Refrigeration device having a refrigerant line and a water line extended

Abstract

A refrigeration apparatus having a refrigerant line and a water line extending through a common penetration of a vacuum insulation structure includes a vacuum insulation structure defining an interior compartment. The vacuum insulation structure defines a penetration through the vacuum insulation structure. The penetration piece provides a passage from the external environment to the internal compartment. An evaporator is disposed within the interior compartment. The evaporator is operable to reduce or maintain a temperature of the interior compartment below an ambient temperature. A refrigerant line extends through the penetration and into the interior compartment. A water line extends through the penetration and into the interior compartment. A thermal insulation block is disposed within the interior compartment and between the evaporator and the water line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a refrigeration device, and more particularly to a refrigeration device including an insulation block, a refrigerant line and a water line extending through a common penetration of a vacuum insulation structure. Background Art

[0002] Some refrigerators include a vacuum insulated cabinet. The vacuum insulated cabinet can separate the refrigerator compartment from the freezer compartment. It is often desirable to provide ice and water dispensing capabilities in the refrigerator compartment and ice making capabilities in the freezer compartment. In some refrigerators, one or more penetrations through the vacuum insulated cabinet are required to deliver water to the water dispenser or ice maker. However, in such refrigerators, multiple penetrations can make it difficult to maintain a vacuum in the vacuum insulated cabinet, and a single penetration can cause undesirable freezing in the water line. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigeration device includes a vacuum insulation structure defining an internal compartment. The vacuum insulation structure defines a penetration through the vacuum insulation structure, which provides a passage from the external environment to the internal compartment. An evaporator is disposed in the internal compartment. The evaporator is operable to reduce or maintain the temperature of the internal compartment to below the ambient temperature. A penetration gasket is disposed in the penetration. The penetration gasket defines a first hole and a second hole. A refrigerant line extends through the first hole and enters the internal compartment. The refrigerant line is in fluid communication with the evaporator. A water line extends through the second hole and enters the internal compartment. An insulation block is disposed in the internal compartment. The insulation block is disposed between the evaporator and the water line. A penetration cover is disposed above the penetration and is coupled to the vacuum insulation structure.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a vacuum insulation structure defines an interior compartment. The vacuum insulation structure defines a penetration extending through the vacuum insulation structure and providing a passage from an external environment to the interior compartment. An evaporator is disposed within the interior compartment. The evaporator is operable to reduce or maintain a temperature of the interior compartment to below ambient temperature. A refrigerant line extends through the penetration and into the interior compartment. The refrigerant line is in fluid communication with the evaporator. A water line extends through the penetration and into the interior compartment. An insulation block is disposed within the interior compartment and between the evaporator and the water line. The insulation block at least partially surrounds the water line.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigeration device includes a vacuum insulation structure defining an internal compartment. The vacuum insulation structure defines a penetration through the vacuum insulation structure. The penetration provides a passage from the external environment to the internal compartment. An evaporator is disposed in the internal compartment. The evaporator is operable to reduce or maintain the temperature of the internal compartment to below the ambient temperature. A refrigerant line extends through the penetration and into the internal compartment. A water line extends through the penetration and into the internal compartment. An insulation block is disposed in the internal compartment and between the evaporator and the water line.

[0006] These and other features, advantages and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by referring to the following description, claims and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] In the attached picture:

[0008] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a refrigeration device according to the present disclosure;

[0009] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a refrigeration device according to the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 3 is a rear elevation view of a refrigeration device according to the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 4 is an enlarged rear elevation view of a refrigeration device according to the present disclosure, the refrigeration device having a penetration and a refrigerant line and a water line extending through the penetration;

[0012] Figure 5 is a rear elevation view of a refrigeration device and a penetration cover according to the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 6 is a partially exploded rear perspective view of a refrigeration device with a penetration and a penetration cover according to the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 7 is a first side rear perspective view of a penetration gasket with refrigerant and water lines extending through the penetration gasket and a penetration cover and an insulation block according to the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 8 is a second side rear perspective view of a penetration gasket with refrigerant and water lines extending through the penetration gasket and a penetration cover and an insulation block according to the present disclosure;

[0016] Fig. 9 According to the present disclosure Figure 2 A sectional side elevation view of a freezer compartment of a refrigeration device;

[0017] Fig.10is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a freezer compartment of a refrigeration device according to the present disclosure;

[0018] Fig.11 is a front perspective view of an insulation block of a refrigeration device according to the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig.12 According to the present disclosure Fig.11 a side elevation view of an insulating block; and

[0020] Fig.13 is a front perspective view of a refrigeration chamber with a water tank according to the present disclosure.

[0021] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The presently illustrated embodiments reside primarily in a combination of method steps and apparatus components associated with vacuum insulation equipment. Accordingly, apparatus components and method steps are represented in the accompanying drawings, where appropriate, by conventional symbols, and the accompanying drawings show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the present disclosure with details that would be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. In addition, the same reference numerals in the specification and drawings represent the same elements.

