A refrigeration unit

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a refrigeration unit (100) comprising a refrigeration compartment (102) in which a frame (108) for supporting one or more shelves is provided. The frame (108) is hingedly coupled to a wall (114) of the refrigeration compartment (102) such that the frame is pivotable away from the wall (114) to increase a spacing between a free end of the frame and the wall.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigeration unit and a method of cleaning a refrigeration unit.BACKGROUND

[0002] Refrigeration units are known to include support frames for shelves or trays or the like. These support frames are typically fixed to an interior surface of the refrigeration compartment by fasteners such as screws. This arrangement may provide crevices for accumulation of debris and bacteria. In particular, interfaces between the support frame and the interior surface of the refrigeration compartment may harbour bacteria in areas which are difficult or impossible to access with the support frame coupled to the refrigeration compartment.

[0003] Removing the support frame from the refrigeration compartment to allow for proper cleaning may be impractical due to the significant size and weight of the support frames used. This is especially true for large scale refrigeration units used in commercial establishments. Furthermore such de-coupling is time consuming and complex, requiring the use of tools such a screwdrivers and risking small parts such as screws being lost.

[0004] As a result, support frames may be left in place for long periods of time, during which dirt may accumulate at the interface between the support frame and the refrigeration compartment.

[0005] The present disclosure seeks to overcome or ameliorate the above-mentioned problems associated with existing refrigeration units.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0006] An aspect of the disclosure provides a refrigeration unit comprising a refrigeration compartment in which a frame for supporting one or more shelves is provided, wherein the frame is hingedly coupled to a wall of the refrigeration compartment such that the frame is pivotable away from the wall to increase a spacing between a free end of the frame and the wall.

[0007] Beneficially, this may allow for easier cleaning between the frame and an inner surface of the wall.

[0008] The refrigeration unit may comprise at least one hinge coupled to the frame opposite the free end.

[0009] The frame may be hingedly coupled to an upper portion of the refrigeration compartment.

[0010] The frame may comprise a top and a bottom.

[0011] The top may be hingedly coupled to the refrigeration compartment such that the bottom of the frame can be pivoted away from a side wall of the refrigeration compartment.

[0012] The frame may be hingedly coupled to a lower portion of the refrigeration compartment. As used herein 'upper' and 'lower' are defined relative to the working orientation of the refrigeration unit.

[0013] The at least one hinge and the frame may together define a hinged frame and wherein the refrigeration unit comprises one or more additional hinged frames.

[0014] The hinged frame may comprise the one or more shelves for supporting trays or the like within the refrigeration compartment.

[0015] Each of the one or more shelves may be cantilevered from the frame.

[0016] Providing cantilevered shelves may allow the frame to pivot within the refrigeration compartment without fouling an opposing wall or opposing frame / shelves of the unit.

[0017] The refrigeration unit may comprise an additional hinged frame secured to the wall. The refrigeration unit may comprise an additional hinged frame coupled to a different wall of the refrigeration compartment than the hinged frame is coupled to.

[0018] Each additional hinged frame may be substantially similar to the hinged frame described herein.

[0019] The refrigeration unit may comprise an additional hinged frame coupled to a further wall of the refrigeration compartment, opposite the wall to which the hinged frame is coupled.

[0020] For example, the refrigeration unit may comprise an additional hinged frame coupled to a further wall of the refrigeration compartment, opposite the wall to which the hinged frame is coupled.

[0021] The refrigeration unit may comprise at least two hinged frames coupled on opposing sidewalls of the refrigeration compartment.

[0022] The frame and the additional frame may be configured to pivot towards one another.

[0023] The refrigeration compartment is not limited to cuboidal configurations and may be defined by any regular or irregular shape. The wall may be a sidewall of the refrigeration compartment.

[0024] In another example, the wall may define a door opening of the refrigeration compartment or a rear wall of the refrigeration compartment, located opposite the door opening.

[0025] The wall may comprise an inner surface which forms part of an interior surface of the refrigeration compartment.

[0026] The frame may be pivotable out of the plane of the inner surface.

[0027] The frame may be pivotable between a first configuration and a second configuration.

[0028] Actuating the frame from the first configuration to the second configuration may increase the spacing between the free end of the frame and an inner surface of the wall.

[0029] In the first configuration a back surface of the frame may be parallel to an interior surface of the refrigeration compartment.

