Front opening cabinet with air curtain control

Abstract

A front opening cabinet having a first food display area for temporary display of heated food items, the first food display area comprising: a first fan associated with a first temperature control element and a first passageway; and a second fan associated with a second temperature control element and a second passageway; the first fan configured to direct a first airflow having a first temperature through the first passageway into the first food display area to create a first air curtain in the first food display area, the second fan configured to direct a second airflow having a second temperature through the second passageway into the first food display area to create a second air curtain in the first food display area, the first air curtain being opposingly disposed to the second air curtain to create a convective mixing zone in the first food display area at an intersection of the first air curtain and the second air curtain; and the front opening cabinet further comprising a controller configured to control the first air curtain and / or the second air curtain by adjusting one or more of a speed of the first fan, a speed of the second fan, a temperature of the first temperature control element, a temperature of the second temperature control element, to thereby vary a temperature and / or a location of the convective mixing zone in the first food display area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a front-opening display case for displaying heated food items and a method for operating such a front-opening display case. Background Technology

[0002] Front-opening food display cases are frequently used in the food retail industry as a convenient way for consumers to directly access food under controlled, typically non-room-temperature conditions. Food within these cases must be maintained at specific temperatures depending on the type of food item; hot items are usually kept at temperatures above 65°C. The food items are kept at the required temperature and are not cooked by the front-opening display case itself. Therefore, this type of case retains the heat from the food items to maintain a constant temperature.

[0003] Food display cases are cabinets placed in consumer-facing environments and designed to allow non-expert end consumers to access the items inside. Therefore, food display cases will have various features, such as lighting and safe touch temperatures, to allow non-expert end consumers to safely access the food items stored in the cabinet.

[0004] These food cabinets typically include an air curtain provided by a fan, which usually directs airflow from the top to the bottom of the cabinet. The air curtain in these cabinets is affected by environmental conditions such as airflow volume, wind speed, air temperature, and air quality, which can prevent food items from being maintained at the desired temperature. Some cabinets may have functional limitations, and some models may be inefficient.

[0005] Refrigeration units can utilize multiple air curtains. These units typically include a working air curtain to maintain the lowered temperature within the unit and a defensive air curtain to protect the working air curtain from external influences. However, the working and defensive air curtains do not work together. Instead, the defensive air curtain is a sacrificial air curtain used to protect the working air curtain. In refrigeration units, cold, dense air is used, which sinks to the bottom of the unit. Due to the higher density of cold air, the air velocity within the air curtain is reduced. Therefore, refrigeration units rely on gravity to cause the airflow to flow downwards due to the mass of the cold air. Consequently, considerations for hot food display cases and refrigerated units differ significantly.

[0006] Therefore, the ability to improve and control front-opening food display cases is desirable.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to alleviate some of the shortcomings of the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To address some problems in the prior art, an open-fronted cabinet is provided, having a first food display area for temporarily displaying heated food items. This first food display area includes: a first fan associated with a first temperature control element and a first channel, wherein the first fan is configured to direct a first airflow through the first channel into the first food display area to create a first air curtain within the first food display area; the open-fronted cabinet also includes a controller configured to: receive input from a first source indicating an event that will affect the formation of the first air curtain; and, based on the received input, adjust the speed of the first fan and / or the temperature of the first temperature control element to control the formation of the first air curtain.

[0009] By providing a controller that communicates with the primary source, the cabinet can maintain and modify the provided air curtain according to the cabinet's environment. For example, if the source identifies a ventilation airflow originating from the environment in which the cabinet is located and causing a deterioration in the unit's internal conditions, the controller can adjust the fan and / or temperature control elements accordingly. This dynamic change in the air curtain ensures that the food displayed in the cabinet is kept at a suitable temperature and that the integrity of the air curtain is maintained.

[0010] Optionally, the front-opening cabinet also includes one or more additional sources. This allows the cabinet to identify various conditions, such as ambient temperature, disruptive airflow, and the presence of products on the shelves. Furthermore, including multiple sources allows for detection of conditions from different locations, such as from inside and outside the cabinet.

[0011] Optionally, the source is a sensor configured to measure the environment in which the front-opening cabinet is located. Optionally, the sensor can be selected from: a laser sensor, an environmental sensor, a temperature sensor, a mass sensor, a barometer, and a humidity sensor. This allows for consideration of different factors, such as using a mass sensor to detect whether a product is placed on a shelf, or using a temperature sensor to detect whether room temperature causes the air curtain to operate at an unsuitable temperature.

[0012] Optionally, the sensor is configured to measure changes in airflow around the cabinet and / or the first food display area.

[0013] Optionally, the sensor is configured to determine the presence of an object within the first food display area.

[0014] Optionally, the source is a timer that defines the time and / or temperature of the first air curtain.

[0015] Optionally, the front-opening display case also includes one or more additional food display areas. Optionally, each additional food display area has a fan and a temperature control element, and the controller is configured to individually adjust the speed of the fan and / or the temperature of the temperature control element in each food display area, thereby separately controlling the formation of the first air curtain in each food display area. Setting up multiple food display areas in a single display case allows for the display of more products. Because each food display area includes a fan and a temperature control element, the fans and temperature control elements can operate independently, allowing each food display area to operate under different conditions (e.g., different temperatures) for different food products.

[0016] Optionally, the food display area further includes a second fan having a second temperature control element and a second channel; wherein the controller is configured to adjust the speed of the second fan and / or the temperature of the second temperature control element.

