supporting piston to move with it.
  • the first valve may be upstream of the fluid inlet to selectively allow water to enter.
  • the second valve may be downstream of the fluid outlet to selectively allow water to flow out of the adjustable shelf assembly.
  • an adjustable shelf assembly for a refrigeration compartment.
  • the adjustable shelf assembly may include a selectively sealed shelf tube, a supporting piston, a shelf bracket, a first valve, and a second valve.
  • the selectively sealed shelf tube may define a fluid inlet to receive the passing water and a fluid outlet to discharge the passing water.
  • the supporting piston is slidably disposed in the selectively sealed storage tube to move between the top position and the basic position according to the amount of water in the selectively sealed storage tube.
  • the shelf bracket can be fixed to the supporting piston to move with it.
  • the first valve may be upstream of the fluid inlet to selectively allow water to enter.
  • the second valve may be downstream of the fluid outlet to selectively allow water to flow out of the adjustable shelf assembly.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of the exemplary refrigeration appliance in Figure 1, in which the refrigerating door of the refrigeration appliance is in an open position to show the food preservation compartment of the refrigeration appliance;
  • Fig. 3 is a top perspective view of a part of the food preservation compartment of the exemplary refrigerating appliance in Fig. 1, including an adjustable shelf assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic front view of the exemplary adjustable shelf assembly in FIG. 3;
  • Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a part of an adjustable shelf assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the present invention provides an electrical appliance with an adjustable shelf assembly.
  • the adjustable shelf assembly can be raised or lowered without removing it from the electrical appliance.
  • the adjustable shelf assembly may include a selectively sealed shelf tube (a support piston can slide in the selectively sealed shelf tube). Water can be added to or discharged from the selectively sealed shelf tube to adjust the height of the supporting piston.
  • a water source for example, a city water source
  • the selectively sealed shelf tube can be placed along an open fluid path so that water does not recirculate through the selectively sealed shelf tube.
  • water can be drained from the barrel and discarded.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerating appliance 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the refrigerating appliance 100 having a plurality of refrigerating door bodies 128 in an open position.
  • the refrigerating appliance 100 includes a casing or box 120 extending between the top 101 and the bottom 102 along the vertical direction V.
  • the box body 120 also extends along the lateral direction L and the lateral direction T, and the vertical direction V, the lateral direction L and the lateral direction T are each perpendicular to each other.
  • the vertical direction V, the lateral direction L, and the lateral direction T define a system of orthogonal directions.
  • the box body 120 includes an inner liner 121 that defines one or more refrigerating compartments for containing food to be stored.
  • the inner liner 121 defines a food preservation compartment 122 located at or adjacent to the top 101 of the box 120 and a freezing compartment 124 located at or adjacent to the bottom 102 of the box 120.
  • the refrigerating appliance 100 is generally called a bottom-mounted refrigerator.
  • the benefits of the present invention are applicable to other types and styles of electrical appliances (for example, overhead refrigeration electrical appliances, side-by-side refrigeration electrical appliances or stove appliances). Therefore, the description herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit any specific refrigeration compartment configuration in any respect.
  • the refrigerating door 128 is rotatably hinged to the edge of the box 120 for selectively entering the food preservation compartment 122.
  • the freezing door 130 is arranged under the refrigerating door 128 for selectively entering the freezing compartment 124.
  • the freezing door body 130 is connected to a freezing compartment drawer (not shown) slidably installed in the freezing compartment 124.
  • the refrigerating door 128 and the freezing door 130 are shown in a closed state in FIG. 1.
  • the refrigeration appliance 100 further includes a dispensing assembly 140 for dispensing liquid water or ice.
  • the distribution assembly 140 includes a distributor 142, which is located or installed outside the refrigerating appliance 100 (for example, on a refrigerating door 128).
  • the dispenser 142 may include a discharge outlet 144 for obtaining ice and liquid water.
  • An actuating mechanism 146 shown as a paddle is installed below the discharge outlet 144 for operating the dispenser 142.
  • any suitable actuation mechanism may be used to operate the dispenser 142.
  • the dispenser 142 may include a sensor (such as an ultrasonic sensor) or a button instead of a paddle.
  • a control panel 148 is provided for controlling the operation mode.
  • the control panel 148 includes multiple user inputs (not labeled), such as a water dispensing button and an ice dispensing button, for selecting a desired mode of operation, such as crushed ice or non-crushed ice.
  • the discharge outlet 144 and the actuation mechanism 146 are the outer part of the distributor 142 and are installed in the distributor groove 150.
  • the distribution groove 150 is located at a predetermined height to facilitate the user to take ice or water, and enable the user to take ice without bending over or opening the refrigerating door 128.
  • the storage assembly includes a storage box 166, a drawer 168, and a shelf 171 installed in the food preservation compartment 122.
  • the storage box 166, the drawer 168, and the shelf 171 are configured to hold food (for example, beverages or solid food) and help organize these foods.
  • the drawer 168 can hold fresh food (for example, vegetables, fruits, or cheese) and extend the service life of such fresh food.
  • cold air from the sealing system of the refrigerating appliance 100 may be introduced into one or more compartments (for example, the food preservation compartment 122 or the freezing compartment 124) to cool the refrigerating appliance.
  • the evaporator 178 is generally configured for refrigeration or production of cold air.
  • a supply line 180 (e.g., defined by or positioned within the tank 120) may extend between the evaporator 178 and one or more refrigerated compartments, thereby introducing air to the refrigerated compartment.
  • the liquid water is collected in a part of the refrigeration appliance 100.
  • liquid water can be produced during the defrosting process, or produced from ice cubes stored in the ice storage box.
  • liquid water is introduced to the evaporating dish.
  • the evaporating dish 172 is located in the mechanical chamber 170 defined by the box 120 (for example, at the bottom 102 of the box 120).
  • the condenser 174 of the sealing system can be directly arranged above and near the evaporating dish 172. The heat from the condenser 174 facilitates the evaporation of liquid water in the evaporating dish 172.
