Decorative partition interface for reducing air permeation in vacuum insulation apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a decorative partition interface for reducing air permeation in vacuum insulated equipment. A vacuum insulated refrigerator includes a cabinet defining a refrigerated compartment. The cabinet includes a liner, an enclosure, and a trim partition assembly coupled to the liner and the enclosure. The trim partition assembly extends along a perimeter of the refrigerated compartment and includes a mullion region. At least one foam gasket is coupled to at least one surface of the trim partition assembly and routed from a first end of the mullion region along a portion of the perimeter of the refrigeration compartment to a second end of the mullion region. At least one surface of the trim partition assembly is at least one of an outer surface, a side surface, and an inner surface. At least one engagement member is coupled to the trim partition assembly to define a seal by compressing the at least one foam gasket therebetween.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a trim partition interface formed by a foam gasket coupled to a trim partition assembly, and more particularly, to a foam gasket coupled to a trim partition assembly to define a seal for a vacuum insulation device and reduce air infiltration. Summary of the invention

[0002] According to one aspect of the present invention, a vacuum insulated refrigerator includes a cabinet defining a refrigerated compartment. The cabinet includes an inner liner, a shell, and a decorative partition assembly coupled to the inner liner and the shell. The decorative partition assembly extends along the periphery of the refrigerated compartment. The decorative partition assembly includes a vertical frame area. At least one foam gasket is coupled to at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly. The at least one foam gasket is arranged from a first end of the vertical frame area along a portion of the periphery of the refrigerated compartment to a second end of the vertical frame area. The at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly is at least one of an outer surface, a side surface, and an inner surface. At least one joining member is configured to be coupled to the decorative partition assembly and to define a seal by compressing the at least one foam gasket between the at least one joining member and the decorative partition assembly.

[0003] According to another aspect of the present invention, a vacuum insulation device includes a structural enclosure defining a freezer compartment. A decorative partition assembly is coupled to the structural enclosure. An insulation cavity is defined between the structural enclosure and the decorative partition assembly. The decorative partition assembly defines a perimeter of the freezer compartment and includes a vertical frame area. At least one foam gasket is coupled to at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly. The at least one foam gasket is arranged from a first end of the vertical frame area along a portion of the perimeter of the freezer compartment to a second end of the vertical frame area. The at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly includes at least one of an outer surface, a side surface, and an inner surface. At least one joining member is coupled to the decorative partition assembly, and a seal is defined by compressing the at least one foam gasket between the at least one joining member and the decorative partition assembly to reduce air infiltration into the freezer compartment.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a vacuum insulation structure includes: providing a cabinet that defines an insulation cavity and forms at least one compartment, the cabinet including a decorative partition member assembly extending along the periphery of the at least one compartment; drawing at least a partial vacuum in the insulation cavity; applying at least one foam gasket to at least one surface of the decorative partition member assembly along at least a portion of the periphery of the at least one compartment; and coupling at least one joining member to the decorative partition member assembly to compress the at least one foam gasket therebetween and define a seal, thereby reducing air penetration between the at least one joining member and the decorative partition member assembly into the at least one compartment.

[0005] These and other features, advantages and objects of the present invention 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

[0006] In the attached picture:

[0007] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a refrigeration device according to the present invention;

[0008] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a refrigeration device having a vacuum insulation cabinet and a vacuum insulation door according to the present invention;

[0009] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of a cabinet of a refrigeration appliance with a decorative partition covering according to the present invention;

[0010] Figure 4 is a side perspective view of a refrigeration device according to the present invention;

[0011] Figure 5 is an exploded side perspective view of a cabinet of a refrigeration device according to the present invention, the cabinet having a shell, an inner lining, a decorative partition component assembly and a joining member for joining the decorative partition component assembly;

[0012] Figure 6 According to the present invention Figure 5 The front elevation of the decorative partition;

[0013] Fig. 7A According to the present invention Figure 3 A partially exploded partial cross-sectional view of the cabinet taken along line VII-VII, showing the decorative partition assembly, the engaging member and the foam gasket located on the side surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0014] Figure 7Bis a partially exploded partial cross-sectional view of a cabinet of a refrigeration device according to the present invention, showing a decorative partition assembly, a joining member, and a foam gasket located on an outer surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0015] Figure 7C is a partial cross-sectional view of a partially exploded cabinet of a refrigeration appliance according to the present invention, showing a decorative partition assembly, a joining member, and a foam gasket located on an inner surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0016] Fig. 8A According to the present invention Figure 3 A partially exploded partial cross-sectional view of the cabinet taken along line VIII-VIII, showing the decorative partition assembly, the engaging member and the foam gasket located on the side surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0017] Figure 8B is a partially exploded partial cross-sectional view of a cabinet of a refrigeration device according to the present invention, showing a decorative partition assembly, a joining member, and a foam gasket located on an outer surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0018] Figure 8C is a partial cross-sectional view of a partially exploded cabinet of a refrigeration appliance according to the present invention, showing a decorative partition assembly, a joining member, and a foam gasket located on an inner surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0019] Fig.9A According to the present invention Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view of the cabinet taken along line VII-VII, showing the decorative partition member assembly coupled to the engaging member compressing the foam gasket on the side surface of the decorative partition member assembly;

[0020] Fig. 9B is a partial cross-sectional view of a cabinet of a refrigeration device according to the present invention, showing a decorative partition component assembly coupled to a joint member compressing a foam gasket on an outer surface of the decorative partition component assembly;

[0021] Fig. 9C is a partial cross-sectional view of a cabinet of a refrigeration device according to the present invention, showing a decorative partition assembly coupled to a joint member compressing a foam gasket on an inner surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0022] Fig. 10A According to the present invention Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view of the cabinet taken along line VIII-VIII showing the decorative partition assembly coupled to the engagement member compressing the foam gasket on the side surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0023] Fig. 10Bis a partial cross-sectional view of a cabinet of a refrigeration device according to the present invention, showing a decorative partition component assembly coupled to a joint member compressing a foam gasket on an outer surface of the decorative partition component assembly;

[0024] Fig. 10C is a partial cross-sectional view of a cabinet of a refrigeration device according to the present invention, showing a decorative partition assembly coupled to a joint member compressing a foam gasket on an inner surface of the decorative partition assembly;

[0025] Fig.11A is a schematic elevational view of a foam gasket applied to a decorative partition assembly using a foam nozzle according to the present invention;

[0026] Fig. 11B is a schematic elevational view of a foam gasket applied to a decorative partition assembly according to the present invention;

[0027] Fig. 11C is a schematic elevational view of a decorative partition assembly and a compressed foam gasket between a joining member according to the present invention; and

[0028] Fig.12 is a flow chart of a method for manufacturing a vacuum insulation structure according to the present invention.

[0029] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The presently illustrated embodiments pertain primarily to a combination of method steps and apparatus components associated with a foam gasket coupled to a decorative partition assembly. Therefore, where appropriate, apparatus components and method steps have been represented by conventional symbols in the accompanying drawings, which show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the invention, so as to avoid obscuring the invention with details that would be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. In addition, like reference numerals in the specification and drawings represent like elements.