[0017] Another aspect of the invention provides a front-opening cabinet having a first food display area for temporarily displaying heated food items, the first food display area comprising: a first fan associated with a first temperature control element and a first channel; and a second fan associated with a second temperature control element and a second channel; wherein the first fan is configured to guide a first airflow having a first temperature through the first channel to the first food display area to generate a first air curtain in the first food display area, and wherein the second fan is configured to guide a second airflow having a second temperature through the second channel to the first food display area to generate a second air curtain in the first food display area, wherein the first air curtain and the second air curtain are arranged opposite each other to generate a convection mixing zone at the intersection of the first air curtain and the second air curtain in the first food display area; and the front-opening cabinet further comprises a controller configured to control the first air curtain and / or the second air curtain by adjusting one or more of the following: the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element, thereby changing the temperature and / or position of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area.

[0018] By setting up two opposing air curtains, a convective mixing zone is formed across the front of the cabinet. Turbulent airflow accelerates thermal mixing and convection, resulting in a more uniform temperature throughout the interior space. Control of the fans and temperature control elements means that the generation of the convective air curtains can be controlled and maintained. The air curtains can not only be controlled to provide a more uniform temperature distribution, but also allow for adjustments based on usage and environmental conditions. Furthermore, controlling the air curtains helps avoid "dead spots" within the interior space, which could otherwise lead to underheating or overheating. Therefore, opposing air curtains work together synergistically to provide these benefits.

[0019] Because the display case provides a first air curtain controllable by a first fan and a temperature control element, and a second air curtain controllable by a second fan and a temperature control element, the first and second air curtains can be controlled separately to regulate the air curtain passing through the front of the display case and the convection mixing zone. For example, the position of the convection mixing zone can be controlled to move continuously off-center or throughout the entire air curtain. This is advantageous because the convection mixing zone is likely to be most susceptible to disturbance, which could lead to instability or even collapse of the entire curtain. Therefore, the ability to move the convection mixing zone away from disturbances ensures the integrity of the air curtain. Similarly, by controlling the temperature of the first and second airflows, the temperature of the air curtain and the convection mixing zone can be adjusted according to the food being displayed in the display case.

[0020] Optionally, the front-opening cabinet also includes one or more sensors associated with the first food display area, wherein the controller is configured to adjust one or more of the following in response to receiving data from the one or more sensors associated with the first food display area: the speed of a first fan, the speed of a second fan, the temperature of a first temperature control element, and the temperature of a second temperature control element.

[0021] The sensor configuration enables the controller to receive input data and adjust the first fan / second fan and / or the first temperature control element / second temperature control element based on the input data to control the air curtain and convection mixing zone. For example, the sensor can detect a temperature drop or the presence of ventilation airflow, and in response to detecting a temperature drop or ventilation airflow, the controller can instruct the temperature control element to operate at a higher temperature.

[0022] Optionally, at least one of the one or more sensors is located inside the front-opening cabinet. This allows for monitoring of the cabinet's internal conditions. For example, a mass sensor can determine whether a product is placed in a food display area.

[0023] Optionally, at least one of the one or more sensors is located on the outer surface of the front-opening cabinet. For example, sensors can be used to determine whether a consumer has interrupted the air curtain or whether an employee has interrupted the air curtain to restock.

[0024] Optionally, the controller is configured to communicate with one or more external sensors, which are configured to measure the environment in which the front-opening cabinet is located. For example, sensors could be placed on the door of the room where the cabinet is located to monitor the outside temperature and the airflow due to the open door.

[0025] Optionally, one or more sensors are selected from: laser sensors, environmental sensors, temperature sensors, mass sensors, barometers, and humidity sensors.

[0026] Optionally, the front-opening cabinet includes four air temperature sensors and one or two air quality sensors.

[0027] Optionally, the controller is configured to adjust one or more of the following according to one or more predefined settings: the speed of a first fan, the speed of a second fan, the temperature of a first temperature control element, and the temperature of a second temperature control element. The use of predefined settings enables the controller to automatically adjust its configuration as needed. For example, the controller may include predefined settings that instruct the temperature control element to rise over a certain period of time when different food products are placed in the display case during different sales periods (e.g., breakfast or lunch).

[0028] Optionally, the controller is configured to operate the first and second fans such that, during use, the location of the convection mixing zone moves from one side of the front-opening cabinet to the other side. This configuration allows the cabinet to better cope with changing environmental conditions.

[0029] Optionally, the front-opening cabinet also includes an alarm configured to alert the user if the cabinet exceeds one or more predetermined operating parameters. This alarm ensures that the operator maintains the food inside the cabinet at sufficient temperature and conditions to meet health and safety standards.

[0030] Optionally, the front-opening display case also includes a camera. Optionally, the camera is an infrared camera. This arrangement allows for easier viewing of the items inside the case without obstructing the consumer's view, and eliminates concerns that opaque components inside the case (such as fans or temperature control elements) might block the retailer's view.

[0031] Optionally, the controller includes different predefined settings for different heated foods. This configuration allows the food display area to be automatically controlled based on the food items contained within it.

[0032] Optionally, the controller includes an energy-saving configuration in which at least one of the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element is reduced compared to normal operating conditions. This configuration improves energy consumption.

[0033] Optionally, the controller includes a cooling configuration configured to reduce the temperature of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area.

[0034] Optionally, the controller includes an enhanced configuration in which at least one of the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element is increased compared to normal operating conditions.

[0035] Optionally, the controller includes a scheduler configured to control the temperature and / or location of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area according to a time-based scheduling scheme. This enables the convection mixing zone to automatically adjust according to the food items displayed in the cabinet.

[0036] Optionally, the first channel and / or the second channel includes an adjustable orifice, wherein the controller is further configured to adjust the volume and / or size of the adjustable orifice of the first channel and / or the second channel.