  • the fan 176 configured to cool the condenser 174 can also direct flowing air through or into the evaporating dish 172. Therefore, the fan 176 may be located above and near the evaporating dish 172.
  • the size and shape of the evaporation dish 172 facilitate the evaporation of liquid water therein.
  • the evaporating dish 172 may be open at the top and extend across the width or depth of the box 120.
  • the operation of the refrigeration appliance 100 is regulated by a controller 190 that can be effectively coupled to the user interface panel 148 or various other components.
  • the user interface panel 148 provides options for the user to manipulate the operation of the refrigeration appliance 100, such as selecting between whole or crushed ice, chilled water, or various other options (for example, the height of one or more adjustable shelves).
  • the controller 190 may operate various components of the refrigeration appliance 100.
  • the controller 190 may include a memory and one or more microprocessors, a central processing unit, etc., such as a general-purpose or special-purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control codes associated with the operation of the refrigeration appliance 100.
  • the memory may be a random access memory, such as DRAM or read-only memory, ROM or FLASH.
  • the processor executes programming instructions stored in the memory.
  • the memory may be a component independent of the processor or contained in the processor.
  • the controller 190 does not use a microprocessor (for example, a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuits, such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, and gates, etc.) to perform control functions instead of relying on software.
  • the controller 190 may be located in multiple locations of the refrigeration appliance 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 190 is located near or on the user interface panel 148. In other embodiments, the controller 190 is located at another suitable position in the refrigerating appliance 100, such as in a food preservation compartment, a freezer door, and the like. Input/output ("I/O") signals may be routed between the controller 190 and various operating components of the refrigeration appliance 100. For example, the user interface panel 148 may perform operable communication (e.g., electrical communication) with the controller 190 via one or more signal lines or a shared communication bus.
  • I/O Input/output
  • the controller 190 may be effectively coupled with various components of the adjustable shelf assembly 200 (FIG. 4 ). Generally, the relative height or position of the adjustable shelf assembly 200 may be changed or adjusted according to one or more signals received from the controller 190.
  • the user interface panel 148 may also be operatively coupled with the controller 190 (e.g., through electrical or wireless communication). Therefore, the height of the adjustable shelf assembly 200 (eg, its variation) may be based at least in part on the user input received at the user interface panel 148.
  • the adjustable shelf assembly 200 in the food preservation compartment 122 is illustrated.
  • the adjustable shelf assembly 200 may be installed on a part of the inner container 121 (for example, on the rear wall of the inner container 121). It should be understood that the adjustable shelf assembly 200 may include or be configured as one or more shelves 171 ( Figure 2).
  • the adjustable shelf assembly 200 generally includes a drive assembly 202 and a support assembly 204.
  • the drive assembly 202 defines an axis A of movement (e.g., at the fixed support screw 228) along which the support assembly 204 can move.
  • the driving assembly 202 can excite or at least partially control the movement of the support assembly 204 along the movement axis A (for example, relative to the inner liner 121).
  • the drive assembly 202 can alternately translate or slide the support assembly 204 along the movement axis A in the upward direction U and the downward direction N.
  • the upward direction U may extend above the support assembly 204
  • the downward direction N may extend below the support assembly 204.
  • the movement axis A may be parallel to the vertical direction V. Therefore, the driving assembly 202 can adjust the height of the support assembly 204 in the food preservation compartment 122.
  • the selectively sealed shelf tube or cylinder 206 may be installed in the food preservation compartment 122.
  • the shelf tube 206 may be directly connected to the box body 120 or connected to the box body 120 through an intermediate mounting plate (for example, at the inner tank 121).
  • One or more suitable adhesives, mechanical fasteners or other connecting members can fix the shelf tube 206 or the intermediate mounting plate, for example, by forming a stable joint between the shelf tube 206 and the inner container 121.
  • the supporting piston 208 is arranged to slidably communicate with the driving assembly 202.
  • the support piston 208 can move along the axis A (for example, in the upward direction U or the downward direction N) relative to the shelf tube 206 and the inner container 121 under the guidance of the drive assembly 202.
  • the shelf bracket 210 is attached to the support piston 208 (eg, moves with it). Generally, the shelf bracket 210 is fixed relative to, for example, the top of the supporting piston 208, and the movement of the supporting piston 208 along the movement axis A can be transmitted to the shelf bracket 210.
  • the shelf bracket 210 may include an extended bracket 212 (for example, perpendicular to the movement axis A).
  • the bracket 212 when assembled, the bracket 212 may generally extend in the lateral direction L between the two ends 214.
  • One or more struts 216 may extend from the bracket 212 (for example, away from the inner liner 121 or open toward the box 120 selectively covered by the door 128-see FIG. 2).
  • the pillar 216 may extend from the shelf bracket 210 or the bracket 212 in the lateral direction T. In some such embodiments, discrete struts 216 extend in the transverse direction T from each end 214 of the stent 212.
  • the support assembly 204 includes a shelf or storage surface 218 attached to the shelf bracket 210.
  • the storage surface 218 When assembled, the storage surface 218 is usually supported by the shelf bracket 210.
  • the storage surface 218 may rest on the top of the shelf bracket 210 to move therewith (for example, relative to the movement axis A).
  • the storage surface 218 may be fixed to the shelf bracket 210 by one or more suitable adhesives, mechanical fasteners, or other connecting members.
  • the storage surface 218 is a flat surface extending perpendicular to the movement axis A. Therefore, the storage surface 218 may include a flat plate formed of a suitable rigid material (for example, tempered glass, plastic, or metal).
  • the drive assembly 202 includes a plurality of valves in selective fluid communication with the shelf tube 206.
  • the shelf tube 206 defines an inner cavity 226 (e.g., defined by the closed base plate and side walls of the shelf tube 206), and the inner cavity 226 can receive or drain water according to the positions of the valves 222 and 224.
  • the shelf tube 206 defines a fluid inlet 228 and a fluid outlet 230 extending from the inner cavity 226. As shown, the fluid inlet 228 is located downstream of the first valve 222. Therefore, water can be received from the first valve 222 through the fluid inlet 228 (for example, when the first valve 222 is in an open position).