[0031] For the purpose of the description herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall be used in the same manner as described above. Figure 1Unless otherwise indicated, 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 invention can take various alternative orientations unless expressly indicated 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 related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0032] 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 includes a list of elements includes not only those elements, but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to the process, method, article, or apparatus. An element followed by "comprises..." does not, without more limitations, preclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0033] Reference Figures 1 to 12 , reference numeral 10 generally designates a vacuum insulated structure including a cabinet 12 defining at least one compartment, which generally includes a refrigerated compartment 14 and a freezer compartment 16. The cabinet 12 includes an inner liner 18, an enclosure 20, and a decorative partition assembly 22 coupled to the inner liner 18 and the enclosure 20. The decorative partition assembly 22 extends along a perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14 and a perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16, and the decorative partition assembly 22 includes a vertical frame area 28. At least one refrigerated compartment (RC) foam gasket 30 is coupled to at least one surface 32 of the decorative partition assembly 22, and the at least one refrigerated compartment (RC) foam gasket 30 may include RC foam gaskets 30a-30c, collectively referred to herein as RC foam gaskets 30. At least one freezer compartment (FC) foam gasket 34 is coupled to at least one surface 32 of the trim partition assembly 22, and the at least one freezer compartment (FC) foam gasket 34 may include FC foam gaskets 34a-34c collectively referred to herein as FC foam gaskets 34. The RC foam gasket 30 and the FC foam gasket 34 may also be referred to as foam gasket 30 and foam gasket 34.

[0034] The RC foam gasket 30 is arranged from the first end 36 of the mullion area 28 along a portion 38 of the perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14 to the second end 40 of the mullion area 28. The FC foam gasket 34 is arranged from the first end 36 of the mullion area 28 along a portion 42 of the perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16 to the second end 40 of the mullion area 28. At least one surface 32 of the decorative partition assembly 22 is at least one of an outer surface 44, a side surface 46, and an inner surface 48, the outer surface 44 may include a first outer surface 44a and a second outer surface 44b, the side surface 46 may include a first side surface 46a and a second side surface 46b, and the inner surface 48 may include a first inner surface 48b and a second inner surface 48b. The first surfaces 44a, 46a, 48a generally extend along the perimeter of the refrigerated compartment 14, and the second surfaces 44b, 46b, 48b generally extend along the perimeter of the freezer compartment 16.

[0035] At least one engaging member 50 (which may include a plurality of engaging members 50) is configured to be coupled to the trim partition assembly 22 to define at least one refrigerated compartment (RC) seal 52 by compressing the RC foam gasket 30. The RC seal 52 may include RC seals 52a-52c, which may be collectively referred to as RC seals 52. In addition, the at least one engaging member 50 is configured to be coupled to the trim partition assembly 22 to define at least one freezer compartment (FC) seal 54 by compressing the FC foam gasket 34. The FC seal 54 may include FC seals 54a-54c, which may be collectively referred to as FC seals 54.

[0036] Still refer to Figures 1 to 4 , the vacuum insulation device 10 is shown as a refrigeration device. The refrigeration device 10 is shown as a bottom mounted refrigerator having an upper compartment configured as a refrigeration compartment 14 and a lower compartment configured as a freezer compartment 16 .

[0037] The cabinet 12 of the refrigeration device 10 shown includes a first insulating door 70a and a second insulating door 70b. The first insulating door 70a and the second insulating door 70b can be collectively referred to as the insulating door 70, and can have a substantially similar configuration, as further discussed herein. In this way, the refrigeration compartment 14 and the freezing compartment 16 defined by the cabinet 12 can be sealed by the insulating door 70a and the insulating door 70b, respectively. In addition, in various configurations, the device 10 may include a cabinet 12, and the cabinet 12 at least defines a first compartment and a second compartment sealed by the insulating door 70. The device 10 may be, for example, a bottom-mounted French door refrigerator, a top-mounted refrigerator, a side-by-side refrigerator, a 4-door French door refrigerator, and / or a 5-door French door refrigerator. In addition, the present invention is not limited to refrigerators. The device 10 may be, for example, a freezer, a cooler, a vacuum insulation structure, and other similar devices and fixtures in a home and commercial environment. In addition, it is conceivable that the vacuum insulation device 10 disclosed herein can be used for various devices, structures, panels or components for insulation purposes other than the device.

[0038] The cabinet 12 of the apparatus 10 is an insulated structure having an insulated cavity 80 defined between the liner 18 and the enclosure 20. Similarly, the insulated door 70 is an insulated structure having an insulated cavity 82 defined between the door enclosure 84 and the door liner 86. Each insulated cavity 80, 82 generally includes one or more insulating materials 88 disposed therein. It is generally contemplated that the insulating materials 88 may be glass-based materials, carbon-based powders, silicon oxide-based materials, silicon dioxide-based materials, insulating gases, and other standard insulating materials 88 known in the art.

[0039] The insulating material 88 substantially fills the insulating cavity 80, forming a substantially continuous layer between the enclosure 20 and the liner 18. Similarly, the insulating material 88 substantially fills the insulating cavity 82, forming a substantially continuous layer between the door enclosure 84 and the door liner 86. The insulating cavity 80 and the insulating cavity 82 are filled with the insulating material 88 using loading ports on the cabinet 12 and the insulated door 70, respectively. The cabinet 12 and the insulated door 70 each define an evacuation port for applying a vacuum or negative pressure to the insulating cavities 80, 82.

[0040] Still refer to Figures 1 to 4 , defining at least a partial vacuum 90 within the insulated cavities 80, 82. The at least partial vacuum 90 defines a pressure differential 92 between an exterior 94 of the cabinet 12 and the insulated cavity 80. The pressure differential 92 serves to define an inward compressive force exerted on the enclosure 20 and the liner 18 and tends to bias the enclosure 20 and the liner 18 toward the insulated cavity 80. The pressure differential 92 and the inward compressive force are also exerted on the door enclosure 84 and the door liner 86 of the insulated door 70 in a similar manner and tend to bias the door enclosure 84 and the door liner 86 toward the insulated cavity 82.

[0041] The enclosure 20, door enclosure 84, liner 18, and door liner 86 are made of a material that at least partially resists bending, deforming, or otherwise forming in response to an inward compressive force. Such materials for the enclosure 20, door enclosure 84, liner 18, and door liner 86 include, but are not limited to, metals, polymers, metal alloys, combinations thereof, and / or other similar substantially rigid materials that may be used for the vacuum insulation device 10 and structures.

[0042] The liner 18 may include a first portion 102 defining the refrigerated compartment 14 and a second portion 104 defining the freezer compartment 16, the first portion 102 may also be referred to as the refrigerated portion 102 and the second portion 104 may also be referred to as the freezer portion 104. The refrigerated portion 102 of the liner 18 and the freezer portion 104 of the liner 18 may be separate components that, when coupled together, define a mullion gap 106 in the insulated cavity 80 between the portion 102 and the portion 104. The mullion gap 106 may be filled with the insulating material 88 and placed under at least a partial vacuum 90. The refrigerated portion 102 and the freezer portion 104 of the liner 18 may be biased toward the mullion gap 106 in the insulated cavity 80 in a similar manner as discussed generally with reference to the enclosure 20 and the liner 18.

[0043] In various implementations, the refrigeration portion 102 and the freezer portion 104 of the liner 18 can be coupled together separately from the decorative partition 22 in the mullion gap 106. The refrigeration portion 102 and the freezer portion 104 can still define the mullion gap 106 when coupled together. Although the liner 18 is shown as having two separate portions 102 and 104, the liner 18 can be a single portion or structure that defines the refrigeration compartment 14 and the freezer compartment 16. The liner 18 can also be a single structure that defines the refrigeration compartment 14 or the freezer compartment 16. The liner 18 can generally have a shape similar to the enclosure 20 to fit within the enclosure 20 and form the cabinet 12.