[0030] In the first configuration a back surface of the frame may contact an interior surface of the refrigeration compartment.

[0031] The frame may be manually actuatable (e.g. between the first configuration and the second configuration).

[0032] When the frame is in the first configuration, the back surface of the frame may be coplanar with and optionally contact the inner surface of the wall.

[0033] In some examples, when the frame is in the second configuration, the back surface of the frame does not contact the inner surface of the wall. In the second configuration the back surface may be spaced from the wall.

[0034] The refrigeration unit may comprise one or more shelves for supporting trays or the like within the refrigeration compartment.

[0035] The one or more shelves may be configured to project away from the frame (e.g. perpendicularly to a length of the frame).

[0036] The refrigeration unit may comprise one or more panels for reversibly coupling between shelves of opposing hinged frames.

[0037] The shelves may be configured to support foodstuffs and / or beverages in an elevated position within the refrigeration compartment.

[0038] For example, crates or trays holding food / drink may be placed directly on the shelves of opposing frames or on to the support panel(s).

[0039] The frame may be reversibly coupled to a sidewall of the refrigeration compartment.

[0040] Each of the one or more shelves may be configured to reversibly couple to a respective one of the one or more support panels.

[0041] The hinged frame may comprise a bracket arm hingedly coupled to the frame.

[0042] The refrigeration compartment may comprise a bracket receptacle disposed on an interior of the refrigeration compartment and configured to receive the bracket arm to couple the frame to the refrigeration compartment. The bracket receptacle may be attached to the wall.

[0043] The refrigeration unit may be configured such that, in use, a weight of the frame maintains the bracket arm in the bracket receptacle.

[0044] The bracket receptacle may comprise an upwardly facing aperture or upwardly facing slot configured to receive the bracket arm. The bracket arm may be directed downwardly within the aperture or slot.

[0045] The refrigeration unit may be configured such that the frame may be detached from the refrigeration compartment by applying an upwards force to the frame to slide the bracket arm out of the bracket receptacle. That is, the frame may be separable from the wall by lifting the frame upwardly.

[0046] The frame may comprise multiple bracket arms for hingedly coupling the frame to the refrigeration compartment. The refrigeration compartment may comprise a corresponding number of bracket receptacles.

[0047] The refrigeration compartment may comprise multiple bracket receptacles for hingedly coupling additional frame(s) to the refrigeration compartment.

[0048] The or each bracket receptacle may be configured to fixedly couple to the interior of the refrigeration compartment, in particular the wall, by way of one or more fasteners such as screws or bolts.

[0049] The refrigeration unit may comprise a locking mechanism to reversibly lock a position of the frame with respect to the refrigeration compartment.

[0050] For example, the refrigeration unit may comprise a first locking mechanism, to reversibly lock the frame in the first configuration, and / or a second locking mechanism, to reversibly lock the frame in the second configuration.

[0051] The first locking mechanism may comprise a clamp operable to secure the free end of the frame to the wall of the refrigeration compartment, (i.e., in the first configuration).

[0052] The clamp may be manually actuatable. For example, the clamp may comprise a fastener, such as a thumb screw, for reversibly locking (and unlocking) the clamp.

[0053] In other examples, the first locking mechanism may comprise an Antiluce fastener. In examples, the first locking mechanism may comprise a locking lever that is rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking lever may be mounted to the refrigeration compartment and protrude inwardly, and the frame may include an opening that can receive the locking lever. The locking lever may be rotatable between an unlocked position where it aligns with the opening in the frame to permit the frame to move relative to the refrigeration compartment, and a locked position in which it is rotated to block movement of the frame. The locking lever may include an elongate slot such that in the locked position the locking lever moves to a steady position, and can be unlocked by lifting and then rotating the locking lever to align it with the opening of the frame.

[0054] The second locking mechanism may comprise a support arm operable to engage the frame and the refrigeration compartment to hold the frame in the second configuration.

[0055] The support arm may comprise a first end pivotally attached to one of the frame and the wall. The support arm may comprise a second end engageable with the other of the frame and the wall.

[0056] The second end of the support arm may comprise a hook for engaging a corresponding slot provided on either the frame or an inner surface of the wall.

[0057] The hook may be shaped such that the frame has to be pivoted from the second configuration, away from the wall of the refrigeration compartment, in order to insert and remove the hook from the slot.

[0058] The support arm may be manually actuatable.

