WO2022012625A1 - 台式水分配器和制冰组件 - Google Patents

台式水分配器和制冰组件 Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022012625A1
WO2022012625A1 PCT/CN2021/106498 CN2021106498W WO2022012625A1 WO 2022012625 A1 WO2022012625 A1 WO 2022012625A1 CN 2021106498 W CN2021106498 W CN 2021106498W WO 2022012625 A1 WO2022012625 A1 WO 2022012625A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
water
storage tank
ice
output storage
filter
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status 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 status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/CN2021/106498
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Inventor
文森特 杜普莱西斯塞缪尔
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Qingdao Haier Refrigerator Co Ltd
Haier Smart Home Co Ltd
Haier US Appliance Solutions Inc
Original Assignee
Qingdao Haier Refrigerator Co Ltd
Haier Smart Home Co Ltd
Haier US Appliance Solutions Inc
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.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Qingdao Haier Refrigerator Co Ltd, Haier Smart Home Co Ltd, Haier US Appliance Solutions Inc filed Critical Qingdao Haier Refrigerator Co Ltd
Priority to CN202180048562.1A priority Critical patent/CN115836184A/zh
Publication of WO2022012625A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022012625A1/zh
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C5/00—Working or handling ice
    • F25C5/20—Distributing ice
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C1/00—Producing ice
    • F25C1/22—Construction of moulds; Filling devices for moulds
    • F25C1/25—Filling devices for moulds
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0003—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid
    • B67D1/0009—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in an intermediate container connected to a supply
    • B67D1/001—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in an intermediate container connected to a supply the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed
    • B67D1/0011—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being stored in an intermediate container connected to a supply the apparatus comprising means for automatically controlling the amount to be dispensed based on the timed opening of a valve
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0003—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid
    • B67D1/0014—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being supplied from water mains
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/06—Mountings or arrangements of dispensing apparatus in or on shop or bar counters
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0888—Means comprising electronic circuitry (e.g. control panels, switching or controlling means)
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
    • B67D1/1202—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed
    • B67D1/1234—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed to determine the total amount
    • B67D1/124—Flow control, e.g. for controlling total amount or mixture ratio of liquids to be dispensed to determine the total amount the flow being started or stopped by means actuated by the vessel to be filled, e.g. by switches, weighing
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C5/00—Working or handling ice
    • F25C5/18—Storing ice
    • F25C5/182—Ice bins therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/12—Flow or pressure control devices or systems, e.g. valves, gas pressure control, level control in storage containers
    • B67D2001/1259—Fluid level control devices
    • B67D2001/1261—Fluid level control devices the level being detected mechanically
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
    • B67D2210/00002—Purifying means
    • B67D2210/00005—Filters
    • B67D2210/0001—Filters for liquid
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
    • B67D2210/00028—Constructional details
    • B67D2210/00031—Housing
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2400/00—Auxiliary features or devices for producing, working or handling ice
    • F25C2400/14—Water supply
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2700/00—Sensing or detecting of parameters; Sensors therefor
    • F25C2700/04—Level of water

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to water dispensers and ice making appliances, and more particularly, to freestanding water dispensers and ice making appliances that can optionally be placed on a table or countertop.
  • Ice makers typically produce ice for consumers to use, such as in beverages consumed, to cool food or beverages to be consumed, or for various other purposes.
  • Some refrigeration appliances include ice makers for producing ice. The ice maker can be placed in the freezer compartment of the appliance and direct the ice to the ice storage bin, where it can be stored in the freezer compartment.
  • Such refrigeration appliances may also include a dispensing system for assisting a user in obtaining ice produced by an ice maker of the refrigeration appliance.
  • incorporating an ice maker into a refrigeration appliance may have drawbacks, such as limiting the amount of ice that can be produced and relying on the refrigeration system of the refrigeration appliance to form ice.
  • ice machines are separate from the refrigeration appliance and provide an independent supply of ice cubes.
  • ice is provided into the interior volume.
  • supplying a steady amount of water can be difficult. This is especially true in the case of gravity feed or ice cube makers.
  • water supplied to ice machines may often contain sensory or health-affecting contaminants that may affect the performance of the ice machine (for example, the taste or odor of the ice produced) ) or life span.
  • a desktop appliance may include a dispenser housing, a water circuit, a water filter, a dispenser valve, an output storage tank, an internal storage valve, and an ice maker.
  • the dispenser housing may define an interior cavity.
  • the waterway may be enclosed within the inner cavity.
  • the waterway may define a water inlet, a distributor outlet, and a component outlet.
  • the waterway may further define a first water conduit extending to the dispenser water outlet and a second water conduit extending to the assembly water outlet and fluidly parallel to the first water conduit.
  • a water filter can be placed along the water path to filter the water from the water inlet.
  • a distributor valve may be provided along the first water conduit to selectively release water from the waterway through the distributor water outlet.
  • An output storage tank may be provided along the second water pipe to accommodate a preset amount of water upstream of the component water outlet.
  • An internal storage valve may be positioned downstream of the water filter along the second water pipe. The internal storage valve can be configured to maintain a preset amount of water in the output storage tank.
  • An ice maker may be located downstream of the output storage tank to receive water from the output storage tank.
  • a desktop appliance may include a dispenser housing, a water circuit, a water filter, a dispenser valve, an output storage tank, an internal storage valve, an ice assembly, and an ice maker.
  • the dispenser housing may define an interior cavity.
  • the waterway may be enclosed within the inner cavity.
  • the waterway may define a water inlet, a distributor outlet, and a component outlet.
  • the waterway may further define a first water conduit extending to the dispenser water outlet and a second water conduit extending to the assembly water outlet and fluidly parallel to the first water conduit.
  • a water filter can be placed along the water path to filter the water from the water inlet.
  • a distributor valve may be provided along the first water conduit to selectively release water from the waterway through the distributor water outlet.
  • An output storage tank may be provided along the second water pipe to accommodate a preset amount of water upstream of the component water outlet.
  • An internal storage valve may be positioned downstream of the water filter along the second water conduit. The internal storage valve can be configured to maintain a preset amount of water in the output storage tank.
  • An ice assembly housing may be removably connected to the output storage bin, the ice assembly housing defining an inner cavity outside the interior cavity of the dispenser.
  • An ice maker may be mounted within the inner cavity downstream of the output storage tank to receive water from the output storage tank.
  • a desktop appliance may include a dispenser housing, a water circuit, a water filter, a dispenser valve, an output storage tank, an internal storage valve, an ice assembly, and an ice maker.
  • the dispenser housing may define an interior cavity.
  • the waterway may be enclosed within the inner cavity.
  • the waterway may define a water inlet and a component water outlet.
