Combination Freezer

Abstract

A combination freezer includes a first compartment that is maintained at a first temperature, a second compartment that is maintained at a second temperature, and a third compartment that is maintained at a third temperature. The third compartment has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment and the second compartment. The combination freezer also includes a user interface that is in operative communication with a temperature controller for selecting the first temperature, the second temperature, and the third temperature. The temperature controller is programmed to provide a first configuration in which the first temperature, the second temperature, and the third temperature are substantially the same, via the user interface. The temperature controller is programmed to provide a second configuration in which the third temperature is different from at least one of the first temperature or the second temperature, via the user interface.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 763,137, filed on February 25, 2025, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Refrigerators and freezers are provided in many different sizes, shapes, and configurations for various uses. The particular sizes, shapes, and configurations of such refrigerators and freezers are often determined by compatibility with the dimensions and uses of the installation space. Often, space is limited, and it is difficult to fit all the desired features and functions of the refrigerators and freezers within the installation space, especially when refrigerators and freezers are provided as separate pieces of equipment.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a for a refrigerator and a freezer that provides adjustability to fit within limited or unique spaces. Further, there is a need for a device that combines a refrigerator and a freezer.SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0004] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a combination freezer includes a main body, a first compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a first temperature, a second compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a second temperature, and a third compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a third temperature. The third compartment has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment and the second compartment. The combination freezer also includes a user interface that is in operative communication with a temperature controller for selecting the first temperature, the second temperature, and the third temperature. The temperature controller is programmed to provide a first configuration in which the first temperature, the second temperature, and the third temperature are substantially the same, via the user interface. The temperature controller is programmed to provide a second configuration in which the third temperature is different from at least one of the first temperature or the second temperature, via the user interface.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first compartment extends continuously from a left side to a right side of the main body and is positioned above the second compartment and the third compartment. In other embodiments, the second compartment is positioned between the first compartment and a vent panel adjacent to a bottom side of the main body. In yet other embodiments, the third compartment is positioned adjacent to the second compartment. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a hot gas defrost line configured to selectively direct hot refrigerant gas to the evaporator coil during defrost cycles to melt accumulated frost and ice from surfaces of the evaporator coil. In other embodiments, the combination freezer further includes a drain pan positioned beneath the evaporator coil. In yet another embodiment, the hot gas defrost line heats the drain pan during defrost cycles to prevent condensate from refreezing within the drain pan. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes two condenser fans positioned adjacent to the condenser coil for heat dissipation. In other embodiments, the combination freezer further includes a vent panel extending from a left side to a right side adjacent to a bottom side of the main body. In yet another embodiment, the two condenser fans draw ambient air through the vent panel and across the condenser coil. In some embodiments, the combination further includes a first damper positioned adjacent to the third compartment and a second damper positioned adjacent to the first compartment. In other embodiments, the first damper and the second damper are configured to modulate flow of cooled air from the evaporator coil to maintain a first temperature setpoint of the first compartment, a second setpoint of the second compartment, and a third setpoint of the third compartment. In some embodiments, the first compartment and the third compartment are each configured as a freezer to maintain a temperature below a freezing point of water. In other embodiments, the second compartment is configured as a refrigeration device to maintain a temperature above the freezing point of water. In yet another embodiment, the first compartment has a width that is larger than a width of each of the second compartment and the third compartment. In some embodiments, the second compartment has a height that is larger than a height of each of the first compartment and the third compartment. In other embodiments, the combination freezer further includes a depth adjuster positioned adjacent to a top side and extending from a rear side of the main body. In some embodiments, the depth adjuster is configured to create an accommodation space between the rear side and a wall against which the combination freezer is installed.

[0006] In some aspects, a combination freezer includes a main body defining an interior and having a top surface and a plurality of compartments positioned within the interior of the main body. Each of the plurality of compartments is independently maintained at a respective temperature. The combination freezer also includes a refrigeration system configured to maintain each respective temperature of the plurality of compartments. The refrigeration system includes an evaporator coil positioned within the interior adjacent to the top surface. The evaporator coil is positioned at an angle relative to the top surface. The combination freezer further includes a drain pan positioned beneath the evaporator coil and configured to receive condensate and defrost water from the evaporator coil and a drain tube extending from the drain pan for condensate removal. The angled positioning of the evaporator coil facilitates drainage of condensation and defrost water into the drain pan.

[0007] In some embodiments, the combination freezer further includes a first damper and a second damper configured to selectively regulate airflow to the plurality of compartments. In other embodiments, the first damper and the second damper are operatively coupled to a temperature controller to modulate flow of cooled air from the evaporator coil based on user-selected temperature setpoints for each of the plurality of compartments. In yet another embodiment, the combination freezer further includes insulated walls separating each of the plurality of compartments from one another. In some embodiments, the insulated walls thermally isolate each of the plurality of compartments to allow independent temperature control of each compartment. In other embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a suction line extending from the evaporator coil to a compressor, carrying low-pressure refrigerant gas back to the compressor for compression. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a hot gas defrost line configured to selectively direct hot refrigerant gas to the evaporator coil during defrost cycles. In other embodiments, the hot gas defrost line heats the drain pan during defrost cycles to prevent condensate from refreezing within the drain pan.

[0008] In some aspects, a tray for use in a combination freezer includes inner walls extending upwardly from a bottom surface to define a storage volume and a pair of flanges positioned on opposing sides of the tray and extending outwardly from upper portions of the inner walls. The flanges are configured to engage and rest upon corresponding top surfaces of a drawer when the tray is installed within the drawer. The bottom surface defines a contoured, non-planar surface having two angled surfaces that extend upwardly toward one another from opposing sides of the bottom surface and converge to form an apex extending as a ridge across a center of the bottom surface.

[0009] In some embodiments, the apex extends to a height that is between about 2% and about 4% of a total height of the tray. In other embodiments, the two angled surfaces extend from the opposing sides of the bottom surface toward the apex at an angle between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the bottom surface. In another embodiment, the flanges include alignment features configured to correspond to complementary features on the drawer to ensure proper orientation of the tray within the drawer.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described hereinafter below with reference to the following figures.

[0011] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a front, right, and top of combination freezer, according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 2A is a partial, isometric view of a top surface of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 2B is a partial, isometric view of the top surface of FIG. 2A, with sections removed;

[0014] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a front, right, and top the combination freezer of FIG. 1 with its compartments removed;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a front side view of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a partial view of a vent panel and leg holder of the combination freezer of FIG. 4;

[0017] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a back, right, and top the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0018] FIG. 7A is a rear side view of a first compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0019] FIG. 7B is a right side view of the first compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0020] FIG. 8A is a rear side view of a second compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0021] FIG. 8B is a right, side view of the second compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0022] FIG. 9A is a rear side view of a third compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0023] FIG. 9B is a right, side view of the third compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0024] FIG. 10 is an example diagram of a configuration of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0025] FIG. 11 is another example diagram of a configuration of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0026] FIG. 12 is yet another example diagram of a configuration of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0027] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0028] FIG. 14 is a partial, isometric view of a front, right, and bottom of the combination freezer of FIG. 1 with wheels;

[0029] FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a front and right side of a combination freezer, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 16 is a rear view of a schematic of a refrigeration system for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0031] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view along lines XVII-XVII of FIG. 1;

[0032] FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a front, right, and top of the third compartment with a tray for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1; and

