Stepped cover of decorative partition device

Abstract

A door for an apparatus is disclosed. The door may include an outer panel having a generally planar body portion and an inner panel having a generally planar body portion. A trim partition interconnects the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween. At least one bracket assembly may be coupled to an outer surface of the inner panel, embedded from the trim breaker, the bracket assembly may include a plurality of receiving apertures. The door may also include a trim cover having at least one elongated slot disposed therethrough and vertically positioned along the trim cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a door for an appliance, and more particularly, to a door with a decorative cover for a refrigeration appliance. Background Art

[0002] Conventional refrigerators typically include an outer shell sealed with an inner lining by a decorative divider. The space between the outer shell and the inner lining may be filled with an insulating material to insulate the interior of the device. In addition, the refrigerator door typically includes a support system for supporting the shelf assembly thereon. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a door for a refrigeration appliance includes an outer panel having a substantially planar body portion and an inner panel having a substantially planar body portion. A decorative divider interconnects the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween. At least one bracket assembly is coupled to an outer surface of the inner panel, is embedded from the decorative divider and includes a plurality of receiving apertures. A decorative cover includes at least one elongated slot disposed through the decorative cover and vertically positioned along the decorative cover. The decorative cover is disposed over a portion of the at least one bracket assembly and the decorative divider at an interface between the decorative divider and the inner panel, such that at least one elongated slot of the decorative cover is aligned with at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a door assembly includes an outer panel having a generally planar body portion and an inner panel having a generally planar body portion. A decorative divider interconnects the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween. A pair of bracket assemblies are coupled to the inner panel, embedded from the decorative divider and including a plurality of receiving apertures. A decorative cover defines a pair of elongated slots passing through the decorative cover. The decorative cover is positioned to conceal a pair of bracket assemblies and a portion of the decorative divider at an interface between the decorative divider and the inner panel, wherein each elongated slot is at least partially aligned with at least one receiving aperture of the plurality of receiving apertures. A storage assembly is removably coupled to the pair of bracket assemblies through the pair of elongated slots.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigeration device includes a cabinet defining a compartment and a door providing selective access to the compartment. The door includes an outer panel having a substantially planar body portion and an inner panel having a substantially planar body portion. A decorative partition interconnects the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween. A first bracket assembly is coupled to the inner panel, embedded from the decorative partition and includes a plurality of first receiving holes. A second bracket assembly is coupled to the inner panel, embedded from the decorative partition and includes a plurality of second receiving holes. A decorative cover includes a first side wall, a second side wall parallel to the first side wall, and a panel connecting the first side wall and the second side wall. The panel defines a first slot and a second slot passing through the panel. The decorative cover is disposed above the first bracket assembly and the second bracket assembly and a portion of the decorative partition at an interface between the decorative partition and the inner panel, so that each of the first slot and the second slot is at least partially aligned with at least one of the plurality of first receiving holes and the plurality of second receiving holes, respectively.

[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 the apparatus with the door in an open position and a plurality of shelves supported on a support system;

[0009] Figure 2 is removed from the device Figure 1 a top perspective view of a door of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf assembly is coupled to the door;

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded top view of the door;

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 The front elevation of the door;

[0012] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A sectional view of the door taken at line VV;

[0013] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A rear elevation view of a decorative cover of a door;

[0014] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A front perspective view of a corner piece of a decorative cover;

[0015] Figure 8 yes Figure 2A partial cross-sectional view of the door taken at line VIII-VIII;

[0016] Fig. 9 yes Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of the door taken at line IX-IX;

[0017] Fig.10 is a front elevation view of another exemplary door removed from the apparatus; and

[0018] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A partial cross-sectional view of the door taken at line XI-XI.

[0019] The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The presently illustrated embodiments reside primarily in the combination of method steps and apparatus components associated with a door panel configured to support a storage assembly. Accordingly, apparatus components and method steps are represented by conventional symbols in the drawings, where appropriate, and only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure are shown so as not to obscure the present disclosure with details that would be readily apparent to one 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.

[0021] For the purpose of this description, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives shall be used in the same manner as described herein. Figure 1 The disclosure herein is related to the disclosure of orientation. 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 away from the intended observer. However, it should be understood that the disclosure may take various alternative orientations unless expressly stated 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.