  • An output storage tank may be positioned along the waterway to hold a preset amount of water upstream of the component water outlet.
  • Internal storage valves can be placed along the waterway.
  • the internal storage valve can be configured to maintain a preset amount of water in the output storage tank.
  • the ice assembly housing may be removably connected to the output storage bin.
  • the ice assembly housing may define an inner cavity outside the inner cavity of the dispenser.
  • An ice maker may be mounted within the inner cavity downstream of the output storage tank to receive water from the output storage tank.
  • FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a tabletop appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 provides a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of the water dispenser of the exemplary tabletop appliance of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 3 provides a cross-sectional perspective view of the ice making assembly of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 4 provides a rear perspective view of the water dispenser of the exemplary tabletop appliance of FIG. 1 with a portion of the housing removed for clarity.
  • upstream refers to the relative flow direction with respect to the fluid flow in the fluid path.
  • upstream refers to the direction of flow from which the fluid flows
  • downstream refers to the direction of flow in which the fluid flows.
  • FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a tabletop appliance 10 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the tabletop appliance 10 may include a separate water dispenser 100 and ice making assembly 200, as will be described in more detail below.
  • the water dispenser 100 and the ice making assembly 200 may be provided as discrete modular components that may be selectively disengaged or disconnected and moved relative to each other.
  • water dispenser 100 includes dispenser housing 110 and ice making assembly 200 includes ice assembly housing 212 (eg, separate from or separate from dispenser housing 110).
  • the desktop appliance 10 is typically sized and shaped to be supported on a conventional residential or commercial countertop (eg, so that a user can place the appliance 10 on the countertop and move the appliance 10 therealong). Nonetheless, it should be understood that appliance 10 is provided as an exemplary embodiment and that the present invention is not limited to any particular size or shape, unless otherwise indicated herein.
  • the appliance 10 (or a portion thereof) generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a lateral direction T.
  • the vertical direction V, the lateral direction L and the lateral direction T are all perpendicular to each other and form an orthogonal direction system.
  • the vertical direction V, the lateral direction L, and the lateral direction T may be defined on the dispenser housing 110 or the ice assembly housing 212 .
  • FIG. 2 provides a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of the water dispenser 100 .
  • the dispenser housing 110 defines an interior cavity 112 .
  • the interior cavity 112 at least partially houses various other components of the water dispenser 100 therein.
  • the waterway 114 is enclosed within the inner cavity 112 .
  • one or more continuously connected pipes or conduits forming the waterway 114 for conducting the water are enclosed within the interior cavity 112 .
  • the waterway 114 may be selectively connectable (eg, fluidly connected via a conduit or hose) to a suitable water source, such as a municipal water supply or a residential water supply.
  • the waterway 114 generally provides or defines a water inlet 116 that extends to the discrete distributor outlet 118 and assembly outlet 120 .
  • water from the water source may be received at the water inlet 116 before being selectively directed to the distributor water outlet 118 or the assembly water outlet 120 .
  • the dispenser housing 110 may define an open dispenser recess (eg, below or below the dispenser outlet 118).
  • the actuation mechanism 122 is shown as a paddle mounted below the dispenser outlet 118 to selectively release or dispense water from the dispenser outlet 118 .
  • any suitable actuation mechanism may be used to release or dispense water.
  • the actuation mechanism 122 may include sensors (such as ultrasonic sensors) or keys without the use of paddles.
  • the waterway 114 may include or define separate first and second water conduits 124 , 126 .
  • the first water pipe 124 and the second water pipe 126 are generally provided fluidly parallel to each other and may be formed as separate downstream branches extending from a common inlet pipe 128, for example.
  • the first water pipe 124 and the second water pipe 126 may be separate pipes branching off from the inlet pipe 128 (eg, at the connection joint), which itself extends from the water inlet 116 .
  • the first water tube 124 extends to the distributor water outlet 118 .
  • the first water pipe 124 may extend from the connection joint of the introduction pipe 128 to the distributor water outlet 118 .
  • the second water pipe 126 is fluidly parallel to the first water pipe 124 , and the second water pipe 126 extends to the component water outlet 120 .
  • the second water pipe 126 may extend from the connection joint of the introduction pipe 128 to the component water outlet 120 .
  • at least a portion (eg, a second portion) of water from the water inlet 116 may flow to the assembly water outlet 120 through the second water conduit 126 .
  • the distributor outlet 118 may be positioned above the assembly outlet 120 .
  • the second water tube 126 may extend below the distributor housing 110 and terminate at some point where the distributor housing 110 is lower than the first water tube 124 .
  • the water flowing through the first water conduit 124 may be directed to the distributor water outlet 118 .
  • a distributor valve 130 is positioned along the first water conduit 124 to control the flow of water through the first water conduit 124.
  • the dispenser valve 130 may be selectively moved (eg, opened and closed) to release water from the waterway 114 through the dispenser water outlet 118 .
  • water may be prevented from leaving the water dispenser 100 through the dispenser water outlet 118 when the dispenser valve 130 is closed.
  • the dispenser valve 130 when the dispenser valve 130 is open, water may be allowed to flow from the dispenser 100 through the dispenser water outlet 118 .
  • the dispenser valve 130 may be operably coupled to the actuation mechanism 122 .
  • the dispenser valve 130 may be mechanically connected or engaged to the actuation mechanism 122 such that the dispenser valve 130 is actuated or positioned according to the actuation mechanism 122 (eg, when pressed by a user or container, as will be understood) And move.
  • Dispenser valve 130 may be provided as any suitable fluid valve (eg, flapper valve, gate valve, ball valve, etc.) for alternating between closed and open positions.
  • the water distributor 100 may include one or more water filters (eg, the first water filter 132 or the second water filter 134 ) for filtering or treating the water from the water inlet 116 Water flowing to distributor outlet 118 or module outlet 120.
  • one or more water filters eg, the first water filter 132 or the second water filter 134
  • a water filter (eg, first water filter 132 ) may be positioned upstream of both first water pipe 124 and second water pipe 126 along inlet pipe 128 . Therefore, the water flowing to the first water pipe 124 and the second water pipe 126 can be filtered through the first water filter 132 before reaching the water pipes 124 and 126 .
  • any suitable filter media may be provided within the first water filter 132 .
  • the first water filter 132 may include sensory filter media 136 (eg, relatively coarse filter sediment, activated carbon, or pleated filter elements) or health filter media 138 (eg, relatively fine filter cellulose) , activated carbon or pleated filter).
  • the first water filter 132 is a multi-stage filter including a plurality of successive stages, such as the first stage 140 and the second stage 142 downstream of the first stage 140 .
  • Different or discrete filter media can be accommodated within each stage.
  • separate filter elements can be provided for each stage.