[0023] For the purpose of this description, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall be used in conjunction with Figure 1 The disclosure of the present invention is related to the orientation of the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, the term "front" shall refer to the surface of the element that is closer to the intended observer, and the term "rear" shall refer to the surface of the element that is farther from the intended observer. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure can take various alternative orientations unless expressly provided to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Therefore, unless the claims expressly state otherwise, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics associated with the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered as limiting.

[0024] The terms "comprises," "includes," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises..." does not, without more constraints, exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises that element.

[0025] Reference Figures 1 to 13, reference numeral 10 generally denotes a refrigeration device 10. The refrigeration device 10 includes a vacuum insulation structure 12 defining an interior compartment 14. The vacuum insulation structure 12 defines a penetration 16 that provides a passage from an external environment 18 to the interior compartment 14. An evaporator 20 is disposed within the interior compartment 14. The evaporator 20 is operable to reduce or maintain a temperature of the interior compartment 14 below an ambient temperature. A penetration gasket 22 is disposed within the penetration 16. The penetration gasket 22 defines a first hole 24 and a second hole 26. A refrigerant line 28 extends through the first hole 24 and into the interior compartment 14 and is in fluid communication with the evaporator 20. A water line 30 extends through the second hole 26 and into the interior compartment 14. An insulation block 32 is disposed within the interior compartment 14. The insulation block 32 is disposed between the evaporator 20 and the water line 30. A penetration cap 34 is disposed on the penetration 16 and coupled to the vacuum insulation structure 12.

[0026] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the refrigeration device 10 is shown as a refrigerator device, which has one or more doors 50 that are operable to provide access to a refrigerator compartment 52 and a lower pull-out drawer 54 that provides access to a freezer compartment 56. However, it is contemplated that the vacuum insulation structure 12 can be used with various devices, structures, or refrigeration purposes other than the device. In addition, the device 10 shown is a bottom freezer French door refrigerator. In a non-limiting example, the refrigeration device 10 can be a bottom freezer refrigerator or a five-door French door refrigerator.

[0027] Still refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the vacuum insulation structure 12 includes an enclosure 60, a liner 62 coupled to the enclosure 60, and a vacuum insulation chamber 64 defined between the enclosure 60 and the liner 62. The pressure of the vacuum insulation chamber 64 is less than the ambient pressure of the external environment 18. The reduced pressure within the vacuum insulation chamber 64 reduces heat transfer between the external environment 18 and the refrigerating chamber 52 or the freezing chamber 56.

[0028] In order to maintain the reduced pressure within the vacuum insulation chamber 64, both the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 may be routed through the penetration 16 extending through the vacuum insulation chamber and into the freezer chamber 56. However, in aspects where the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 are routed through the penetration 16 and into the freezer chamber 56, it may be difficult to maintain the liquid state of the water within the water line 30 because the close proximity of the refrigerant line 28 to the water line 30 and the routing of the water line 30 into the freezer chamber 56 may cause thermal energy to be transferred from the water line 30 and cause the water in the water line 30 to freeze.

[0029] In order to keep the water in the water line 30 in a liquid state, the refrigeration device 10 disclosed in this article can introduce an optimal interval, a heater 70 and an insulating component (such as an insulating block 32 arranged between the water line 30 and the evaporator 20) between the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 to ensure that the water in the water line 30 remains in a liquid state.

[0030] Refer again Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the vacuum insulation structure 12 includes a shell 60, a liner 62 coupled to the shell 60, and a trim breaker 72 coupled to the shell 60 and the liner 62. The shell 60 generally faces the liner 62 and at least partially surrounds the liner 62. A vacuum insulation cavity 64 is defined in the space between the shell 60 and the liner 62, and the trim liner 72 seals the vacuum insulation cavity. The pressure of the vacuum insulation cavity 64 is less than the ambient pressure of the external environment 18. The vacuum insulation cavity 64 can contain various insulation materials, such as insulation powder, glass fiber, and various other suitable insulation materials. According to different aspects, the reduced pressure within the vacuum insulation cavity 64 relative to the external environment 18 reduces the heat transfer rate between the external environment 18 and the internal compartment 14.

[0031] Reference Figure 1 , the vacuum insulation structure 12 defines an internal compartment 14. In some examples, the vacuum insulation structure 12 may define a plurality of internal compartments 14, such as a refrigerator 52 and a freezer 56. In use, the refrigerator 52 and the freezer 56 are maintained at different temperatures. For example, the refrigerator 52 may be configured to maintain a temperature above 0°C but below the ambient temperature of the external environment 18, such as in a range of greater than 0°C to 8°C. The refrigerator 52 is used to keep the food placed therein at a low but not frozen temperature to extend the service life of the food. The freezer 56 may be configured to maintain a temperature below or equal to 0°C. The freezer 56 is used to keep the food placed therein in a frozen state to extend the service life of the food. Figure 1 In the example shown, the refrigerator compartment 52 is shown as being disposed above the freezer compartment 56, although other configurations are generally contemplated.