[0022] 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 such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element followed by "comprises..." does not, without more limitations, preclude the presence of more of the same element in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0023] Reference Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 8 , reference numeral 10 generally designates a door of a refrigeration device 2. The door 10 may include an outer panel 14 having a generally planar body portion 18 and an inner panel 22 having a generally planar body portion 26. A decorative divider 30 may interconnect the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 to form an insulated cavity 34 therebetween. The door 10 also includes at least one bracket assembly 40 coupled to an outer surface 44 of the inner panel 22, the bracket assembly 40 being insertable from the decorative divider 30. The at least one bracket assembly 40 includes a plurality of receiving apertures 48. The door 10 also includes a decorative cover 50 including at least one elongated slot 54 disposed therethrough and vertically positioned along the decorative cover 50. The decorative cover 50 may be disposed over a portion of the at least one bracket assembly 40 and the decorative divider 30 located at an interface 60 between the decorative divider 30 and the inner panel 22 such that the at least one elongated slot 54 of the decorative cover 50 is aligned with at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures 48.

[0024] In some implementations, door 10 is a vacuum insulated door, but door 10 is not limited to this configuration. In addition, although device 2 is shown as a refrigerator device, it is contemplated that door 10 disclosed herein can be used with various devices, structures, or for insulation purposes other than those associated with refrigerator devices. Specifically, device 2 shown is a bottom-mounted refrigerator having door 10 and a second door 5. Second door 5 may include the same or different configuration as door 10.

[0025] Now go to Figure 1 , the device 2 includes a cabinet 3 defining a first compartment 4 and a second compartment 6. The door 10 is envisioned to be rotatably coupled to the cabinet 3 for selectively providing access to the first compartment 4, which may be a refrigerator compartment. As shown, the second insulated door 5 is configured to be slidably coupled to the cabinet 3 in a drawer-like manner for selectively providing access to the second compartment 6, which may be a freezer compartment. The cabinet 3 of the device 2 is an insulated structure having a cabinet shell 7 having a first liner 8A and a second liner 8B positioned therein to define an insulated space 9 therebetween. In a non-limiting example, the device 2 may be a bottom-mounted refrigerator, a bottom-mounted French door refrigerator, a top-mounted refrigerator, a side-by-side refrigerator, a four-door French door refrigerator, and / or a five-door French door refrigerator, each of which may have one or more insulated doors 10.

[0026] As mentioned above, the door 10 may be in the form of a vacuum insulation structure. Figures 1 to 5As shown, the insulated door 10 includes an outer panel 14, which is coupled to an inner panel 22 to define an insulating cavity 34 therebetween. The outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 may alternatively be referred to as a structural enclosure defining the insulating cavity 34. The insulating cavity 34 of the door 10 and the insulating space 9 of the cabinet 3 generally include one or more insulating materials disposed therein. The insulating material may substantially fill the insulating cavity 34 of the door 10, thereby forming a substantially continuous layer between the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 of the door 10. Similarly, the insulating material may substantially fill the insulating space 9 of the cabinet 3, thereby forming a substantially continuous layer between the cabinet enclosure 7 and the first liner 8A and the second liner 8B.

[0027] As described above, the device 2 includes two insulated doors 10, 5. In this way, the first compartment 4 and the second compartment 6 defined by the cabinet 3 can be sealed with the insulated door 10 and the insulated door 5, respectively. The outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 of the door 10, 5 can be made of a material that at least partially resists bending, deformation, or otherwise responds to the inward compressive force and forms. These materials for the outer panel 12 and the inner panel 22 include, but are not limited to, metals, polymers, metal alloys, combinations thereof, and / or other similar substantially rigid materials that can be used for the insulation structure, which can be in the form of a vacuum insulation structure.

[0028] In the embodiment of the door 10 of the present disclosure in the form of a vacuum insulation structure, the vacuum 70 ( Figure 5 ) is defined within the insulated cavity 34 of the door 10. The vacuum 70 defines a pressure differential between the exterior 74 or external environment of the insulated door 10 and the insulated cavity 34 disposed within the door 10. The vacuum 70 is typically defined by evacuating the insulated door 10 at an evacuation port, which is then sealed after the evacuation procedure.

[0029] Refer again Figure 1 , the door 10 is shown having a support system 80 for supporting storage assemblies, such as shelf assemblies 84. Each shelf assembly 84 is configured to be coupled to the support system 80 at a plurality of vertical positions along the support system 80, as further described below.