  • the first stage 140 may include one type of filter media (eg, sensory filter media 136 ), while the second stage 142 includes another type of filter media (eg, healthcare filter media 138 ).
  • the sensory filter media 136 is configured to remove sensory impurities such as chlorine, chloramines, hydrogen sulfide, or zinc, such as filter elements certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 (as determined at the date of this application). of).
  • the healthcare filter media 138 is configured to remove substances such as heavy metals (eg, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, or selenium), inorganic substances (eg, fluoride or nitrate plus nitrite), or volatile organic chemicals (e.g., chloroform substitutes or individual organic chemicals), such as filter elements certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 (as determined on the date of this application) ).
  • heavy metals eg, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, or selenium
  • inorganic substances eg, fluoride or nitrate plus nitrite
  • volatile organic chemicals e.g., chloroform substitutes or individual organic chemicals
  • a water filter (eg, second water filter 134 ) may be positioned upstream of assembly water outlet 120 along second water conduit 126 . Accordingly, the water flowing through the second water pipe 126 may be filtered through the second water filter 134 (eg, after being filtered through the first water filter 132).
  • the second water filter 134 includes deionized filter media 144 .
  • the second water filter 134 may include an anionic resin and a cationic resin contained in a container or cartridge.
  • deionization filter media 144 may comprise a mixed media incorporating anionic and cationic resins. The mixed medium may be configured to remove dissolved solids, such as inorganic salts such as sodium ions or chloride ions, from the water flowing through the second water conduit 126 .
  • an output storage tank 146 is provided along the second water conduit 126 .
  • the output storage tank 146 generally provides an enlarged area (eg, relative to the remainder of the second water pipe 126 ) within which water may be contained upstream of the assembly water outlet 120 .
  • a preset amount of water 148 may be collected or contained within output storage tank 146 .
  • the preset water volume 148 may be delineated at a predetermined height or level 150 within the output storage tank 146 .
  • output storage tank 146 is disposed downstream of one or more water filters (eg, first water filter 132 or second water filter 134). Accordingly, the water collected in the output storage tank 146 may be pre-filtered (ie, filtered through the water filters 132, 134 of the water dispenser 100).
  • the appliance 100 may optionally provide filtration for water to be consumed directly by the user or to the ice making assembly 200 .
  • Such filtered water can significantly improve the performance or life of ice making assembly 200 (eg, without integrating bulky or expensive filtering or dispensing components within ice making assembly 200).
  • An internal storage valve 152 may be provided along the second water conduit 126 along with the output storage tank 146 .
  • the internal storage valve 152 may be positioned downstream of the first water filter 132 or the second water filter 134 .
  • the internal storage valve 152 is further disposed upstream of the output storage tank 146 .
  • the output storage tank 146 may be mounted below the dispenser valve 130 to advantageously accumulate water therein under the drive of gravity.
  • the internal storage valve 152 may be configured to control the flow of water through at least a portion of the second water conduit 126 . Specifically, the internal storage valve 152 may be selectively moved (eg, opened and closed) to release water to the output storage tank 146 . For example, the internal storage valve 152 may be opened and closed to maintain a preset amount of water 148 within the output storage tank 146 . During use, when the water volume is detected to be less than the preset water volume 148 (eg, below the preset height or water level 150 ), the internal storage valve 152 may be prompted to open, thereby allowing water to flow through the second water pipe 126 to the output storage tank 146 .
  • the preset water volume 148 eg, below the preset height or water level 150
  • the internal storage valve 152 may be prompted to close, thereby preventing more water from flowing to the output storage tank 146 .
  • the internal storage valve 152 may be a fluid control valve (eg, not controlled or actuated by its electrical signal).
  • the internal storage valve 152 may include a weighted float valve 154 located within (or in fluid connection with) the volume of the output storage tank 146 .
  • the float valve 154 is set to close at a preset water level 150 corresponding to the preset amount of water 148 in the output storage tank 146 (ie, move to a closed position, preventing water from flowing therethrough) .
  • the float valve 154 may only open (ie, move to an open position, allowing water to flow therethrough) when the water in the output storage tank 146 falls below the preset water level 150; When the water inside reaches the preset water level of 150 again, it will be turned off again.
  • Figures 3 and 4 provide various views of the ice making assembly 200 with portions removed for clarity.
  • the ice making assembly 200 has an ice making machine 250 downstream of the assembly water outlet 120 .
  • ice maker 250 may thus receive a steady water supply (eg, directly or indirectly) from output storage tank 146 .
  • assembly outlet 120 FIG. 2
  • assembly outlet 120 is connected to water tank 224 within ice making assembly 200 (eg, at inlet 229 via an intermediate conduit extending between housings 110 and 212 ).
  • the ice making assembly 200 includes an ice assembly housing 212 that defines an inner cavity 213 and generally at least partially accommodates various other components of the ice making assembly 200 therein.
  • the ice assembly housing 212 defines an inner cavity 213 outside the inner cavity 213 of the dispenser housing, and the ice maker is installed in the inner cavity 213 of the ice assembly housing.
  • the container 214 of the ice making assembly 200 is also shown.
  • the container 214 defines a first storage volume 216 for receiving and storing ice 218 therein.
  • a user of ice making assembly 200 may access ice 218 within container 214 for consumption or other use.
  • the container 214 may include one or more side walls 220 and a bottom wall 222 that may collectively define the first storage volume 216 .
  • at least one sidewall 220 may be formed of a clear, see-through (ie, transparent or translucent) material such as clear glass or plastic so that the first storage can be viewed by a user Inside volume 216 and thus see ice 218 therein.
  • a user may remove container 214 from, for example, ice assembly housing 212 . This facilitates easy access to the ice within the container 214 by the user, and further, may provide access to the water tank 224 of the ice making assembly 200, for example.
  • the water tank 224 defines a second storage volume 226 for receiving and containing water.
  • the tank 224 may include one or more side walls 228 and a bottom wall 230 that may collectively define a second storage volume 226 .
  • the water tank 224 may be positioned below the container 214 along a vertical direction V defined by the ice making assembly 200, as shown.
  • water is provided to tank 224 for ice formation.
  • water may be supplied to tank 224 .
  • an inlet port 229 through the tank 224 may be defined downstream of the output storage tank 146 (FIG. 2) (eg, via the component outlet port 120 and an intermediate conduit extending between the housings 110 and 212). Therefore, water can be stably injected from or held in the water tank 224 from the output storage tank 146 .
  • Ice making assembly 200 may further include pump 232 .
  • the pump 232 may be in fluid connection with the second storage volume 226 .
  • water may flow from the second storage volume 226 through an opening 231 defined in the water tank 224 (such as in the sidewall 228 thereof), and may flow through a conduit to the pump 232 .