[0032] Further references Figure 1 The refrigerating chamber 52 includes a bottom plate 80, a top plate 82 opposite the bottom plate 80, a first side wall 84, a second side wall 86 opposite the first side wall 84, and a rear wall 88. The refrigerating chamber 52 further defines an opening 90, which is opposite the rear wall 88 and is operable to provide access to the refrigerating chamber 52. Figure 1As shown, opening 90 is operably isolated from external environment 18 via door 50 pivotable between open and closed positions. According to various aspects, liner 62 of vacuum insulation structure 12 provides floor 80, ceiling 82, first side wall 84, second side wall 86, and rear wall 88 of refrigerated compartment 52.

[0033] The freezer compartment 56 also includes a bottom plate 100, a top plate 102 opposite the bottom plate 100, a first side wall 104, a second side wall 106 opposite the first side wall 104, and a rear wall 108. The freezer compartment 56 further defines an opening 110, which is opposite the rear wall 108 and is operable to provide access to the freezer compartment 56. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an opening 110 to the freezer compartment 56 is operably isolated from the external environment 18 by a pull-out drawer 54 that is movable between an open position and a closed position. According to various aspects, the liner 62 of the vacuum insulation structure 12 provides a floor 100, a ceiling 102, a first side wall 104, a second side wall 106, and a rear wall 108 of the freezer compartment 56.

[0034] The refrigeration device 10 includes an evaporator 20. The evaporator 20 is disposed in the freezer compartment 56. The evaporator 20 is disposed inside the liner 62 of the vacuum insulation structure 12. In different aspects, the evaporator 20 is disposed adjacent to the rear wall 108 and the bottom plate 100 of the freezer compartment 56. In some examples, the evaporator 20 can be disposed near an ice maker 120 disposed in the freezer compartment 56, or the evaporator 20 can be disposed behind a cover plate 122 so that when the freezer compartment 56 is viewed through the opening 110, the evaporator 20 is hidden.

[0035] According to various aspects, the cover plate 122 can be disposed in the freezer compartment 56. In some examples, the cover plate 122 extends from the first side wall 104 to the second side wall 106 of the freezer compartment 56 and / or extends from the bottom plate 100 to the top plate 102 of the freezer compartment 56. In such an example, the cover plate 122 is disposed in front of the evaporator 20 so that when the freezer compartment 56 is viewed from the opening 110, the evaporator 20 is hidden.

[0036] The evaporator 20 extracts heat from the interior compartment 14 to maintain the temperature of the interior compartment 14 below the ambient temperature. Figure 2 In the illustrated example where the evaporator 20 is disposed within the freezer compartment 56 , the evaporator 20 extracts heat from the freezer compartment 56 to maintain the temperature within the freezer compartment 56 at a desired temperature, such as a temperature less than or equal to 0° C.

[0037] Now refer to Figures 3 to 6 and Figures 9 and 10, the vacuum insulation structure 12 includes a penetration 16. The penetration 16 is defined by a shell hole 130 that can be defined on a rear panel 132 of the shell 60 and a liner hole 134 that is defined on the liner 62 and is generally aligned with the shell hole 13. In some examples, the shell hole 130 and the liner hole 134 are positioned on the shell 60 and the liner 62, respectively, so as to allow a passage between the external environment 18 and the freezer compartment 56. According to various aspects, as provided herein, the alignment of the shell hole 130 and the liner hole 134 allows various components to extend from the external environment 18 through the penetration 16 and into the freezer compartment 56.

[0038] The refrigeration device 10 includes a refrigerant line 28. The refrigerant line 28 extends from the external environment 18, through the penetration 16, and into the freezer compartment 56. In some examples, the refrigerant line 28 extends into the freezer compartment 56 and along the ceiling 102 of the freezer compartment 56. In such examples, the extension of the refrigerant line 28 along the ceiling 102 can allow for a minimum length of the heat exchanger to be maintained. For example, the refrigerant line 28 can extend into the freezer compartment 56 and near the ceiling 102, so that the evaporator 20 disposed within the freezer compartment 56 is allowed to occupy increased space below the section of the refrigerant line 28 extending into the freezer compartment 56.