[0030] Now refer to Figure 2 , the support system 80 of the door 10 is shown as having a single rack assembly 84 coupled thereto. Figure 2 As shown, the door 10 includes an outer side 10A and an inner side 10B. The support system 80 includes at least one bracket assembly 40 that can be coupled to the outer surface 44 of the inner panel 22. Figure 2As further shown, the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 are interconnected by a decorative partition 30 to form an insulating cavity 34 therebetween. The decorative partition 30 is envisioned to be a polymer member formed of a suitable material, the suitable material including a low thermal conductivity to reduce or prevent heat transfer between the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22. For use with the present concept, the decorative partition 30 can be formed using a polymer material in an injection molding process. Other materials suitable for forming the decorative partition 30 may include, but are not limited to, polyurea, polyisocyanurate, polyester, polyphenol, polyepoxide, thermoplastic elastomer, polycarbonate, and nylon materials. It is also envisioned that the decorative partition 30 can be overmolded to the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 at its peripheral edges. In the overmolded configuration, after the decorative partition 30 is cast on the peripheral edges of the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22, the door 10 can be an integral component. Furthermore, it is contemplated that portions of the inner panel 22 and the outer panel 14 may be coupled to coupling features of the trim divider 30 and retained therein using an adhesive, as further described below.

[0031] Now refer to Figure 3 , shows an exploded view of the door 10, wherein the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 are exploded apart from the decorative partition 30 interconnecting the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22. Figure 3 As shown, the outer panel 14 of the door 10 includes a generally planar body portion 18 having an inner surface 90 and an outer surface 94. The outer panel 14 may include an access hole 98 disposed therethrough that may be used to fill the door 10 with insulating material and may also be used as an evacuation port to draw a vacuum on the door 10 as described herein. The outer surface 94 of the body portion 18 of the outer panel 14 defines the outer side 10A ( Figure 2 ).like Figure 3 As further shown, the outer panel 12 includes a side wall 102 that extends outwardly from the generally planar main body portion 18 of the outer panel 14 along a perimeter 106 of the outer panel 14. The side wall 102 of the outer panel 14 includes a front edge 110, as described below with reference to Figure 8 In further description, the front edge 110 is configured to be received in an outer channel 114 of the trim divider 30 to connect the outer panel 14 to the trim divider 30 .

[0032] like Figure 3 As further shown, similar to the outer panel 14, the inner panel 22 includes a generally planar body portion 26 having an inner surface 120 and the aforementioned outer surface 44. The outer surface 44 of the body portion 26 of the inner panel 22 defines the inner side 10B ( Figure 2 ). The inner panel 14 also includes a side wall 128 that extends outwardly from the generally planar main body portion 26 of the inner panel 22 along a perimeter 132 of the inner panel 14. The side wall 128 of the inner panel 22 includes a front edge 136, as described below with reference to Figure 8 As further described, the front edge 136 is configured to be received in the inner channel 138 of the trim divider 30 to connect the inner panel 22 to the trim divider 30. The side wall 102 of the outer panel 14 and the side wall 128 of the inner panel 22 are contemplated to be disposed around the entire perimeter 106 of the body portion 18 of the outer panel 14 and the entire perimeter 132 of the body portion 26 of the inner panel 22, respectively.

[0033] like Figure 3 As further shown, the decorative divider 30 is shown having a divider frame assembly 140 surrounding an open window 144. The divider frame assembly 140 of the decorative divider 30 is defined by first and second upright members 148, 152 that are spaced apart from one another and interconnected by upper and lower cross members 156, 160. The first and second upright members 148, 152 and the upper and lower cross members 156, 160 are interconnected such that the decorative divider 30 is contemplated as a unitary member.

[0034] Still refer to Figure 3 , the decorative cover 50 is shown having a decorative frame assembly 170 surrounding an open window 174. The decorative frame assembly 170 of the decorative cover 50 is defined by a first vertical segment 178 and a second vertical segment 182, which are spaced apart from each other and interconnected by a first horizontal segment 186 and a second horizontal segment 190, such that the decorative cover 50 is contemplated as a unitary member. The decorative cover 50 includes at least one elongated slot 54 disposed therethrough and vertically positioned along the decorative cover 50. In other words, the elongated slot 54 may be configured to extend at least a portion of the entire length of the first vertical segment 178 and the second vertical segment 182 in the vertical direction. More preferably, the length of the elongated slot 54 is greater than 50% of the length of the first vertical segment 178 and the second vertical segment 182.