  • Pump 232 may cause water to flow through second storage volume 226 and out of pump 232 when activated.
  • Water actively flowing from pump 232 may flow (eg, through a suitable conduit) to sink 234 .
  • the sink 234 may define a third storage volume, which may be defined by one or more side walls and a bottom wall.
  • the third storage volume may, for example, be in fluid connection with the pump 232 and thus may receive water actively flowing from the water tank 224 , such as by the pump 232 .
  • water may flow to the third storage volume through openings defined in the water tank 234 .
  • the water tank 234 and its third storage volume may receive and contain water to be provided to the ice maker 250 for ice production. Accordingly, the third storage volume may be fluidly connected to the ice maker 250 . For example, water may flow from the third storage volume to the ice maker 250, such as through an opening and through a suitable conduit.
  • Ice maker 250 typically receives water, such as from sink 234 , and freezes the water into ice 218 .
  • ice maker 250 is an ice cube maker, particularly an auger-type ice maker, although other suitable styles of ice maker are within the scope and spirit of the present invention.
  • the ice maker 250 may include a housing 252 into which water may flow from the third storage volume.
  • the housing 252 is in fluid connection with the third storage volume.
  • the housing 252 may include one or more side walls 254 that define an interior volume 256 and may define openings in the side walls 254 . Water may flow from the third storage volume to the interior volume 256 through an opening, such as via a suitable conduit.
  • the auger 260 may be disposed at least partially within the housing 252 .
  • the auger 260 may rotate.
  • the water within housing 252 may be at least partially frozen due to heat exchange, such as with the refrigeration system discussed herein.
  • the at least partially chilled water may rise from the housing 252 by the auger 260 .
  • the at least partially chilled water may be directed by auger 260 to or through extruder 262 .
  • Extruder 262 may extrude the at least partially frozen water for forming ice, such as ice cubes 218 .
  • the formed ice 218 may be provided to the container 214 by the ice maker 250 and may be contained in the first storage volume 216 thereof.
  • ice 218 formed by auger 260 or extruder 262 may be provided to container 214 .
  • ice making assembly 200 may include a chute 270 for directing ice 218 produced by ice maker 250 toward first storage volume 216 .
  • the chute 270 is generally positioned in the vertical direction V above the container 214 . Thus, ice can slide through the chute 270 and fall into the storage volume 216 of the container 214 .
  • the chute 270 may extend between the ice maker 250 and the container 214 and may include a body 272 defining a channel 274 therethrough.
  • ice 218 may be directed from ice maker 250 (such as from auger 260 or extruder 262) to container 214.
  • the sweeping portion 264 may be connected to and rotate with the auger 260 , for example, the sweeping portion may be in contact with the ice exiting the auger 260 through the extruder 262 and direct the ice 218 through the channel 274 . to container 214.
  • ice maker 250 may include a sealed refrigeration system 280 .
  • the sealed refrigeration system 280 may be thermally coupled to the housing 252 to remove heat from the housing 252 and its interior volume 256, thereby helping to freeze the water therein to form ice.
  • Hermetic refrigeration system 280 may include, for example, compressor 282 , condenser 284 , throttling device 286 , and evaporator 288 .