[0059] The support arm may be configured to automatically engage when the frame is moved from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0060] The hinged frame may comprise one or more support bars which are each individually hingedly coupled to the wall. For example, the hinged frame may comprise a first support bar, positioned towards a rear of the refrigeration compartment. The hinged frame may comprise a second support bar positioned towards a front of the refrigeration compartment.

[0061] Each of the one or more shelves may be reversibly coupled to and supported by the support bar(s).

[0062] The support bar may have a U-shaped profile. For example, the support bar may have a U-shaped profile comprising a substantially flat base for engaging the shelves. The U-shaped profile may comprise two arms which project from the base towards the wall.

[0063] In some examples, the arms may be perforated by a series of holes.

[0064] Beneficially, the holes may allow for easier handling of the frame by providing a grip for handling the frame and / or may minimise an overall weight of the frame while maintaining structural rigidity.

[0065] Each arm may comprises a flange for engaging an inner surface of the wall. The flanges may ensure effective sealing and consistent force transfer between the first support bar and the wall when the frame is in the first configuration.

[0066] The frame may comprise a metal, in particular a stainless steel. The wall of the refrigeration compartment and other parts of the refrigeration unit may also comprise stainless steel.

[0067] A further aspect of the disclosure provides a kit of parts for assembly to form the refrigeration unit.

[0068] The kit of parts may comprise the frame, the hinge and the refrigeration compartment as described above.

[0069] A further aspect of the disclosure provides a hinged frame for use in a refrigeration compartment of a refrigeration unit, wherein the frame is mountable in the refrigeration compartment and configured to support one or more shelves , and wherein the frame comprises a hinge for coupling to a wall of the refrigeration compartment such that the frame is pivotable away from the wall to increase a spacing between a free end of the frame and the wall.

[0070] A further aspect of the disclosure provides a method of cleaning a refrigeration compartment of a refrigeration unit, the refrigeration unit comprising a frame for supporting one or more shelves provided within the refrigeration compartment, wherein the frame is hingedly coupled to a wall of the refrigeration compartment, the method comprising: pivoting the frame of the refrigeration compartment away from the wall to increase a spacing between a free end of the frame and the wall; and accessing a space between the frame and the wall to clean the wall and / or the frame.

[0071] In this example, the method may comprise a locking the frame. For example, the method may comprise the step of locking the frame in the second configuration e.g., using a support arm.

[0072] In some examples the method comprises unlocking the frame and pivoting the frame of the refrigeration compartment towards the wall to reduce a spacing between a free end of the frame and the wall. In some examples this may involve locking the frame with respect to the refrigeration compartment (e.g. by locking a clamp).

[0073] In some examples the method may comprise unlocking the frame with respect to the refrigeration compartment (e.g. by unlocking the clamp).

[0074] Features discussed in relation to each aspect of the disclosure are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect of the disclosure unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example the method may be performed using the refrigeration unit of any aspect of the disclosure.

[0075] Other technical features may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0076] Embodiments of the disclosure are further described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 illustrates a refrigeration unit. FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the refrigeration unit of FIG. 1. FIG. 3A illustrates an enlarged view of part of the refrigeration unit of FIG. 1. FIG. 3B illustrates an enlarged view of part of the refrigeration unit of FIG. 1 with certain features not shown for clarity. FIG. 4A illustrates an enlarged view of a lower portion of the refrigeration unit of FIG. 1, with a first example locking mechanism. FIG. 4B illustrates an enlarged view of a lower portion of the refrigeration unit of FIG. 1, with a second example locking mechanism in a closed position. FIG. 4C illustrates an enlarged view of a lower portion of the refrigeration unit of FIG. 1, with the second example locking mechanism in an open position. FIG. 5A illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the refrigeration unit of FIG. 1. FIG. 5B illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the refrigeration unit of FIG. 1. FIG. 6 illustrates a method of cleaning a refrigeration unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] FIG. 1 illustrates a refrigeration unit 100 comprising a refrigeration compartment 102 (e.g., for receiving foodstuffs or beverages therein). In this example, the refrigeration compartment 102 is substantially cuboidal. The refrigeration compartment 102 comprises a front panel including a door opening for a door (not shown) for accessing an interior 104 of the refrigeration compartment 102. The refrigeration compartment 102 also includes a rear wall 106 located opposite the door opening. The refrigeration compartment 102 further comprises two sidewalls 114, 115 which each connect the rear wall 106 to the front panel.