[0035] like Figure 3As further shown, the shelf assembly 84 and the first and second upright bracket assemblies 40, 42 are shown exploded away from the inner panel 22. The first and second bracket assemblies 40, 42 are contemplated as metal components constructed of a metal material, such as steel, but are not limited to such materials. The first and second bracket assemblies 40, 42 extend at least a portion of the entire length of the first and second vertical sections 178, 182 of the trim cover 50 in the vertical direction. When assembled, the first and second bracket assemblies 40, 42 are configured to couple to or abut the outer surface 44 of the inner panel 22 such that at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures 48 is at least partially aligned with one of the elongated slots 54 of the trim cover 50. The shelf assembly 84 includes a plurality of engagement members configured to engage the first and second bracket assemblies 40, 42 at a plurality of vertical locations along the first and second bracket assemblies 40, 42 to support the shelf assembly 84. In some aspects, the engagement members are in the form of hook members 196 that are configured to be inserted into the receiving apertures 48 to selectively supportively retain or suspend the rack assembly 84 from the first and second bracket assemblies 40 , 42 in a removable state.

[0036] In some implementations, the door 10 can include a plurality of shims 198 disposed between the first and second bracket assemblies 40, 42 and the trim cover 50. Each shim 198 can include an opening 200 aligned with a series of aligned receiving holes 48 on the first and second bracket assemblies 40, 42. The size of the opening 200 can correspond to the size of the receiving holes 48. As shown, the shims 198 include a planar surface 202 that can be adapted to receive adhesive thereon. In addition, the shims 198 can be sized to create a predetermined gap between the first and second bracket assemblies 40, 42 and the trim cover 50.

[0037] Now refer to Figure 4 , showing the assembled state from the inner side 10B of the door 10 Figure 3 The door 10. Figure 4 As shown, the plurality of receiving holes 48 of the first bracket assembly 40 and the second bracket assembly 42 are aligned with and accessible through the elongated slots 54 of the trim cover 50. Thus, the shelf assembly 84 can be mounted to the door 10 at various heights. Figure 4 As shown, the first and second bracket assemblies 40 and 42 and a portion of the trim partition 30 are hidden or covered by a trim cover 50 to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0038] Now go to Figure 5, the trim divider 30 is shown as having an inner channel 138 and an outer channel 114 spaced apart from each other. The inner channel 138 and the outer channel 114 are both forwardly open channels configured to receive the front edge 110 of the side wall 102 of the outer panel 14 and the front edge 136 of the side wall 128 of the inner panel 22, respectively. Figure 8 The interconnection of the inner panel 22 with the inner channel 138 of the decorative divider 30 and the interconnection of the outer panel 14 with the outer channel 114 of the decorative divider are best shown in FIG. The inner channel 138 and the outer channel 114 are contemplated to be continuously disposed along the first and second upright members 148, 152 and the upper and lower cross members 156, 160 around the entire divider frame assembly 140 of the decorative divider 30. In this way, the interconnection between the decorative divider 30 and the inner panel 22 and the outer panel 14 is complete around the entire divider frame assembly 140 of the decorative divider 30 to provide a sealed insulated cavity 34 therebetween. As shown in FIG. Figure 5 As further shown, the outer channel 114 surrounds the inner channel 138, so that the outer channel 114 is disposed outside around the inner channel 138. Specifically, the outer channel 114 is disposed adjacent to the periphery of the decorative divider 30, while the inner channel 138 is embedded from the periphery of the decorative divider 30. In addition, the outer channel 114 is disposed at a front position relative to the inner channel 138. In other words, the inner channel 138 is embedded from the outer channel 114 relative to the outer side 10A of the door 10.

[0039] In the case where the inner panel 22 and the outer panel 14 are coupled to the decorative partition 30, as shown in FIG. Figure 5As shown, a sealed insulation cavity 34 is formed. The insulation cavity 34 is configured to receive insulation material, which in some implementations can be described as a vacuum core material. The vacuum core material can include a plurality of separate core panels that are preformed and positioned between the outer panel 14, the inner panel 22, and the decorative partition 30. Alternatively, the vacuum core material can include silica powder or other suitable loose fillers or free-flowing materials, which are added (e.g., poured, blown, compacted) into the insulation cavity 34 after the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 are interconnected by the decorative partition 30. This free-flowing material can be in the form of various silica-based materials (e.g., fumed silica, precipitated silica), nano-sized and / or micron-sized aerogel powders, rice husk ash powders, perlite, glass balls, hollow glass balls, coal cells, diatomaceous earth, combinations thereof, and other similar insulating granular materials. The core material can be added to the insulation cavity 34 through the entry holes 98 of the outer panel 14 leading to the insulation cavity 34. The decorative divider 30 is contemplated to engage the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22 in a sealed manner so as to form an airtight cavity within the insulating cavity 34. In this manner, given the sealed connection between the decorative divider 30, the outer panel 14, and the inner panel 22, the door 10 is capable of drawing and maintaining a vacuum 70 within the insulating cavity 34. In addition, the vacuum 70 is partially maintained within the insulating cavity 34 of the door 10 by the metal sheet material of the inner panel 14 and the outer panel 12 and the air-impermeable polymer material of the decorative divider 30. The vacuum 70 may have a pressure level of less than 1 atm, about 0.5 atm, about 0.4 atm, about 0.3 atm, about 0.2 atm, about 0.1 atm, about 0.01 atm, or less than about 0.001 atm.