  • Evaporator 288 may, for example, be thermally coupled to housing 252 to remove heat from interior volume 256 and the water therein during operation of sealed system 280 .
  • the evaporator 288 may at least partially surround the housing 252 .
  • the evaporator 288 may be a conduit coiled around and contacting the housing 252, such as the sidewall 254 thereof.
  • the refrigerant exits the evaporator 288 as a fluid in the form of superheated steam or a steam mixture.
  • the refrigerator enters the compressor 282, where the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant increases, causing the refrigerant to become superheated vapor.
  • Superheated vapor from compressor 282 enters condenser 284 where energy is transferred therefrom and condensed into a saturated liquid or liquid vapor mixture.
  • the fluid exits condenser 284 and passes through throttling device 286, which is configured to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant therethrough.
  • throttling device 286 may be a capillary tube.
  • the sealed system 280 may additionally include a fan (not shown) to facilitate the reciprocal transfer of heat to the condenser 284 and the evaporator 288 .
  • ice 218 may be ice cubes. Ice cubes are ice that is held or stored at a temperature above the melting point of water or above about 32 degrees Fahrenheit (ie, held or stored in the first storage volume 216 of the container 214). Thus, the ambient temperature of the environment surrounding the container 214 may be above the melting point of water or above about 32 degrees Fahrenheit. In some embodiments, such temperatures may be above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, 50 degrees above Fahrenheit, or above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Abstract

本发明提供了一种台式电器，包括分配器壳体、水路、滤水器、分配器阀、输出储存箱、内部储存阀和制冰机。分配器壳体可以限定有内部腔体。水路可以封闭在内部腔体内。水路可以限定有进水口和组件出水口。输出储存箱可以沿水路设置，以在组件出水口的上游容纳预设水量。内部储存阀可以沿水路设置并配置为在输出储存箱内保持预设水量。制冰机可以位于输出储存箱的下游，以从输出储存箱中接收水。

Description

台式水分配器和制冰组件 技术领域
本发明总体上涉及水分配器和制冰电器，更具体地，涉及可选地放置在桌子或台面上的独立式水分配器和制冰电器。
背景技术
制冰机通常生产供消费者在诸如所消费的饮料中使用的冰，为待消费的食物或饮料降温或用于其他各种目的。某些制冷电器包括用于生产冰的制冰机。制冰机可以置于电器的冷冻室内并将冰引导至储冰桶中，在此可以将其储存在冷冻室内。此类制冷电器还可以包括分配系统，用于辅助用户获取制冷电器的制冰机生产的冰。然而，将制冰机并入制冷电器中可能存在缺陷，诸如，限制了可以生产的冰量而且要依靠制冷电器的制冷系统形成冰。
近来，已经开发出独立式制冰机。这些制冰机与制冷电器分离并且提供独立冰块供应。通常，将冰提供到内部容积中。然而，供应稳定的水量可能比较困难。在重力送料或冰块机的情况下尤为如此。除去或除了有关稳定供水的问题之外，供应至制冰机的水可能常常含有影响感官或健康的污染物，这些污染物可能会对制冰机的性能(例如，产生的冰的味道或气味)或寿命产生影响。
在一些情况下，靠近或邻近制冰机设置水分配器可能比较有效。尽管如此，现有电器往往迫使消费者在独立、集成式电器或完全分离的制冰机和水分配器之间做出选择。独立、集成式电器通常较为笨重，难以管理。完全分离的制冰机和水分配器则无法协同作业，而且可能因此效率低下。
所以，提供一种能够分别分配水和产生冰的组件将会非常有效。特别是，提供一种在确保为制冰机稳定供应水的同时分配水的模块化或高效组件，可能非常有益。
发明内容
本发明的各方面和优点将在以下描述中进行部分阐述，或者通过该描述可以变得显而易见，或者通过实施本发明而了解。
在本发明的一个示例性方面，提供了一种台式电器。该台式电器可以包括分配器壳体、水路、滤水器、分配器阀、输出储存箱、内部储存阀和制冰机。分配器壳体可以限定有内部腔体。水路可以封闭在内部腔体内。水路可以限定有进水口、分配器出 水口和组件出水口。水路可以进一步限定有延伸至分配器出水口的第一水管和延伸至组件出水口且与第一水管流体平行的第二水管。滤水器可以沿水路设置，以过滤来自进水口的水。分配器阀可以沿第一水管设置，以通过分配器出水口可选择地释放来自水路的水。输出储存箱可以沿第二水管设置，以在组件出水口的上游容纳预设水量。内部储存阀可以沿第二水管设置在滤水器的下游。内部储存阀可以配置为在输出储存箱内保持预设水量。制冰机可以位于输出储存箱的下游，以从输出储存箱中接收水。
在本发明的另一个示例性方面，提供了一种台式电器。该台式电器可以包括分配器壳体、水路、滤水器、分配器阀、输出储存箱、内部储存阀、冰组件和制冰机。分配器壳体可以限定有内部腔体。水路可以封闭在内部腔体内。水路可以限定有进水口、分配器出水口和组件出水口。水路可以进一步限定有延伸至分配器出水口的第一水管和延伸至组件出水口且与第一水管流体平行的第二水管。滤水器可以沿水路设置，以过滤来自进水口的水。分配器阀可以沿第一水管设置，以通过分配器出水口可选择地释放来自水路的水。输出储存箱可以沿第二水管设置，以在组件出水口的上游容纳预设水量。内部储存阀可以沿第二水管设置在滤水器的下游。内部储存阀可以配置为在输出储存箱内保持预设水量。冰组件壳体可以可移动地连接至输出储存箱，该冰组件壳体在分配器的内部腔体之外限定有内层腔体。制冰机可以在输出储存箱的下游安装在内层腔体内，以从输出储存箱中接收水。
在本发明的又一个示例性方面，提供了一种台式电器。该台式电器可以包括分配器壳体、水路、滤水器、分配器阀、输出储存箱、内部储存阀、冰组件和制冰机。分配器壳体可以限定有内部腔体。水路可以封闭在内部腔体内。水路可以限定有进水口和组件出水口。输出储存箱可以沿水路设置，以在组件出水口的上游容纳预设水量。内部储存阀可以沿水路设置。内部储存阀可以配置为在输出储存箱内保持预设水量。冰组件壳体可以可移动地连接至输出储存箱。冰组件壳体可以在分配器的内部腔体外部限定有内层腔体。制冰机可以在输出储存箱的下游安装在内层腔体内，以从输出储存箱中接收水。
