Thermoelectric devices for defogging and defrosting applications

Abstract

A controlled surface having a direct contact with a flow of cold air circulating within a climate-controlled space is provided. A thermoelectric device is associated with the controlled surface and has a hot junction positioned upstream in the path of the air stream moving over the controlled surface and a cold junction positioned downstream in the path of the air stream. This arrangement provides defogging, defrosting or condensate evaporation for the controlled surface, while the temperature in the climate-controlled space is not appreciably altered, and at least some amount of moisture is removed from the air stream by the thermoelectric device.

Description

【Technical field】 [0001] The present application relates to the use of a thermoelectric cooler for providing demisting or defrosting of cold surfaces associated with a climate-controlled space without significantly affecting the status. 【Background technique】 [0002] Various enclosure and enclosure structures include surfaces, which may be transparent or reflective, and are typically required to maintain this transparent or reflective function throughout the operating life, especially during air conditioning or refrigeration equipment operation. For example, in grocery stores, items are often displayed in refrigerated containers. Within a refrigerated container, a glass door typically seals the enclosed refrigerated space from the outside environment while allowing the contents of the refrigerated container to be displayed and accessed. Cooled air is circulated in the climate-controlled space of the refrigerated container. The door faces the hotter and typically more hum...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0007] Although thermoelectric devices are inherently irreversible, due to the heat and current that must flow through a circuit during their operation, thermoelectric devices have no moving parts that make them extremely reliable and quiet

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