[0040] Figure 6 The rear side 208 of the trim cover 50 is shown. Likewise, it is contemplated that the trim cover 50 is in the form of a unitary component. In some implementations, the first and second vertical segments 178, 182 and the first and second horizontal segments 186, 190 are formed as a single piece (e.g., via injection molding). Alternatively, the first and second vertical segments 178, 182 and the first and second horizontal segments 186, 190 may each be formed as separate components (e.g., extruded parts with machined openings) and assembled to form a unitary component. As shown in FIG. Figure 6As shown, the first vertical section 178 and the second vertical section 182 and the first horizontal section 186 and the second horizontal section 190 are interconnected using a corner piece 220. The illustrative corner piece 220 is disposed in each corner of the trim cover 50 and is configured to secure the trim cover 50 in an integrated state (e.g., as a unitary member). It is contemplated that during assembly, the corner piece 220 is attached to one of the first vertical section 178 and the second vertical section 182, and then one of the first horizontal section 186 and the second horizontal section 190 is aligned with the corner piece, and this continues until the trim cover 50 is in an integrated state.

[0041] Go to Figure 7 , one of the corner pieces 220 is shown in more detail. As shown, the corner piece 220 includes a body portion 224 having an outer corner seal 228 and an inner corner mounting structure 232. The outer corner seal 228 can be angled (e.g., diagonally) to abut between the distal edges of the first vertical segment 178 and the second vertical segment 182 and the first horizontal segment 186 and the second horizontal segment 190 at the rear side 208 of the trim cover 50 to form a fluid-tight alignment. The corner mounting structure 232 may include a bore 236 that is configured to receive a fastener (e.g., a screw) to couple the corner piece 220 to one of the first vertical segment 178 and the second vertical segment 182 and / or the first horizontal segment 186 and the second horizontal segment 190. The corner mounting structure 232 may include an inner corner seal 244 configured to abut between the inner edges of the first and second vertical segments 178, 182 and the first and second horizontal segments 186, 190, respectively, at the rear side 208 of the trim cover 50 to form a fluid-tight alignment. As shown, the inner corner seal 244 is diagonally angled and defines a recess 248. The recess 248 defined by the inner corner seal 244 may be sized to receive the inner edges of the first and second horizontal segments 186, 190. Although shown as including a single corner mounting structure 232, the corner piece may include two corner mounting structures 232 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the corner piece 220 may include a tab 240 to facilitate alignment with the first and second vertical segments 178, 182 and the first and second horizontal segments 186, 190. The trim cover 50 and its corner pieces 220 may be made of any suitable material including, but not limited to, metals, polymers, metal alloys, combinations thereof, and / or other similar substantially rigid materials.

[0042] Now refer to Figure 8, the door 10 is shown in a cross-sectional view at one side of the first vertical section 178 of the door 10 having the decorative cover 50, the cross-sectional view showing the interconnection between the decorative divider 30 and the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22. The first bracket assembly 40 is shown coupled to the outer surface 44 of the main body portion 26 of the inner panel 22. As shown, the receiving apertures 48 of the first bracket assembly 40 are aligned with the elongated slots 54 of the decorative cover 50 and are accessible via the elongated slots 54 of the decorative cover 50. In other words, the first bracket assembly 40 is aligned with the elongated slots 54 of the first vertical section 178 so that the receiving apertures 48 are accessible via the decorative cover 50. In an implementation that includes the decorative cover 198, the opening 200 is aligned with the series of aligned receiving apertures 48 on the first bracket assembly 40 so that the hook member 196 ( Figure 3 ) is received through the elongated slot 54 of the trim cover 50 and further through the aligned opening 200 and receiving eyelet 48 of the first bracket assembly 40.