参考以下描述和所附权利要求，将更好地理解本发明的上述和其他特征、方面和优点。结合在本说明书中并且构成本说明书一部分的附图示出了本发明的实施方式并且与描述一起用于对本发明的原理进行解释。
附图说明
参照附图，说明书中阐述了面向本领域普通技术人员的本发明的完整且可行的公开内容，其中包括本发明的最佳实施方式。
图1提供了根据本发明的示例性实施例的台式电器的透视图。
图2提供了图1的示例性台式电器的水分配器的示意性截面立视图。
图3提供了图1的制冰组件的截面透视图。
图4提供了图1的示例性台式电器的水分配器的背面透视图，其中，为了清楚起见，已经移除了一部分壳体。
具体实施方式
现在将详细介绍本发明的实施例，这些实施例的一个或多个示例已在附图中示出。所提供的每个示例均用于说明本发明，而不是用于限制本发明。实际上，对于本领域技术人员而言将显而易见的是，在不脱离本发明的范围的情况下，可以对本发明进行各种修改和改变。举例来说，作为一个实施例的一部分示出或描述的特征，可以和另一个实施例一起使用以形成又一个实施例。因此，本发明旨在涵盖落入所附权利要求及其等同物的范围内的此类修改和变型。
如本文所使用的，术语“或”一般旨在具有包含性(即，“A或B”旨在表示“A或B或二者”)。术语“第一”、“第二”和“第三”可以互换使用，以将一个部件与另一个部件区分开来，并不旨在指示各个部件的位置或重要性。术语“上游”和“下游”是指相对于流体路径中的流体流的相对流动方向。例如，“上游”是指流体流出的流动方向，而“下游”是指流体流向的流动方向。
现在转到附图，图1提供了根据本发明的示例性实施例的台式电器10的透视图。台式电器10可以包括独立的水分配器100和制冰组件200，如将在以下更详细描述的。可选地，水分配器100和制冰组件200可以提供为分立的模块化部件，这些部件可以可选择地脱离或断开并相对于彼此移动。在一些此类实施例中，水分配器100包括分配器壳体110，而制冰组件200包括冰组件壳体212(例如，独立于分配器壳体110或与其分离)。
台式电器10的大小和形状通常设置为支撑在常规的住宅或商用台面上(例如，使得用户可以将电器10放置在台面上并可以沿其移动电器10)。尽管如此，应当理解，将电器10提供为示例性实施例，并且本发明不限于任何特定的大小或形状，除非本文另有说明。
如图所示，电器10(或其一部分)通常限定出竖直方向V、侧向L和横向T。 竖直方向V、侧向L和横向T都互相垂直并形成正交方向体系。可选地，竖直方向V、侧向L和横向T可以限定在分配器壳体110或冰组件壳体212上。
现在转到图1和图2，图2提供了水分配器100的示意性截面立视图。如图所示，分配器壳体110限定有内部腔体112。内部腔体112至少部分地在其中容纳水分配器100的各个其他部件。特别地，水路114封闭在内部腔体112内。换言之，形成引导水的水路114的一个或多个连续连接的管道或导管封闭在内部腔体112内。水路114可以可选择地连接(例如，经由导管或软管流体连接)至合适的水源，诸如市政供水或住宅供水。如以下更详细描述的，水路114通常提供或限定出进水口116，该进水口延伸至分立的分配器出水口118和组件出水口120。因此，来自水源的水在被可选择地引导至分配器出水口118或组件出水口120之前，可以在进水口116处将其接收。
在内部腔体112的外部，分配器壳体110可以限定有开放的分配器凹部(例如，在分配器出水口118的下面或下方)。在一些实施例中，致动机构122被显示为桨板，安装在分配器出水口118下方，以便可选择地释放或分配来自分配器出水口118的水。在另选的实施例中，可以使用任何合适的致动机构来释放或分配水。例如，致动机构122可以包括传感器(诸如，超声传感器)或按键，而不使用桨板。
如图2所示，水路114可以包括或限定出分立的第一水管124和第二水管126。第一水管124和第二水管126通常提供为彼此流体平行并且举例来说，可以形成为从公共引入管128延伸的独立的下游支路。换言之，第一水管124和第二水管126可以是从引入管128(例如，在连接接头处)分出的单独的管，引入管本身从进水口116延伸。组装时，第一水管124延伸至分配器出水口118。举例来说，第一水管124可以从引入管128的连接接头延伸至分配器出水口118。因此，来自进水口116的至少一部分(例如，第一部分)水可以通过第一水管124流到分配器出水口118。第二水管126与第一水管124流体平行，第二水管126延伸至组件出水口120。举例来说，第二水管126可以从引入管128的连接接头延伸至组件出水口120。因此，来自进水口116的至少一部分(例如，第二部分)水可以通过第二水管126流到组件出水口120。可选地，分配器出水口118可以设置在组件出水口120上方。因此，第二水管126可以在分配器壳体110下方延伸并在分配器壳体110比第一水管124更低的某个点处终止。
如上所指出的，可以将流过第一水管124的水引导至分配器出水口118。在一些实施例中，分配器阀130沿第一水管124设置，以便对流过第一水管124的水流 进行控制。具体地，可以可选择地移动(例如，打开和关闭)分配器阀130，以通过分配器出水口118释放来自水路114的水。因此，当分配器阀130关闭时，可以防止水通过分配器出水口118离开水分配器100。相比之下，当分配器阀130打开时，可以允许水从分配器100流过分配器出水口118。通常，分配器阀130可以可操作地耦合至致动机构122。举例来说，分配器阀130可以机械连接或接合至致动机构122，使得分配器阀130根据致动机构122的致动或定位(例如，当被用户或容器按压时，如将理解的)而移动。分配器阀130可以提供为任何合适的流体阀(例如，挡板阀、闸阀、球阀等)，用于在关闭位置和打开位置之间交替。
沿着内部腔体112内的水路114，水分配器100可以包括一个或多个滤水器(例如，第一滤水器132或第二滤水器134)，用于过滤或处理从进水口116流到分配器出水口118或组件出水口120的水。
作为示例，滤水器(例如，第一滤水器132)可以沿引入管128同时设置在第一水管124和第二水管126的上游。因此，流到第一水管124和第二水管126的水在到达水管124、126之前，可以通过第一滤水器132进行过滤。通常，可以在第一滤水器132内提供任何合适的过滤介质。举例来说，第一滤水器132可以包括感官型过滤介质136(例如，相对较粗的过滤沉淀物、活性炭或折叠式滤芯)或保健型过滤介质138(例如，相对较细的过滤纤维素、活性炭或折叠式滤芯)。在一些实施例中，第一滤水器132是包括多个连续级的多级过滤器，诸如第一级140和第一级140下游的第二级142。每一级内可以容纳不同或分立的过滤介质。举例来说，可以为每一级提供单独的滤芯。因此，第一级140可以包括一种过滤介质(例如，感官型过滤介质136)，而第二级142包括另一种过滤介质(例如，保健型过滤介质138)。
在一些实施例中，感官型过滤介质136配置为清除诸如氯、氯胺、硫化氢或锌之类的影响感官的杂质，诸如通过NSF/ANSI标准42认证的过滤元件(如在本申请日期确定的)。在另外的或另选的实施例中，保健型过滤介质138配置为清除诸如重金属(例如，砷、镉、铬、铜、铅、汞或硒)、无机物(例如，氟化物或硝酸盐加亚硝酸盐)、或挥发性有机化学品(例如，氯仿替代物或个别有机化学品)之类的影响健康的杂质，诸如通过NSF/ANSI标准53认证的过滤元件(如在本申请日期确定的)。
作为另外的或另选的示例，滤水器(例如，第二滤水器134)可以沿第二水管126设置在组件出水口120的上游。因此，可以通过第二滤水器134对流过第二水管126的水进行过滤(例如，在通过第一滤水器132过滤之后)。在一些实施例中， 第二滤水器134包括去离子过滤介质144。举例来说，第二滤水器134可以包括包含在容器或滤芯中的阴离子树脂和阳离子树脂。可选地，去离子过滤介质144可以包括掺有阴离子和阳离子树脂的混合介质。混合介质可以配置为从流过第二水管126的水中清除溶解性固体，诸如钠离子或氯离子的无机盐。
在一些实施例中，沿第二水管126提供输出储存箱146。如图所示，输出储存箱146通常提供扩大的区域(例如，相对于第二水管126的剩余部分)，在该扩大区域内可以将水容纳在组件出水口120的上游。举例来说，可以将预设水量148收集或容纳在输出储存箱146内。预设水量148可以划定在输出储存箱146内的预定高度或水位150处。在某些实施例中，输出储存箱146设置在一个或多个滤水器(例如，第一滤水器132或第二滤水器134)的下游。因此，可以对收集在输出储存箱146内的水进行预先过滤(即，已通过水分配器100的滤水器132、134进行了过滤)。