[0037] A method for operating a front-opening cabinet is also provided, the cabinet having a first food display area for temporary storage of heated food items, the first food display area including: a controller; a first fan associated with a first temperature control element and a first channel; and a second fan associated with a second temperature control element and a second channel; wherein the first fan is configured to guide a first airflow through the first channel to the first food display area to create a first air curtain in the first food display area, and wherein the second fan is configured to guide a second airflow through the second channel to the first food display area to create a first air curtain and a second air curtain in the first food display area, wherein the first air curtain and the second air curtain are arranged opposite each other to create a convection mixing zone at the intersection of the first air curtain and the second air curtain in the first food display area; the method includes the steps of: obtaining an indication of a desired temperature and position of the convection mixing zone; and controlling the first air curtain and / or the second air curtain by adjusting one or more of the following: the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element, thereby providing the desired temperature and / or position of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area.

[0038] Optionally, the front-opening cabinet includes one or more sensors associated with a first food display area, and the method further includes: receiving data from the one or more sensors; and controlling a first air curtain and / or a second air curtain based on the received data.

[0039] Optionally, the method further includes: operating the first and second fans to move the location of the convection mixing zone from one side of the front-opening cabinet to the other side of the front-opening cabinet.

[0040] Optionally, the method further includes issuing an alarm when the front-opening cabinet exceeds predetermined operating parameters.

[0041] Optionally, wherein the first channel and the second channel include adjustable orifices, the method further includes: adjusting the volume and / or size of the adjustable orifices of the first orifice and / or the second orifice.

[0042] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the front of the cabinet according to one aspect of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of airflow within the internal space of a cabinet according to one aspect of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a flowchart of the process of adjusting an air curtain according to one aspect of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of airflow within the internal space of a cabinet according to one aspect of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the process of adjusting an air curtain according to one aspect of the present invention; and Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the process of adjusting an air curtain according to one aspect of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0044] This invention provides a front-opening cabinet and a method for operating such a cabinet using a controller. Figure 1 This cabinet is shown according to the claimed invention.

[0045] Figure 1 A perspective view of a front-opening display cabinet 100 is shown. The cabinet includes a first food display area 108a, defined by a first top 102a, a rear portion 103a, a base 104a, and opposing sides 105a and 106a. The first food display area 108a is accessible through an opening facing the front of the cabinet 100, defined between the edges of the first top 102a, rear 103a, base 104a, and opposing sides 105a and 106a.

[0046] The first food display area 108a of the display case 100 defines a space where heated food items can be placed for consumers to select and retrieve later. Specifically, the base 104a can be used as a shelf on which the heated food items are placed. Consumers can access the interior space through an opening to prepare and retrieve the selected food items.

[0047] The cabinet 100 may be modular or otherwise constructed to include multiple sections. For example, it may include a lower section of a first food display area 108a and an upper section of a second food display area 108b.

[0048] Figure 1 A cabinet 100 is shown, which includes a second food display area 108b defined by a second top 102b, a rear portion 103b, a base 104b, and opposing sides 105b and 106b. The second food display area can be accessed through a second opening at the front of the cabinet 100, which is defined between the edges of the second top 102b, rear portion 103b, base 104b, and opposing sides 105b and 106b.

[0049] Display cases 100 are arranged so that each food display area is adjacent to another food display area. Figure 1 In the example shown, a first top 102a, a rear portion 103a, a base 104a, and opposing sides 105a, 106a define a first food display area 108a, which is located below a second top 102b, a rear portion 103b, a base 104b, and opposing sides 105b, 106b. The second top 102b, a rear portion 103b, a base 104b, and opposing sides 105b, 106b define a second food display area 108b.

[0050] In this case, the top 102a of the first food display area 108a can form at least a portion of the base 104b of the second food display area 108b. Alternatively, the top 102a of the first food display area 108a can be separated from the base 104b of the second food display area 108b, for example, by means of an air gap, to improve the thermal insulation between the internal spaces.

[0051] Food display areas 108a and 108b can be placed on base 107. Base 107 can accommodate various components of cabinet 100, such as controller 109, which controls various functions of cabinet 100. For example, fans, temperature control elements, displays, and cameras can all be controlled by the controller. For example, users can use the camera and display to determine how much inventory is stored in cabinet 100 and whether restocking is needed. Such camera can be an infrared camera. Cabinet 100 also includes one or more sources that communicate with controller 109.

[0052] Cameras can be used to monitor when potential disturbances to the air curtain may occur, employing known image analysis techniques. For example, a camera can be used to identify objects entering the air curtain, such as a hand, and to determine the object's location using known techniques. If the object's location is determined to potentially affect the air curtain, as detailed below, the convection mixing zone can be moved away from the object to minimize disturbance and ensure the integrity of the air curtain.

[0053] The cabinet 100 may also include an alarm. The alarm is configured to issue a warning in situations such as when the cabinet 100 is overstocked and / or when the cabinet 100 is operated under unsafe operating conditions that do not meet health and safety standards (e.g., food inside the cabinet 100 is stored at unsafe temperatures for consumption).

[0054] The first food display area 108a of cabinet 100 will be described below, but it should be understood that other parts of cabinet 100, such as the second food display area 108b, may be the same or substantially similar.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram 200 of the airflow within the internal space of cabinet 100 in an embodiment including a first fan. See below for a detailed description, with reference to... Figure 3 One aspect of cabinet 100 is that it is configured to dynamically sense changes in the environment in which cabinet 100 is located and adjust the operation of the fan to control the formation of an air curtain. The air curtain is a heated air curtain to maintain the temperature of the heated food items within cabinet 100. For example, if it is determined that environmental conditions will affect or interfere with the air curtain in cabinet 100, the cabinet is configured to adjust the fan and / or temperature control elements to maintain the integrity of the air curtain.

[0056] It is possible Figure 2 Cameras are installed in the cabinet 100 to monitor factors that may disrupt the air curtain's integrity. For example, the cameras can detect the hand of an employee restocking the cabinet entering the air curtain and adjust the fan and / or temperature control components accordingly to maintain the air curtain's integrity.