[0033] FIG. 19 is a top view of the third compartment of FIG. 18 with the drawer installed.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The present disclosure provides for a combination freezer including a first compartment, a second compartment, and a third compartment. The combination freezer is designed to maintain a first temperature within the first compartment, a second temperature within the second compartment, and a third temperature within the third compartment. In some embodiments, third compartment has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment and the second compartment. The combination freezer includes a temperature controller having a user interface that allows a user to control the temperature of the first compartment, the second compartment, and the third compartment. The temperature controller can provide different configurations, such as a first configuration in which all three compartments are maintained at substantially the same temperature, and a second configuration in which the third compartment is maintained at a different temperature from at least one of the first compartment or the second compartment. The combination freezer also includes a refrigeration system having a hot gas defrost line configured to direct hot refrigerant gas to an evaporator coil during defrost cycles, and the evaporator coil may be positioned at an angle to facilitate drainage of condensation and defrost water. Further, the combination freezer also includes a depth adjuster that allows a location of the combination freezer to be adjustable when permanently or removably installed proximate a wall. The combination freezer further includes a tray having a contoured, non-planar bottom surface configured to prevent ice from clumping or sticking together during storage. A number of implementations are described herein. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 1, a combination freezer 100 is shown. The combination freezer 100 includes a main body 102 having a front side 104 that is opposite a rear side 106, a right side 108 that is opposite a left side 110, and a top side 112 that is opposite a bottom side 114. The main body 102 has three compartments configured as a first compartment 116, a second compartment 118, and a third compartment 120. Each compartment 116, 118, 120 is provided by a drawer 122 (see FIGS. 7A&7B), 124 (see FIGS. 8A&8B), 126 (see FIGS. 9A&9B) that is installed within a corresponding interior 128, 130, 132, respectively, (see FIG. 3) of the main body 102. Each interior 128, 130, 132 is operatively coupled to a refrigeration system (see FIG. 16), as will be further detailed below. Each drawer 122, 124, 126 is slidably coupled to the front side 104 of the main body 102 and has a front panel 134, 136, 138, respectively, that covers the interior 128, 130, 132 (see FIG. 3) of the main body 102 defined by each compartment 116, 118, 120. Each front panel 134, 136, 138 includes a handle 140, 142, 144, respectively, that is configured as an elongate, cylindrical rod that is supported at a distance from the front panel 134, 136, 138, respectively, to provide sufficient spacing for facilitating quick and easy grasping by a user to access to the interior 128, 130, 132 of each compartment 116, 118, 120. In other examples, a knob, a grip, or a latch is used to facilitate the opening of each compartment 116, 118, 120, although other configurations are possible.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, a central axis 146 extends centrally between the left side 110 and the right side 108 and centrally between the front side 104 and the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100. As further shown, a vent panel 148 extends from the left side 110 to the right side 108 and is adjacent to the bottom side 114 of the combination freezer 100. In use, the vent panel 148 has louvered vents 150, 152 that are configured to exhaust heat generated by the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16). In this example, the vent panel 148 includes a first section 154 (including the louvered vents 150) that extends substantially the same width as the second compartment 118. The vent panel 148 also includes a second section 156 (including the louvered vents 152) that extends substantially the same width of the third compartment 120. The second section 156 of the vent panel 148 is larger than the first section 154 such that the second section 156 extends in an upward direction (relative to the bottom side 114 of the combination freezer 100) greater than the first section 154. In this embodiment, the first section 154 and the second section 156 of the vent panel 148 are integrally formed, although other configurations are possible.

[0037] The second section 156 of the vent panel 148 includes a user interface 158 that protrudes outwardly from the second section 156 so as to be exposed and accessible to a user on the front side 104 of the combination freezer 100. The user interface 158 is operatively coupled to a temperature controller (see FIG. 16) that is in communication with the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16) to maintain contents and items kept within the compartments 116, 118, 120 at a temperature below the ambient air temperature (e.g., such as the ambient indoor air temperature of an establishment). For example, the temperature controller (see FIG. 16) is configured as a digital temperature controller that provides inputs and programming for controlling the temperature and humidity of each compartment 116, 118, 120.

[0038] The user interface 158 enables a user to select a temperature setpoint and a humidity setpoint for each compartment 116, 118, 120. The temperature controller (see FIG. 16) is configured to receive input from at least one sensor (not shown), e.g., a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, disposed in each compartment 116, 118, 120 and to compare these results with the user-selected inputs. A plurality of dampers (see FIG. 16) are provided within the combination freezer 100 to selectively regulate airflow to and / or from each compartment 116, 118, 120, thereby providing centralized temperature controls. The plurality of dampers (see FIG. 16) may be arranged proximate to each of the compartments 116, 118, 120. In other embodiments, the dampers may be provided in a manifold upstream of the compartments 116, 118, 120, although other configurations are possible. In this example, the dampers are motorized and can be automatically modulated by the temperature controller in communication with the refrigeration system to provide the desired temperature control (e.g., setpoint maintenance), although other configurations are possible. For example, in other embodiments, the dampers may be manually modulated by a user. Accordingly, the temperature controller (see FIG. 16) operates the refrigeration system of the combination freezer 100 and maintains each setpoint for each compartment 116, 118, 120 based on feedback from the at least one sensor. The temperature controller (see FIG. 16) further accounts for ambient temperature and / or humidity using an ambient sensor (not shown). In this way, a user is able to control the temperature of each compartment 116, 118, 120 using the user interface 158 to maintain the user-settable values or ranges.

[0039] Referring still to FIG. 1, the first compartment 116 extends continuously from the left side 110 to the right side 108 of the main body 102. The first compartment 116 is also positioned above the second compartment 118 and the third compartment 120 (e.g., relative to the top side 112 of the combination freezer 100). The second compartment 118 is positioned between the first section 154 of the vent panel 148 and the first compartment 116. The second compartment 118 is also located proximate the left side 110 of the central axis 146 and is positioned to the left of the third compartment 120. As will be further discussed below, the second compartment 118 extends partially to the right side 108 of the central axis 146, such that the second compartment 118 is not disposed entirely on the left side of the central axis 146.

[0040] The third compartment 120 is located between the second section 156 of the vent panel 148 and the first compartment 116. The third compartment 120 is positioned on the right side 108 of the central axis 146 and is positioned to the right of the second compartment 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the entire third compartment 120 is located on the right side of the central axis 146. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the configuration of the combination freezer 100 can be mirrored or switched relative to the right side 108 and the left side 110, such that the second compartment 118 may be located proximate the right side 108 of the central axis 146 and the third compartment 120 can be located proximate the left side 110 of the central axis 146, although other configurations are possible.

[0041] As further shown in FIG. 1, a depth adjuster 160 adjacent to the top side 112 extends from the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100. As will be further detailed below in connection with FIG. 13, the depth adjuster 160 enables the combination freezer 100 to be installed against a wall 162 (see FIG. 13) that creates an accommodation space 164 between the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100 and the wall 162. This further enables the combination freezer 100 to be installed at varying positions relative to the wall 162, and with sufficient spacing for proper ventilation and operation of the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16).

[0042] Referring still to FIG. 1, a top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 adjacent to the top side 112 has four sections 168 that are removably coupled to the combination freezer 100 such that each section 168 of the top surface 166 is able to be removed and replaced. In this way, a user is able to customize the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 in a variety of different combinations.