有利的是，电器100可以可选择的为将由用户直接饮用的水或流到制冰组件200的水提供过滤。这种过滤水可以明显提高制冰组件200的性能或延长其寿命(例如，无需在制冰组件200内集成笨重或昂贵的过滤或分配部件)。
内部储存阀152可以连同输出储存箱146沿第二水管126设置。举例来说，内部储存阀152可以设置在第一滤水器132或第二滤水器134的下游。在一些实施例中，内部储存阀152进一步设置在输出储存箱146的上游。如图所示，输出储存箱146可以安装在分配器阀130下方，从而在重力的驱使下有利地在其中积聚水。
通常，内部储存阀152可以配置为对流过至少一部分第二水管126的水流进行控制。具体地，可以可选择地移动(例如，打开和关闭)内部储存阀152，以将水释放到输出储存箱146。举例来说，内部储存阀152可以打开和关闭，以便在输出储存箱146内保持预设水量148。在使用期间，检测到水量小于预设水量148时(例如，在预设高度或水位150以下)，可以提示打开内部储存阀152，从而允许水通过第二水管126流到输出储存箱146。相反，检测到水量大于或等于预设水量148时(例如，在预设高度或水位150处或以上)，可以提示关闭内部储存阀152，从而防止更多的水流到输出储存箱146。可选地，内部储存阀152可以是流体控制阀(例如，并非由其电信号控制或驱使)。举例来说，内部储存阀152可以包括位于输出储存箱146的容积内(或与其流体连接)的具有压重的浮阀154。在一些此类实施例中，浮阀154被设定为在对应于输出储存箱146内的预设水量148的预设水位150处关闭(即，移动至关闭位置，防止水从其流过)。因此，浮阀154可以仅在输出储 存箱146内的水下降至预设水位150以下时才会打开(即，移动至打开位置，从而使水从其流过)；并且可以在输出储存箱146内的水再次达到预设水位150时再次关闭。
现在大致转到图1以及图3和图4，图3和图4提供了制冰组件200的各个视图，其中，为了清楚起见，已将各部分移除。通常，制冰组件200在组件出水口120的下游具有制冰机250。组装时，制冰机250因此可以(例如，直接或间接地)从输出储存箱146中接收稳定的供水。在一些此类实施例中，组件出水口120(图2)连接至制冰组件200内的水箱224(例如，在进入口229处经由在壳体110和212之间延伸的中间导管)。
如图所示，制冰组件200包括冰组件壳体212，其限定有内层腔体213并且通常在其中至少部分地容纳制冰组件200的各个其他部件。冰组件壳体212在分配器壳体的内部腔体213之外限定有内层腔体213，制冰机安装在冰组件壳体的内层腔体213内。
还示出了制冰组件200的容器214。容器214限定有用于接收并在其中储存冰218的第一储存容积216。制冰组件200的用户可以获取容器214内的冰218，供消费或用于其他用途。容器214可以包括一个或多个侧壁220和底壁222，侧壁和底壁可以共同限定出第一储存容积216。在示例性实施例中，至少一个侧壁220可以由清透、通透的(即，透明或半透明的)材料(诸如，清透的玻璃或塑料)形成，使得用户可以看到第一储存容积216内部并因此看到其中的冰218。进一步地，在示例性实施例中，用户可以从诸如冰组件壳体212中拆除容器214。这有助于用户轻松获取容器214内的冰，并且进一步地，例如可以提供通往制冰组件200的水箱224的通道。
通常，水箱224限定有用于接收和容纳水的第二储存容积226。水箱224可以包括一个或多个侧壁228和底壁230，侧壁和底壁可以共同限定出第二储存容积226。在示例性实施例中，水箱224可以沿着制冰组件200限定的竖直方向V设置在容器214下方，如图所示。
正如所讨论的，在示例性实施例中，向水箱224提供水以用于形成冰。举例来说，可以将水供应到水箱224中。举例来说，可以在输出储存箱146(图2)的下游限定出贯穿水箱224的进入口229(例如，经由组件出水口120和在壳体110和212之间延伸的中间导管)。因此，水可以稳定地从输出储存箱146注入或保持在水箱224内。
制冰组件200可以进一步包括泵232。泵232可以和第二储存容积226流体连接。例如，水可以从第二储存容积226流过水箱224(诸如，在其侧壁228)中限定的开口231，并且可以流过导管流到泵232。泵232在启动时可以促使水从第二储存容积226流过并从泵232流出。
从泵232主动流出的水可以(例如，通过合适的导管)流到水槽234。例如，水槽234可以限定有第三储存容积，该储存容积可以由一个或多个侧壁和底壁限定。第三储存容积可以例如与泵232流体连接，并且因此可以诸如通过泵232接收主动从水箱224流出的水。例如，水可以通过水槽234中限定的开口流到第三储存容积。
水槽234及其第三储存容积可以接收并容纳将提供给制冰机250用于生产冰的水。相应地，第三储存容积可以和制冰机250流体连接。例如，水可以诸如通过开口并通过合适的导管，从第三储存容积流到制冰机250。
制冰机250通常诸如从水槽234接收水，并将水冷冻成冰218。在示例性实施例中，制冰机250是冰块机，特别是一种螺旋钻式制冰机，然而其他合适样式的制冰机仍处于本发明的范围和精神内。如图所示，制冰机250可以包括壳体252，水可以从第三储存容积流到其中。因此，壳体252与第三储存容积流体连接。例如，壳体252可以包括限定出内部容积256的一个或多个侧壁254，并且可以在侧壁254中限定出开口。水可以通过开口(诸如，经由合适的导管)从第三储存容积流到内部容积256。
如图所示，螺旋钻260可以至少部分地设置在壳体252内。在操作期间，螺旋钻260可以旋转。由于热交换(诸如利用本文所讨论的制冷系统进行)，可以至少部分地冷冻壳体252内的水。该至少部分冷冻的水可以通过螺旋钻260从壳体252中上升。进一步地，在示例性实施例中，该至少部分冷冻的水可以由螺旋钻260引导至或引导通过挤出机262。挤出机262可以挤出该至少部分冷冻的水，用于形成冰，诸如冰块218。
形成的冰218可以由制冰机250提供给容器214，并且可以收容在其第一储存容积216中。例如，由螺旋钻260或挤出机262形成的冰218可以提供给容器214。在示例性实施例中，制冰组件200可以包括斜槽270，用于将制冰机250生产的冰218朝向第一储存容积216引导。例如，如图所示，斜槽270通常沿竖直方向V置于容器214上方。因此，冰可以滑过斜槽270并落入容器214的储存容积216中。如图所示，斜槽270可以在制冰机250和容器214之间延伸并且可以包括主体272，该主体限定有穿过其的通道274。通过通道274，可以将冰218从制冰机250(诸如 从螺旋钻260或挤出机262)引导至容器214。在一些实施例中，例如，清扫部264可以例如连接至螺旋钻260并随其旋转，该清扫部可以和通过挤出机262从螺旋钻260出来的冰接触，并通过通道274将冰218引导至容器214。
正如所讨论的，由于热交换(诸如利用制冷系统进行)，可以至少部分地冷冻壳体252内的水。在示例性实施例中，制冰机250可以包括密封式制冷系统280。密封式制冷系统280可以和壳体252热连接，以从壳体252及其内部容积256中去除热量，从而有助于将其中的水冷冻形成冰。密封式制冷系统280可以例如包括压缩机282、冷凝器284、节流装置286和蒸发器288。蒸发器288可以例如与壳体252热连接，以便在密封式系统280运行期间，从内部容积256及其中的水中去除热量。例如，蒸发器288可以至少部分地围绕壳体252。特别地，蒸发器288可以是盘绕并接触壳体252(诸如其侧壁254)的导管。
在密封式系统280运行期间，制冷剂作为流体以过热蒸汽或蒸汽混合物的形式离开蒸发器288。在离开蒸发器288后，制冷器进入压缩机282，其中制冷剂的压力和温度增加，使得制冷剂变成过热蒸汽。来自压缩机282的过热蒸汽进入冷凝器284，其中能量从其转移并冷凝成饱和液体或液体蒸气混合物。该流体离开冷凝器284并经过节流装置286，该节流装置配置成调节流过其的制冷剂流速。在离开节流装置286后，制冷剂的压力和温度下降，此时制冷剂进入蒸发器288并且循环重复。在某些示例性实施例中，节流装置286可以是毛细管。显然，在一些实施例中，密封式系统280可以另外包括风扇(未示出)，以促进热量往复传递于冷凝器284和蒸发器288。
正如所讨论的，在示例性实施例中，冰218可以是块冰。块冰是在高于水的融点或高于大约华氏32度的温度下保存或储存的冰(即，在容器214的第一储存容积216中保存或储存)。因此，容器214周围环境的环境温度可以为高于水的融点或高于大约华氏32度的温度。在一些实施例中，这样的温度可以高于华氏40度、高于华氏50度或高于华氏60度。