[0057] An air curtain is a hot air curtain. When the air temperature rises to the desired level, the airflow velocity increases and the air density decreases compared to the low airflow and dense air in, for example, a front-opening refrigeration unit. The use of hot air allows the direction and velocity of the airflow to be controlled. However, this is not the case for front-opening refrigeration units, which rely on gravity to guide air downwards to ensure little or no turbulence. Front-opening refrigerators rely on ensuring extremely low airflow velocities and therefore cannot control or change the direction and velocity of the cold air in the refrigeration unit, as this would increase turbulence and cause the air curtain to entrain air from the environment, the temperature of which is significantly higher than the refrigerated interior. In cabinet 100, the air curtain is positioned above the opening of the compartment in cabinet 100. Because the air curtain uses hot air, the direction of the airflow within the air curtain can be controlled. For example, the air curtain can be guided to form a vertical air curtain, or the airflow can enter from one or more corners of the cabinet, or the air curtain can be guided from each edge of the cabinet. This type of air curtain cannot be used in low-temperature environments (such as in refrigeration units) because cold air curtains rely on gravity, which is the method with minimal turbulence when generating an air curtain. Because of this requirement, all front-opening refrigeration units are designed with the air curtain facing downwards. In front-opening refrigeration units, the airflow velocity is deliberately kept at a low level to reduce turbulence and entrainment. In contrast, this unit 100 is able to control the airflow velocity and therefore the direction of the air curtain.

[0058] Cabinet 100 includes a fan 202 configured to draw hot air into one or more interior spaces within the cabinet 100. The fan 202 may be controlled by a DC motor or other means, allowing control of the fan's speed and / or volume. Cabinet 100 also includes a temperature control element 204 configured to control the temperature of the airflow supplied by the fan 202. This allows for airflow control, enabling the system to respond to internal temperatures or temperature variations within the interior spaces, or to environmental factors such as external temperature or wind. The temperature control element is used to maintain the air curtain at a suitable heating temperature. The fan 202 and temperature control element 204 may be located at any suitable location on cabinet 100, although they are preferably positioned adjacent to the rear side 103a of cabinet 100. This prevents the fan 202 and temperature control element 204 from obstructing the consumer's view through the front of the cabinet 100 or through one of the sides 105a, 106a, while also providing a convenient location for generating circulating airflow.

[0059] Fan 202 can be any suitable fan, such as an axial fan, centrifugal fan, or cross-flow fan. Fan 202 and temperature control element 204 are located in channel 206, which extends from fan 202 to the front of cabinet 100. Channel 206 preferably extends along one of the opposite sides 105a, 106a of cabinet 100. Alternatively, channel 206 may extend along the top 102a and / or base 104a of cabinet 100.

[0060] Channel 206 extends to the front of cabinet 100 to direct airflow through the front of cabinet 100 via fan 202, particularly through the front of the first food display area 108a. The end of channel 206 may include an adjustable orifice (not shown) to guide the airflow. The adjustable orifice may be controlled by controller 109 to regulate the amount of air discharged at a given time. This creates a heated air curtain that helps prevent heat transfer between the interior space of cabinet 100 and the outside air, while allowing easy access to the interior space without the need for a door at the front of cabinet 100. The heated air curtain creates a seal effect within cabinet 100 to maintain the temperature of heated food items. This is particularly advantageous, for example, when a user places their hand inside cabinet 100 and the air curtain can re-seal the user's hand to maintain its integrity. The air curtain may be vertical, for example. Alternatively, the air curtain may be directed from a corner of cabinet 100 or some other arrangement.

[0061] A controller 109, associated with the first food display area 108a (or, alternatively, generally associated with cabinet 100), is used to control the fan 202 and the temperature control element 204. The controller 109 communicates with a computer configured to access information from a database. The database may store information related to different pre-configured settings for different heated food items. For example, when the first food display area 108a holds a certain heated food product, the controller may store fan settings for the speed of the fan 202 and temperature settings for the temperature control element 204. For example, when the first food display area 108a holds hot soup, the speed and temperature settings may be higher than when the first food display area holds products such as hot breakfast sandwiches.

[0062] The controller 109 can also be configured to change between pre-configured settings at certain times of the day. For example, the controller 109 can be configured to keep the first food display area 108a in the first group setting at 9:00 a.m., and then automatically switch to the second group setting, for example, at 12:00 p.m.

[0063] The controller 109 communicates with one or more sources. These sources can be sensors configured to measure the environment in which the cabinet 100 is located. For example, sensors can be laser sensors, infrared sensors, ambient sensors, temperature sensors, mass sensors, barometers, and / or humidity sensors. Such sources can be placed inside the first food display area 108a, on the external surface of the cabinet 100, or on a surface separate from the cabinet 100 in the surrounding environment. For example, a source can be positioned on a door at the entrance / exit of the retail environment where the cabinet 100 is located. Sensors are used to detect / determine potential disturbances to the air curtain. This can be used to adaptively and proactively adjust the air curtain to reduce disruption.

[0064] In another embodiment, cabinet 100 may include one or more additional fans and temperature control elements.

[0065] Controller 109 can adjust the settings of fan 202 and / or temperature control element 204 in response to receiving data from one or more sources, as follows: Figure 3 As shown.

[0066] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of the process of adjusting a heated air curtain in cabinet 100 according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0067] The cabinet 100 is configured to sense changes in its surrounding environment. As described below, changes in the environment may affect the air curtain, and the cabinet will adjust its operation by changing the operating parameters of the fan and / or temperature control elements to maintain the integrity of the air curtain. Advantageously, by dynamically adjusting the formation of the air curtain, it is possible to maintain the air curtain in a constantly changing environment. For example, the cabinet 100 may be placed in a retail location near a door, which may intermittently expose the cabinet 100 to a breeze (e.g., when the door is open). Such a breeze may affect the air curtain, and the air curtain can be maintained by adjusting the operating parameters of the fan and / or temperature control elements.