[0039] According to various aspects, the refrigerant line 28 is in fluid communication with the evaporator 20. In use, the refrigerant line 28 carries the refrigerant to and from the evaporator 20. While in the evaporator 20, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the freezer chamber 56 and evaporates into a gas. The refrigerant then travels from the evaporator 20 through the refrigerant line 28 and toward the compressor 140. The compressor 140 increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The refrigerant then passes through the condenser 142. At the condenser 142, the refrigerant cools and condenses back into a liquid. The refrigerant, now cooled and in a liquid state, then moves again to the evaporator 20 via the refrigerant line 28 to perform the refrigeration cycle again. According to various aspects, the refrigerant line 28 is formed of a metal such as copper or aluminum.

[0040] The refrigeration device 10 also includes a water line 30. The water line 30 extends from the external environment 18, passes through the penetration 16 together with the refrigerant line 28, and enters the freezer compartment 56. The refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 pass through the penetration 16 relatively spaced apart. For example, the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 can be spaced apart by at least 18.3 millimeters (mm). By spacing the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 apart, the ability of the refrigerant line 28 to extract heat from the water in the water line 30 and solidify the water into ice is reduced. In some examples, the water line 30 can extend through the penetration 16 and continue to extend toward the opening 110 of the freezer compartment 56 until the water line 30 extends beyond the insulation block 32. The water line 30 can then extend toward a component of the refrigeration device 10 (e.g., an ice maker 120). In use, the water line 30 transports water from a source in the external environment 18 through the penetration 16 and into the freezer compartment 56. The water can then be used for various purposes, such as by the ice maker 120 provided herein. The water within the water line 30 generally has a temperature above 0° C. In addition, it is generally contemplated that the diameter of the water line 30 can have a consistent diameter or a varying diameter at various sections of the water line 30. For example, the diameter of the water line 30 outside the freezer compartment 56 can be smaller than the diameter of the water line 30 inside the freezer compartment 56.

[0041] According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the refrigeration device 10 includes a heater 70 disposed proximate to the water line 30. In some examples, the heater 70 is disposed proximate to the water line 30 near the location where the water line 30 enters the freezer compartment 56 from the penetration 16. For example, the heater 70 may be disposed at a distance of about 5 centimeters (cm) or less from the water line 30 entering the freezer compartment 56 from the penetration 16. In various aspects, the heater 70 may extend around at least a portion of the periphery of the water line 30. In other aspects, the heater 70 may be proximate to or coupled to the water line 30 and disposed inside the insulating block 32. According to various aspects, the heater 70 is positioned relative to the water line 30 to transfer sufficient heat to the water in the water line 30 to prevent the water from freezing or to thaw the already frozen water. Additionally or alternatively, it is generally contemplated that the heater 70 may be one of a variety of heaters, such as a resistive heater, a thermoelectric heater, or a variety of other types of heaters, without departing from the teachings herein.

[0042] Reference Figures 3 to 10, the refrigeration device 10 includes a penetration gasket 22 disposed within the penetration 16. In some examples, the penetration gasket 22 can be disposed in the penetration 16 so that a rear portion 160 of the penetration gasket 22 is recessed, flush, or protrudes from the enclosure 60 of the vacuum insulation structure 12, and a front portion 162 of the penetration gasket 22 is recessed, flush, or protrudes from the liner 62. In such an example, the penetration gasket 22 can include an edge 164 that protrudes outwardly from the rear portion 160 and / or the front portion 162 and extends beyond the periphery of the penetration 16. In a different aspect, the penetration gasket 22 can include a rib 166 disposed between the rear portion 160 and the front portion 162.

[0043] According to various aspects, the penetration gasket 22 can help maintain an airtight seal around the penetration 16 within the vacuum insulation structure 12. The airtight seal can be at least partially maintained by the engagement between the ribs 166 and / or the edge 164 extending beyond the penetration 16. Additionally or alternatively, it is generally contemplated that the penetration gasket 22 can have a rubber or elastomeric composition and can be slightly oversized relative to the enclosure hole 130 and the liner hole 134 that form the penetration 16 through the vacuum insulation structure 12 to help maintain the airtight seal. For example, the ribs 166 can be formed of an elastomeric material and slightly oversized relative to the penetration 16 such that each rib 166 abuts the inner sidewall 168 of the penetration 16.

[0044] The refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 extend through the penetration gasket 22. The penetration gasket 22 forms an airtight seal around the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30. For example, the penetration gasket 22 can include a first hole 24 through which the refrigerant line 28 extends and a second hole 26 through which the water line 30 extends. The first hole 24 and the second hole 26 can be sized slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30, respectively. According to various aspects, the airtight fit of the penetration gasket 22 around the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 helps limit heat transfer between the external environment 18 and the freezer compartment 56 through the first hole 24 and the second hole 26.