[0044] Still refer to Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 , the enclosure 20 has a plurality of walls 110, which may include a top wall 112, a bottom wall 114, a rear wall 116, a pair of side walls 118, and a curved wall 120. The bottom wall 114 of the enclosure 20 may be coupled to a base 122. The curved wall 120 and the base 122 of the enclosure 20 at least partially define a mechanical compartment 124. The enclosure 20 and the liner 18 may be collectively referred to as a structural enclosure that defines an insulated cavity 80. Various equipment components 126 may be positioned on the base 122 within the mechanical compartment 124 below the rear wall 116 and proximate to the curved wall 120 of the enclosure 20. The equipment components 126 positioned within the mechanical compartment 124 may include components of a refrigerant system, which may include portions of a compressor, condenser, and / or evaporator assembly. The equipment components 126 may also include controllers, electronics, or other components for operating the device 10.

[0045] The enclosure 20 and the liner 18 may define a first through-hole 128 and a second through-hole 130 to provide access for a service connection 132. The enclosure 20 and the liner 18 each define an aperture that aligns with one another to form the first through-hole 128 and the second through-hole 130. The service connection 132 may be an electrical connection, a fluid connection, a refrigerant system connection, and / or other equipment connection between the refrigerated compartment 14 and the freezer compartment 16 and the exterior of the cabinet 12. For example, the service connection 132 may include a suction pipe, a discharge pipe, and a wiring harness.

[0046] Still refer to Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 , the decorative partition assembly 22 generally couples the shell 20 to the liner 18 to form the cabinet 12. It is contemplated that the decorative partition assembly 22 can be coupled to the outer edge 136 of the shell 20 and / or the liner 18. The decorative partition assembly 22 has a generally rectangular shape, however, it is contemplated that other geometric shapes known in the art can be used. In this manner, the decorative partition assembly 22 can substantially not interfere with access to the refrigerated compartment 14 and the freezer compartment 16 defined by the cabinet 12. At least one channel 138 can be defined along the perimeter of the decorative partition assembly 22. The channel 138 can be configured to receive the outer edge 136 of the shell 20 and / or the liner 18. It is also contemplated that the decorative partition assembly 22 can define a shell channel 138a that accommodates the shell 20 and a liner channel 138b that accommodates the liner 18.

[0047] It is also contemplated that the trim partition assembly 22 may define a first liner channel 138b along the perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14 and a second liner channel 138b along the perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16 for the refrigerated portion 102 and the freezer portion 104 of the liner 18, respectively. The channel 138 defined by the trim partition assembly 22 may extend along the perimeter of the trim partition assembly 22 and along the cross member 140 of the trim partition assembly 22. The channel 138 may be filled with an adhesive, such as an epoxy resin. The adhesive is configured to couple the enclosure 20 and / or the liner 18 to the trim partition assembly 22 and seal the insulated cavity 80.

[0048] The trim partition assembly 22 includes a cross member 140 and defines an aperture 142a and an aperture 142b corresponding to the refrigerated compartment 14 and the freezer compartment 16 of the device 10. The cross member 140 defines a vertical frame area 28 between the refrigerated compartment 14 and the freezer compartment 16. In the example shown, the trim partition assembly 22 defines a perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14 around the upper aperture 142a, and defines a perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16 around the lower aperture 142b. In this manner, the perimeter 24 and the perimeter 26 define openings into the compartment 14 and the compartment 16, respectively. The trim partition assembly 22 may include a lower gap 144 to allow a thermal circuit 146 to be routed from the mechanical compartment 124 to couple to the trim partition assembly 22. The lower gap 144 may be proximate to the lower aperture 142b and centered on a centerline 148 of the trim partition assembly 22. The lower gap 144 may define a break in the surface 32 of the trim partition assembly 22 .

[0049] Still refer to Figure 6 , the RC foam gasket 30 and the FC foam gasket 34 are each generally coupled to a surface 32 of the decorative partition assembly 22. The RC foam gasket 30 is coupled to the surface 32 of the decorative partition assembly 22 along a portion 38 of the perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14. The RC foam gasket 30 can be arranged along the portion 38 of the perimeter 24 from a first end 36 of the mullion area 28 to a second end 40 of the mullion area 28, extending around at least a majority of the refrigerated compartment 14. The RC foam gasket 30 can be continuous or divided into multiple segments along the portion 38 of the perimeter 24. In some implementations, the RC foam gasket 30 can be arranged along the entire perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14. In such an example, the RC foam gasket 30 also extends along the mullion area 28 between the first end 36 and the second end 40.

[0050] The FC foam gasket 34 is coupled to a surface 32 of the trim partition assembly 22, which may be the same surface 32 or a different surface 32 of the trim partition assembly 22 as compared to the RC foam gasket 30. The FC foam gasket 34 extends along a portion 42 of the perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16. The FC foam gasket 34 may be disposed along the portion 42 of the perimeter 26 from the first end 36 of the mullion area 28 to the second end 40 of the mullion area 28, extending around at least a majority of the freezer compartment 16. The FC foam gasket 34 may be divided into a first segment 150a and a second segment 150b, but is not limited to such a configuration and may be split into multiple segments, or may be continuous. The first segment 150a of the FC foam gasket 34 may be disposed from the first end 36 of the mullion area 28 to the lower gap 144, and the second segment 150b of the FC foam gasket 34 may be disposed from the lower gap 144 to the second end 40 of the mullion area 28. In some implementations, the FC foam gasket 32 ​​may be disposed along the entire perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16. In such an example, the FC foam gasket 32 ​​also extends along the mullion area 28 between the first end 36 and the second end 40.

[0051] In some implementations, the RC foam gasket 30 and the FC foam gasket 34 can be coupled to and disposed together along a perimeter 162 of the cabinet 12 defined by the trim partition assembly 22. The RC foam gasket 30 can be disposed along a portion 38 of the perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14 from a first end 36 of the mullion area 28 to a second end 40 of the mullion area 28. The FC foam gasket 34 can extend from the second end 40 of the mullion area proximate to the RC foam gasket 30 along a portion 42 of the perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16 to the first end 36 of the mullion area 28 proximate to the RC foam gasket 30.

[0052] Based on the configuration of the trim partition assembly 22, there may be gaps in the foam gaskets 30, 34, including gaps 144 or recessed portions 164a, 164b, such as lower gaps 144, on the surface 32 of the trim partition assembly 22. For example, the trim partition assembly 22 may include a first recessed portion 164a on the first end 36 of the cross member 140 and a second recessed portion 164b on the second end 40 of the cross member 140. The foam gaskets 30, 34 may include gaps at the first recessed portion 164a and the second recessed portion 164b, or a gap may be defined between the foam gaskets 30 and 34 at the recessed portions 164a, 164b. The foam gaskets 30, 34 may be continuous around the perimeter 162 of the cabinet 12. The surface 32 of the trim partition assembly 22 may be along the perimeter 162 of the trim partition assembly 22, such that the foam gaskets 30, 34 are coupled to the entire perimeter 162 of the cabinet 12. The foam pads 30 , 34 may also be continuous around the perimeter of the trim partition assembly 22 by being placed in various gaps 144 or recessed areas 164 a , 164 b present on the trim partition assembly 22 .

[0053] Still refer to Figure 6 , and now also refer to 7A to 10C , the trim partition assembly 22 can include multiple cross-sectional profiles at different locations, including a first cross-sectional profile 180 along a portion 38 of the perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14 and a second cross-sectional profile 182 along a portion 42 of the perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16. The cross member 140 can be a first cross-sectional profile 180, a second cross-sectional profile 182, and / or another third cross-sectional profile. The first cross-sectional profile 180 includes an outer surface 44a, a side surface 46a, and an inner surface 48b, and the second cross-sectional profile 182 includes an outer surface 44b, a side surface 46b, and an inner surface 48b.