  • the first valve 222 may be upstream of the fluid inlet 228 to selectively allow water to enter.
  • the fluid outlet 230 is separated from the fluid inlet 228 and defined upstream of the second valve 224. Therefore, water may be discharged from the shelf tube 206 through the fluid outlet 230 and enter the second valve 224 (eg, when the second valve 224 is in an open position).
  • the second valve 224 may be downstream of the fluid outlet 230 to selectively allow water to flow out of the shelf tube 206.
  • the inner cavity 226 of the shelf tube 206 includes an adjustable water chamber 232 located below or below the supporting piston 208.
  • a certain volume of water can be maintained (for example, for supporting the piston 208).
  • Both the fluid inlet 228 and the fluid outlet 230 may extend from the water chamber 232.
  • the size or volume of the water chamber 232 will increase, thereby urging or driving the supporting piston 208 to move in the upward direction U.
  • the size or volume of the water chamber 232 may be reduced, thereby allowing or causing the supporting piston 208 to move in the downward direction D.
  • the height or the relative vertical position of the supporting piston 208 can be set. Specifically, the support piston 208 moves between a top position (ie, the highest position) and a basic position (ie, the lowest position) within the storage tube 206.
  • one or more O-rings or gaskets 234 may be installed on the support piston 208 in the inner cavity 226 so as to contact or engage the inner surface of the shelf tube 206.
  • One or both of the fluid inlet 228 or the fluid outlet 230 may be defined in discrete locations below the support piston 208 (e.g., in a basic position).
  • the support piston 208 may be located above the fluid inlet 228 and the fluid outlet 230.
  • the fluid outlet 230 may be defined at a position below the fluid inlet 228.
  • the piston stop 236 is included in the inner cavity 226 of the shelf tube 206.
  • the piston stop 236 may extend from the inner surface of the storage tube 206 in the water chamber 232 (eg, not seal any part of the adjustable water chamber 232).
  • the piston stop 236 can be selectively engaged with the support piston 208.
  • the piston stop 236 may be located below at least a portion of the supporting piston 208. In the basic position, the support piston 208 can rest on the piston stop 236 above at least a portion of the inner cavity 226. Therefore, the piston stop 236 can define the basic position and the minimum volume of the water chamber 232.
  • the fluid inlet 228 or the fluid outlet 230 may be defined at or below the height of the piston stop 236. In certain embodiments, the fluid inlet 228 and the fluid outlet 230 both extend from the water chamber 232 at discrete locations below the piston stop 236.
  • the locking assembly 238 selectively maintains or locks the height of the support piston 208 within the storage tube 206.
  • the sidewall aperture 240 defines a portion through the shelf tube 206 (eg, above the water chamber 232) to receive a portion of the lock assembly 238.
  • the lock assembly 238 may include a clutch pin 242 that selectively engages or contacts a portion of the support piston 208 through the side wall hole 240.
  • the complementary pin groove 244 is defined at the outer surface of the support piston 208 (for example, as a linear groove, the depth of which is perpendicular to the movement axis A, and the length is defined in the vertical direction V).
  • the engagement between the clutch pin 242 and the support piston 208 (e.g., at the pin groove 244) can lock or maintain the support piston 208 in a discontinuous position (ie, at a discontinuous height). Therefore, removing and disengaging the clutch pin 242 from the supporting piston 208 can release or unlock the supporting piston 208, thereby allowing the supporting piston 208 to move freely according to the amount of water in the storage tube 206.
  • the clutch pin 242 can move through the side wall hole 240 in a direction perpendicular to the movement axis A.
  • a motor eg, a solenoid
  • the clutch pin 242 can engage the clutch pin 242 at the rear surface that defines the depth of the pin groove 244.
  • the clutch pin 242 may be spaced from the rear surface.
  • the clutch pin 242 may be retained within the cavity 226 in the unlocked position (eg, between the upper end 248 of the pin groove 244 and the lower end 246 of the pin groove 244).
  • the clutch pin 242 may be maintained at a certain height to engage the upper end 248 or the lower end 246 of the pin groove 244 (for example, in the top position or the basic position, respectively). Therefore, the clutch pin 242 may define (for example, in the unlocked position) the movement of the support piston 208 in the upward direction U or the downward direction D.
  • the clutch pin 242 can help define the top position and the basic position of the support piston 208.
  • water can be supplied to the storage tube 206 in order to raise or lift the support piston 208.
  • the first valve 222 may be moved to the open position, while the second valve 224 is moved to the closed position.
  • water is allowed to enter the inner cavity 226 of the shelf tube 206 through the fluid inlet 228 without leaving the fluid outlet 230, thereby expanding the amount of water in the adjustable water chamber 232.
  • the drive assembly 202 includes an inlet conduit 250 extending from a water source 252 (e.g., a municipal water pipe or water network connection point in a commercial or residential building) to the first valve 222 (e.g., in the tank 120).
  • a water source 252 e.g., a municipal water pipe or water network connection point in a commercial or residential building
  • the water in this water source 252 is usually pressurized (for example, between 200 kPa and 500 kPa).
  • the inlet duct 250 extends to the first valve 222 without interruption. Therefore, between the water source 252 and the first valve 222, a flow path of water can be defined without any active pressure adjustment or addition components, such as a booster pump or a compressor.
  • the water pressure in the first valve 222 may be substantially the same as the water pressure entering the inlet conduit 250 or leaving the water source 252 (for example, within 10%). Generally, the first valve 222 can therefore be considered unpressurized. Likewise, the portion of the flow path between the first valve 222 in the fluid inlet 228 may be unpressurized, so that no active pressure adjustment assembly is required to supply water to the inner cavity 226 of the shelf tube 206.
  • the support piston 208 can be raised within the shelf tube 206 without starting any movable pumps or compressors.
  • water can be drained or released from the shelf tube 206 to lower the support piston 208.
  • the first valve 222 may be moved to the closed position while the second valve 224 is moved to the open position.
  • water may be allowed to pass through the fluid outlet 230 from the inner cavity 226 of the shelf tube 206, but no additional water may be allowed to pass through the fluid inlet 228, thereby reducing the amount of water in the adjustable water chamber 232.