[0068] First, at step S302, the controller 109 can operate under a first pre-configured setting, which assumes a specific environment and a specific heated food product. Different environments and food products can have different pre-configured settings stored by the controller 109. For example, the pre-configured settings for an environment where the cabinet 100 is placed next to the door of a retail store and for maintaining soup products will differ from the pre-configured settings for an environment where the cabinet 100 is placed away from the door of the retail store and / or for maintaining hot sandwiches. The first pre-configured setting can be overridden based on data received by the controller 109 from one or more sources.

[0069] At step S304, the controller 109 of cabinet 100 receives data from the first source. The controller 109 may receive additional data from another source associated with cabinet 100. (As described above...) Figure 2 The source discussed can be a sensor configured to detect the environment inside and outside the food display area. The sensor can measure changes in airflow around cabinet 100 (and the food display area) and / or detect the presence of objects within the food display area. For example, the sensor could be a camera that detects when customers put their hands inside cabinet 100 while selecting heated food products, or it could detect when users restock cabinet 100. The source could also be a timer that defines the duration and / or temperature of the air curtain.

[0070] Preferably, cabinet 100 includes four air temperature sensors and one or two air quality sensors to provide optimal coverage of the conditions in the food display area.

[0071] In step S306, controller 109 uses the received data to determine whether the formation of the heated air curtain is affected. For example, a temperature sensor may indicate that the temperature of the air curtain is higher or lower than the desired temperature, or an environmental sensor may detect ventilation airflow that is obstructing the airflow.

[0072] If the air curtain is affected, the process proceeds to step S308, in which the controller 109 adjusts the speed of the fan 202 and / or the temperature of the temperature control element 204 in order to maintain the desired air curtain.

[0073] The air curtain passing through the first food display area 108a of cabinet 100 may be affected by various environmental factors. For example, there may be ventilation airflow from an open door, which causes changes in the temperature and / or speed of the air curtain. Once such a change is detected, controller 109 can instruct fan 202 to operate at a different speed and / or instruct temperature control element 204 to operate at a different temperature. This restores the air curtain to its intended form and ensures that the food products in the food display area are maintained at a suitable temperature. For example, since cabinet 100 is designed to store heated food products rather than cooled products, the temperature of temperature control element 204 will rise if there is external interfering airflow that lowers the temperature of the heated air curtain. For example, external airflow that disturbs the air curtain, such as wind with a certain speed and direction, may be present when a door leading to the location containing cabinet 100 is opened.

[0074] In one embodiment, controller 109 accesses a database containing multiple predetermined responses, which can be executed in step S308 if it is determined in step S306 that the air curtain is affected. The database includes multiple predefined scenarios based on data received from one or more sources in step S304. These scenarios include, but are not limited to, various temperature, humidity, and air pressure ranges that may be detected in step S304. In step S308, the controller is configured to identify the scenario in the database that most closely matches the data received from the data source in step S304. Each scenario is also associated with a predetermined response, which controller 109 executes in step S308.

[0075] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram 400 of the airflow within a food display area of ​​a cabinet including two fans.

[0076] Regarding Figure 2 The scenario shown is the opposite, where multiple fans allow two or more opposing air curtains to be formed within the first food display area 108a. The cabinet 100 is configured to hold heated food products such that the opposing air curtains are heated air curtains consisting of hot air, not cold air. Hot air differs from cold air in that it has a lower density and a faster airflow velocity. Front-opening refrigeration units rely on cold air, which, due to its increased density and gravity, sinks to the bottom of the cabinet, thus failing to form a cohesive air curtain. Therefore, front-opening refrigeration units can only operate in a single configuration, with a downward-directed air curtain. The air curtains of cabinet 100 have multiple directional possibilities because the speed and direction of the hot air can be controlled. However, this is not the case for front-opening refrigeration units that rely on gravity to direct air downwards, thus the direction and speed of the cold air in the front-opening refrigeration unit cannot be controlled or changed. In cabinet 100, air curtains are positioned above the openings of the compartments within cabinet 100. Because the air curtains use hot air, the direction of airflow within the air curtains can be controlled. For example, an air curtain can be guided to form a vertical air curtain, or airflow can enter from one or more corners of the cabinet, or the air curtain can be guided from each edge of the cabinet. Such an air curtain cannot be used in low-temperature environments (e.g., in front-opening refrigeration units) because cold air relies on displacement due to gravity, and high-speed cold air can cause entrainment. In front-opening refrigeration units, the air velocity is intentionally kept at a low level to reduce turbulence and entrainment. In contrast, this cabinet 100 is able to control the airflow velocity and therefore the direction of the air curtain.

[0077] The following is a detailed description, for reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6The cabinet 100 is adapted to independently control each of the opposing air curtains, thereby providing greater control over the heating of the first food display area 108a.

[0078] Airflow from the first fan merges with airflow from the second fan to create a turbulent airflow region known as the convection mixing zone. The air curtains work together to create a collaborative seal within the cabinet 100 that maintains the temperature of the heated food products. This seal preserves the integrity of the food curtain, thereby maintaining the temperature of the heated food items. For example, if a user places their hand inside the air curtain, the air curtain reforms around the hand to re-seal the air curtain and maintain the internal temperature of the cabinet 100.

[0079] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first food display area 108a may include a first fan 402a associated with a first temperature control element 404a and a second fan 402b associated with a second temperature control element 404b. Therefore, each fan can be configured independently of the other. The first fan 402a and the second fan 402b may be positioned to direct airflow to opposite sides of the first food display area 108a.