[0054] Reference 7A to 7C and 9A to 9C , the first cross-sectional profile 180 of the decorative partition assembly 22 includes an outer wall 190, which includes a side surface 46a. The enclosure channel wall 192 is coupled or connected to the outer wall 190. The enclosure channel wall 192 extends away from the outer wall 190 and then extends parallel to the outer wall 190 to define the enclosure channel 138a therebetween. The outer wall 190 also includes an outer surface 44a defined on a distal end 194 of the outer wall 190 extending away from the enclosure channel 138a. The side surface 46 is generally adjacent to and perpendicular to the outer surface 44a.

[0055] The inner wall 196 is coupled or connected to the enclosure channel wall 192 and extends to the liner channel wall 198 defining the liner channel 138b. The enclosure channel 138a may be offset from the liner channel 138b. The inner wall 196 includes a cavity surface facing the insulation cavity 80 and an inner surface 48a directed toward the interior of the compartment 14 opposite to the insulation cavity 80. The inner surface 48a is not limited to the inner wall 196 and may also extend along the enclosure channel wall 192 opposite to the enclosure channel 138a or the liner channel wall 198 opposite to the liner channel 138b.

[0056] The RC foam gasket 30 is coupled to at least one of the outer surface 44a, the outer surface 46b, and the inner surface 48a (ie, at least one surface 32) of the first cross-sectional profile 182 of the trim partition assembly 22. Fig. 7A and Fig.9A As shown, the RC foam pad 30a can be coupled to the side surface 46a of the decorative partition component 22. Figure 7B and Fig. 9B As shown, the RC foam pad 30b can be coupled to the outer surface 44a of the decorative partition assembly 22. Figure 7C and Fig. 9C As shown, the RC foam gasket 30c can be coupled to the inner surface 48a. In some variations, the decorative partition assembly 22 can include two RC foam gaskets 30 coupled to the corresponding surface 32. For example, the first RC foam gasket 30a can be coupled to the side surface 46a, and the third RC foam gasket 30c can be coupled to the inner surface 48a. The decorative partition assembly 22 can also include a first RC foam gasket 30a, a second RC foam gasket 30b, and a third RC foam gasket 30c coupled to the corresponding surface 32.

[0057] Reference FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , the second cross-sectional profile 182 includes an outer wall 200 that defines a side surface 46b. The enclosure channel wall 192 is coupled or connected to the outer wall 200. The enclosure channel wall 202 extends away from the outer wall 200 and then extends parallel to the outer wall 200 to define the enclosure channel 138a therebetween. The outer wall 200 also includes an outer surface 44b defined on a distal end 204 of the outer wall 200 that extends away from the enclosure channel 138a. The side surface 46b is generally adjacent to and perpendicular to the outer surface 44b.

[0058] The inner wall 206 is coupled to the enclosure channel wall 202 and extends and connects to the liner channel wall 208 defining the liner channel 138b. The enclosure channel 138a may be offset from the liner channel 138b. The inner wall 206, the outer wall 200, and the enclosure channel wall 202 define a receiving recess 210 to couple to a freezer compartment (FC) decorative partition adapter 212. The inner wall 206 and the enclosure channel wall 202 may define an inner surface 48b within the receiving recess 210. The inner surface 48b is not limited to the surface defined by the inner wall 206 and the enclosure channel wall 202. The inner surface 48b may extend along the inner wall 206 within the receiving recess 210 or along the inner wall 206 opposite to the insulated cavity 80.

[0059] FC foam gasket 34 is coupled to and extends along at least one of outer surface 44b, side surface 46b, and inner surface 48b (i.e., at least one surface 32). Fig. 8A and Fig. 10A As shown, the FC foam pad 34a can be coupled to the side surface 46b of the trim partition assembly 22. Figure 8B and Fig. 10B As shown, the FC foam pad 34b can be coupled to the outer surface 44a of the trim partition assembly 22. Figure 8C and Fig. 10C As shown, FC foam pad 34c can be coupled to inner surface 48a. In some variations, the decorative partition assembly 22 can include two FC foam pads 34 coupled to the corresponding surface 32. For example, the first FC foam pad 34a can be coupled to the side surface 46a, and the third FC foam pad 34c can be coupled to the inner surface 48a. The decorative partition assembly 22 can also include a first FC foam pad 34a, a second FC foam pad 34b, and a third FC foam pad 34c coupled to the corresponding surface 32.

[0060] Refer again Figures 6 to 10C, the side surface 46 can extend between the first cross-sectional profile 180 and the second cross-sectional profile 182, thereby allowing the foam gaskets 30, 34 to be coupled and extend between them. The first end 36 and the second end 40 of the cross member 140 can be flush with the outer walls 190 and 200, thereby forming a continuous side surface 46 extending along the perimeter 162 of the cabinet 12. In some implementations, the side surface 46 can extend along the recessed portions 164a and 164b on the first end 36 and the second end 40 of the cross member 140. The foam gaskets 30 and 34 can be coupled to the side surface through the recessed portions 164a and 164b. However, the side surface 46 is not limited to extending along the first end 36 and the second end 40 of the cross member 140, and can extend along the first cross-sectional profile 180 and / or the second cross-sectional profile 182 of the decorative partition assembly 22, with a gap at the vertical frame area 28.

[0061] The outer surface 44 can extend through the mullion area 28 of the trim partition assembly 22 between the first cross-sectional profile 180 and the second cross-sectional profile 182. The cross member 140 can include a raised portion extending between the distal ends 194 and 204 of the outer walls 190 and 200. The outer surface 44 can extend across the raised portion, thereby allowing the foam pads 30 and 34 to extend between the first cross-sectional profile 180 and the second cross-sectional profile 182. In other implementations, the distal ends 194 and 204 of the outer walls 190 and 200 can be flush or substantially flush with the cross member 140, thereby allowing the outer surface 44 to extend across the mullion area 28.

[0062] The inner surfaces 48a and 48b can extend around the perimeters 24 and 26 of the compartments 14 and 16. The inner surfaces 48a and 48b can create a continuous surface along the first cross-sectional profile 180 and the second cross-sectional profile 182. The inner surfaces 48a and 48b can extend through the mullion area 28 of the decorative partition assembly 22 between the first cross-sectional profile 180 and the second cross-sectional profile 182. For example, the cross member 140 can define a groove or a raised portion to connect the inner surfaces 48a and 48b. In some implementations, the inner surfaces 48a and 48b can be flush or substantially flush with the cross member 140, thereby allowing the inner surface 48 to extend across the mullion area 28.

[0063] In some implementations, the first cross-sectional profile 180 and the second cross-sectional profile 182 may be the same profile around each compartment 14, 16. The first cross-sectional profile 180 and the second cross-sectional profile 182 are not limited to the described configurations and may be configured to include at least one surface 32 to allow at least one of the foam pads 30 and 34 to be coupled thereto.

[0064] Reference Figure 5 and 7A to 10C, the engaging member 50 is configured to be coupled to the decorative partition component assembly 22 and compress at least one of the RC foam gasket 30 and the FC foam gasket 34. The engaging member 50 can engage the decorative partition component assembly 22 and compress both the RC foam gasket 30 and the FC foam gasket 34. The compressed RC foam gasket 30 and the FC foam gasket 34 define a RC seal 52 and a FC seal 54 between the decorative partition component assembly 22 and the engaging member 50, respectively. In various aspects, the engaging member 50 can compress the RC foam gasket 30 along the entire portion 38 of the periphery 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14. The engaging member 50 can also compress the FC foam gasket 34 along the entire portion 42 of the periphery 26 of the freezer compartment 16. The engaging member 50 generally includes an engaging surface 228 to engage or compress the foam gaskets 30, 34.