  • the discharge conduit 254 extends from the second valve 224 to the downstream terminal 256.
  • the terminal 256 may be reconnected to the water source 252, or open to the surrounding environment (for example, inside or outside of the box 120). Generally, at the terminal 256, water can leave the adjustable shelf assembly 200 without being recirculated through the adjustable shelf assembly. Between the fluid outlet 230 and the second valve 224, the water flow path may not have any active pressure adjustment components. Similarly, between the second valve 224 and the terminal 256, the water flow path may not be provided with any active pressure adjustment component.
  • the terminal end 256 of the discharge duct 254 is located in the box 120.
  • the terminal 256 is held in or above the evaporation dish 172. Therefore, the second valve 224 may be upstream of the evaporation dish 172.
  • the second valve 224 When the second valve 224 is opened, the water from the shelf tube 206 can flow to the evaporating dish 172 (for example, driven by gravity or pressure generated by the mass of the supporting piston 208). As described above, in the evaporating dish 172, water can evaporate into the surrounding environment.
  • the terminal end 256 of the discharge duct 254 is held in or above the buffer tank 258.
  • the buffer tank 258 defines a storage cavity 260 in which water can be (for example, temporarily) stored. Downstream of the storage cavity 260, a relatively small tank outlet 262 is defined to allow water to flow out of the buffer tank 258. Therefore, when water is discharged from the discharge duct 254, at least a portion of the water may accumulate in the storage cavity 260 before being slowly discharged from the buffer tank 258 through the tank outlet 262.
  • the buffer tank 258 (including the tank outlet 262) may be located upstream of the evaporation dish 172.
  • the buffer tank 258 may be maintained above the evaporation dish 172 with the tank outlet 262 facing the evaporation dish 172. When the water is discharged from the tank outlet 262, the water can flow to the evaporation dish 172.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
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  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Devices That Are Associated With Refrigeration Equipment (AREA)

Abstract

本发明揭示了一种制冷电器和一种可调搁物架组件,可包括选择性密封的搁物管、支撑活塞、搁物托架、第一阀和第二阀。选择性密封的搁物管可以限定流体入口以接收流经水,并限定流体出口以排出流经水。支撑活塞可滑动地设置在选择性密封的搁物管内,以根据选择性密封的搁物管内的水量在顶部位置和基本位置之间移动。搁物托架可以固定到支撑活塞上以随其移动。第一阀可以在流体入口的上游,以选择性地允许水进入。第二阀可以在流体出口的下游,以选择性地允许水从可调搁物架组件流出。

Description

制冷电器和可调搁物架组件 技术领域
本发明一般涉及家用电器,具体涉及一种用于调节制冷电器中搁物架高度的可调搁物架组件,以及一种制冷电器。
背景技术
冰箱等家用电器通常包括限定内部间室的箱体。如为制冷电器,可以限定制冷间室来容纳要储存的食品。制冷电器还可包括安装在制冷间室内的各种储存组件,设计成便于在其中储存食品。这种储存组件可包括支架、储物盒、搁板或抽屉,用于容纳食物并帮助在制冷间室内摆放和放置食品。
一些现有制冷电器包括一个或多个搁物架,用于在制冷间室内保持或支撑食物。可根据使用者的需要来改变一个或多个搁物架的高度或位置。例如,搁物架可以采用可拆卸的方式支撑在永久固定于冰箱上的托架上。可通过容纳搁物架的插槽在托架上限定多个预定安装高度。要改变搁物架的高度,必须将搁物架从托架上拆下。通常,这需要用户在托架上旋转或抬升搁物架。此外,必须将搁物架从制冷间室内至少部分地取出。