[0043] For example, as shown in FIG. 2A, the four sections 168 each have two grips 170 on opposing sides of the section 168. In this embodiment, the grips 170 are configured as semi-circular recesses for grasping and manipulating each section 168 relative to the top surface 166. In other embodiments, the grips 170 are configured with different shapes, such as rectangular or elliptical. In some embodiments, the grips 170 are handles that can be selectively recessed or concealed when not in use and can be selectively extended or revealed when in use to remove one of the sections 168. In this example, each of the sections 168 is configured as a drain board that has perforations or holes to permit excess liquid to drain down from the sections, thereby keeping the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 dry, as will be further detailed below. In other examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 is a flat top or stainless-steel top that is used as a preparation space. In some examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 is a cutting board made of a suitable material (e.g., wood, plastic, bamboo, etc.) for sanitation and exposure to sharp edges. In some examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 is or includes an organizer (not shown), such as, e.g., a garnish caddy top that stores a variety of garnishes and other barware. In some examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 includes a built-in scale for measuring ingredients or portions of fluids or masses. In some embodiments, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 includes a sink basin with a drain connection for rinsing glassware or utensils. In some examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 is a glass rinse device having one or more spray nozzles configured to rinse glassware when pressed against the nozzles.

[0044] Further shown in FIG. 2A, each corner 171 of the top surface 166 is configured as a soft corner, such that no sharp edges are defined on the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 that enhances safety and reduces risk of injury. In some examples, the corners 171 are configured as bullnosed, rounded edges and corners. In some embodiments, the corners 171 are formed by employing a hand bead polished technique, although other configurations are possible.

[0045] FIG. 2B illustrates the top surface 166 with the sections 168 removed for illustrative purposes. In this embodiment, the top surface 166 has a sloped drain wall 172 that extends from the front side 104 to the rear side 106. Two ramped sidewalls 174 surround the sloped drain wall 172 on the right side 108 and the left side 110 of the combination freezer 100 that directs excess fluid into the sloped drain wall 172. A drain opening 176 is positioned adjacent to the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100. The drain wall 172 and the ramped sidewalls 174 are sloped toward the drain opening 176 to prevent pooling on the top surface 166 and direct fluid flow toward the rear side 106 where a tube or hose (see FIG. 16) that can be connected to the drain opening 176 for proper disposal of such fluids. When not in use as a drain, the drain opening 176 can be alternatively configured as a conduit to receive one or more power cables or electrical cables that are used to facilitate communication (e.g., wired or wirelessly) with a point of sale (POS) system attached to the top surface 166. In some embodiments, a conduit or passage (not shown) is provided for the cables of the POS system in addition to the drain opening 176. In some examples, the conduit or passage is configured to accommodate cables for a tablet mount, a display panel, an integrated charging station, or other electronic devices positioned on the top surface 166.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 3, the compartments 116, 118, 120 are removed such that the interior cavities 128, 130, 132 are shown. In particular, a first wall 178 separates the first compartment 116 from the second compartment 118 and from the third compartment 120. Furthermore, a second wall 180 separates the second compartment 118 from the third compartment 120. Insulation (not shown) is provided within each of the first wall 178, the second wall 180, and along the perimeter, e.g., the left side 110, the right side 108, the rear side 106, the front side 104, the top side 112, and the bottom side 114, of the main body 102. In this way, each compartment 116, 118, 120 is able to be separately and independently controlled from one another such that each compartment 116, 118, 120 is able to be maintained at different temperature ranges using the user interface 158.

[0047] As further shown in FIG. 3, the combination freezer 100 is supported on a plurality of bases 182 adjacent the bottom side 114 of the combination freezer 100. For example, each base 182 is positioned adjacent to each corner of the combination freezer 100, as will be further discussed below, although fewer or more bases 182 are possible. In this way, the bases 182 are configured to withstand the weight, e.g., loaded and unloaded, of the combination freezer 100. The bases 182 are configured to receive wheels (see FIG. 14), as will be further described below. In some examples, the combination freezer 100 is supported by caster-type wheels (see FIG. 15) that allows the combination freezer 100 to be moved along the surface the combination freezer 100 is installed on, although other configurations are possible.

[0048] FIG. 4 shows a front view of the combination freezer 100. In particular, and as noted above, the second compartment 118 extends on both the left side 110 and the right side 108 of the central axis 146. Accordingly, the first section 154 of the vent panel 148 also extends on both the left side 110 and the right side 108 of the central axis 146.

[0049] Two leg holders 184 are positioned adjacent to and proximal (relative to the central axis 146) to the bases 182. The leg holders 184 are configured to enclose corresponding legs 186 (see FIG. 5) to enable a height of the combination freezer 100 to be adjusted relative to the surface the combination freezer 100 is installed on. For example, a leveling tool (not shown) can be inserted into an aperture 188 of the leg holder 184 that is accessed through cutouts or gaps in the louvers 150 of the first section 154 of the vent panel 148. Rotational engagement between the leveling tool (not shown) and the leg holder 184 enables the leg 186 to move in an upward or downward direction (e.g., relative to the bottom side 114) that therefore adjusts a height of the combination freezer 100.

[0050] FIG. 5 further illustrates another view of the leg holder 184. As noted above, the aperture 188 of the leg holder 184 that enables the adjustment of height of the combination freezer 100 is accessible through a corresponding cutout 190 in the louvers 150 of the first section 154 of the vent panel 148. In this way, the aperture 188 of the leg holder 184 is easily accessible so a user is able to adjust and level the combination freezer 100, as desired. Easy adjustment and leveling of the combination freezer 100 facilitates proper operation of the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16), drainage of fluids from the sloped drain wall 172 and ramped sidewalls 174 to the drain opening 176, and storage of beverages and contents within the compartments 116, 118, 120.

[0051] FIG. 6 illustrates a back view of the combination freezer 100. As shown, a rear vent panel 192 extends on the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100 to permit airflow across the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16) from the front side 104 to the rear side 106, or the reverse thereof. The rear vent panel 192 includes a plurality of openings of different sizes and shapes for ventilation, condensation tube or piping accommodation, power and cable accommodation, and other suitable functions.

[0052] Referring back to FIG. 1, the compartments 116, 118, 120 differ in size from one another. The first compartment 116 is wider (in the left-right direction) than each of the second compartment 118 and the third compartment 120. The second compartment 118 is taller (in the top-bottom direction) than each of the first compartment 116 and the third compartment 120. The different sizes of the compartments 116, 118, 120 are configured to be associated with different functions, such as the storage of particular items or contents. For instance, the first compartment 116 is configured to store a high quantity of shorter items or elongate items that can be stored on their sides. The second compartment 118 is configured to store taller items that must be arranged upright. The third compartment 120 is configured to store smaller items that require particular or isolated conditions, e.g., temperatures, not suitable for the shorter items or taller items in the other compartments.

[0053] Turning now to FIG. 7A, a width 194 is measured between opposing sides of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116. In this example, the width 194 is between a range of about 15 inches and about 22 inches, or between about 16 inches and about 21 inches, or between about 17 inches and about 20 inches. As shown in FIG. 7B, a height 196 is measured from a bottom side to a top side of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116, and the height 196 is between about 6 inches and about 9 inches, or between about 7 inches and about 8 inches. The height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 can include space above the drawer 122 and below a top of the interior 128, when installed in the combination freezer 100, such that the height 196 may have a maximum of about 14 inches. As also shown in FIG. 7B, a depth 198 is measured between a back side and a front side of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 that extends within the interior 128 of the combination freezer 100, and the depth 198 is between about 24 inches and about 26 inches, or between about 25 inches and about 26.50 inches. In this way, for example, the first drawer 122 is configured to hold about 20 to 40 glassware items, such as coupe glasses.