[0078] The refrigeration unit 100 comprises a hinged frame 108 disposed within the refrigeration compartment 102. The hinged frame 108 includes a frame 110 for supporting one or more shelves 112. In this example, the frame 110 comprises a plurality of shelves 112 for supporting trays or the like. In use, trays may sit directly upon the shelves 112 to maintain foodstuffs or drinks in an elevated position within the refrigeration compartment 102.

[0079] The frame 110 is hingedly coupled to a sidewall 114 of the refrigeration compartment 102 such that the frame 110 is pivotable with respect to the sidewall 114. In this example, the frame 110 is hingedly coupled to an upper portion 116 of the refrigeration compartment 102. In other examples, the frame 110 may be hingedly coupled to a lower portion 117 of the refrigeration compartment 102. As used herein 'upper' and 'lower' are defined relative to the working orientation of the refrigeration unit 100.

[0080] The hinged frame 108 comprises at least one hinge 118 provided at a top 120 of the frame 110. A bottom 122 of the frame 110, opposite the top 120, defines a free end 124 of the frame 110.

[0081] The hinge 118 couples the top 120 of the frame 110 to the refrigeration compartment 102 such that the bottom 122 of the frame 110 can be pivoted away from the sidewall 114 of the refrigeration compartment 102. This action is indicated in FIG. 1 by arrow 126.

[0082] Conventional refrigeration units are known to include support frames for shelves. These support frames are typically fixed to an interior surface of the refrigeration compartment by fasteners such as screws. This arrangement may provide crevices for accumulation of debris and bacteria. In particular, interfaces between the support frame and the the interior surface of the refrigeration compartment may harbour bacteria in areas which are difficult or impossible to access with the support frame coupled to the refrigeration compartment. Removing the support frame from the compartment to allow for proper cleaning may be impractical due to the significant size and weight of the support frames used (especially for refrigeration units for commercial establishments). As such, support frames may be left in place for long periods of time, during which dirt may accumulate at the interface between the support frame and the refrigeration compartment.

[0083] In contrast, the frame 110 of the present disclosure is pivotable between a first (standard) configuration and a second configuration that provides access to the space between the wall of refrigeration compartment 102 and the frame 110 for easy cleaning of the refrigeration unit 100.

[0084] The first configuration may be suitable for standard use of the refrigeration unit 100 (e.g., supporting foodstuffs and / or beverages in an elevated position within the refrigeration compartment). In order to maximise the available space in the refrigeration compartment 102 for trays (e.g. of foodstuffs), in the first configuration the frame 110 may be configured to sit close to the sidewall 114. In some examples, in the first configuration, a back surface 128 of the frame 110 may contact the sidewall 114 along a length 134 of the frame 110.

[0085] The frame 110 is manually actuatable between the first configuration and the second configuration. FIG. 1 shows the frame 110 in the second configuration. As shown, actuating the frame 110 from the first configuration to the second configuration increases a spacing between the free end 124 of the frame 110 and an inner surface 132 of the sidewall 114.

[0086] Beneficially, this may allow for easier cleaning between the frame 110 and the sidewall 114. In some examples, when the frame 110 is in the second configuration, the back surface 128 of the frame 110 does not contact the inner surface 132 of the sidewall 114. This further increases the ease of accessing and cleaning between the frame 110 and the sidewall 114 behind the full height of the frame 110.

[0087] As such, the refrigeration unit 100 may be easier to thoroughly clean than existing refrigeration units.

[0088] In this example, the refrigeration unit 100 comprises two hinged frames 108, 130 coupled to opposing sidewalls 114, 115 of the refrigeration compartment 102. The hinged frame 108 (shown on the left of FIG. 1) and an additional hinged frame 130 (shown on the right of FIG. 1).

[0089] The additional hinged frame 130 is substantially similar to the hinged frame 108, for example a mirror image of the hinged frame 108. As such, except where inconsistent or explicitly stated otherwise, features discussed in relation to the hinged frame 108 should be taken to apply to the additional hinged frame 130. In other examples, the refrigeration unit 100 may comprise any number of hinged frames disposed on any combination of: the rear wall 106, the door; and the sidewalls 114, 115.

[0090] In FIG. 1, the hinged frame 108 is shown in the second configuration while the additional hinged frame 130 is shown in the first configuration. The hinged frame 108 and the additional hinged frame 130 are configured to pivot towards one another.