调节这种现有系统的高度可能需要进行非常复杂的步骤。例如,在调整搁物架之前,通常必须取出搁物架上支撑的所有食物。若未事先取出食物,当搁物架不受托架支撑时,使用者将有食物溅出或掉落的危险。即使已取出所有食物,对一些使用者来说,将搁物架与托架正确对齐也十分困难。此外,搁物架仅具有由托架决定的有限数量的预定高度。反过来,这限制了用户配置搁物架的高度以及制冷间室内总可用空间的选择。
因此,能轻松且可靠调节电器内搁物架高度的电器将十分有用。具体而言,当安装在制冷电器内时,能轻松改变搁物架高度的制冷电器将十分有用。
发明内容
将在下面的描述中部分地阐述本发明的各个方面和优点,或者在该描述中可能会变得显而易见,或者可能通过本发明的实践而获知。
在本发明的一个示例性方面,提供了一种制冷电器。所述制冷电器可包括箱体、内胆和可调搁物架组件。内胆可位于箱体内。内胆可以限定制冷间室。可调搁 物架组件可以安装在制冷间室中。可调搁物架组件可包括选择性密封的搁物管、支撑活塞、搁物托架、第一阀和第二阀。选择性密封的搁物管可以限定流体入口以接收流经水,并限定流体出口以排出流经水。支撑活塞可滑动地设置在选择性密封的搁物管内,以根据选择性密封的搁物管内的水量在顶部位置和基本位置之间移动。搁物托架可以固定到支撑活塞上以随其移动。第一阀可以在流体入口的上游,以选择性地允许水进入。第二阀可以在流体出口的下游,以选择性地允许水从可调搁物架组件流出。
在本发明的另一个示例性方面,提供了一种用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件。可调搁物架组件可包括选择性密封的搁物管、支撑活塞、搁物托架、第一阀和第二阀。选择性密封的搁物管可以限定流体入口以接收流经水,并限定流体出口以排出流经水。支撑活塞可滑动地设置在选择性密封的搁物管内,以根据选择性密封的搁物管内的水量在顶部位置和基本位置之间移动。搁物托架可以固定到支撑活塞上以随其移动。第一阀可以在流体入口的上游,以选择性地允许水进入。第二阀可以在流体出口的下游,以选择性地允许水从可调搁物架组件流出。
参考以下说明和所附权利要求书,更好地理解本技术的这些和其它特征、方面和优点。纳入并构成本说明书一部分的附图对本发明的实施例进行了说明,并与说明书一起用于解释本发明的原理。
附图说明
本说明书参考附图针对本领域的普通技术人员充分且可实施地公开了本发明,包括其最佳方式。
图1是根据本发明的示例性实施例的制冷电器的透视图;
图2是图1中示例性制冷电器的透视图,其中制冷电器的冷藏门体处于打开位置,以显示制冷电器的食品保鲜室;
图3是图1中示例性制冷电器食品保鲜室一部分的顶部透视图,包括根据本发明的示例性实施例的可调搁物架组件;
图4是图3中示例性可调搁物架组件的示意性正视图;
图5是根据本发明示例性实施例的可调搁物架组件的一部分的透视图。
具体实施方式
现在将详细参考本技术的实施例,在附图中说明其一个或多个示例。每个示例 均用于对本技术进行解释说明,而不是对其进行限制。实际上,对本领域技术人员来说显而易见的是,在不脱离本发明的范围的情况下,可以对本技术进行各种修改和变型。例如,作为一个实施例的一部分说明或描述的特征能与另一实施例一起使用以产生又一实施例。因此,本技术旨在涵盖所附权利要求及其等同物的范围内的此类修改和变型。
如本文中所示,“或”一般旨在表示包括在内(即“A或B”旨在表示“A或B或两者”)。“第一”,“第二”和“第三”可互换使用,以将一个组件与另一个组件区分开,并不旨在表示各个组件的准确位置或重要性。“上游”和“下游”是指相对于流体通路中流体流动的相对流动方向。例如,“上游”是指流体从中流出的流动方向,而“下游”是指流体流入其中的流动方向。
通常,本发明提供一种具有可调搁物架组件的电器。在组装情况下,可以升高或降低所述可调搁物架组件,而不需要将其从所述电器上取下。所述可调搁物架组件可包括选择性密封的搁物管(支撑活塞可在所述选择性密封的搁物管内滑动)。水可以添加到所述选择性密封的搁物管中或从所述选择性密封搁板管中排放出来,以调节所述支撑活塞的高度。具体而言,为了升高所述支撑活塞,可以直接从水源(例如城市水源)添加水,而不需要辅助增压泵。可沿着开放式流体路径放置所述选择性密封的搁物管,使得水不会通过所述选择性密封的搁物管再循环。为了降低所述支撑活塞,水可以从筒中排出并丢弃。
现在转到附图(图1和2),图1是根据本发明示例性实施例的制冷电器100的透视图。图2是具有处于打开位置的多个冷藏门体128的制冷电器100的透视图。如图所示,制冷电器100包括沿着垂直方向V在顶部101和底部102之间延伸的壳体或箱体120。箱体120也沿着侧向方向L和横向方向T延伸,并且垂直方向V、侧向方向L和横向方向T各自相互垂直。相反,垂直方向V、侧向方向L和横向方向T定义了正交方向系统。
箱体120包括内胆121,所述内胆限定一个或多个制冷间室,用于容纳待储存的食物。特别地,内胆121限定位于或邻近箱体120的顶部101的食品保鲜室122和布置在或邻近箱体120的底部102的冷冻室124。这样,制冷电器100通常称为底置型冰箱。但是,应当认识到,本发明的益处适用于其他类型和样式的电器(例如,顶置型制冷电器、对开门式制冷电器或炉灶电器)。因此,本文中的描述仅用于说明性目的,无意在任何方面限制任何特定制冷间室配置。
冷藏门体128可旋转地铰接到箱体120的边缘,用于选择性地进入食品保鲜室 122。此外,冷冻门体130布置在冷藏门体128下方,用于选择性地进入冷冻室124。冷冻门体130连接到可滑动地安装在冷冻室124内的冷冻室抽屉(未示出)。冷藏门体128和冷冻门体130在图1中显示为处于关闭状态。
在一些实施例中,制冷电器100还包括用于分配液态水或冰的分配组件140。分配组件140包括分配器142,分配器142位于或安装到制冷电器100的外部(例如,在一个冷藏门体128上)。分配器142可包括用于获取冰和液态水的排放出口144。显示为拨片的致动机构146安装在排放出口144下方,用于操作分配器142。在可选的示例性实施例中,任何合适的致动机构都可以用于操作分配器142。例如,分配器142可包括传感器(例如超声波传感器)或按钮,而不是拨片。提供控制面板148用于控制操作模式。例如,控制面板148包括多个用户输入(未标记),例如水分配按钮和冰分配按钮,用于选择期望的操作模式,例如碎冰或非碎冰。
排放出口144和致动机构146是分配器142的外部部分,安装在分配器凹槽150中。分配凹槽150位于预定高度,以便于使用者取冰或取水,并使使用者无需弯腰也无需打开冷藏门体128即可取冰。