[0054] Referring still to FIG. 7B, the drawer 122 has a track 200 on a right side 202 and a left side 203 that is slidably coupled to a mounting bracket 204 that is installed within the interior 128 of the combination freezer 100 that spans the depth 198 along the drawer 122. In this way, the first compartment 116 is able to be opened and closed by sliding relative to the interior 128 of the combination freezer 100. A gasket 207 (see FIG. 7A) is further installed onto a back side 208 of the front panel 134 enables a soft-close of the first compartment 116 and seals the first compartment 116 for maintaining temperature and humidity, and to prevent the ingress of dirt, dust, and debris.

[0055] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate dimensions of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118. In particular, as shown in FIG. 8A, a width 209 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 is measured between opposing sides of the drawer 124, and the width 209 is between about 10 inches and about 15 inches, or between about 11 inches and 14 inches, or between about 11.50 inches and about 13 inches. As shown in FIG. 8B, a height 210 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 is measured from a bottom side to a top side of the drawer 124, and the height 210 is between about 15.5 inches and about 20 inches, or between about 16 inches and about 18 inches, or between about 16.5 inches and about 17.5 inches. The height 210 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 can include space above the drawer 124 and below a top of the interior 130, when installed in the combination freezer 100, such that the height 210 may have a maximum of about 22 inches. Furthermore, a depth 211 is measured between a back side and a front side of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 that extends within the interior 130 of the combination freezer 100, and the depth 211 is between about 24 inches and about 26 inches, or between about 25 inches and about 26.50 inches. The second compartment 118 also has a track 212 slidably coupled to a mounting bracket 214, and a gasket 216 (see FIG. 8A) installed onto a back side 218 of the front panel 136 that employ the same benefits as discussed above in connection with the first compartment 116.

[0056] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate dimensions of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, a width 220 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 is measured between opposing right and left sides of the drawer 126, and the width 220 is between about 6 inches and about 10 inches, or between about 5 inches and about 9.50 inches, or between about 7 inches and about 9 inches. As illustrated in FIG. 9B, a height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 is measured from a bottom side to a top side of the drawer 126, and the height 222 is between about 8 inches to about 10 inches, or between about 8 inches and about 9 inches, or between about 8.5 inches and about 9.5 inches. The height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 can include space above the drawer 126 and below a top of the interior 132, when installed in the combination freezer 100, such that the height 222 may have a maximum of about 12 inches. A depth 224 is measured between a back side and a front side of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 that extends within the interior 132 of the combination freezer 100, and the depth 224 is between 24 inches and about 26 inches, or between about 25 inches and about 26.50 inches. In this way, for example, the third compartment 120 is configured to hold about 20 to 30 large craft ice cubes (e.g., sized as 2.5 inches by 2.5 inches). The third compartment 120 also has a track 226 slidably coupled to a mounting bracket 228, and a gasket 230 (see FIG. 9A) installed onto a back side 232 of the front panel 138 that employ the same benefits as discussed above in connection with the first compartment 116.

[0057] With reference to FIGS. 7A-9B, in comparison with the second compartment 118 and the third compartment 120, the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 is configured to have the largest width (e.g., represented by width 194). For example, the width 194 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 may be between about 45% and about 120% larger than the width 209 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118, and between about 50% and about 265% larger than the width 220 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. Correspondingly, the width 209 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 is configured to be larger than the width 220 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. For example, the width 209 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 may be between about 10% and about 150% larger than the width 220 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the third compartment 120 has the smallest width (e.g., represented by width 220).

[0058] Furthermore, the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 is configured to have the largest height (e.g., represented by height 210) as compared with the height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 and the height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. For example, the height 210 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 may be between about 70% and about 235% larger than the height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116, and between about 55% and about 150% larger than the height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. Correspondingly, the height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 is configured to be larger than the height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116. For example, the height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 may be between about 10% and about 65% larger than the height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 has the smallest height (e.g., represented by height 196).

[0059] With continued reference to FIGS. 7A-9B, the third compartment 120 has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118. For example, based on the width, height, and depth dimensions described above, the volume of the third compartment 120 is less than the volume of the first compartment 116 and less than the volume of the second compartment 118. In some embodiments, the volume of the third compartment 120 is between about 25% and about 75% of the volume of the second compartment 118, or between about 30% and about 60% of the volume of the second compartment 118, or between about 35% and about 50% of the volume of the second compartment 118. In some embodiments, the volume of the third compartment 120 is between about 15% and about 50% of the volume of the first compartment 116, or between about 20% and about 40% of the volume of the first compartment 116, or between about 25% and about 35% of the volume of the first compartment 116. The smaller volume of the third compartment 120 relative to the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 allows the third compartment 120 to be configured for storage of smaller items that require particular or isolated temperature conditions, such as craft ice cubes, while the larger volumes of the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 accommodate larger quantities of items or taller items.

[0060] The drawer 122 of the first compartment 116, the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118, and the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 are further configured to extend at a depth (e.g., represented by depth 198, depth 211, and depth 224, respectively) that is substantially the same, although other configurations are possible. As a result, the combination freezer 100 is configured to have a total width 234 (see FIG. 6) of about 23.5 inches to about 27 inches, or between about 24 inches and about 27.5 inches, or between about 24 inches and about 26 inches, although other configurations are possible. Correspondingly, the combination freezer 100 (including the drawers 122, 124, 126) is configured to have a total depth 236 (see FIG. 6) between about 24 inches and about 27.50 inches, or between about 24. 50 inches and about 27 inches, or between about 24 inches and about 26 inches, although other configurations are possible. As noted above, the depth 236 is enabled to be set using the depth adjuster 160 prior to installation. For example, the depth adjuster 160 can be installed during manufacturing of the combination freezer 100 according to architectural drawings or field measurements provided by a technician or user. In other examples, the depth adjuster 160 is omitted or absent from the combination freezer 100. Furthermore, the combination freezer 100 is configured to have a total height 238 (see FIG. 6) that is between about 35 inches to about 37 inches, or between about 34.5 inches and about 36.5 inches, or between about 36 inches and about 37 inches, although other configurations are possible.

[0061] FIG. 10 illustrates a first configuration 240 of the compartments 116, 118, 120. In particular, each of the first compartment 116, the second compartment 118, and the third compartment 120 is configured as a freezer so as to maintain a temperature in each compartment 116, 118, 120 below the freezing point of water (e.g., below 32 degrees Fahrenheit). For example, the first compartment 116 is configured to keep frozen glassware such as coupe glasses, rocks glasses, pint glasses, or stemmed beer glasses. Here, the temperature of the first compartment 116 is maintained within a range between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, the second compartment 118 is configured as a freezer door for taller glassware such as martini glasses, champagne glasses, or margarita glasses in which the second compartment 118 is maintained at a temperature range between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In the illustrated embodiment, the third compartment 120 is configured as an ice maker in which the temperature of the third compartment 120 is maintained within a range of between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In other examples, the compartments 116, 118, 120 are able to be maintained at different ranges of temperatures below freezing using the temperature controller (see FIG. 16).

[0062] FIG. 11 illustrates another configuration 242 of the compartments 116, 118, 120 of the combination freezer 100. In this example, the first compartment 116 and the third compartment 120 are configured as a freezer so as to maintain a temperature below the freezing point of water (e.g., below 32 degrees Fahrenheit). The second compartment 118 is configured as a refrigeration device that maintains items within the compartment 118 in a cool, controlled temperature without freezing. In this embodiment, the first compartment 116 is configured for keeping glassware such as coupes, rocks glasses, pint glasses, or stemmed beer glasses frozen, and the third compartment 120 is configured as an ice drawer configured to store ice. The temperature of the first compartment 116 and the third compartment 120 are maintained between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In this example, the second compartment 118 is configured to keep cool fresh batched cocktails, in which the temperature of the second compartment 118 is maintained with a range between about 30 degrees Fahrenheit to about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. In this way, the first compartment 116 and the third compartment 120 are able to be maintained at a temperature much cooler than the second compartment 118 that allows a user to have a refrigeration device and a freezer device in the same combination freezer 100.