[0091] FIG. 2 shows the hinged frame 108 when both the hinged frame 108 and the additional hinged frame 130 are in the first configuration.

[0092] As shown, each of the shelves 112 are configured to project away from the frame 110 such that the shelves 112 are cantilevered from the frame 110. Providing cantilevered shelves may allow the frame 110 to pivot within the refrigeration compartment 102 without fouling the opposing sidewall 115 or the additional hinged frame 130 attached thereto.

[0093] In this example, each of the shelves 112 project perpendicularly to the length 134 of the frame 110. As shown, when the frame 110 is in the first configuration, the length 134 extends substantially vertically and the shelves 112 extend substantially horizontally.

[0094] Each of the shelves 112 of the hinged frame 108 may be configured to align with a corresponding shelf of the additional hinged frame 130. In use, trays for foodstuffs may be supported on either side by a pair of aligned shelves 112 of the two hinged frames 108, 130. For example, trays may be placed directly onto the shelves 112 of the two hinged frames 108, 130.

[0095] In another example, the refrigeration unit 100 may comprise one or more panels for reversibly coupling between a pair of aligned shelves 112.

[0096] In the example shown, each hinged frame 108, 130 comprises 16 shelves 112. It will be understood that each frame 110 may comprise any number of shelves 112 spaced at regular or irregular intervals along the length 134 of the frame 110.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 2, in this example the hinged frame 108 comprises two support bars 136, 138 which are each individually hingedly coupled to the sidewall 114. A first support bar 136 is positioned towards a rear of the refrigeration compartment 102 (proximal to the rear wall 106) while a second support bar 138 is positioned towards a front of the refrigeration compartment 102 (distal from the rear wall 106). Each of the shelves 112 are coupled to and supported by the two support bars 136, 138. The shelves 112 may be removable from the support bars 136, 138. In examples, the shelves 112 may be couplable to the support bars 136, 138 at different locations along the support bars 136, 138 to change the arrangement of the shelves 112.

[0098] In this example, the first support bar 136 is substantially similar to, for example the same as, the second support bar 138. As such, except where inconsistent or explicitly stated otherwise, features discussed in relation to the first support bar 136 should be taken to apply to the second support bar 138. In other examples, the hinged frame 108 may comprise any number of support bars for supporting the shelves 112 (e.g., one, two, three, four or more support bars).

[0099] FIG. 3A shows an enlarged view of a portion of the refrigeration unit 100. In particular, FIG. 3A illustrates an enlarged view of a top portion of the first support bar 136. As shown, the shelves 112 are securable to the first support bar 136 by way of one or more fasteners (not shown). The fasteners engage through-thickness apertures 140 which extend through the shelf 112 and the first support bar 136. The first support bar 136 has a U-shaped profile comprising a substantially flat base 142 for engaging the shelves 112, and two arms 144 which project towards the sidewall 114. The arms 144 are perforated by a series of holes. Beneficially, the holes 146 allow for easier handling of the frame 110 by providing a grip for handling the frame 110 and minimising the overall weight of the frame 110 while maintaining structural rigidity. The holes 146 may additionally or alternatively provide latching features for attaching shelves 112.

[0100] Each arm 144 comprises a flange 148 for engaging an inner surface 132 of the sidewall 114. In this example, the flanges 148 extend outwardly from the arms 144 (i.e., away from one another). The flanges 148 may ensure effective sealing and consistent force transfer between the first support bar 136 and the sidewall 114 when the frame 110 is in the first configuration (as shown).

[0101] As previously discussed, the first support bar 136 is hingedly coupled to the sidewall 114 by way of a hinge 118. In this example, the hinge 118 comprises first and second bracket arms 150, 152 which are rotatable with respect to one another. The first bracket arm 150 is fixedly coupled to the first support bar 136. In this example, the first bracket arm 150 is coupled to a face of the base 142 opposite the shelves 112 by way of one or more fasteners such as screws or bolts (not shown). The second bracket arm 152 is therefore hingedly coupled to the first support bar 136 by way of the first bracket arm 150.