[0045] Reference Figures 7 to 12 , the refrigeration device 10 includes an insulating feature, such as an insulating block 32. The insulating block 32 is disposed within the freezer compartment 56 and between the water line 30 and the evaporator 20. In various aspects, the insulating block 32 is disposed proximate the penetration 16 such that a rear surface 180 of the insulating block 32 is proximate the penetration 16 and / or abuts a front portion 162 of the penetration gasket 22 and the front surface 182 abuts the cover plate 122. In some examples, the penetration gasket 22 has a depth extending from the front portion 162 of the penetration gasket 22 to the opening 110 of the freezer compartment 56. According to various aspects, the depth of the insulating block 32 can be consistent with various variables, such as the volume of the freezer compartment 56, the routing of the water line 30, the placement of the evaporator 20, and / or various other factors.

[0046] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, the insulating block 32 includes a first portion 190 and a second portion 192 that intersect at an insulating block corner 194. The first portion 190 can be oriented obliquely relative to the second portion 192 and is disposed above the evaporator 20. The first portion 190 extends toward the first side wall 104 of the freezer compartment 56 and includes an abutment section 196 that can abut and / or couple to the first side wall 104 and / or the second side wall 106 of the freezer compartment 56. According to different aspects, the abutment section 196 can be coupled to the first side wall 104 and / or the second side wall 106 by bonding, adhesive, one or more fasteners, and / or inserting the abutment section 196 into a receiver. In some examples, the abutment section 196 can be vertically elongated and extend along the first side wall 104 and / or the second side wall 106 so that the amount of engagement between the abutment section 96 and the first side wall 106 is increased.

[0047] The second portion 192 of the insulating block 32 extends upward from the insulating block corner 194. According to various aspects, the second portion 192 extends toward the ceiling 102 of the freezer compartment 56. In some examples, the second portion 192 includes a top surface 200 at an end of the second portion 192. The top surface 200 of the second portion 192 abuts and / or is coupled to the ceiling 102 of the freezer compartment 56. The top surface 200 can be coupled to the ceiling 102 by bonding, adhesive, and / or one or more fasteners that engage with the ceiling 102.

[0048] In different aspects, the top surface 200 can define a top channel 202 extending from the inner surface 204 of the insulating block 32 to the outer surface 206 of the insulating block 32. The top channel 202 can define a circular, quadrilateral and / or other various shapes. According to various examples, the top channel 202 allows a conduit to extend through the insulating block 32. In such examples, the shape of the top channel 202 can be consistent with the shape of the conduit. For example, the circular shape and width of the top channel 202 can correspond to the circular shape and width of the conduit extending through the top channel 202. In addition, it is generally envisioned that the depth of the top channel 202 is consistent with the depth of the conduit, so that the conduit can extend through the top channel 202, while the top surface 200 is adjacent to the top plate 102 of the freezer 56.

[0049] According to different aspects, the first portion 190 and the second portion 192 can be made of insulating materials. For example, the first portion 190 and the second portion 192 can be made of various insulating foams, such as expanded polystyrene, expanded polyurethane, or various other types of insulating foams.

[0050] Reference Figures 7 to 9 , Fig.11 and Fig.12, the insulating block channel 210 is defined on the inner surface 204 of the insulating block 32 at the insulating block corner 194. The insulating block channel 210 extends from the rear surface 180 of the insulating block 32 to the front surface 182 of the insulating block 32. In some examples, the insulating block channel 210 defines a generally semi-circular shape that is concave toward the outer surface 206 and is at least partially defined on the first portion 190 and / or the second portion 192. In such examples, the semi-circular shape of the insulating block channel 210 can coincide with the circular shape of the penetration 16. According to various aspects, the insulating block channel 210 allows the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 to extend from the penetration 16 and into the freezer compartment 56. In such aspects, the circular shape of the insulating block channel 210 further improves the insulation of the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 because the semi-circular shape of the insulating block channel 210 provides partial encapsulation of the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30.

[0051] The insulating block 32 may be coupled to the top plate 102 and the first side wall 84 and / or the second side wall 106 of the freezer compartment 56 to define an insulating region 220. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the insulation region 220 is defined as the region surrounded by the first portion 190, the second portion 192, the cover plate 122, the first side wall 104, and the top plate 102. According to various aspects, due to the insulation barrier provided by the first portion 190 and the second portion 192, the temperature within the insulation region 220 can be greater than the temperature of the area outside the insulation region 220. For example, because the first portion 190 and the second portion 192 are made of insulation foam (e.g., expanded polystyrene), and because the first portion 192 and the second portion 192 are disposed between the water line 30 and the evaporator 20, the temperature within the insulation region 220 can be greater than the temperature of the area surrounding the evaporator 20. In such an example, the higher temperature of the insulation region 220 reduces or eliminates the possibility of water freezing in the water line 30 due to heat loss.