[0063] FIG. 12 illustrates another configuration 244 of the compartments 116, 118, 120 of the combination freezer 100. In this embodiment, the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 are configured as refrigeration devices and the third compartment 120 is configured as a freezer. In this example, the first compartment 116 is configured to keep garnishes fresh and the second compartment 118 is configured to keep cool fresh batched cocktails in which the temperature of the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 is maintained within a range of about 30 degrees Fahrenheit to about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The third compartment 120 is configured as an ice drawer configured to store ice in which the temperature of the third compartment 120 is maintained between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In other examples, the temperature ranges between the refrigeration devices of the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 are able to vary from one another such that the first compartment 116 is maintained within a temperature range that is lower than a temperature range the second compartment 118 is maintained at, although other configurations are possible. As noted above, in some examples, the temperature ranges maintained within the first compartment 116, the second compartment 118, and the third compartment 120 vary from one another based on the function of each compartment 116, 118, 120. In this way, the user interface 158 is able to set these temperature ranges within each compartment 116, 118, 120. Favorably, if the function of the compartment 116, 118, 120 changes, a user is able to adjust the temperature range of the compartment 116, 118, 120 using the user interface 158. Accordingly, each compartment 116, 118, 120 is not limited to being just a freezer or just a refrigeration device, but is able to maintain any temperature range, as discussed above. For example, each compartment 116, 118, 120 is able to withstand temperatures ranging from about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, although other configurations are possible.

[0064] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of the combination freezer 100. In particular and as noted above, the combination freezer 100 has the depth adjuster 160 positioned on the rear side 106 of the freezer 100 adjacent the top surface 166. In this example, the accommodation space 164 is created between the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100 and the wall 162 that is substantially the same size the depth adjuster 160 extends. In particular, the accommodation space 164 affects the total depth 236 (see FIG. 6) of the combination freezer 100 when installed, such that the total depth 236 includes the depth of the main body 102 (and drawers 122, 124, 126), plus the depth of the accommodation space 164. In this way, the accommodation space 164 created facilitates heat dissipation and airflow through the vent panels 148, 192 and enables easy access for maintenance and servicing of the rear side 106 of the combination freezer. As shown, the depth adjuster 160 is configured as a bracket that is mounted to the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 using a fastener (not shown). In this way, the depth adjuster 160 is able to be interchangeable relative to the wall 162 the combination freezer 100 is installed against to create different sizes of the accommodation space 164, thereby adjusting the total depth 236 of the installed combination freezer 100. In some embodiments, the depth adjuster 160 is provided in a plurality of sizes, each corresponding to a different depth of the accommodation space 164 and a different depth 236 of the freezer 100. In some embodiments, the depth adjuster 160 is adjustable in length such that a single depth adjuster 160 can be configured to create varying sizes of the accommodation space 164 without requiring replacement. In other embodiments, the depth adjuster 160 includes a telescoping or sliding mechanism that permits adjustment of the accommodation space 164 after installation. In some embodiments, the depth adjuster 160 is integrally formed with the main body 102 of the combination freezer 100.

[0065] FIG. 14 illustrates another bottom view of the combination freezer 100. In particular, and as noted above, wheels 246 can be mounted into the bases 182, such that the combination freezer 100 is able to be moved along a floor or surface. Further, the leg holders 184 serve as both leveling features and as locking features or stoppers for the wheels 246 to secure the combination freezer 100 in place. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, two leg holders 184 are shown. When the combination freezer 100 is in a desired position, the leg holders 184 are configured to extend downwardly and contact the floor surface, thereby preventing movement of the wheels 246. In some embodiments, more leg holders 184 can be provided. In particular, four leg holders 184 may be provided (e.g., such as two positioned adjacent the front side 104 and two positioned adjacent the rear side 106). In this example, the leg holders 184 additionally provide the function of adjusting a height of the combination freezer 100 by lifting the wheels 246 off the floor or surface, which also prevents movement of the combination freezer 100. In this way, the combination freezer is able to be adjusted in both position and height. In some embodiments, the wheels 246 are configured as swivel casters that permit multidirectional movement of the combination freezer 100. In other embodiments, the wheels246 are configured as fixed casters that permit movement in a single direction.

[0066] FIG. 15 shows another example of a combination freezer 300. Elements of the combination freezer 300 that are shared with elements of the combination freezer 100 (i.e., structurally or functionally equivalent to) of FIGS. 1-14 will be labelled and discussed with like reference numerals increased by 200. For example, the combination freezer 300 has a front side 304, a rear side 306, a top side 312, a bottom side 314, first compartment 316, a second compartment 318, a third compartment 320 each having a front panel 334, 336, 338 with a handle 340, 342, 344, respectively, and a vent panel 348 having louvers 350.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the combination freezer 300 is supported by wheels 352 adjacent to each corner of the combination freezer 300 and the bottom side 314. In this example, the wheels 352 enable rolling movement of the combination freezer 300 relative to the surface the combination freezer 300 is installed on. In this way, the combination freezer 300 is able to be continually adjusted in position such that the combination freezer 300 is capable of easy servicing and maintenance, has flexible placement and mobility, and is adaptable for different environments. Each wheel 352 has a locking caster 354 in which the wheel 352 is able to be locked in a desired position such that unwanted movement of the combination freezer 300 via the wheel 352 is prohibited.

[0068] Referring still to FIG. 15, the vent panel 348 of the combination freezer 300 is smaller compared to vent panel 148 of the combination freezer 100 such that the second compartment 318 is larger in height (e.g., as compared to height 210). In this example, there is no first section of the vent panel 348 that extends beneath (relative to the bottom 314) the second compartment 318. This enables the second compartment 318 to be larger in height and compacts size of the vent panel 348 such that the vent panel 348 still efficiently provides airflow for the combination freezer 300.

[0069] Turning now to FIG. 16, an example refrigeration system 400 for use in either of the combination freezers 100, 300 is shown. The refrigeration system 400 includes a hot gas defrost line 404 that selectively directs hot refrigerant gas to an evaporator coil 408 during defrost cycles to melt accumulated frost and ice from the evaporator coil 408 surfaces. During normal cooling operation, frost and ice accumulate on the surfaces of the evaporator coil 408 as moisture in the air condenses and freezes on the cold coil surfaces. Over time, this frost accumulation can reduce airflow across the evaporator coil 408 and decrease cooling efficiency. During defrost cycles, the hot gas defrost line 404 directs hot refrigerant gas to the evaporator coil 408 to melt the accumulated frost and ice from the evaporator coil 408 surfaces. An evaporator inlet 412 receives low-pressure refrigerant (e.g., configured as a two-phase mix of liquid and gaseous refrigerant) from an expansion device (such as a capillary tube 414 in this example) and delivers the refrigerant to the evaporator coil 408.

[0070] Within the evaporator coil 408, the refrigerant absorbs thermal energy from the air circulating within the compartments 116, 118, 120 as the refrigerant undergoes a phase change from a low-pressure liquid to a low-pressure vapor. Accordingly, the evaporator coil 408 is positioned within the interior 128 adjacent to the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100, and functions as the primary heat exchanger that cools the air within the combination freezer 100.