根据所示的实施例,根据本领域技术人员的理解,各种储物组件安装在食品保鲜室122内,以便于在所述室内储存食物。特别地,所述储物组件包括安装在食品保鲜室122内的储物盒166、抽屉168和搁板171。储物盒166、抽屉168和搁板171配置用于容纳食物(例如,饮料或固体食物),并有助于整理这些食物。例如,抽屉168可以容纳新鲜食物(例如,蔬菜、水果或奶酪),并延长这种新鲜食物的使用寿命。
在示例性实施例中,可以将来自制冷电器100密封系统的冷空气导入一个或多个间室中(例如,食品保鲜室122或冷冻室124),以冷却制冷电器。例如,蒸发器178通常配置成用于制冷或制造冷空气。
可选地,供应管路180(例如,由箱体120限定或定位在箱体120内)可以在蒸发器178和一个或多个制冷间室之间延伸,从而将空气引至制冷间室。
在一些实施例中,将液态水收集在制冷电器100的一部分内。例如,可以理解成,液态水可以在化霜过程中产生,或者从储存在储冰盒中的冰块中产生。在某些实施例中,将液态水引至蒸发皿。蒸发皿172位于由箱体120限定的机械室170内(例如,在箱体120的底部102)。例如,所述密封系统的冷凝器174可直接设置在蒸发皿172的上方和附近。来自冷凝器174的热量有助于蒸发皿172中液态水的蒸发。配置为用于冷却冷凝器174的风扇176也可以引导流动空气穿过或进入蒸发 皿172。因此,风扇176可以位于蒸发皿172的上方和附近。蒸发皿172的尺寸和形状便于其中液态水的蒸发。例如,蒸发皿172可以是顶部敞开的,并延伸跨过箱体120的宽度或深度。
通常,制冷电器100的操作由可有效地耦合到用户界面面板148或各种其他组件的控制器190来调节。用户界面面板148为用户操纵制冷电器100的操作提供选择,例如在整块或碎冰、冷冻水或其他各种选项(例如,一个或多个可调搁板的高度)之间进行选择。作为对用户界面面板148用户操纵或一个或多个传感器信号的响应,控制器190可以操作制冷电器100的各种组件。控制器190可包括存储器和一个或多个微处理器、中央处理器等,例如可操作执行与制冷电器100的操作相关联的编程指令或微控制代码的通用或专用微处理器。存储器可以为随机存取存储器,例如DRAM或只读存储器、ROM或FLASH。在一个实施例中,处理器执行存储在存储器中的编程指令。存储器可以是独立于处理器的组件,或包含在处理器内部。或者,控制器190不使用微处理器(例如,使用离散模拟或数字逻辑电路的组合,例如开关、放大器、积分器、比较器、触发器和门等)来执行控制功能,而不是依赖软件。
控制器190可以位于制冷电器100的多个位置。在所示的实施例中,控制器190位于用户界面面板148附近或之上。在其他实施例中,控制器190位于制冷电器100内的另一个合适位置,例如在食品保鲜室、冷冻门体等内。输入/输出(“I/O”)信号可以在控制器190和制冷电器100的各种操作组件之间路由。例如,用户界面面板148可以经由一条或多条信号线或共享通信总线与控制器190进行可操作的通信(例如,电通信)。
根据下文的详细描述,控制器190可以有效地与可调搁物架组件200(图4)的各种组件耦合。通常,可调搁物架组件200的相对高度或位置可以根据从控制器190接收的一个或多个信号而变化或调整。根据讨论,用户界面面板148还可与控制器190有效耦合(例如,通过电或无线通信)。因此,可调搁物架组件200的高度(例如,其变化)可以至少部分基于在用户界面面板148处接收的用户输入。
现在转到图3和图4,图中说明了食品保鲜室122内的可调搁物架组件200。在组装情况下,可调搁物架组件200可以安装到内胆121的一部分上(例如,在内胆121的后壁上)。应当理解,可调搁物架组件200可包括或设置为一个或多个搁板171(图2)。
如图所示,可调搁物架组件200通常包括驱动组件202和支撑组件204。驱动 组件202限定运动轴线A(例如,在固定支撑螺杆228处),支撑组件204可以沿着该运动轴线A移动。具体来讲,驱动组件202可以激励或至少部分控制支撑组件204沿着运动轴线A(例如,相对于内胆121)的运动。根据下文的详细描述,驱动组件202可以沿着运动轴线A在向上方向U和向下方向N上交替平移或滑动支撑组件204。通常,向上方向U可以在支撑组件204上方延伸,而向下方向N在支撑组件204下方延伸。在组装情况下,运动轴线A可以平行于垂直方向V。因此,驱动组件202可以调节支撑组件204在食品保鲜室122内的高度。
在组装情况下,支撑组件204的至少一部分相对于内胆121固定。具体来讲,选择性密封的搁物管或圆筒206可以安装在食品保鲜室122内。搁物管206可以直接连接到箱体120或通过中间安装板连接到箱体120(例如,在内胆121处)。一种或多种合适的粘合剂、机械紧固件或其他连接构件可以固定搁物管206或所述中间安装板,例如通过在搁板管206和内胆121之间形成稳定的接合。
在搁物管206内,支撑活塞208设置成可滑动地与驱动组件202有效连通。在使用过程中,支撑活塞208可在驱动组件202的引导下相对于搁物管206和内胆121沿着轴线A移动(例如,在向上方向U或向下方向N上)。
在一些实施例中,搁物托架210附接到支撑活塞208(例如,与其一起运动)。通常,搁架托架210相对于例如支撑活塞208的顶部固定,可以将支撑活塞208沿着运动轴线A的运动传递给搁架托架210。可选地,搁架托架210可包括延伸的支架212(例如,垂直于运动轴线A)。例如,组装时,支架212通常可以在两个端部214之间沿侧向方向L延伸。一个或多个支柱216可以自支架212延伸(例如,远离内胆121或者朝向被门128选择性覆盖的箱体120开口——参见图2)。例如,支柱216可以在横向方向T上自搁物托架210或支架212延伸。在一些此类实施例中,离散的支柱216自支架212的每个端部214在横向方向T上延伸。
在示例性实施例中,支撑组件204包括附接到搁物托架210的搁板或储存面218。组装时,储物面218通常由搁物托架210支撑。例如,储物面218可以搁置在搁物托架210的顶部,以随其移动(例如,相对于运动轴线A)。可选地,可通过一种或多种合适的粘合剂、机械紧固件或其他连接构件将储物面218固定到搁物托架210。在某些实施例中,储物面218是垂直于运动轴线A延伸的平坦表面。因此,储物面218可包括由合适的刚性材料(例如钢化玻璃、塑料或金属)形成的平板。
转到图4,驱动组件202包括与搁物管206选择性流体连通的多个阀。具体来 讲,搁物管206限定内腔226(例如,由搁物管206的封闭基板和侧壁限定),内腔226可以根据阀222、224的位置接水或排水。在一些实施例中,搁物管206限定自内腔226延伸的流体入口228和流体出口230。如图所示,流体入口228位于第一阀222的下游。因此,可以通过流体入口228从第一阀222接水(例如,当第一阀222处于打开位置时)。换言之,第一阀222可以在流体入口228的上游,以选择性地允许水进入。流体出口230与流体入口228分开,并限定在第二阀224的上游。因此,水可以通过流体出口230从搁物管206排出并进入第二阀224(例如,当第二阀224处于打开位置时)。换言之,第二阀224可以在流体出口230的下游,以选择性地允许水从搁板管206流出。