[0052] Reference Fig.10, the refrigeration device 10 includes an ice maker 120 disposed within the freezer compartment 56. The ice maker 120 is disposed within the liner 62 of the vacuum insulation structure 12 and can be accessed via the freezer opening 110. In various aspects, the ice maker 120 can be disposed below the penetration 16 and / or the insulation block 32. The ice maker 120 is in fluid communication with the water line 30. In some examples, the water line 30 can extend toward the opening 110 of the freezer compartment 56 and extend in a downward direction toward the ice maker 120. In various aspects, the water line 30 includes an open end 230 that is coupled to and in fluid communication with the ice maker 120. In some examples, the diameter of the water line 30 at the open end 230 can be greater than the diameter of the water line 30 when the water line 30 extends into the freezer compartment 56. In such an example, the larger diameter at the open end 230 can prevent the water in the water line 30 from being sucked in and locked in place, and instead allow the water to flow downward into the ice maker 120. In use, water flows through the water line 30 and into the ice maker 120. The ice maker 120 then uses the collected water to form ice cubes. The ice cubes can then be disposed in an ice tray 232 disposed in the freezer compartment 56 and below the ice maker 120.

[0053] Return to reference Figures 5 to 8 , the refrigeration device 10 includes a penetration cover 34 that is disposed above the penetration 16 and coupled to the enclosure 60. According to different aspects, the penetration cover 34 includes a back cover 242 disposed above the penetration 16. The back cover 242 defines a cavity 244 that receives a first pad 246 and a second pad 248. The cavity 244 can be defined such that the shape and / or size of the cavity 244 is consistent with the shape and / or size of the first pad 246 and the second pad 248 and allows each pad 246, 248 to be inserted into the cavity 244. The back cover 242 also defines an outer edge 250 that extends at least partially along the periphery of the cavity 244. The outer edge 250 is coupled to the enclosure 60 and compresses a gasket 252, such as a foam or rubber gasket, to define a sealing interface between the back cover 242 and the enclosure 60.

[0054] The first pad 246 is disposed within the cavity 244 and extends along the enclosure 60. The first pad 246 is positioned such that an outer portion 260 of the refrigerant line 28 and an outer segment 262 of the water line 30 each extend generally parallel to an outer surface 264 of the first pad 246. The first pad 246 also defines an aperture 270 that is sized to conform to the penetration 16. For example, the aperture 270 may be sized to conform to the size of the enclosure aperture 130 and / or the liner aperture 134. The aperture 270 allows the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 to extend through the first pad 246 and subsequently through the penetration 16.

[0055] The second pad 248 is disposed within the cavity 244 and abuts the outer surface 264 of the first pad 246. According to various aspects, the second pad 248 can define a shape and / or size that is consistent with the shape and / or size of the first pad 246. In some examples, the second pad 248 can define one or more channels 280 that extend along an inner surface 282 of the second pad 246. The channels 280 can receive the outer portion 260 of the refrigerant line 28 and the outer segment 262 of the water line 30 such that the outer portion 260 and the outer segment 262 are recessed into the second pad 248 and the inner surface 282 of the second pad 246 abuts the outer surface 264 of the first pad 246. Both the first pad 246 and the second pad 248 can be made of various insulating materials, such as expanded polystyrene. According to various aspects, the outer portion 260 surrounding the refrigerant line 28 and the outer segment 262 of the water line 30 and the first and second pads 246, 248 disposed on the penetration 16 provide an insulating layer that mitigates or eliminates external condensation on the penetration 16 and / or the penetration gasket 22 while also reducing heat transfer between the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 and between the external environment 18 and the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30.

[0056] Reference Fig.13 , an inlet water line 290 extends from the external environment 18 and enters the refrigerated compartment 52 via a refrigerator penetration 292, which is defined on the vacuum insulation structure 12 and allows the inlet water line 290 to extend into the refrigerated compartment 52. The inlet water line 290 then extends toward and is coupled to a water tank 294. In use, the inlet water line 290 carries water from an external source, through the refrigerator penetration 292, and into the water tank 294.

[0057] Further references Fig.13 , a water tank 294 is disposed within the interior compartment 14, such as the refrigerated compartment 52. In various aspects, the water tank 294 is disposed adjacent to the rear wall 88 and the floor 80 of the refrigerated compartment 52. For example, the water tank 294 can be coupled to a bracket 300 extending along the rear wall 88. In some examples, the water tank 294 defines a curved S-shape that allows all of the water in the water tank 294 to flow. The water tank 294 receives water from an inlet water line 290 coupled to the water tank 294. The water tank 294 outputs water to an outlet water line 302 that extends from the water tank 294 toward one or more water dispensers.

[0058] Reference Figures 1 to 13, the present disclosure provides a number of advantages. For example, extending the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 through the penetration 16 limits the number of holes that need to be made through the vacuum insulation structure 12 in order to extend the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 into the freezer compartment 56. Similarly, the single penetration 16 into the freezer compartment 56 increases the ability of the vacuum insulation structure 12 to maintain a vacuum within the vacuum insulation cavity 64. In addition, the spaced relationship of the refrigerant line 28 and the water line 30 as each line 28, 30 extends through the penetration 16, as well as the provision of the insulation block 32 and the use of the heater 70 between the water line 30 and the evaporator 20, all help to reduce heat loss and prevent the water in the water line 30 from freezing.