本书面描述使用示例对本发明进行了公开(其中包括最佳实施例)，并且还使本领域技术人员能够实施本发明(其中包括制造和使用任何装置或系统并且执行所包含的任何方法)。本发明的可授予专利范围通过权利要求进行限定，并且可以包括本领域技术人员能够想到的其它的示例。如果此类其他示例包括与权利要求的字面语言并无区别的结构元件，或者如果此类其他示例包括与权利要求的字面语言没有实质性区别的等效结构元件，此类其他示例则包含在权利要求的范围内。

Claims (20)

  1. 一种台式电器组件，包括：
    分配器壳体，其限定出内部腔体，
    水路，其封闭在所述内部腔体内，所述水路限定有进水口、分配器出水口和组件出水口，所述水路进一步限定有延伸至所述分配器出水口的第一水管和延伸至所述组件出水口且与所述第一水管流体平行的第二水管；
    滤水器，其沿所述水路设置，以过滤来自所述进水口的水；
    分配器阀，其沿所述第一水管设置，以通过所述分配器出水口选择地释放来自所述水路的水；
    输出储存箱，其沿所述第二水管设置，以在所述组件出水口的上游容纳预设水量；
    内部储存阀，其沿所述第二水管设置在所述滤水器的下游，所述内部储存阀配置为在所述输出储存箱内保持所述预设水量；以及
    制冰机，其位于所述输出储存箱的下游，以从所述输出储存箱接收水。
  2. 根据权利要求1所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述滤水器设置在所述第一水管和所述第二水管的上游。
  3. 根据权利要求1所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述滤水器沿所述第二水管设置。
  4. 根据权利要求3所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述滤水器包括去离子过滤介质。
  5. 根据权利要求1所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述滤水器是设置在所述第一水管和第二水管上游的第一滤水器，并且，所述台式电器组件还包括：
    第二滤水器，其沿所述第二水管设置。
  6. 根据权利要求1所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述内部储存阀包括浮阀，所述浮阀设定为在预设水位处关闭，所述预设水位与所述输出储存箱内所述预设水量对应。
  7. 根据权利要求1所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，还包括：
    冰组件壳体，其在所述分配器壳体的所述内部腔体之外限定有内层腔体，所述制冰机安装在所述冰组件壳体的所述内层腔体内。
  8. 根据权利要求7所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，还包括水箱，其安装在所 述冰组件壳体的所述内层腔体内，在所述输出储存箱和所述制冰机之间流体连接。
  9. 根据权利要求1所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述分配器出水口设置在所述组件出水口上方。
  10. 根据权利要求9所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述输出储存箱设置在所述分配器水阀下方。
  11. 一种台式电器组件，包括：
    分配器壳体，其限定有内部腔体，
    水路，其封闭在所述内部腔体内，所述水路限定有进水口、分配器出水口和组件出水口，所述水路进一步限定有延伸至所述分配器出水口的第一水管和延伸至所述组件出水口且与所述第一水管流体平行的第二水管；
    滤水器，其沿所述水路设置，以过滤来自所述进水口的水；
    分配器阀，其沿所述第一水管设置，以通过所述分配器出水口选择地释放来自所述水路的水；
    输出储存箱，其沿所述第二水管设置，以在所述组件出水口的上游容纳预设水量；
    内部储存阀，其沿所述第二水管设置在所述滤水器的下游，所述内部储存阀配置为在所述输出储存箱内保持所述预设水量；
    冰组件壳体，其可移动地连接至所述输出储存箱，所述冰组件壳体在所述分配器壳体的所述内部腔体之外限定有内层腔体；以及
    制冰机，其在所述输出储存箱的下游安装在所述内层腔体内，以从所述输出储存箱中接收水。
  12. 根据权利要求11所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述滤水器设置在所述第一水管和所述第二水管的上游。
  13. 根据权利要求11所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述滤水器沿所述第二水管设置。
  14. 根据权利要求12所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述滤水器包括去离子过滤介质。
  15. 根据权利要求11所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述滤水器是设置在所述第一水管和所述第二水管上游的第一滤水器，并且，所述台式电器组件还包括：
    第二滤水器，其沿所述第二水管设置。
  16. 根据权利要求11所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述内部储存阀包括浮 阀，所述浮阀设定为在预设水位处关闭，所述预设水位与所述输出储存箱内所述预设水量对应。
  17. 根据权利要求11所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，还包括水箱，其安装在所述冰组件壳体的所述内层腔体内，在所述输出储存箱和所述制冰机之间流体连接。
  18. 根据权利要求11所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述分配器出水口设置在所述组件出水口上方。
  19. 根据权利要求18所述的台式电器组件，其特征在于，所述输出储存箱设置在所述分配器水阀下方。
  20. 一种台式电器组件，其特征在于，包括：
    分配器壳体，其限定有内部腔体，
    水路，其封闭在所述内部腔体内，所述水路限定有进水口和组件出水口；
    输出储存箱，其沿所述水路设置，以在所述组件出水口的上游容纳预设水量；
    内部储存阀，其沿所述水路设置，所述内部储存阀配置为在所述输出储存箱内保持所述预设水量；
    冰组件壳体，其可移动地连接至所述输出储存箱，所述冰组件壳体在所述分配器壳体的所述内部腔体之外限定有内层腔体；以及
    制冰机，其在所述输出储存箱的下游安装在所述内层腔体内，以从所述输出储存箱接收水。
PCT/CN2021/106498 2020-07-17 2021-07-15 台式水分配器和制冰组件 Ceased WO2022012625A1 (zh)

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CN210441492U (zh) * 2019-06-27 2020-05-01 广东百胜图科技有限公司 一种制冰机水路溢流结构及制冰机

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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WO2025147952A1 (en) * 2024-01-11 2025-07-17 Haier Us Appliance Solutions, Inc. Removable reservoir for stand-alone ice making appliance
WO2025147954A1 (en) * 2024-01-11 2025-07-17 Haier Us Appliance Solutions, Inc. Stand-alone ice making appliance with gravity filter

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