在一些实施例中,搁物管206的内腔226包括位于支撑活塞208下方或下方的可调水室232。在水室232内,可以保持一定体积的水(例如,用于支撑支撑活塞208)。流体入口228和流体出口230都可以自水室232延伸。随着更多水供应到水室232,水室232的尺寸或体积会增大,从而促使或驱使支撑活塞208在向上方向U上运动。相反,当水从水室232排出时,水室232的尺寸或体积会减小,从而允许或使得支撑活塞208在向下方向D上运动。根据搁物管206内(例如,在可调水室232处)水的体积,可以设定支撑活塞208的高度或相对垂直位置。具体来讲,支撑活塞208在搁物管206内的顶部位置(即,最高位置)和基本位置(即,最低位置)之间移动。可选地,可以在内腔226内的支撑活塞208上安装一个或多个O形圈或垫圈234,以便接触或接合搁物管206的内表面。当支撑活塞208在搁物管206内滑动时,水可保持在垫圈234下方,并防止水上升到支撑活塞208上方。流体入口228或流体出口230中的一个或两个可以限定在支撑活塞208下方的离散位置(例如,在基本位置)。例如,在基本位置,支撑活塞208可以位于流体入口228和流体出口230的上方。此外/或者,流体出口230可以限定在流体入口228下方的位置。
在某些实施例中,活塞止挡236包括在搁物管206的内腔226中。例如,活塞止挡236可以自水室232内的搁物管206的内表面延伸(例如,不密封可调水室232的任何部分)。通常,活塞止挡236可以选择性地与支撑活塞208接合。例如,活塞止挡236可以位于支撑活塞208的至少一部分的下方。在所述基本位置,支撑活塞208可以搁置在活塞止挡236上,该活塞止挡236在内腔226的至少一部分的上方。因此,活塞止挡236可以限定所述基本位置和水室232的最小体积。在一些此类实施例中,流体入口228或流体出口230可以限定在活塞止挡236的高度处或该 高度以下。在某些实施例中,流体入口228和流体出口230都在活塞止挡236下方的离散位置处自水室232延伸。
转到图4和图5,在可选实施例中,锁定组件238选择性地将支撑活塞208的高度保持或锁定在搁物管206内。在一些此类实施例中,侧壁孔240限定穿过搁物管206的一部分(例如,在水室232上方),以接收锁组件238的一部分。例如,锁组件238可包括离合器销242,其通过侧壁孔240与支撑活塞208的一部分选择性地接合或接触。在某些实施例中,互补销槽244限定在支撑活塞208的外表面处(例如,作为线性凹槽,其深度垂直于运动轴线A,长度沿垂直方向V限定)。离合器销242和支撑活塞208之间的接合(例如,在销槽244处)可以将支撑活塞208锁定或保持在不连续位置(即,在不连续高度)。因此,将离合器销242从支撑活塞208移开并与其脱离接合可以释放或解锁支撑活塞208,从而允许支撑活塞208根据搁物管206内的水量自由移动。
在某些实施例中,离合器销242可沿垂直于运动轴线A的方向移动穿过侧壁孔240。可选地,马达(例如,螺线管)可选择性地移动离合器销242穿过侧壁孔240并接合至/脱离开支撑活塞208(即,在锁定位置和解锁位置之间)。如图所示,在锁定位置,离合器销242可以在限定销槽244深度的后表面处接合离合器销242。相反,在解锁位置,离合器销242可以与后表面间隔开。在一些此类实施例中,离合器销242的至少一部分可以在解锁位置保持在内腔226内(例如,在销槽244的上端248和销槽244的下端246之间)。可选地,离合器销242可保持在一定高度,以接合销槽244的上端248或下端246(例如,分别在所述顶部位置或所述基本位置)。因此,离合器销242可以限定(例如,在所述解锁位置)支撑活塞208在向上方向U或向下方向D上的运动。此外,离合器销242可以帮助限定支撑活塞208的所述顶部位置和所述基本位置。
回到图4,如上所述,可向搁物管206中供水,以便升高或提升支撑活塞208。例如,第一阀222可以移动到打开位置,而第二阀224移动到关闭位置。在这种布置中,允许水通过流体入口228进入搁物管206的内腔226,而不离开流体出口230,从而扩大可调水室232内的水量。
在一些实施例中,驱动组件202包括从水源252(例如是商业或住宅建筑内的市政水管或水网连接点)延伸到第一阀222(例如,在箱体120内)的入口导管250。根据理解,通常对这种水源252内的水进行加压(例如,在200kPa和500kPa之间)。在某些实施例中,入口导管250不间断地延伸至第一阀222。因此,在水源 252和第一阀222之间,可以限定水的流动路径,该流动路径没有任何主动压力调节或添加构件,例如增压泵或压缩机。此外,第一阀222中的水压可以与进入入口导管250或离开水源252的水压基本相同(例如,在10%以内)。通常,第一阀222因此可以认为未加压。同样,流体入口228中的第一阀222之间的流动路径部分可以未加压,从而不需要主动压力调节组件来向搁物管206的内腔226供水。有利的是,支撑活塞208可以在搁物管206内升高,而无需启动任何活动泵或压缩机。
如上进一步所述,水可以从搁物管206排出或释放,以便降低支撑活塞208。例如,第一阀222可以移动到关闭位置,而第二阀224移动到打开位置。在这种布置中,可以允许水从搁物管206的内腔226通过流体出口230,而不允许额外的水通过流体入口228,从而减少可调水室232内的水量。
在某些实施例中,排放导管254从第二阀224延伸至下游终端256。终端256可以重新连接到水源252,或向周围环境开放(例如,箱体120的内部或外部)。通常,在终端256处,水可以离开可调搁物架组件200而不通过所述可调搁物架组件再循环。在流体出口230和第二阀224之间,水的流动路径可以没有任何主动压力调节组件。同样,在第二阀224和终端256之间,水的流动路径可以不设任何主动压力调节组件。
在示例性实施例中,排放导管254的终端256位于箱体120内。在一些此类实施例中,终端256保持在蒸发皿172中或上方。因此,第二阀224可以在蒸发皿172的上游。当第二阀224打开时,来自搁板管206的水可以流向蒸发皿172(例如,由重力或由支撑活塞208的质量产生的压力驱动)。如上所述,在蒸发皿172中,水可以蒸发到周围环境中。
在附加或替代实施例中,排放导管254的终端256保持在缓冲罐258中或上方。通常,缓冲罐258限定储存容腔260,水可以(例如,暂时地)保存在所述储存容腔260中。在储存容腔260的下游,限定相对较小的罐出口262,以允许水从缓冲罐258流出。因此,当水从排放导管254排放时,在通过罐出口262从缓冲罐258缓慢排放之前,至少一部分水可以积聚在储存容腔260内。可选地,缓冲罐258(包括罐出口262),可以位于蒸发皿172的上游。例如,缓冲罐258可以保持在蒸发皿172的上方,罐出口262朝向蒸发皿172。当水从罐出口262排出时,水可以流到蒸发皿172。