[0102] The refrigeration compartment 102 comprises a bracket receptacle 154 for coupling the second bracket arm 152 to the refrigeration compartment 102. This is best illustrated in FIG. 3B which shows the first bracket arm 150 and bracket receptacle 154 in isolation from the other components of the hinged frame 108.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 3B, the bracket receptacle 154 is fixedly coupled to the inner surface 132 of the sidewall 114. In this example, the bracket receptacle 154 is configured to fixedly couple to the inner surface 132 by way of one or more fasteners such as screws or bolts.

[0104] The bracket receptacle 154 is configured to receive the second bracket arm 152 to hingedly couple the first support bar 136 to the refrigeration compartment 102. In this example, the bracket receptacle 154 comprises an upwardly facing slot 156 for receiving the second bracket arm 152. Arrow 158 illustrates the second bracket arm 152 being inserted into the slot 156 to couple the first support bar 136 to the refrigeration compartment 102.

[0105] As the slot 156 is upwardly facing, in use, a weight of the frame 110 maintains the second bracket arm 152 in the slot 156. In use, the hinged frame 108 may be actuated between the first and second configurations to allow for easy regular cleaning of the hinged frame 108 and the sidewall 114 of the refrigeration compartment 102. Beneficially, the bracket receptacle 154 supports the weight of the frame 110 thereby allowing for easy actuation of the frame 110 between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0106] The hinged frame 108 may be detached from the refrigeration compartment 102 by applying an upwards force to the frame 110 to slide / lift the second bracket arm 152 out of the bracket receptacle 154. In this way, the frame 110 is reversibly coupled to the sidewall 114 of the refrigeration compartment 102.

[0107] In some situations, for example during deep cleaning of the refrigeration unit 100, it may be beneficial to de-couple the hinged frame 108 from the refrigeration compartment 102. The refrigeration unit 100 provides a means for quickly and easily detaching the hinged frame 108 from the refrigeration compartment 102. This reversible coupling allows the hinged frame 108 to be easily replaced for a new (identical) hinged frame or for an different hinged frame in order to tailor the refrigeration unit 100 for a different application (e.g., with different shelf height requirements).

[0108] FIG. 4A shows an enlarged view of a lower portion of the refrigeration unit 100. In particular, FIG. 4A illustrates an enlarged view of the bottom 122 of the first support bar 136. As shown, the refrigeration unit 100 may comprise a locking mechanism to reversibly lock a position of the frame 110 with respect to the refrigeration compartment 102.

[0109] As shown, the refrigeration unit 100 comprises a clamp 160 to reversibly lock the frame 110 in the first configuration. The clamp 160 comprises a clamp arm 162 configured to engage the first support bar 136 near the bottom 122 of the frame 110.

[0110] In this example, the clamp 160 is manually actuatable. The clamp 160 comprises a fastener 164 for reversibly locking (and unlocking) the clamp 160.

[0111] As shown, in this example the fastener is a thumb screw which extends through the clamp arm 162. The inner surface 132 of the sidewall 114 comprises a sidewall aperture 166 for receiving a portion of the fastener 164 as indicated by arrow 168.

[0112] When the clamp 160 is locked, the first support bar 136 is clamped to the sidewall 114 by the clamp arm 162. In this configuration, the clamp 160 prevents the hinged frame 108 from being actuated from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0113] When the clamp is unlocked, the clamp arm 162 may be removed as shown in FIG. 4A. In this configuration, the hinged frame 108 is operable to be actuated between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0114] In this example, the fastener 164 is operable to reversibly tighten the first support bar 136 to the sidewall 114. Tightening the frame 110 with respect to the refrigeration compartment 102 may ensure the frame 110 provides a secure foundation to the shelves 112 (when the hinged frame 108 is in the first configuration).

[0115] In some examples, each hinged frame 108 may comprise only one clamp 160. In other examples, each support bar may comprise its own clamp 160. In some examples a latch mechanism may be used instead of a clamp 160 to secure the frame 110 in the first configuration. In yet further examples, the clamp 160 may be omitted altogether and the weight of the frame 110 may be relied upon to press the hinged frame 108 against the sidewall 114 in the first configuration.