[0059] The device disclosed herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by any and all combinations of the various aspects described herein.

[0060] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigeration device includes a vacuum insulation structure defining an internal compartment. The vacuum insulation structure defines a penetration through the vacuum insulation structure, which provides a passage from the external environment to the internal compartment. An evaporator is disposed in the internal compartment. The evaporator is operable to reduce or maintain the temperature of the internal compartment to below the ambient temperature. A penetration gasket is disposed in the penetration. The penetration gasket defines a first hole and a second hole. A refrigerant line extends through the first hole and enters the internal compartment. The refrigerant line is in fluid communication with the evaporator. A water line extends through the second hole and enters the internal compartment. An insulation block is disposed in the internal compartment. The insulation block is disposed between the evaporator and the water line. A penetration cover is disposed on the penetration gasket and is coupled to the vacuum insulation structure.

[0061] According to another aspect, the insulating block extends from the side walls of the inner compartment to the ceiling of the inner compartment.

[0062] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the insulation block abuts the penetration gasket.

[0063] According to another aspect, the insulation block defines an insulation block channel, and the refrigerant line and the water line extend along the insulation block channel.

[0064] According to another aspect, the insulating block channel defines a semi-circular shape that coincides with the circular shape of the feedthrough.

[0065] According to another aspect, the heater is disposed proximate to the insulating block.

[0066] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a vacuum insulation structure defines an interior compartment. The vacuum insulation structure defines a penetration extending through the vacuum insulation structure and providing a passage from an external environment to the interior compartment. An evaporator is disposed within the interior compartment. The evaporator is operable to reduce or maintain a temperature of the interior compartment to below ambient temperature. A refrigerant line extends through the penetration and into the interior compartment. The refrigerant line is in fluid communication with the evaporator. A water line extends through the penetration and into the interior compartment. An insulation block is disposed within the interior compartment and between the evaporator and the water line. The insulation block at least partially surrounds the water line.

[0067] According to another aspect, a penetration gasket is disposed within the penetration.

[0068] According to another aspect, a penetration gasket defines a first hole and a second hole extending therethrough, the refrigerant line extending through the first hole and the water line extending through the second hole.

[0069] According to another aspect, the first portion, the second portion, the side walls, and the top panel at least partially define an insulating region surrounding the water line.

[0070] According to another aspect, a penetration cover is coupled to the vacuum insulation structure and disposed on the penetration.

[0071] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigeration device includes a vacuum insulation structure defining an internal compartment. The vacuum insulation structure defines a penetration through the vacuum insulation structure. The penetration provides a passage from the external environment to the internal compartment. An evaporator is disposed in the internal compartment. The evaporator is operable to reduce or maintain the temperature of the internal compartment to below the ambient temperature. A refrigerant line extends through the penetration and into the internal compartment. A water line extends through the penetration and into the internal compartment. An insulation block is disposed in the internal compartment and between the evaporator and the water line.

[0072] According to another aspect, a penetration gasket is disposed in the penetration, the penetration gasket defining a first aperture through which the refrigerant line extends and a second aperture through which the water line extends.

[0073] According to another aspect, the insulation block abuts the penetration gasket.

[0074] According to another aspect, the insulating block includes a first portion extending toward a side wall of the interior compartment and a second portion extending toward a ceiling of the interior compartment.

[0075] According to another aspect, the first portion of the insulating block includes an abutment section coupled to the side wall, the abutment section extending downwardly from the first portion, and the second portion includes a top surface coupled to the top plate.

[0076] According to another aspect, the first portion is oriented obliquely relative to the second portion.

[0077] According to another aspect, a penetration cover is connected to the vacuum insulation structure and is disposed above the penetration. A heater is disposed proximate the insulation block and the water line.

[0078] According to another aspect, the insulating block at least partially surrounds the water line.

[0079] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the described disclosure and other components of the construction are not limited to any particular material. Unless otherwise described herein, other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed of a variety of materials.

[0080] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (and all its forms) generally refers to the connection of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such connection may be fixed or removable in nature. Such connection may be achieved by the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate components that are integrally formed as a single unit with each other or with the two components. Unless otherwise specified, such connection may be permanent in nature or removable or releasable in nature.