[0065] The joining member 50 can compress a portion of the foam gasket 30, 34 to form a seal around the compartment 14, 16 or cabinet 12. The joining member 50 can compress a portion of the RC foam gasket 30 along the portion 38 of the periphery 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14. The joining member can also compress a portion of the FC foam gasket 34 along the portion 42 of the periphery 26 of the freezer compartment 16. For example, the FC foam gasket 34 coupled to the portion 42 of the periphery 26 of the freezer compartment 16 can be compressed along the first section 150a and the second section 150b. The FC foam gasket 34 disposed in the lower gap 144 can be compressed by the joining member 50 without being compressed or partially by the joining member 50. This configuration can facilitate the routing of the thermal circuit 146 through the lower gap 144, and the FC foam gasket 34 does not substantially touch the thermal circuit 146. In another example, the joining member 50 can include a gap or multiple gaps in the joining surface 228 or a recessed portion relative to the joining surface 228. The recessed portion or gap may not compress or partially compress the shims 30, 34. As discussed herein, the engagement surface 228 may also not compress or not fully compress the shims 30, 34 when the surface 32 includes a recessed portion.

[0066] Still refer to Figure 5 and 7A to 10C , the engagement member 50 may include or be configured as at least one of a FC trim partition adapter 212, a light assembly 230, a trim partition cover 232 (also referred to as a cover 232), and a refrigerated compartment (RC) trim partition adapter 234. Each engagement member is configured to couple to the trim partition assembly 22.

[0067] The trim partition cover 232 is generally configured to be coupled to the trim partition assembly 22 along the perimeter 162 of the cabinet 12. The trim partition cover 232 includes an outer wall 236 and a side wall 238 that generally form an L-shape. The outer wall 236 can extend near or above the outer surface 44, and when the cover 232 is coupled to the trim partition assembly 22, the side wall 238 can extend near or above the side surface 46 of the trim partition assembly 22. The trim partition cover 232 can also include a cross member portion 240 that corresponds to the cross member 140 and the mullion area 28 when coupled to the trim partition assembly 22.

[0068] The decorative partition covering 232 can extend along the perimeter 24 and the perimeter 26 of the refrigerated compartment 14 and the freezer compartment 16. The outer wall 236 and / or the side wall 238 can include an engagement surface 228 to compress the foam gaskets 30, 34 to define the seals 52, 54. The outer wall 236 and / or the side wall 238 can be configured to engage the foam gaskets 30, 34 to define the seals 52, 54 along the portions 38, 42 of the perimeters 24, 26. In some implementations, the covering 232 can be configured to engage one of the foam gasket 30 along the perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14 and the foam gasket 34 along the perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16.

[0069] When the cover 232 is separated or spaced apart from the trim partition assembly 22, the cover 232 is disposed on the side surface 46 (eg, Fig. 7A and Fig. 8A as shown) and / or the outer surface 44 (as shown Figure 7B and Figure 8B When the cover 232 is coupled to the decorative partition component assembly 22, the foam pads 30, 34 on the side surface 46 (as shown) are in an expanded or uncompressed state. Fig.9A and Fig. 10A ) and / or disposed on the outer surface 44 (as shown Fig. 9B and Fig. 10B The foam gaskets 30, 34 (shown) are in a compressed state and define seals 52, 54. The seals 52, 54 defined between the trim partition assembly 22 and the cover 232 reduce or prevent air from penetrating from the outside of the cabinet 12 to the compartments 14, 16 between the trim partition assembly 22 and the joining member 50.

[0070] Reference Figure 5 , Figure 7C and Fig. 9C, the lamp assembly 230 is generally configured to be coupled to the decorative partition assembly 22 along the perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14. The lamp assembly 230 is configured to selectively provide light to the refrigerated compartment 14. When the first insulated door 70a is opened, the lamp assembly 230 can provide light to the refrigerated compartment 14. The lamp assembly 230 may include a housing 250, a light source 252, and a lens portion 254. The housing 250 is configured to couple the lamp assembly 250 to the decorative partition assembly 22. The light source 252 is configured to provide light to the refrigerated compartment 14 and may be a light emitting diode (LED) or other light source. The lens portion 254 is configured to disperse the light generated by the light source 252 throughout the refrigerated compartment 14. The lamp assembly 230 generally includes an engagement surface 228 on the housing 250 to compress the foam gasket 30c.

[0071] The light assembly 230 can be coupled to the trim partition assembly 22 along a portion 38 of the perimeter 24. The light assembly 230 can also be coupled to the trim partition assembly 22 along the entire perimeter 24 of the refrigerated compartment 14. When the light assembly 230 is separated or spaced apart from the trim partition assembly 22, as shown in FIG. Figure 7C As shown, the foam gasket 30c is in an expanded or uncompressed state. When the light assembly 230 is coupled to the decorative partition assembly 22, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9C As shown, the foam gasket 30c is in a compressed state, defining a seal 52 between the trim partition assembly 22 and the light assembly 230. The light assembly 230 is generally configured to be coupled to the first cross-sectional profile 180 of the trim partition assembly 22, but is not limited to this configuration. Without departing from the teachings herein, the light assembly 230 or an additional lighting assembly 230 can be configured to be coupled to the second cross-sectional profile 182 to illuminate the freezer compartment 16.

[0072] In some implementations, the foam gasket 30c disposed on the inner surface 48 can be configured to be compressed by the RC trim partition piece adapter 234. The RC trim partition piece adapter 234 can be configured to couple the thermal circuit 146, the light assembly 230, or other components to the first cross-sectional profile 180 of the trim partition piece assembly 22. When the RC trim partition piece adapter 234 is coupled to the trim partition piece assembly 22, the RC trim partition piece adapter 234 can compress the foam gasket 30c to define the seal 52 between the trim partition piece assembly 22 and the RC trim partition piece adapter 234. The RC trim partition piece adapter 234 can be configured similarly to the FC trim partition piece adapter 212, as further discussed herein.

[0073] Reference Figure 5 , Figure 8C and Fig. 10C, the FC trim partition piece adapter 212 is generally configured to engage and couple with the trim partition piece assembly 22. The FC trim partition piece adapter 212 can be configured to couple the thermal circuit 146 of the other component to the second cross-sectional profile 182 of the trim partition piece assembly 22. The FC trim partition piece adapter 212 can be coupled to the trim partition piece assembly 22 by engaging the receiving recess 210 of the trim partition piece assembly 22. The FC trim partition piece adapter 212 can extend along a portion 42 of the perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16. The FC trim partition piece adapter 212 can also extend along the entire perimeter 26 of the freezer compartment 16. When the FC trim partition piece adapter 212 is separated or spaced apart from the trim partition piece assembly 22, as shown in FIG. Figure 8C As shown, the foam pad 34c disposed on the inner surface 48 is in an expanded or uncompressed state. When the trim partition adapter 212 is coupled to the trim partition assembly 22, as shown in FIG. Fig. 10C As shown, the foam gasket 34 c disposed on the inner surface 48 is in a compressed state, defining a seal 54 between the FC trim partition adapter 212 and the trim partition assembly 22 .

[0074] Reference FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C , the foam gasket 30, 34 is applied to one or more surfaces 32 of the trim partition assembly 22 using a foam nozzle 270 that is configured to adjust around the perimeter 24, 26 of the compartment 14, 16 and / or the perimeter 162 of the cabinet 12. The foam nozzle 270 can be coupled to a linear robot or other machine that is configured to move the foam nozzle 270 along a defined path 272. The foam nozzle 270 can be arranged around the defined path 272 to apply the foam gasket 30, 34 to the surface 32 of the trim partition assembly 22 along the perimeter 24, 26 of the compartment 14, 16 or a portion 38, 42 of the perimeter 24, 26. The foam gasket 30, 34 is applied directly to the surface 32 from the foam nozzle 270.