[0116] FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C show an alternative example locking mechanism. In this example, the locking mechanism comprises an antiluce fastener. The locking mechanism has a locking lever 182 that is attached to the refrigeration compartment 102 at a lock pivot 186. The lock pivot 186 includes a protruding part that protrudes from the refrigeration compartment 102. The frame 110 includes an opening. When the frame 110 is in the vertical position, as illustrated, the lock pivot 186 protrudes through the opening in the frame 110 and the locking lever 182 is disposed on an opposite side of the frame 110 to the wall of the refrigeration compartment 102. The locking lever 182 includes an elongate slot 184, such that the locking lever 182 can be slid vertically and rotated between locked and unlocked position. FIG. 4B shows the locked position, in which the locking lever 182 is rotated vertically to block movement of the frame 110, thereby locking the frame 110 against the refrigeration compartment 102. FIG. 4C shows the locking lever 182 after it has been lifted and rotated horizontally, such that the frame 110 can be rotated away from the refrigeration compartment 102, during which movement the locking lever 182 passes through the opening in the frame 110. This is an unlocked position because it allows the frame 110 to be rotated away from the refrigeration compartment 102 as described above.

[0117] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate an enlarged view of the refrigeration unit 100. As shown, the refrigeration unit 100 may comprise a locking mechanism to reversibly lock the frame 110 in the second configuration. Beneficially this may ensure the safety of those cleaning the refrigeration unit 100 by preventing the frame 110 from unexpectedly returning to the first configuration. Additionally, this may improve the ease with which the refrigeration unit 100 can be cleaned as the frame 110 need not be manually held in the second configuration by a user.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 5A, the refrigeration unit 100 may comprise a support arm 170 operable to engage the frame 110 and the refrigeration compartment 102 (in particular sidewall 114) to hold the frame 110 in the second configuration.

[0119] In this example, the support arm 170 comprises a first end 172 pivotally attached to the sidewall 114. A second end 174 of the support arm 170, opposite the first end 172 is configured to engage the first support bar 136 to lock the frame 110 in the second configuration.

[0120] In particular, the second end 174 comprises a hook 176 for engaging a corresponding slot 178 provided on the first support bar 136. In this example the first support bar 136 comprises a brace 180 which defines the slot 178. The brace 180 is fixedly coupled to the face of the first support bar 136 opposite the shelves 112. In this example, the brace is aligned with a shelf 122 such that the shelf 112 and the brace 180 may be coupled to the first support bar 136 by common fasteners (not shown).

[0121] As shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, when the support arm 170 is in a locked configuration, the support arm 170 rests against the brace 180. In this configuration, the weight of the frame 110 is supported by the support arm 170 allowing a user to clean between the frame 110 and the sidewall 114 without having the manually hold the frame 110 in the second configuration. In this example, the brace 180 is positioned such that the the support arm 170 is substantially perpendicular to the first support bar 136 for effective force transfer.

[0122] The hook 176 may act to secure the support arm 170 in the locked configuration and prevent it from becoming dislodged during cleaning. In this example the hook 176 is shaped such that the frame 110 has to be pivoted from the second configuration, further away from the sidewall 114 in order to insert and remove the hook 176 from the slot 178.

[0123] When the support arm 170 is in an unlocked configuration, the support arm is parallel to the first support bar 136. In this configuration, the support arm 170 is received within a space defined by the U-shaped profile of the first support bar 136. This may ensure the support arm 170 is kept away from the contents of the refrigeration compartment 102.

[0124] In some examples, each hinged frame 108 may comprise only one support arm 170. In other examples, each support bar may comprise its own support arm 170 (e.g., two support arms 170 for the frame 110 illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2).

[0125] FIG. 6 illustrates a method 200 of cleaning a refrigeration compartment of a refrigeration unit such as the refrigeration unit 100.

[0126] The method 200 comprises a first step 201 of pivoting the frame 110 of the refrigeration compartment 102 away from the sidewall 114 to increase a spacing between the free end 124 of the frame 110 and the sidewall 114.

[0127] In this example, the method 200 comprises an optional second step 202 of locking the frame 110 in the second configuration e.g., using the support arm 170.

[0128] The method 200 then comprises a third step 203 of accessing a space between the frame 110 and the sidewall 114 to clean the sidewall 114 and / or the frame 110.

[0129] In some examples the method 200 further comprises a fourth step of unlocking the frame 110 and pivoting the frame 110 of the refrigeration compartment 102 towards the sidewall 114 to reduce a spacing between the free end 124 of the frame 110 and the sidewall 114.

[0130] In some examples the fourth step of the method 200 further comprises comprises a final stage of locking the frame 110 with respect to the refrigeration compartment 102 (e.g. by locking the clamp 160).