[0043] In addition, if Figure 8 As shown, the decorative cover 50 is disposed above at least one of the bracket assemblies 40 and the portion of the decorative divider 30 at the interface 60 between the decorative divider 30 and the inner panel 22, which can prevent the user from viewing the decorative divider 30 from the inner side 10B when the door 10 is in an assembled state. In some aspects, the interface 60 defines an inner channel 138, and the inner channel 138 can be disposed within the interior 254 of the decorative cover 50. In some aspects, the decorative cover 50 includes a first side wall 258 opposite to the second side wall 262, and the first side wall 258 and the second side wall 262 are connected by a panel 266. The panel 266 is generally planar and defines an elongated slot 54 passing through the panel 266. Therefore, the inner side 270 of the panel 266 can be coupled (e.g., adhered via a suitable adhesive or fastener) to the gasket 198 (when present). Alternatively, the panel 266 can be slightly spaced apart from or in direct contact with the first bracket assembly 40 and the second bracket assembly 42. The first side wall 258 may be adjacent to a portion of the trim divider 30 at the interface 60. Optionally, a gasket 272 (in Figure 4 The first side wall 258 (shown in phantom) can be disposed adjacent to the trim cover 50 over a portion of the trim divider 30 that forms the outer channel 114. In some implementations, the first side wall 258 includes a curved edge 276 that is configured to contact a planar intermediate section 278 of the trim divider 30. The second side wall 262 can be adjacent to or abut at least one bracket assembly 40.

[0044] Now refer to Fig. 9 , the door 10 is shown in cross-section at its upper end, the cross-section showing the interconnection between the decorative partition 30 and the outer panel 14 and the inner panel 22. Fig. 9, a geometric profile 280 of the first horizontal section 186 of the decorative cover 50 is shown, which can be the same as the geometric profile of the second horizontal section 190. In some implementations, the first horizontal section 186 and the second horizontal section 190 are shaped to accommodate the absence of the bracket assembly while maintaining a consistent size and appearance with the first vertical section 178 and the second vertical section 182 of the decorative cover 50. In some aspects, the geometric profile 280 includes at least one of an extension bar 284 and a bracket 288. As shown, the extension bar 284 protrudes toward the interface 60, and in some cases protrudes onto the interface 60. The bracket 288 can include any suitable frame structure to provide support for the decorative cover 50 in an otherwise blank portion of the decorative cover 50. In this way, the decorative cover 50 at the first vertical section 178 and the second vertical section 182 can include a gap for the decorative divider 30. Optionally, the inner side 270 of the panels 266 of the first and second vertical sections 178, 182 may be coupled (e.g., adhered via suitable adhesives or fasteners) to the inner panel 22. For example, a double-sided adhesive may be used to facilitate retention of the trim cover 50 to the inner panel 22 at its upper and lower ends.

[0045] Now go to Fig.10 and Fig.11 , another exemplary embodiment of a door assembly 310 and a trim cover 350 is shown. The door assembly 310 and the trim cover 350 are substantially similar to the door 10 and the trim cover 50. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the same components will be identified by the same numerals increased by 300. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the description of the door 10 and the trim cover 50 is applicable to the door 310 and the trim cover 350. One difference between the trim cover 350 and the trim cover 50 is that in the trim cover 350, the first side wall 558 and the second side wall 562 are configured to snap into place on at least one bracket assembly 340 and the trim partition 330. Specifically, the first side wall 558 and the second side wall 562 of the trim cover 350 include a protrusion 352 extending from the distal edge thereof. The protrusion 352 may be in the form of a curved edge that is configured to cooperate with a corresponding recess 356 defined on at least one bracket assembly 340 and the trim partition 330. Although each of the at least one bracket assembly 340 and the trim partition 330 is shown as having a recess 356 on a side thereof, it is also within the scope of the present disclosure that only one of the at least one bracket assembly 340 and the trim partition 330 includes the recess 356 and a corresponding one of the first side wall 558 and the second side wall 562 of the trim cover 350 includes the protrusion 352.

[0046] According to various examples, the insulated door 10 may be used in a variety of appliances, which may include, but are not limited to, refrigerators, freezers, coolers, ovens, dishwashers, laundry appliances, and other similar appliances and fixtures within domestic and commercial settings.

[0047] 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.

[0048] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a door for a refrigeration appliance includes an outer panel having a substantially planar body portion and an inner panel having a substantially planar body portion. A decorative divider interconnects the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween. At least one bracket assembly is coupled to an outer surface of the inner panel, is recessed from the decorative divider and includes a plurality of receiving apertures. A decorative cover includes at least one elongated slot disposed through the decorative cover and vertically positioned along the decorative cover. The decorative cover is disposed over the at least one bracket assembly and a portion of the decorative divider at an interface between the decorative divider and the inner panel such that the at least one elongated slot of the decorative cover is aligned with at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures.

[0049] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the trim partition further includes an inner channel and an outer channel spaced apart from each other around the trim partition, further wherein a front edge of the inner panel is received in the inner channel of the trim partition, and a front edge of the outer panel is received in the outer channel of the trim partition.