[0075] The foam gaskets 30, 34 can be applied in a continuous or discontinuous manner. For example, the foam gasket 30 can be applied along a portion 38 of the perimeter 24 without breaks in the foam gaskets 30, 34. A continuous foam gasket 30 can help prevent the intrusion of air between the decorative partition assembly 22 and the joining member 50. In another example, the foam gasket 34 can be applied along a portion 42 of the perimeter 26 with a gap corresponding to the lower gap 144 of the decorative partition assembly 22. A discontinuous foam gasket 34 can help prevent the intrusion of air between the decorative partition assembly 22 and the joining member 50 while also maximizing the efficiency of the manufacturing process. Continuous and discontinuous laying of the foam gaskets 30, 34 can be used when laying the foam gaskets 30, 34 on the decorative partition assembly 22.

[0076] The foam gaskets 30, 34 are usually distributed in an uncured state and undergo a curing process to produce a cured state. In the uncured state, the foam gaskets 30, 34 can be liquid, fluid or semi-solid, wherein the foam gaskets 30, 34 can be guided to a specific position by the foam nozzle 270. In the uncured state, the foam gaskets 30, 34 have not yet undergone a curing process or have partially undergone a curing process. When the foam gaskets 30, 34 are distributed by the foam nozzle 270, the foam gaskets 30, 34 can undergo a curing process, resulting in the surface of the foam gaskets 30, 34 being cured, thereby preventing the foam gaskets 30, 34 from flowing down the surface 32 of the decorative partition assembly 22. In some implementations, the foam gaskets 30, 34 can have a high surface tension to reduce or prevent the flow of the foam gaskets 30, 34 in the uncured state. In the cured state, the foam gaskets 30, 34 are usually set to be solid or semi-solid, and the curing process has been substantially completed (that is, the chemical reaction has been completed or reached equilibrium).

[0077] Once introduced into the atmosphere or subjected to an activated curing process (e.g., using light (i.e., ultraviolet light) or introducing a catalyst), the foam gasket 30, 34 can undergo a curing process. In some implementations, the foam gasket 30, 34 can be a two-part mixture, wherein the curing process begins when the first component and the second component are mixed, causing a chemical reaction to begin. The foam gasket 30, 34 can expand during the curing process to provide an open-cell structure, a closed-cell structure, or a mixed-cell structure (i.e., a mixture of an open-cell structure and a closed-cell structure) in a cured state. The foam gasket 30, 34 can form a structure by producing a gas as a byproduct of the chemical reaction. When the chemical reaction does not produce a gas or does not produce enough gas as a byproduct, a gas can also be introduced while dispensing the foam gasket 30, 34 to produce a desired structure. The gas introduced or formed as a byproduct can cause the foam gasket 30, 34 to foam to form an open-cell structure, a closed-cell structure, or a mixed-cell structure. The foam gasket 30, 34 may include two components, a polyol (which may be a polyurethane polyol) and an isocyanate. The foam gaskets 30, 34 may be polyurethane foams which in an uncured state include polyurethane polyol and isocyanate.

[0078] During the curing process, the foam pads 30, 34 may adhere to the trim partition component assembly 22. The foam pads 30, 34 may chemically react with the trim partition component assembly 22 to create a chemical bond, and / or mechanically couple to the trim partition component assembly 22. The foam pads 30, 34 typically cure to a soft foam state, allowing the foam pads 30, 34 to be compressed while also providing an outward biasing force to maintain engagement with the compression engagement member 50.

[0079] like Fig. 11BAs shown, once the foam pads 30, 34 have been dispensed and are in a cured state, the foam pads 30, 34 are uncompressed and coupled to the surface 32 of the trim partition assembly 22. The foam pads 30, 34 may be compressed by the engagement member 50 (e.g., Fig. 11C 52, 54. When compressed, the foam gaskets 30, 34 close any open cell structures and prevent or reduce air penetration therethrough. In some implementations, the joining member 50 can be coupled to the decorative partition assembly 22 when the foam gaskets 30, 34 are in an uncured state. The foam gaskets 30, 34 can be cured and mechanically or chemically adhered to the joining member 50.

[0080] Reference Fig.12 , and further refer to Figures 1 to 11C , a flow chart of a method 300 for manufacturing a vacuum insulation structure including at least one of an RC foam gasket 30 and an FC foam gasket 34 is shown. The method includes a step 304 of providing a cabinet 12 including an insulation cavity 80 and having at least one of a refrigerated compartment 14 and a freezer compartment 16. The cabinet 12 includes a decorative partition assembly 22 extending along a perimeter 24, 26 of at least one compartment 14, 16. At step 308, a vacuum 90 is at least partially drawn in the insulation cavity 80. The partial vacuum 90 can be a predetermined pressure.

[0081] In step 312, at least one of the foam gaskets 30 and 34 is applied to the decorative partition assembly 22. Step 312 may also include applying two foam gaskets 30 and 34 to the decorative partition assembly 22. The foam gaskets 30, 34 may be applied to the portions 38, 42 of the perimeter 24, 26 of the compartments 14, 16, respectively. The at least one foam gasket 30, 34 may also include one or more of the plurality of RC foam gaskets 30a-30c and / or one or more of the plurality of FC foam gaskets 34a-34c. In step 316, the joining member 50 is coupled to the decorative partition assembly 22 to compress the foam gaskets 30, 34 to define seals 52, 54. The seals 52, 54 reduce air infiltration between the joining member 50 and the decorative partition assembly 22. The steps of the method 300 may be performed in any order, simultaneously, in parallel, repeated, omitted, etc. without departing from the teachings herein.

[0082] The use of the present device can provide various advantages. For example, the foam gaskets 30, 34 help to reduce or prevent air infiltration between the joint member 50 and the decorative partition assembly 22. The foam gaskets 30, 34 form seals 52, 54 when compressed by the joint member 50. The seals 52, 54 can reduce air infiltration from the outside of the cabinet to the compartments 14, 16. The seals 52, 54 fill any gaps that may exist between the decorative partition assembly 22 and the joint member 50. Reduced air infiltration can help reduce the heat transferred from the local environment outside the device 10 and inside the device 10, and can help maximize energy efficiency. In addition, the foam gaskets 30, 34 laid by the foam nozzle 270 can also allow the seals 52, 54 to be continuous or have minimized joints or gaps along the parts 38, 42 of the periphery 24, 26, thereby minimizing air infiltration. The foam nozzle 270 can also improve the efficiency of the manufacturing process of the device 10 by forming the foam gaskets 30, 34 directly on the decorative partition assembly 22. Additional benefits or advantages may be realized and / or obtained.

[0083] The devices disclosed herein are further summarized in the following paragraphs and may also be characterized by any and all combinations of the various aspects described herein.

[0084] According to one aspect of the present invention, a vacuum insulated refrigerator includes a cabinet defining a refrigerated compartment. The cabinet includes an inner liner, a shell, and a decorative partition assembly coupled to the inner liner and the shell. The decorative partition assembly extends along the periphery of the refrigerated compartment. The decorative partition assembly includes a vertical frame area. At least one foam gasket is coupled to at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly. The at least one foam gasket is arranged from a first end of the vertical frame area along a portion of the periphery of the refrigerated compartment to a second end of the vertical frame area. The at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly is at least one of an outer surface, a side surface, and an inner surface. At least one joining member is configured to be coupled to the decorative partition assembly and to define a seal by compressing the at least one foam gasket between the at least one joining member and the decorative partition assembly.