[0071] Turning briefly to FIG. 17, the evaporator coil 408 is positioned at an offset angle relative to the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100. In particular, a top side 416 of the evaporator coil 408 is tilted forward relative to the central axis 146 and in a direction of airflow (e.g., from the front side 104 towards the rear side 106) such that condensation drips off of the evaporator coil 408 and into a drain pan 420 positioned beneath the evaporator coil 408. The angled orientation of the evaporator coil 408 increases the area over which warm humid air is drawn during normal cooling operation, which more evenly distributes frost over the surface of the evaporator coil 408. Furthermore, the angled orientation of the evaporator coil 408 encourages condensation rolling down the evaporator coil 408 to accumulate at a bottom front edge (e.g., relative to the central axis 146) in larger droplets of liquid water, which can accelerate shedding of water during defrost cycles. In some embodiments, the offset angle of the evaporator coil 408 is between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the central axis 146 (or vertical direction), or between about 10 degrees and about 30 degrees, or between about 15 degrees and about 25 degrees, although other configurations are possible.

[0072] In some examples, the freezer 100 includes drain tubes that are provided for directing liquid away from the electrical and refrigeration components of the freezer 100. For example, a first drain tube 422a is coupled to the drain opening 176 of the top surface 166 and routes excess liquid from the top surface 166 to an external drain source (not shown). A second drain tube 422b extends from the drain pan 420 through the unit 100 for condensate removal, directing collected water away from the refrigeration components and out of the interior compartments 128, 130, 132 to prevent water accumulation and maintain sanitary operating conditions. In particular, the runoff is directed to a drain pan 423 (see FIG. 16) positioned below the condenser fans 448. In this example, the refrigerant hot gas discharge line 404 is routed through the drain pan 423 to accelerate evaporation of the runoff moisture without requiring external drainage, and the evaporating water cools the hot gas discharge line 404 to improve the efficiency of the refrigeration system 400. Further shown in FIG. 17, a backsplash 425 positioned adjacent to the depth adjuster 160 is configured as an adjustable height backsplash. In this example, the adjustable height backsplash 425 can accommodate different installation configurations and provides a barrier to prevent items from falling behind the freezer 100.

[0073] Referring still to FIG. 16, the hot gas defrost line 404 is configured to work in combination with the drain pan 420 positioned beneath the evaporator coil 408. For example, the hot refrigerant gas flowing through the evaporator coil 408 during defrost cycles melts frost and ice from the evaporator coil 408 surfaces and also heats the drain pan 420 positioned below. As the frost and ice melt from the evaporator coil 408, the resulting condensate drips downwardly into the drain pan 420. Because the drain pan 420 is heated by a section of the hot gas defrost line 404 that is heated during the hot gas defrost cycle, the condensate within the drain pan 420 is heated and thawed to aid in free, gravity-induced flow toward the drain tube 422b for removal from the combination freezer 100, thereby helping to prevent condensate collected in the drain pan 420 from freezing. This combination of the hot gas defrost line 404 and the drain pan 420 facilitates efficient removal of ice and condensate from the combination freezer 100 and maintains proper drainage during and after defrost cycles.

[0074] A suction line 424 extends from the evaporator coil 408 and carries the low-pressure refrigerant gas that has absorbed heat from the compartments 116, 118, 120 back to a compressor 428 for compression into high-pressure vapor. In particular, the suction line 424 connects the evaporator coil 408 to the compressor 428, completing the low-pressure side of the refrigeration cycle. The first wall 178 includes insulation to thermally separate the interior 128 from the interiors 130, 132, as noted above. In some configurations, the first wall 178 only separates the first compartment 116 from the second compartment 118. In other configurations, the first wall 178 may extend a full width of the freezer 100 to thermally isolate different compartments 128, 130, 132 depending on whether independent temperature control is desired between compartments operating at the same or different temperature ranges. In other embodiments, compartments operating at different temperature ranges (e.g., such as a freezer compartment and a refrigeration compartment) are thermally separated, while compartments operating at the same temperature range may or may not be thermally separated.

[0075] An evaporator fan 432 is mounted below the first wall 178 to circulate cooled air throughout the compartments 116, 118, 120. In particular, air enters the evaporator coil 408 through inlet openings in the first compartment 116 and exits the evaporator coil 408 through openings in the third compartment 120 in front of the evaporator fan 432. The evaporator fan 432 creates a pressure differential that circulates air from the third compartment 120 to the first compartment 116 and through the evaporator coil 408, as will be discussed below. The angled positioning of the evaporator coil 408 enhances the efficiency of heat transfer between the refrigerant within the evaporator coil 408 and the circulating air by increasing volume of air flow and surface area contact between the air and the coil surfaces. As noted above, the suction line 424 extends from an outlet of the evaporator coil 408 downwardly through the combination freezer 100 to the compressor 428, carrying low-pressure refrigerant gas back to the compressor 428 for compression.

[0076] Referring still to FIG. 16, the refrigeration system 400 further includes a solenoid valve 434. In this example, the solenoid valve 434 is configured as a hot gas defrost solenoid valve that controls the defrost cycle by selectively directing high-temperature gaseous refrigerant from the compressor 428 directly to the evaporator coil 408, bypassing the condenser and capillary tube, to melt accumulated frost on the evaporator coil 408. During normal cooling operation, the solenoid valve 434 remains closed, and high-pressure, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant flows from the compressor 428 to a condenser coil 436 where the refrigerant releases heat and at least fully condenses into a liquid before passing through the capillary tube 414 to the evaporator coil 408. During defrost cycles, the solenoid valve 434 opens to allow high-pressure, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant to bypass the condenser coil 436 and the capillary tube 414, and flow directly through the hot gas defrost line 404 to the evaporator coil 408, thereby rapidly melting frost accumulation.

[0077] The compressor 428 drives the refrigeration cycle by compressing low-pressure refrigerant gas received from the suction line 424 into high-pressure refrigerant gas that is directed to the condenser coil 436. The compression process increases both the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant vapor, allowing the refrigerant to release absorbed heat to the ambient environment when the refrigerant passes through the condenser coil 436. The second wall 180 is insulated and thermally separates the interior 130 from the interior 132, and insulation is provided within the second wall 180 to thermally isolate the second compartment 118 from the third compartment 120, thereby allowing each of the second compartment 118 and the third compartment 120 to be maintained at different temperature setpoints.

[0078] A first damper 440 is positioned adjacent to the interior 130 for regulating airflow to the second compartment 118. Correspondingly, a second damper 444 regulates airflow into the first compartment 116. The dampers 440, 444 are configured to modulate the flow of cooled air from the evaporator coil 408 to each of the compartments 116, 118, 120 to maintain different temperature setpoints in each compartment 116, 118, 120. By selectively opening and closing the dampers 440, 444, the refrigeration system 400 can regulate air circulation to and from each compartment 116, 118, 120, as needed to maintain the user-selected or programmed temperature setpoints. For example, when the damper 440 is opened to the second compartment 118, a parallel air path is created by the evaporator fan 432 from the third compartment 120 through the second compartment 118 to the first compartment 116 and through the evaporator coil 408, in addition to the direct path from the third compartment 120 to the first compartment 116.