[0050] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a portion of a trim partition defines an inner passage and is disposed within an interior of a trim cover.

[0051] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the trim cover includes a first side wall opposite to a second side wall, and the first side wall and the second side wall are connected by a panel.

[0052] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the first side wall is adjacent to the trim divider and the vertical portion of the second side wall is adjacent to the at least one bracket assembly.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first side wall includes a curved edge, further wherein the curved edge is configured to contact a planar middle section of the trim partition.

[0054] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the trim cover defines a first vertical section opposite the second vertical section and a first horizontal section opposite the second horizontal section, further wherein the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section interconnect the first vertical section and the second vertical section.

[0055] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section include at least one of an extension bar and a bracket.

[0056] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, the corner piece is configured to fix the trim cover in an integrated state.

[0057] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one elongated slot of the trim cover is aligned with more than one of the plurality of receiving apertures.

[0058] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a door assembly includes an outer panel having a generally planar body portion and an inner panel having a generally planar body portion. A decorative divider interconnects the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween. A pair of bracket assemblies are coupled to the inner panel, embedded from the decorative divider and including a plurality of receiving apertures. A decorative cover defines a pair of elongated slots passing through the decorative cover. The decorative cover is positioned to conceal a pair of bracket assemblies and a portion of the decorative divider at an interface between the decorative divider and the inner panel, wherein each of the pair of elongated slots is at least partially aligned with at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures. A storage assembly is removably coupled to the pair of bracket assemblies through the pair of elongated slots.

[0059] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the trim cover includes a first side wall opposite to a second side wall, and the first side wall and the second side wall are connected by a panel.

[0060] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the first side wall is adjacent to the trim partition, and the vertical portion of the second side wall is adjacent to one of the pair of bracket assemblies.

[0061] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the decorative cover defines a first vertical segment opposite to the second vertical segment and a first horizontal segment opposite to the second horizontal segment, the first horizontal segment and the second horizontal segment interconnecting the first vertical segment and the second vertical segment, further wherein the first horizontal segment and the second horizontal segment include a first cross-sectional profile, and the first vertical segment and the second vertical segment include a second cross-sectional profile, the second cross-sectional profile defining a larger gap than the first cross-sectional profile.

[0062] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigeration device includes a cabinet defining a compartment and a door providing selective access to the compartment. The door includes an outer panel having a substantially planar body portion and an inner panel having a substantially planar body portion. A decorative partition interconnects the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween. A first bracket assembly is coupled to the inner panel, embedded from the decorative partition and includes a plurality of first receiving holes. A second bracket assembly is coupled to the inner panel, embedded from the decorative partition and includes a plurality of second receiving holes. A decorative cover includes a first side wall, a second side wall parallel to the first side wall, and a panel connecting the first side wall and the second side wall. The panel defines a first slot and a second slot passing through the panel. The decorative cover is disposed above the first bracket assembly and the second bracket assembly and a portion of the decorative partition at an interface between the decorative partition and the inner panel, so that each of the first slot and the second slot is at least partially aligned with at least one of the plurality of first receiving holes and the plurality of second receiving holes, respectively.

[0063] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the storage assembly is removably coupled to the first bracket assembly and the second bracket assembly through the first slot and the second slot.

[0064] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the storage assembly includes at least one hook member extending rearwardly therefrom, and further, wherein the at least one hook member is at least partially received in a receiving eyelet of the first receiving eyelet and the second receiving eyelet.

[0065] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first side wall is adjacent to the trim divider and the second side wall is adjacent to one of the first bracket assembly and the second bracket assembly.

[0066] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the trim cover defines first and second vertical segments and first and second horizontal segments, the first and second horizontal segments interconnecting the first and second vertical segments, further wherein the first and second vertical segments include a larger gap than the first and second horizontal segments.

[0067] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a portion of the trim partition defining the inner passage is disposed within an interior of the trim cover.

[0068] Those 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 specified herein, other exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a variety of materials.

[0069] 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 may be removable or releasable in nature.

[0070] 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 made 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 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 arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments.

[0071] It should be understood that any process described or any step in the 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 door for refrigeration equipment, comprising: an outer panel having a generally planar main body portion; an inner panel having a generally planar body portion; a decorative partition interconnecting the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween; at least one bracket assembly coupled to the outer surface of the inner panel, inset from the trim divider and including a plurality of receiving apertures; as well as and a trim cover including at least one elongated slot disposed therethrough and vertically positioned along the trim cover, wherein the trim cover is disposed over a portion of the at least one bracket assembly and the trim divider at an interface between the trim divider and the inner panel such that the at least one elongated slot of the trim cover is aligned with at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures.