[0081] It is also important to note that the structure and arrangement of the elements of the present disclosure shown in the exemplary embodiments are only illustrative. Although only several embodiments of the present invention are described in detail in the present disclosure, it will be easily understood by those skilled in the art who read the present disclosure that many modifications (e.g., changes in the size, size, structure, shape and ratio, parameter value, installation arrangement, use of materials, color, orientation, etc. of various elements) can be made without substantially departing from the novel teaching and advantages of the narrated subject. For example, the element represented as being formed as a whole can be composed of multiple parts, or the element represented as multiple parts can be formed as a whole, the operation of the interface can be reversed or otherwise changed, the length or width of the structure and / or member or connector or other elements of the system can be changed, and the nature or quantity of the adjustment position provided between the elements can be changed. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system can be composed of any of a variety of materials providing sufficient strength or durability, with any of a variety of colors, textures and combinations. Therefore, all these modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, other replacements, modifications, changes and omissions can be made to the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments.

[0082] It should be understood that any process described or any step in a process described can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as limiting.

Claims

1. A refrigeration device, comprising: a vacuum insulation structure defining an interior compartment, the vacuum insulation structure defining a penetration therethrough, the penetration providing a passage from an external environment to the interior compartment; an evaporator disposed within the interior compartment, the evaporator being operable to reduce or maintain a temperature of the interior compartment below ambient temperature; a penetration washer disposed within the penetration, the penetration washer defining a first aperture and a second aperture; a refrigerant line extending through the first aperture and into the interior compartment, the refrigerant line being in fluid communication with the evaporator; a water line extending through the second aperture and into the interior compartment; an insulating block disposed within the interior compartment, the insulating block disposed between the evaporator and the water line; and A penetration cover is disposed over the penetration and coupled to the vacuum insulation structure.

2. The refrigeration device according to claim 1, wherein: The insulating block extends from a side wall of the interior compartment to a ceiling of the interior compartment.

3. The refrigeration equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The insulation block abuts the penetration gasket.

4. The refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The insulation block defines an insulation block channel, and the refrigerant line and the water line extend along the insulation block channel.

5. The refrigeration device according to claim 4, wherein: The insulating block channel defines a semi-circular shape that coincides with the circular shape of the feedthrough.

6. The refrigeration device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A heater is disposed adjacent to the insulating block.

7. A refrigeration device, comprising: a vacuum insulation structure defining an interior compartment, the vacuum insulation structure defining a penetration therethrough, the penetration providing a passage from an external environment to the interior compartment; an evaporator disposed within the interior compartment, the evaporator being operable to reduce or maintain a temperature of the interior compartment below ambient temperature; a refrigerant line extending through the penetration and into the interior compartment, the refrigerant line being in fluid communication with the evaporator; a water line extending through the penetration and into the interior compartment; as well as An insulating block is disposed within the interior compartment and between the evaporator and the water line, wherein the insulating block at least partially surrounds the water line.

8. The refrigeration device according to claim 7, further comprising: A penetration gasket is disposed within the penetration.

9. The refrigeration device according to claim 8, wherein: The penetration gasket defines a first hole and a second hole extending therethrough, and the refrigerant line extends through the first hole and the water line extends through the second hole.

10. The refrigeration device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: The insulating block includes a first portion extending toward a side wall of the interior compartment and a second portion extending toward a ceiling of the interior compartment.

11. The refrigeration device according to claim 10, wherein: The first portion, the second portion, the sidewalls, and the top plate at least partially define an insulating region surrounding the water line.

12. The refrigeration device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising: A penetration cover is coupled to the vacuum insulation structure and disposed on the penetration.

13. A refrigeration device, comprising: a vacuum insulation structure defining an interior compartment, the vacuum insulation structure defining a penetration therethrough, the penetration providing a passage from an external environment to the interior compartment; an evaporator disposed within the interior compartment, the evaporator being operable to reduce or maintain a temperature of the interior compartment below ambient temperature; a refrigerant line extending through the penetration and into the interior compartment; a water line extending through the penetration and into the interior compartment; as well as An insulating block is disposed within the interior compartment and between the evaporator and the water line.

14. The refrigeration device according to claim 13, further comprising: A penetration gasket is disposed in the penetration, the penetration gasket defining a first aperture and a second aperture, wherein the refrigerant line extends through the first aperture and the water line extends through the second aperture.

15. The refrigeration device according to claim 14, wherein: The insulation block abuts the penetration gasket.

16. The refrigeration device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein: The insulating block includes a first portion extending toward a side wall of the inner compartment and a second portion extending toward a ceiling of the outer compartment.

17. The refrigeration device according to claim 16, wherein: The first portion includes an abutment section coupled to the side wall, and wherein the abutment section extends downwardly from the first portion, and wherein the second portion includes a top surface coupled to the top plate.

18. The refrigeration device according to claim 16, wherein: The first portion is oriented obliquely relative to the second portion.

19. The refrigeration device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, further comprising: a penetration cover coupled to the vacuum insulation structure and disposed over the penetration; as well as A heater is disposed proximate to the insulation block and proximate to the water line.

20. The refrigeration device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein: The insulating block at least partially surrounds the water line.

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