[0085] According to another aspect, at least one engaging member is at least one of: a covering extending around the periphery of the cabinet, the covering comprising an outer wall and a side wall, wherein the outer wall extends on an outer surface of the decorative partition member assembly and the side wall extends on a side surface of the decorative partition member assembly; and a light assembly coupled to the decorative partition member assembly along at least a portion of the periphery of the refrigerated compartment and selectively illuminates the refrigerated compartment.

[0086] According to yet another aspect, at least one foam pad extends along an outer surface of the trim partition assembly. At least one engagement member includes a cover, wherein an outer wall of the cover compresses the at least one foam pad to define a seal.

[0087] According to yet another aspect, at least one foam pad extends along a side surface of the trim partition assembly. At least one engagement member includes a cover, wherein a sidewall of the cover compresses the at least one foam pad to define a seal.

[0088] According to yet another aspect, at least one foam gasket extends along the inner surface. At least one engagement member includes a lamp assembly, wherein the lamp assembly compresses the at least one foam gasket to define a seal.

[0089] According to yet another aspect, the cabinet further defines a freezer compartment, and the decorative partition assembly extends along a perimeter of the freezer compartment. At least one foam gasket includes a refrigerator compartment foam gasket coupled to at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly. The refrigerator compartment foam gasket is disposed from a first end of the mullion area along a portion of the perimeter of the refrigerator compartment to a second end of the mullion area. The freezer compartment foam gasket is coupled to the at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly. The freezer compartment foam gasket is disposed from the first end of the mullion area along a portion of the perimeter of the freezer compartment to the second end of the mullion area.

[0090] According to another aspect, at least one engaging member is at least one of the following members: a cover extending along the periphery of the cabinet and including an outer wall and a side wall, wherein the outer wall extends on the outer surface of the decorative partition member assembly and the side wall extends on the side surface of the decorative partition member assembly; a light assembly coupled to the decorative partition member assembly along at least a portion of the periphery of the refrigerated compartment and configured to selectively illuminate the refrigerated compartment; and a decorative partition member adapter coupled to the decorative partition member assembly along at least a portion of the periphery of the freezer compartment.

[0091] According to yet another aspect, each of the refrigerator compartment foam gasket and the freezer compartment foam gasket extends along a side surface of the trim partition assembly. At least one engagement member includes a cover, wherein a sidewall of the cover compresses the refrigerator compartment foam gasket and the freezer compartment foam gasket to define a seal.

[0092] According to yet another aspect, at least one foam pad is a polyurethane foam.

[0093] According to another aspect of the present invention, a vacuum insulation device includes a structural enclosure defining a freezer compartment. A decorative partition assembly is coupled to the structural enclosure. An insulation cavity is defined between the structural enclosure and the decorative partition assembly. The decorative partition assembly defines a perimeter of the freezer compartment and includes a vertical frame area. At least one foam gasket is coupled to at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly. The at least one foam gasket is arranged from a first end of the vertical frame area along a portion of the perimeter of the freezer compartment to a second end of the vertical frame area. The at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly includes at least one of an outer surface, a side surface, and an inner surface. At least one joining member is coupled to the decorative partition assembly, and a seal is defined by compressing the at least one foam gasket between the at least one joining member and the decorative partition assembly to reduce air infiltration into the freezer compartment.

[0094] According to another aspect, at least one engaging member is at least one of the following members: a cover extending along the periphery of the cabinet and including an outer wall and a side wall, wherein the outer wall extends on the outer surface of the decorative partition assembly and the side wall extends on the side surface of the decorative partition assembly; and a decorative partition adapter coupled to the decorative partition assembly along at least a portion of the periphery of the freezer compartment.

[0095] According to yet another aspect, at least one foam pad extends along an outer surface of the trim partition assembly. At least one engagement member includes a cover, wherein an outer wall of the cover compresses the at least one foam pad to define a seal.

[0096] According to yet another aspect, at least one foam pad extends along a side surface of the trim partition assembly. At least one engagement member includes a cover, wherein a sidewall of the cover compresses the at least one foam pad to define a seal.

[0097] According to yet another aspect, at least one foam pad extends along an inner surface of the trim partition assembly. At least one engagement member includes a trim partition adapter, wherein the trim partition adapter compresses the at least one foam pad to define a seal.

[0098] According to yet another aspect, at least one foam gasket includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section extends from a first end of a vertical frame area along a portion of a perimeter of a freezer compartment to a gap defined by a decorative partition assembly, and the second section extends from the gap along a portion of the perimeter of the freezer compartment to a second end of the vertical frame area.

[0099] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a vacuum insulation structure includes: providing a cabinet defining an insulation cavity and forming at least one compartment, the cabinet including a decorative partition member assembly extending along the periphery of the at least one compartment; at least partially evacuating the insulation cavity; applying at least one foam gasket to at least one surface of the decorative partition member assembly along at least a portion of the periphery of the at least one compartment; and coupling at least one joining member to the decorative partition member assembly to compress the at least one foam gasket therebetween and define a seal, thereby reducing air penetration between the at least one joining member and the decorative partition member assembly into the at least one compartment.

[0100] According to yet another aspect, a method includes applying at least one foam gasket to at least one surface of a decorative partition assembly, comprising applying a first foam gasket of the at least one foam gasket to an outer surface of the at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly along a portion of a perimeter of at least one compartment, and applying a second foam gasket of the at least one foam gasket to an inner surface of the at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly along the portion of the perimeter of the at least one compartment.

[0101] According to yet another aspect, at least one engaging member includes a cover and a light assembly, and a method includes coupling the at least one engaging member to a trim partition assembly to compress at least one foam gasket, including coupling the cover to the trim partition assembly to compress a first foam gasket between the cover and an exterior surface, and coupling the light assembly to the trim partition assembly to compress a second foam gasket between the light assembly and an interior surface.

[0102] According to yet another aspect, a method includes applying at least one foam gasket to at least one surface of a decorative partition assembly, comprising applying a first foam gasket of the at least one foam gasket to at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly along a portion of a perimeter of a first compartment of at least one compartment, and applying a second foam gasket of the at least one foam gasket to the at least one surface of the decorative partition assembly along a portion of a perimeter of a second compartment of the at least one compartment.

[0103] According to yet another aspect, at least one engagement member includes a cover, and a method includes coupling the at least one engagement member to a trim partition assembly to compress at least one foam gasket therebetween, including coupling the cover to the trim partition assembly to compress a first foam gasket and a second foam gasket between the trim partition assembly and the cover.

[0104] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the described disclosure and other components of construction are not limited to any particular material. Unless otherwise described herein, other exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a variety of materials.

[0105] For purposes of the present invention, the term "coupled" (and all its forms) generally refers to the connection of two components (electrically or mechanically) directly or indirectly to one another. Such connection may be fixed or removable in nature. Such connection may be achieved through the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members between or integrally formed as a single unitary body with the two components. Unless otherwise specified, such connection may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable.

[0106] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the present invention shown in the exemplary embodiments are only illustrative. Although only a few embodiments of the present invention are described in detail in the present disclosure, those skilled in the art who read the present disclosure will readily understand that many modifications (e.g., changes in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportion of various elements, the value of parameters, the installation arrangement, the use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) can be made without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the narrated subject matter. For example, the elements represented as being integrally formed can be composed of multiple parts or the elements represented as multiple parts can be integrally formed, 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 made of any of a variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, with any of a variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Therefore, all of these modifications should 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 arrangements of the desired and other exemplary embodiments.

[0107] 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 invention. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as limiting.