[0080] Temperature control elements 404a and 404b can be heater elements configured to increase the temperature of the airflow in channels 406a and 406b. For example, the heater element can include a coil heater, a belt heater, a circulating heater, or any other suitable heater element known in the art. Such a heater element can also be used in a single-fan embodiment.

[0081] A first fan 402a, combined with a first temperature control element 404a, is configured to guide airflow at a first speed and temperature along a first channel 406a and through the front of a first food display area 108a. A second fan 402b, combined with a second temperature control element 404b, is configured to guide airflow at a second speed and temperature along a second channel 406b and through the front of a first food display area 108a.

[0082] Channels 406a and 406b extend to the front of cabinet 100 to guide airflow through the front of the first food display area 108a. This creates opposing air curtains that help prevent heat transfer between the interior space of cabinet 100 and the outside air, while allowing easy access to the interior space without the need for a door at the front of cabinet 100. In this configuration, these air curtains are generally vertical in the first food display area 108a. The synergistic mixing of the opposing air curtains at the convection mixing zone creates a seal that maintains the temperature of the heated food items. Unlike front-opening refrigeration units, there is no sacrificial air curtain; instead, two air curtains merge and work together to maintain the internal temperature of the compartment by keeping the air curtains sealed.

[0083] Because the air curtains are relative, they converge at the front of cabinet 100, creating turbulence within the interior space of cabinet 100. This turbulence causes the air curtains to fuse together cooperatively at any location. This location is called the convection mixing zone. The convection mixing zone can be located anywhere within cabinet 100 and can be determined by the user or automatically by the processor. For example, the convection mixing zone can be located in the middle of cabinet 100, on the left side, the right side, a corner, or any other suitable location. The convection mixing zone does not need to be fixed in a specific location, and this cooperative mixing zone can be moved to a defined fixed location or can be continuously moved between different locations. For example, the convection mixing zone can continuously move from the left side of the cabinet to the right side, and from the right side to the left side. Therefore, the location of the convection mixing zone can change over time. Turbulent airflow increases thermal mixing and convection, and provides a more uniform temperature throughout the interior space. This helps avoid "dead spots" in the interior space, which could otherwise lead to underheating or overheating.

[0084] The refrigeration unit using the technology of this application cannot achieve such a convective mixing zone because turbulent airflow causes turbulence and entrainment in the air curtain. In addition, the front-opening refrigeration unit relies on gravity, and because the cold air has a large mass, gravity causes the cold air to fall towards the bottom of the cabinet.

[0085] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the air curtains converge at the center of the opening of cabinet 100. However, it is understood that the air curtains can converge anywhere across the front of cabinet 100 to create desired conditions within the interior space. For example, in the form of a generally vertical air curtain. The location of the converging opposing air curtains can be adjusted to create different turbulence or temperatures in portions of the interior space. Advantageously, having two opposing airflows allows for variations in the size and location of this convection mixing zone.

[0086] The controller 109 is configured to adjust the speed of the first fan 402a, the speed of the second fan 402b, the temperature of the first temperature control element 404a, and the temperature of the second temperature control element 404b in order to maintain or change the air curtain passing through the first food display area 108a.

[0087] Similar to embodiments including a fan, controller 109 is configured to configure using stored configurations (i.e., predefined settings) and / or in response to receiving data from one or more sources. The stored configurations include specific temperature and speed settings for the air curtain using fans 402a, 402b and temperature control elements 404a, 404b. Several configurations that can be stored by controller 109 and implemented based on user requests or in response to source data are described below. Configurations can be selected based on specific heated food items placed in the food display area and the environment in which cabinet 100 is located.

[0088] The first air curtain configuration includes adjusting the speed settings of the first fan 402a and the second fan 402b, causing the position of the convection mixing zone to move from one side of the first food display area 108a to the other side. For example, the convection mixing zone can initially be located on the left side of the first food display area 108a and controlled by the controller 109, causing the convection mixing zone to gradually move from the left-hand side of the first food display area 108a to the right-hand side. This configuration can be repeated, causing the convection mixing zone to continuously move from left to right and from right to left. Therefore, the position of the co-mixing zone of the two air curtains can be adjusted as needed. This configuration is better able to handle environmental conditions such as when the doors of a retail store are open.

[0089] The convection mixing zone is the weakest part of the air curtain and is more susceptible to disturbance. The air curtain's resistance to environmental factors can be improved by allowing the convection mixing zone to move or "sweep" between multiple locations. For example, the convection mixing zone can move away from (and remain away from) disturbed portions of the air curtain caused by environmental factors. When the convection mixing zone is undisturbed, the stability of the entire air curtain is improved. Once the disturbance ceases, the convection mixing zone may move back to its original (or new) position, or it may resume continuous movement from one side of the display to the other, etc.

[0090] Such as about Figure 2As shown, disturbances can be detected, for example, by using a camera employing image analytics techniques, and such disturbances might be caused by a user placing their hand inside cabinet 100, thus disrupting airflow. Disturbances can also be detected, or alternatively, by a temperature sensor capable of detecting temperature drops due to cold external airflow. Any suitable sensor can be used to detect disturbances to airflow.

[0091] The second air curtain configuration includes an energy-saving feature. In this configuration, the temperatures of the first temperature control element 404a / second temperature control element 404b and the speeds of the first fan 402a / second fan 402b may be reduced compared to normal operating conditions. Additionally or alternatively, the time required for the first food display area 108a to reach the desired operating conditions may be increased, allowing the first food display area 108a to reach the desired temperature / airflow rate in an energy-efficient manner. Normal operating conditions refer to the standard operating conditions typically used in retail stores for specific heated food items displayed in display cases. This configuration is also applicable to the single-fan embodiment.