[0131] In some examples the first step 201 of the method 200 comprises an initial stage of unlocking the frame 110 with respect to the refrigeration compartment 102 (e.g. by unlocking the clamp 160).

[0132] The steps of the method may be completed in ascending numerical order as shown in FIG. 6.

[0133] Although the present disclosure is described in conjunction with the examples of embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantial equivalents that are known or current or to be anticipated before long may be obvious to those of at least ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, the technical effects and / or technical problems described in this description are exemplary rather than limiting; therefore, the disclosure in this description may be used to solve other technical problems and have other technical effects and / or may solve other technical problems. Accordingly, the examples of the embodiments of the present disclosure as set forth above are intended to be illustrative rather than limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to embrace all known or earlier disclosed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantial equivalents.

Claims

1. A refrigeration unit comprising a refrigeration compartment in which a frame for supporting one or more shelves is provided, wherein the frame is hingedly coupled to a wall of the refrigeration compartment such that the frame is pivotable away from the wall to increase a spacing between a free end of the frame and the wall.

2. The refrigeration unit of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises a top and a bottom, and wherein the top is hingedly coupled to the refrigeration compartment such that the bottom of the frame can be pivoted away from a sidewall of the refrigeration compartment.

3. The refrigeration unit of claim 1 or 2, wherein the refrigeration unit comprises at least one hinge coupled to the frame opposite the free end, optionally wherein the frame is hingedly coupled to an upper portion of the refrigeration compartment.

4. The refrigeration unit of claim 3, wherein the at least one hinge and the frame together define a hinged frame and wherein the refrigeration unit comprises one or more additional hinged frames.

5. The refrigeration unit of claim 4, wherein the hinged frame comprises the one or more shelves for supporting trays or the like within the refrigeration compartment, optionally wherein each of the one or more shelves is cantilevered from the frame.

6. The refrigeration unit of claim 4 or 5, wherein the hinged frame comprises a bracket arm hingedly coupled to the frame and wherein the refrigeration compartment comprises a bracket receptacle disposed on an interior of the refrigeration compartment and configured to receive the bracket arm to couple the frame to the refrigeration compartment, optionally wherein the bracket receptacle comprises an upwardly facing aperture or upwardly facing slot configured to receive the bracket arm.

7. The refrigeration unit of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the refrigeration unit comprises a locking mechanism to reversibly lock a position of the frame with respect to the refrigeration compartment.

8. The refrigeration unit of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the frame is pivotable between a first configuration and a second configuration, and wherein actuating the frame from the first configuration to the second configuration increases the spacing between the free end of the frame and an inner surface of the wall.

9. The refrigeration unit of any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a first locking mechanism, to reversibly lock the frame in the first configuration, optionally wherein the refrigeration unit comprises a clamp to secure the free end of the frame to the wall of the refrigeration compartment.

10. The refrigeration unit of claim 9, comprising a second locking mechanism to reversibly lock the frame in the second configuration, optionally wherein the refrigeration unit comprises a support arm operable to engage the frame and the refrigeration compartment to hold the frame in the second configuration.

11. The refrigeration unit of claim 9, wherein the support arm comprises: a first end pivotally attached to one of the frame and the wall; and a second end engageable with the other of the frame and the wall.

12. The refrigeration unit of claim 9, wherein the second end of the support arm comprises a hook for engaging a corresponding slot provided on either the frame or an inner surface of the wall, optionally wherein the hook is shaped such that the frame has to be pivoted from the second configuration, away from the wall of the refrigeration compartment, in order to insert and remove the hook from the slot.

13. A kit of parts for assembly to form a refrigeration unit according to any preceding claim, the kit of parts comprising the refrigeration compartment and the frame.

14. A hinged frame for use in a refrigeration compartment of a refrigeration unit, wherein the frame is mountable in the refrigeration compartment and configured to support one or more shelves , and wherein the frame comprises a hinge for coupling to a wall of the refrigeration compartment such that the frame is pivotable away from the wall to increase a spacing between a free end of the frame and the wall.

15. A method of cleaning a refrigeration compartment of a refrigeration unit, the refrigeration unit comprising a frame for supporting one or more shelves provided within the refrigeration compartment, wherein the frame is hingedly coupled to a wall of the refrigeration compartment, the method comprising: pivoting the frame of the refrigeration compartment away from the wall to increase a spacing between a free end of the frame and the wall; and accessing a space between the frame and the wall to clean the wall and / or the frame.

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