该书面描述使用示例来公开本发明(包括最佳方式)和帮助本领域的任何技术 人员实施本发明,包括制作和使用任何设备或系统以及执行任何纳入的方法。本发明的可获得专利范围由权利要求书限定,并包括本领域技术人员能想到的其它示例。若这种其它示例包括与权利要求的字面语言并无不同的结构元件,或它们包括与权利要求的字面语言没有实质性差异的等效结构元件,则意欲将这些示例包含在权利要求书的范围内。

Claims (20)

  1. 一种制冷电器,其特征在于,包括:
    箱体;
    内胆,所述内胆位于所述箱体内,其限定了制冷间室;及
    安装在所述制冷间室内的可调搁物架组件,所述可调搁物架组件包括:
    选择性密封的搁板管,限定了接收水通过的流体入口和排出水通过的流体出口;
    支撑活塞,可滑动地设置在选择性密封的搁物管内,以根据所述选择性密封的搁物管内的水量在顶部位置和基本位置之间移动;
    搁物托架,固定到所述支撑活塞以随其移动;
    第一阀,其在所述流体入口的上游,以选择性地允许水进入;及
    第二阀,其在所述流体出口的下游,以选择性地允许水从所述可调搁物架组件流出。
  2. 根据权利要求1所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,所述选择性密封的搁物管限定出在所述支撑活塞下方的可调水室。
  3. 根据权利要求2所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,所述选择性密封的搁物管包括在所述可调水室内延伸的活塞止挡,所述活塞止挡件在所述基本位置与所述支撑活塞选择性接合,以限制所述支撑活塞的向下运动。
  4. 根据权利要求2所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,所述流体入口自所述可调水室延伸,并在所述支撑活塞下方与所述可调水室流体连通。
  5. 根据权利要求2所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,所述流体出口自所述可调水室延伸,并在所述支撑活塞下方与所述可调水室流体连通。
  6. 根据权利要求5所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,所述流体入口自所述流体出口上方的所述可调水室延伸,与在所述支撑活塞下方的所述可调水室流体连通。
  7. 根据权利要求1所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,还包括位于所述箱体内远离所述内胆的蒸发皿,所述第二阀位于所述蒸发皿的上游,以选择性地允许水进入。
  8. 根据权利要求7所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,还包括安装在所述蒸发皿上的冷凝器。
  9. 根据权利要求8所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,还包括自所述第二阀延伸至 位于所述蒸发皿上方终端的排放导管。
  10. 根据权利要求1所述的制冷电器,其特征在于,还包括位于所述箱体内的缓冲罐,所述缓冲罐在所述第二阀的下游限定储存容腔以便从中接水,并且所述缓冲罐还在所述储存容腔的下游限定罐出口以便水从中流出。
  11. 一种用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,所述可调搁板组件包括:
    选择性密封的搁板管,限定接收水通过的流体入口和排出水通过的流体出口;
    支撑活塞,可滑动地设置在所述选择性密封的搁物管内,以根据所述选择性密封的搁物管内的水量在顶部位置和基本位置之间移动;
    搁物托架,固定到所述支撑活塞以随其移动;
    第一阀,在所述流体入口的上游,以选择性地允许水进入;及
    第二阀,在所述流体出口的下游,以选择性地允许水从所述可调搁物架组件流出。
  12. 根据权利要求11所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,所述选择性密封的搁物管限定出在所述支撑活塞下方的可调水室。
  13. 根据权利要求12所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,所述选择性密封的搁物管包括在所述可调水室内延伸的活塞止挡,所述活塞止挡件在所述基本位置与所述支撑活塞选择性接合,以限制所述支撑活塞的向下运动。
  14. 根据权利要求12所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,所述流体入口自所述可调水室延伸,并在所述支撑活塞下方与所述可调水室流体连通。
  15. 根据权利要求12所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,所述流体出口自所述可调水室延伸,并在所述支撑活塞下方与所述可调水室流体连通。
  16. 根据权利要求15所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,所述流体入口自所述流体出口上方的所述可调水室延伸,与在所述支撑活塞下方的所述可调水室流体连通。
  17. 根据权利要求11所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,还包括与所述选择性密封的搁物管相间隔的蒸发皿,所述第二阀位于所述蒸发皿的上游,以选择性地允许水进入。
  18. 根据权利要求17所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,还 包括安装在所述蒸发皿上的冷凝器。
  19. 根据权利要求18所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,还包括自所述第二阀延伸至位于所述蒸发皿上方终端的排放导管。
  20. 根据权利要求11所述的用于制冷间室的可调搁物架组件,其特征在于,还包括位于箱体内的缓冲罐,所述缓冲罐在所述第二阀的下游限定储存容腔以便从中接水,并且所述缓冲罐还在所述储存容腔的下游限定罐出口以便水从中流出。
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US11306966B2 (en) 2022-04-19
CN114127498B (zh) 2023-08-08

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