[0092] The third air curtain configuration includes a cooling configuration designed to reduce the temperature of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area 108a. This configuration can be used when the cabinet 100 transitions from storing heated food items at a higher temperature to storing heated food items at a lower temperature. This configuration is also applicable to the single-fan embodiment.

[0093] The fourth air curtain configuration includes an enhanced configuration in which the speed of the first fan 402a / second fan 402b and / or the temperature of the first temperature control element 404a / second temperature control element 404b are increased compared to normal operating conditions. Additionally or alternatively, the time required to reach the desired operating conditions is reduced, allowing the cabinet to reach operating conditions faster than usual. This configuration is useful during sales periods when the heated food items stored in the cabinet 100 are changed and the retailer requires the newly stored heated food items to be maintained at a higher temperature than the previous food items. This configuration is also applicable to the single-fan embodiment.

[0094] Another air curtain configuration scheme includes a scheduler. The scheduler controls the temperature and / or location of the convection mixing zone based on, for example, the type of heated food product and / or the time of day. For example, the scheduler configuration might have a first set of settings for storing hot breakfast sandwiches from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., and then a second set of settings for storing hot soup from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

[0095] It should be understood that the above configurations can be combined and implemented in the same food display area. For example, energy-saving configurations can be operated in conjunction with the regulation of convection mixing zone configurations.

[0096] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of adjusting a heated air curtain according to one aspect of the present invention, wherein cabinet 100 has two fans 402a and 402b. The process is performed in accordance with... Figure 3 The steps are similar to those shown.

[0097] First, in step S502, the controller 109 can operate according to a first pre-configured setting, which assumes a specific environment and a specific heated food product. This first pre-configured setting can be overridden based on data received by the controller 109 from one or more sources. (As described above...) Figure 4 As shown, the pre-configured setup will create a roughly vertical air curtain in the food display area.

[0098] At step S504, the controller 109 of cabinet 100 receives data from a first source. The controller 109 may receive additional data from another source associated with cabinet 100. For example, the controller 109 may receive data from a temperature sensor located in the environment of cabinet 100, indicating that the ambient temperature is low.

[0099] The sensor may be an additional or alternative camera. The camera is capable of detecting potential disturbances to the air curtain using known image analysis techniques. For example, when a customer puts their hand into the display case 100 to retrieve a heated food item, or when an employee is restocking a heated food item.

[0100] Preferably, cabinet 100 includes four air temperature sensors and two air quality sensors to provide optimal coverage of the conditions in the food display area.

[0101] In step S506, controller 109 uses the received data to determine whether the formation of the air curtain is affected. For example, controller 109 may determine that the convection mixing zone is not located in a desired position, such as the center of the first food display area 108a, due to ventilation airflow entering from an open door of the retail environment. As another example, controller 109 may determine that the temperature of the convection mixing zone is too low (due to the ambient temperature in the cabinet environment).

[0102] If the air curtain is affected, the process proceeds to step S508, in which the controller 109 adjusts the speed of the first fan 402a / second fan 402b and / or the temperature of the first temperature control element 404a / second temperature control element 404b to maintain or restore the desired air curtain. For example, the temperature of the first temperature control element 404a and the second temperature control element 404b can be increased to cope with the cold environment of the retail store.

[0103] As an example, the first food display area 108a of the cabinet 100 can operate in a first pre-configured setting, in which the air curtain is maintained at a temperature between 15% and 20% higher than the set temperature inside the cabinet 100, and the convection mixing zone is located in the center of the first food display area 108a. The controller 109 can then receive data from temperature and environmental sensors located in the retail store environment, indicating that the ambient temperature is below 16 degrees Celsius and there is a significant ventilation airflow from the left side of the cabinet 100 with a wind speed exceeding 1.0 m / s. The controller 109 then determines that these conditions affect the air curtain by, for example, moving the convection mixing zone towards the right side of the cabinet 100 and thus away from the center, and lowering the temperature of the air curtain and the convection mixing zone. The convection mixing zone where the airflow from the first fan meets the airflow from the second fan is the weakest point of the air curtain. Then, controller 109 instructs the second fan 402b to operate at a higher speed and instructs temperature control elements 404a, 404b to operate at a higher temperature, thereby restoring the convection mixing zone to the position / temperature required by the pre-configured settings. Moving the convection mixing zone in response to external factors ensures the integrity of the air curtain.

[0104] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the process of adjusting the air curtain according to one aspect of the present invention, wherein the cabinet 100 has two fans 402a and 402b.

[0105] In step S602, the controller 109 may operate under a first pre-configured setting, which assumes a specific environment and a specific heated food product. The first pre-configured setting may be overridden based on a determination made by the controller 109.

[0106] In step S604, controller 109 is configured to determine the location and / or size of a convection mixing zone that creates a generally vertical air curtain in food display area 108a. For example, controller 109, communicating with one or more sources, may determine that the convection mixing zone is located to the right of the center of the first food display area 108a, but should be located to the left of the center of the first food display area 108a. Similarly, controller 109 may determine, by communicating with one or more sources, that the size of the convection mixing zone is smaller than expected.

[0107] In response to the determination that the position and / or size of the convection mixing zone does not match the position and / or size expected by the pre-configured settings, the controller continues to execute step S606. In step S606, the controller 109 adjusts one or more of the speeds of the first fan 402a, the second fan 402b, the temperature of the first temperature control element 404a, and / or the temperature of the second temperature control element 404b to restore the convection mixing zone. For example, to restore the convection mixing zone to the left side of the center of the first food display area 108a, the controller 109 may instruct the second fan 402b to operate at a higher speed. To restore the size of the convection mixing zone, the controller 109 may instruct fans 402a and 402b to operate at a new speed.