2. The door of claim 1 , wherein the decorative partition further comprises an inner channel and an outer channel spaced apart from each other around the decorative partition, and further wherein a front edge of the inner panel is received in the inner channel of the decorative partition and a front edge of the outer panel is received in the outer channel of the decorative partition. 3 . The door according to claim 2 , wherein a portion of the trim partition defining the inner passage is disposed within an interior of the trim cover. 4 . The door of claim 1 , wherein the trim cover includes a first side wall opposite to a second side wall, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall are connected by a panel.

5. The door of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first side wall is adjacent to the decorative divider and a vertical portion of the second side wall is adjacent to the at least one bracket assembly.

6. The door of claim 4, wherein the first sidewall includes a curved edge, and wherein the curved edge is configured to contact a planar middle section of the trim divider.

7. The door of claim 6, wherein the trim cover defines a first vertical section opposite a second vertical section and a first horizontal section opposite a second horizontal section, and wherein the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section interconnect the first vertical section and the second vertical section.

8. The door of claim 7, wherein the first and second horizontal sections include at least one of an extension bar and a bracket.

9. The door according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a corner piece is configured to fix the trim cover in an integral state.

10. The door of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one elongated slot of the trim cover is aligned with more than one of the plurality of receiving apertures.

11. A door assembly comprising: an outer panel having a generally planar main body portion; an inner panel having a generally planar body portion; a decorative partition interconnecting the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween; a pair of bracket assemblies coupled to the inner panel, inset from the trim divider and including a plurality of receiving apertures; a trim cover defining a pair of elongated slots therethrough, the trim cover being positioned to conceal the pair of bracket assemblies and a portion of the trim divider at an interface between the trim divider and the inner panel, wherein each of the pair of elongated slots is at least partially aligned with at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures; as well as A storage assembly is removably coupled to the pair of bracket assemblies via the pair of elongated slots. 12 . The door assembly of claim 11 , wherein the trim cover includes a first side wall opposite to a second side wall, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall are connected by a panel.

13. The door assembly of claim 12, wherein the first side wall is adjacent to the trim divider and a vertical portion of the second side wall is adjacent to one of the pair of bracket assemblies.

14. The door assembly of any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the trim cover defines a first vertical segment opposite to the second vertical segment and a first horizontal segment opposite to the second horizontal segment, the first horizontal segment and the second horizontal segment interconnecting the first vertical segment and the second vertical segment, and further, wherein the first horizontal segment and the second horizontal segment include a first cross-sectional profile, and the first vertical segment and the second vertical segment include a second cross-sectional profile, the second cross-sectional profile defining a gap larger than the first cross-sectional profile.

15. A refrigeration device comprising: A cabinet defining compartments; as well as a door providing selective access to the compartment, the door comprising: an outer panel having a generally planar main body portion; an inner panel having a generally planar body portion; a decorative partition interconnecting the outer panel and the inner panel to form an insulating cavity therebetween; a first bracket assembly coupled to the inner panel, inset from the trim divider and including a first plurality of receiving apertures; a second bracket assembly coupled to the inner panel, inset from the trim divider and including a second plurality of receiving apertures; and The decorative cover comprises: a first side wall; a second side wall parallel to the first side wall; and a panel connecting the first side wall and the second side wall, the panel defining a first slot and a second slot therethrough; wherein the trim cover is disposed over the first and second bracket assemblies and a portion of the trim divider at an interface between the trim divider and the inner panel such that each of the first and second slots is at least partially aligned with at least one of the plurality of first and second receiving apertures, respectively.

16. The refrigeration device according to claim 15, further comprising: A storage assembly is removably coupled to the first bracket assembly and the second bracket assembly through the first slot and the second slot.

17. The refrigeration appliance of claim 16, wherein the storage assembly includes at least one hook member extending rearwardly therefrom, and further wherein the at least one hook member is at least partially received in a receiving eyelet of the first receiving eyelet and the second receiving eyelet.

18. The refrigeration appliance of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the first side wall is adjacent to a visible portion of the decorative divider and the second side wall is adjacent to one of the first bracket assembly and the second bracket assembly.

19. The refrigeration appliance of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the trim cover defines first and second vertical sections and first and second horizontal sections, the first and second horizontal sections interconnecting the first and second vertical sections.

20. The refrigeration appliance according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein a portion of the trim partition defining the inner passage is disposed within an interior of the trim cover.

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