Claims

1. A vacuum insulation refrigerator, comprising: A cabinet defining a refrigerated compartment, the cabinet comprising: Lining; cladding; and a trim partition assembly coupled to the liner and the enclosure, wherein the trim partition assembly extends along a perimeter of the refrigerated compartment, and wherein the trim partition assembly includes a mullion region; at least one foam gasket coupled to at least one surface of the decorative partition piece assembly, wherein the at least one foam gasket is disposed along a portion of the perimeter of the refrigerated compartment from a first end of the mullion area to a second end of the mullion area, wherein the at least one surface of the decorative partition piece assembly is at least one of: External surface; side surfaces; and Internal surface; and At least one engagement member is configured to be coupled to the trim partition assembly and to define a seal by compressing the at least one foam gasket between the at least one engagement member and the trim partition assembly.

2. The vacuum insulated refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the at least one engaging member is at least one of the following members: a covering extending along a perimeter of the cabinet and comprising an outer wall and a side wall, wherein the outer wall extends over the outer surface of the decorative partition assembly and the side wall extends over the side surface of the decorative partition assembly; and A light assembly is coupled to the trim partition assembly along at least a portion of a perimeter of the refrigerated compartment and selectively illuminates the refrigerated compartment.

3. The vacuum insulated refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the at least one foam gasket extends along the outer surface, and wherein the at least one engaging member includes the cover, and further wherein the outer wall of the cover compresses the at least one foam gasket to define the seal.

4. The vacuum insulated refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the at least one foam gasket extends along the side surface, and wherein the at least one engaging member includes the cover, and further wherein the side wall of the cover compresses the at least one foam gasket to define the seal.

5. The vacuum insulated refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the at least one foam gasket extends along the inner surface, and wherein the at least one engaging member includes the light assembly, and further wherein the light assembly compresses the at least one foam gasket to define the seal.

6. The vacuum insulated refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the cabinet further defines a freezer compartment and the decorative partition assembly extends along a perimeter of the freezer compartment, and wherein the at least one foam gasket comprises: a refrigerated compartment foam gasket coupled to the at least one surface of the trim partition assembly, wherein the refrigerated compartment foam gasket is disposed along the portion of the perimeter of the refrigerated compartment from the first end of the mullion area to the second end of the mullion area; as well as A freezer compartment foam gasket is coupled to the at least one surface of the trim partition assembly, wherein the freezer compartment foam gasket is disposed along a portion of a perimeter of the freezer compartment from the first end of the mullion area to the second end of the mullion area.

7. The vacuum insulated refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein the at least one engaging member is at least one of the following members: a covering extending along a perimeter of the cabinet and comprising an outer wall and a side wall, wherein the outer wall extends over the outer surface of the decorative partition assembly and the side wall extends over the side surface of the decorative partition assembly; a light assembly coupled to the trim partition assembly along at least the portion of the perimeter of the refrigerated compartment, the light assembly being configured to selectively illuminate the refrigerated compartment; as well as A trim partition adapter is coupled to the trim partition assembly along at least the portion of the perimeter of the freezer compartment.

8. The vacuum insulated refrigerator of claim 7, wherein each of the refrigerated compartment foam gasket and the freezer compartment foam gasket extends along the side surface of the decorative partition assembly, and wherein the at least one joining member includes the cover, and further wherein the side wall of the cover compresses the refrigerated compartment foam gasket and the freezer compartment foam gasket to define the seal.

9. The vacuum insulated refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one foam pad is a polyurethane foam.

10. A vacuum insulation device comprising: a structural enclosure defining a freezer compartment; a trim partition assembly coupled to the structural enclosure, defining an insulated cavity between the structural enclosure and the trim partition assembly, wherein the trim partition assembly defines a perimeter of the freezer compartment and includes a mullion region; at least one foam gasket coupled to at least one surface of the decorative partition piece assembly, wherein the at least one foam gasket is arranged along a portion of a perimeter of the freezer compartment from a first end of the mullion area to a second end of the mullion area, and wherein the at least one surface of the decorative partition piece assembly comprises at least one of: External surface; lateral surface; as well as Inner surface; as well as At least one engagement member is coupled to the trim partition assembly to define a seal by compressing the at least one foam gasket between the at least one engagement member and the trim partition assembly to reduce air infiltration into the freezer compartment.

11. The vacuum insulation apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the at least one joining member is at least one of the following members: a covering extending along a perimeter of the structural enclosure and comprising an outer wall and a side wall, wherein the outer wall extends over the outer surface of the trim partition assembly and the side wall extends over the side surface of the trim partition assembly; and A trim partition adapter is coupled to the trim partition assembly along at least the portion of the perimeter of the freezer compartment.

12. The vacuum insulation device of claim 11, wherein the at least one foam gasket extends along the outer surface of the decorative partition assembly, and wherein the at least one joining member includes the cover, and further wherein the outer wall of the cover compresses the at least one foam gasket to define the seal.

13. The vacuum insulation apparatus of claim 11, wherein the at least one foam gasket extends along the side surface of the decorative partition assembly, and wherein the at least one joining member includes the cover, and further wherein the side wall of the cover compresses the at least one foam gasket to define the seal.

14. The vacuum insulation device of claim 11, wherein the at least one foam gasket extends along the inner surface of the decorative partition assembly, and wherein the at least one engaging member includes the decorative partition adapter, and further wherein the decorative partition adapter compresses the at least one foam gasket to define the seal.

15. A vacuum insulation device according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the at least one foam gasket includes a first section and a second section, the first section extending along the portion of the periphery of the freezer compartment from the first end of the vertical frame area to the gap defined by the decorative partition assembly, and the second section extending along the portion of the periphery of the freezer compartment from the gap to the second end of the vertical frame area.

16. A method for manufacturing a vacuum insulation structure, comprising: Providing a cabinet defining an insulated cavity and forming at least one compartment, the cabinet including a decorative partition assembly extending along a perimeter of the at least one compartment; at least partially evacuating the thermally insulated cavity; applying at least one foam pad to at least one surface of the trim partition assembly along at least a portion of a perimeter of the at least one compartment; as well as At least one engagement member is coupled to the trim partition assembly to compress the at least one foam gasket therebetween and define a seal to reduce air infiltration from between the at least one engagement member and the trim partition assembly into the at least one compartment.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the step of applying the at least one foam pad to the at least one surface of the trim partition assembly comprises: applying a first foam pad of the at least one foam pad to an exterior surface of the at least one surface of the trim partition assembly along the portion of the perimeter of the at least one compartment; as well as A second foam pad of the at least one foam pad is applied to an inner surface of the at least one surface of the trim partition assembly along the portion of the perimeter of the at least one compartment.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the at least one engagement member comprises a cover and a light assembly, and wherein the step of coupling the at least one engagement member to the trim partition assembly to compress the at least one foam spacer therebetween comprises: coupling the cover to the trim partition assembly to compress the first foam pad between the cover and the exterior surface; as well as The light assembly is coupled to the trim partition assembly to compress the second foam spacer between the light assembly and the interior surface.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the step of applying the at least one foam pad to the at least one surface of the trim partition assembly comprises: applying a first foam pad of the at least one foam pad to the at least one surface of the trim partition member assembly along a portion of a perimeter of a first foam pad of the at least one compartment; as well as A second foam pad of the at least one foam pad is applied to the at least one surface of the trim partition member assembly along a portion of a perimeter of a second compartment of the at least one compartment.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the at least one engagement member comprises a covering, and wherein the step of coupling the at least one engagement member to the trim partition assembly to compress the at least one foam spacer therebetween comprises: The cover is coupled to the trim partition assembly to compress the first foam pad and the second foam pad between the trim partition assembly and the cover.

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