[0108] The controller 109 is also configured to determine whether components such as the first fan 402a / second fan 402b and the first temperature control element 404a / second temperature control element 404b are functioning properly. For example, the controller 109 may determine that the first fan 402a is underperforming or malfunctioning, and therefore unable to output the required airflow for the desired settings. In response to this determination, the controller 109 instructs the first fan 402a to operate at a higher speed to output the required airflow. For example, it may be necessary to position the convection mixing zone in the center of the first food display area 108a, and therefore the first fan 402a and second fan 402b should operate at the same speed, and the first temperature control element 404a and second temperature control element 404b should operate at the same temperature. However, the first fan 402a is determined to be malfunctioning, causing the convection mixing zone to be positioned to the left of the center. Therefore, controller 109 instructs the first fan 402a to operate at a first speed higher than the second fan 402b to move the convection mixing zone back to the center of the first food display area 108a, and then instructs the first fan 402a to operate at a higher second speed so that the two fans provide the same airflow and the convection mixing zone is kept in the center of the first food display area 108a.

Claims

1. A front-opening display case, said front-opening display case having a first food display area for temporarily displaying heated food items, The first food display area includes: A first fan, which is associated with a first temperature control element and a first channel; and The second fan, which is associated with the second temperature control element and the second channel, The first fan is configured to guide a first airflow with a first temperature through the first channel to the first food display area to create a first air curtain in the first food display area, and the second fan is configured to guide a second airflow with a second temperature through the second channel to the first food display area to create a second air curtain in the first food display area, wherein the first air curtain and the second air curtain are arranged opposite to each other to create a convection mixing zone in the first food display area at the point where the first air curtain and the second air curtain intersect, wherein the convection mixing zone is a region of turbulent airflow, in which the first air curtain and the second air curtain are dynamically opposite to each other and are combined to interweave synergistically; and The front-opening cabinet also includes a controller, which is configured to: The generation of the convection mixing zone is controlled by adjusting one or more of the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element, thereby changing the temperature and / or position of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area.

2. The front-opening cabinet according to claim 1 further includes one or more sensors, said one or more sensors being associated with the first food display area, wherein, The controller is configured to adjust one or more of the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element in response to receiving data from one or more sensors associated with the first food display area.

3. The front-opening cabinet according to claim 2, wherein, At least one of the one or more sensors is located inside the front-opening cabinet.

4. The front-opening cabinet according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, At least one of the one or more sensors is located on the outer surface of the front-opening cabinet.

5. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The controller is configured to communicate with one or more external sensors, which are configured to measure the environment in which the front-opening cabinet is located.

6. The front-opening cabinet according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The one or more sensors are selected from: laser sensors, environmental sensors, temperature sensors, mass sensors, barometers, and humidity sensors.

7. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising four air temperature sensors and one or two air quality sensors.

8. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The controller is configured, according to one or more predefined settings, to adjust one or more of the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element.

9. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The controller is configured to operate the first fan and the second fan such that, during use, the position of the convection mixing zone moves from one side of the front-opening cabinet to the other side of the front-opening cabinet.

10. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an alarm configured to issue an alarm to a user when the front-opening cabinet exceeds one or more predetermined operating parameters.

11. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3 further includes a camera.

12. The front-opening cabinet according to claim 11, wherein, The camera is an infrared camera.

13. The front-opening cabinet according to claim 8, wherein, The controller includes different predefined settings for different heated food products.

14. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The controller includes an energy-saving configuration in which at least one of the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element is reduced compared to normal operating conditions.

15. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The controller includes a cooling configuration configured to reduce the temperature of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area.

16. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The controller includes an enhanced configuration in which at least one of the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element is increased compared to normal operating conditions.

17. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The controller includes a scheduler configured to control the temperature and / or location of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area according to a time-based scheduling scheme.

18. The front-opening cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The first channel and / or the second channel includes an adjustable orifice, wherein the controller is further configured to adjust the volume and / or size of the adjustable orifice of the first channel and / or the second channel.

19. A method of operating a front-opening display case, the front-opening display case having a first food display area for temporarily storing heated food items, the first food display area comprising: Controller; A first fan, which is associated with a first temperature control element and a first channel; and The second fan, which is associated with the second temperature control element and the second channel, The first fan is configured to guide a first airflow through the first channel to the first food display area to create a first air curtain in the first food display area, and the second fan is configured to guide a second airflow through the second channel to the first food display area to create a second air curtain in the first food display area; the first air curtain and the second air curtain are arranged opposite to each other to create a convection mixing zone in the first food display area at the intersection of the first air curtain and the second air curtain, wherein the convection mixing zone is a region of turbulent airflow, in which the first air curtain and the second air curtain are dynamically opposite to each other and are combined to intertwine synergistically; The method includes the following steps: Obtain an indication of the desired temperature and location of the convective mixing zone; and The generation of the convection mixing zone is controlled by adjusting one or more of the speed of the first fan, the speed of the second fan, the temperature of the first temperature control element, and the temperature of the second temperature control element, thereby providing the desired temperature and / or position of the convection mixing zone in the first food display area.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The front-opening cabinet includes one or more sensors associated with the first food display area, and the method further includes: Receive data from the one or more sensors; and The first air curtain and / or the second air curtain are controlled based on the received data.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, further comprising: The first and second fans are operated to move the position of the convection mixing zone from one side of the front-opening cabinet to the other side of the front-opening cabinet.

22. The method according to claim 19 or 20, further comprising: An alarm is triggered when the front-opening cabinet exceeds its predetermined operating parameters.

23. The method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein, The first channel and the second channel include adjustable orifices, and the method further includes: Adjust the volume and / or size of the adjustable orifice of the first channel and / or the second channel.

Images