[0079] The condenser coil 436 and two condenser fans 448 are positioned proximate the bottom of the combination freezer 100 for heat dissipation through the vent panel 148 (see FIG. 1). In particular, the condenser coil 436 receives high-pressure refrigerant gas from the compressor 428 and dissipates heat to the surrounding air as the refrigerant undergoes a phase change from gas to liquid state. The two condenser fans 448 are positioned upstream of the condenser coil 436 in the direction of airflow and are configured as push-through fans that draw ambient air into the unit through the louvered vent 152 (e.g., configured as an inlet vent) of the vent panel 148, through the condenser fans 148, and across the condenser coil 436, with the resultant heated air exhausted out of the unit through the louvered vent 150 (e.g., configured as an outlet vent) of the vent panel 148. In some embodiments, the rear vent panel 192, when not blocked off, serves as an additional area of openings through which air is drawn in. The positioning of the condenser coil 436 and condenser fans 448 adjacent to the vent panel 148 ensures adequate airflow for efficient heat dissipation while maintaining a compact overall footprint for the combination freezer 100. In some embodiments, the dual-fan arrangement of the condenser fans 448 provides redundancy such that if one fan fails, the other fan continues to operate and provide cooling. The dual-fan arrangement of the condenser fans 448 also permits modulation of cooling capacity by selectively powering one or both fans to operate at approximately 50% or 100% capacity, which may reduce power consumption and sound compared to a single fan that operates in a binary on / off manner, as the refrigeration system 400 can operate at reduced capacity during periods of lower cooling demand. Additionally, the use of two smaller fans 448 rather than a single larger fan permits a more compact arrangement in the height dimension 238 of the freezer 100, which allows the compartment positioned above the condenser fans 448 (e.g., the third compartment 120) to be taller and accommodate larger items or greater storage capacity.

[0080] A filter drier 452 is connected between the condenser coil 436 and the capillary tube 414to remove moisture and contaminants from the refrigerant, thereby protecting the refrigeration system 400 components from damage caused by moisture-induced corrosion or debris-related blockages and ensuring efficient operation of the refrigeration cycle.

[0081] A controller 460 is positioned outside of and adjacent to the interior 132 and corresponds to the user interface 158. The controller 460 is operatively coupled to temperature sensors (not shown) that may be disposed in one, two, or all three compartment 116, 118, 120, the dampers 440, 444, the compressor 428, the evaporator fan 432, the condenser fans 448, and the solenoid valve 434 to coordinate operation of the refrigeration system 400. In this example, the temperature sensors are configured to enable the refrigeration system 400 to control air and product temperature in each compartment 116, 118, 120. In addition, a temperature sensor (not shown) is attached to the suction line 424 near an outlet of the evaporator coil 408 for controlling the hot gas defrost operation, such as, e.g., by opening or closing the solenoid valve 434 to start or stop the cycle. In particular, the controller 460 receives temperature feedback from the temperature sensors and compares the measured temperatures to the user-selected temperature setpoints entered via the user interface 158. Based on this comparison, the controller 460 modulates the dampers 440, 444 and controls the operation of the compressor 428, evaporator fan 432, and condenser fans 448 to maintain each compartment 116, 118, 120 at its respective temperature setpoint. An on / off switch 466 is also provided as a safety and convenient device for shutting off power to the freezer 100. In this way, the refrigeration system 400 allows for independent temperature control for each compartment 116, 118, 120 via the dampers 440, 444 and the controller 460 operatively coupled to the user interface 158, allowing the combination freezer 100 to simultaneously maintain different temperature ranges in each compartment 116, 118, 120 according to the configurations described above in connection with FIGS. 10-12.

[0082] FIG. 18 illustrates the third compartment 120 having a tray 500 configured to be removably positioned within the drawer 126 of the combination freezer 100, such that the tray 500 can be placed within and removed from the drawer 126 without tools or permanent attachment. It should be appreciated that while the tray 500 is shown for use in the third compartment 120, the tray 500 may similarly be used in each of the first 116 or second compartments 118. As shown, the tray 500 includes inner walls 504 that extend upwardly from a bottom surface 508 to define a storage volume 512 configured to receive and retain items such as ice cubes, craft ice, beverages, or other contents requiring temperature-controlled storage.

[0083] A pair of flanges 516 are positioned on opposing sides of the tray 500 and are located opposite the bottom surface 508. In particular, the flanges 516 extend outwardly from upper portions of the inner walls 504 and are configured to engage and rest upon corresponding top surfaces of the drawer 126 when the tray 500 is installed within the drawer 126 (see FIG. 19). This engagement between the flanges 516 and the top surfaces of the drawer 126 prevents lateral movement of the tray 500 within the drawer 126 and maintains the tray 500 in position relative to the drawer 126. As a result, the flanges 516 are configured to ensure the tray 500 is positioned correctly within the drawer 126. In some embodiments, the flanges 516 include one or more alignment features such as notches, tabs, or recesses that correspond to complementary features on the drawer 126 to ensure proper orientation of the tray 500 within the drawer 126. In some embodiments, the flanges 516 are configured with a friction-fit engagement with the drawer 126 such that the tray 500 is removably secured within the drawer 126 but resists unintentional displacement during normal use.

[0084] When engaged with the drawer 126, the flanges 516 suspend the tray 500 within the drawer 126 at an elevated position, thereby creating a gap beneath the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500 and a bottom surface of the drawer 126 that allows air circulation for more efficient and uniform cooling of the contents stored within the storage volume 512. In some embodiments, a clearance is also provided between the exterior surfaces of the tray 500 and the inner surfaces of the drawer 126 when the tray 500 is installed within the drawer 126. This clearance creates an air gap that allows cooled air to circulate around the exterior surfaces of the tray 500, thereby facilitating more uniform cooling of the contents stored within the storage volume 512. Additionally, the solid inner walls 504 of the tray 500 reduce direct air travel and contact with the ice stored within the storage volume 512, which preserves the integrity of the ice because the cold air has low moisture content and can have the effect of sublimating the ice if in direct contact. In this way, the air gap between the tray 500 and the drawer 126 allows external air circulation to uniformly cool the tray 500 and product within, while the solid inner walls 504 protect the ice from sublimation. In some embodiments, the clearance between the tray 500 and the drawer 126 is between about 0.125 inches and about 1 inch, or between about 0.25 inches and about 0.75 inches, or between about 0.375 inches and about 0.5 inches, although other configurations are possible. In this example, the clearance may be uniform around the perimeter of the tray 500. In other examples, the clearance may vary at different locations to accommodate airflow patterns within the drawer 126.

[0085] The inner walls 504 of the tray 500 include a contoured profile defined by multiple edges and inflection points. For example, a first interior edge 520 is positioned between the bottom surface 508 and a first inflection point 524. As shown, the first interior edge 520 extends obliquely at a first angle 526 defined relative to the bottom surface 508 and the storage volume 512, thereby providing a tapered transition from the bottom surface 508. From the first inflection point 524, the inner wall 504 transitions to extend substantially vertically upward to a second inflection point 528. A second interior edge 532 is positioned between the second inflection point 528 and a third inflection point 536. In particular, the second interior edge 532 extends at an outward second angle 534 defined relative to the bottom surface 508 and away from the storage volume 512 between the second inflection point 528 and the third inflection point 536, thereby widening the upper portion of the tray 500. From the third inflection point 536 to the flanges 516, the inner wall 504 extends substantially vertically upward to complete the wall profile. This multi-angled configuration of the inner walls 504 facilitates easy removal of contents from the tray 500 while maximizing the storage volume 512. In this example, the first angle 526 and the second angle 534 are the same, and are less than ninety degrees in a range of between about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees, or between about 10 degrees and 50 degrees, or between about 20 degrees and about 45 degrees, although other configurations are possible. In other examples, the first angle 526 and the second angle 534 are different from one another. For example, in some embodiments, the first angle 526 is about 5 degrees less than the second angle 534, between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees less than the second angle 534, or between about 8 degrees and about 15 degrees less than the second angle 534, although other configurations are possible. For instance, in other embodiments, the first angle 526 greater than the second angle 534, between about 5 degrees greater than the second angle 534, or between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees greater than the second angle 534, or between about 8 degrees and about 15 degrees greater than the second angle 534, although other configurations are possible.

[0086] Referring now to FIG. 19, the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500 defines a contoured, non-planar bottom surface 508 having two angled surfaces 540 that extend upwardly toward one another from opposing sides of the bottom surface 508. The two angled surfaces 540 converge to form an apex 544 that extends as a flat, elongate ridge along the bottom surface 508 approximately centrally between the opposing angled surfaces 540. This V-shaped or peaked configuration creates a non-planar bottom surface 508 that advantageously prevents ice from clumping or sticking together during storage. The contoured profile of the bottom surface 508 reduces the contact area between individual ice pieces and the bottom surface 508, thereby minimizing adhesion between the ice and the tray 500. In particular, the valleys formed along the lower edges of the angled surfaces 540 maintain separation between individual ice pieces by preventing the ice pieces from resting flat against one another. This separation prevents the ice pieces from freezing together into a solid mass over time and facilitates easier retrieval and dispensing of individual ice pieces from the tray 500 without requiring the user to break apart frozen clumps of ice. Although one apex 544 is shown, it should be appreciated that greater apexes can be utilized such as two apexes, three apexes, or four apexes, although other configurations are possible. Furthermore, although the apex 544 is shown as being centrally disposed within the tray 500, it should be appreciated that the apex 544 can extend anywhere along the bottom surface 508.

[0087] In some embodiments, the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500 is integrally formed, stamped, or bent with the inner walls 504 of the tray 500 such that the contoured profile of the bottom surface 508 is formed as a unitary piece with the rest of the tray 500. In this example, the bottom surface 508 includes multiple parallel apexes 544 that create a non-planar surface configuration, such as, e.g., a corrugated, undulated, sinusoidal, or parabolic pattern across the bottom surface 508. Each apex 544 extends as a ridge across the bottom surface 508, with valleys formed between adjacent apexes 544. The non-planar surface configuration increases the total surface area of the bottom surface 508 but reduces the contact area on which ice pieces are stored by providing multiple ridges to prevent the ice pieces from resting flat against the bottom surface 508 and, thus, sticking or adhering thereto. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 508 includes two apexes 544, three apexes 544, four apexes 544, or more apexes 544 arranged in parallel across the bottom surface 508. The spacing between adjacent apexes 544 may be uniform or may vary across the bottom surface 508.

[0088] In other embodiments, the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500 is flat, and a separate insert or panel is provided within the tray 500 that has a shape or pattern configured to prevent ice from clumping or sticking together. The insert may be formed from metal, rubber, wood, plastic, or other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the insert is fastened to the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500, such as by screws, clips, or adhesive. In other embodiments, the insert is friction-fit between the inner walls 504 of the tray 500 such that the insert is held in place by contact with the inner walls 504. In yet other embodiments, the insert is simply rested on the bottom surface 508 without attachment. In some embodiments, the insert includes perforations or openings that allow airflow through the insert and reduce the weight of the insert. The insert may be removable from the tray 500 to facilitate cleaning of the tray 500 and the insert.

[0089] In some embodiments, the apex 544 extends to a height that is proportional to the overall height of the tray 500. For example, the apex 544 may extend to a height that is between about 2% and about 50% of the total height of the tray 500, or between about 5% and about 10% of the total height of the tray 500, or between about 2% and about 4% of the total height of the tray 500, although other configurations are possible. In some embodiments, the apex 544 extends to a height that is between about 0.25 inches and about 2 inches above the bottom surface 508, or between about 0.5 inches and about 1.5 inches, or between about 0.75 inches and about 1.25 inches, although other configurations are possible.

[0090] The proportional height of the apex 544 relative to the tray 500 is configured to balance ice separation with storage capacity. For example, a higher apex 544 can provide greater separation between individual ice pieces and reduces the likelihood of ice pieces freezing together, but may reduce the overall storage volume 512 available for ice storage. Conversely, a lower apex 544 maximizes the storage volume 512 but may provide less separation between ice pieces. In some embodiments, the height of the apex 544 is selected based on the size of the ice pieces intended to be stored within the tray 500. For example, larger ice pieces such as craft ice cubes may benefit from a higher apex 544 to maintain separation, while smaller ice pieces may be stored in a tray 500 having a lower apex 544.

[0091] In some embodiments, the angle at which the angled surfaces 540 extend from the sides of the bottom surface 508 toward the apex 544 is between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the bottom surface 508, or between about 10 degrees and about 30 degrees, or between about 15 degrees and about 25 degrees, although other configurations are possible.

[0092] In some embodiments, the tray 500 is formed as a single, unitary piece, such as by molding, stamping, or deep drawing from a single sheet of material. Forming the tray 500 as a single piece may provide structural integrity and eliminate seams or joints where moisture or debris could accumulate. In other embodiments, the tray 500 is assembled from multiple components that are joined together, such as by welding, fastening, or adhesive bonding. For example, the inner walls 504 may be formed separately from the bottom surface 508 and subsequently attached thereto. In some embodiments, the flanges 516 are formed as separate components that are attached to the upper portions of the inner walls 504, although other configurations are possible.

[0093] In some embodiments, the tray 500 includes one or more dividers or partitions positioned within the storage volume 512 to separate individual ice pieces from one another. For instance, the dividers may extend upwardly from the bottom surface 508 and may be integrally formed with the bottom surface 508 or removably positioned within the storage volume 512. In some embodiments, the dividers are configured to create a grid pattern of individual cells, with each cell sized to receive a single ice piece. In other embodiments, the dividers extend in a single direction to create elongate channels within the storage volume 512. The dividers may extend to a height that is less than the height of the inner walls 504 such that the dividers do not interfere with removal of ice pieces from the tray 500. In some embodiments, the dividers are removable to allow the tray 500 to be used with or without the dividers depending on the size and type of ice pieces being stored.

[0094] As noted above, in some embodiments, the dimensions of the tray 500 are configured to correspond to the dimensions of the drawer 126 such that the tray 500 is sized to fit within the drawer 126 while providing the desired clearance for air circulation. For example, the width of the tray 500 may be between about 70% and about 95% of the width 220 of the drawer 126, or between about 75% and about 90% of the width 220, or between about 80% and about 85% of the width 220. Similarly, the depth of the tray 500 may be between about 70% and about 95% of the depth 224 of the drawer 126, or between about 75% and about 90% of the depth 224, or between about 80% and about 85% of the depth 224. In some embodiments, the height of the tray 500 is configured such that the tray 500 does not extend above the top surfaces of the drawer 126 when installed, thereby allowing the drawer 126 to be fully closed within the third compartment 120.

[0095] The embodiments of the invention described herein are exemplary, and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims, and all changes that fall within the meaning and range of equivalents are intended to be embraced therein.

[0096] In some implementations, devices or systems disclosed herein can be utilized, manufactured, or installed using methods embodying aspects of the invention. Correspondingly, any description herein of particular features, capabilities, or intended purposes of a device or system is generally intended to include disclosure of a method of using such devices for the intended purposes, a method of otherwise implementing such capabilities, a method of manufacturing relevant components of such a device or system (or the device or system as a whole), and a method of installing disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support such purposes or capabilities. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or limited, discussion herein of any method of manufacturing or using for a particular device or system, including installing the device or system, is intended to inherently include disclosure, as embodiments of the invention, of the utilized features and implemented capabilities of such device or system.

[0097] The above discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the invention. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from embodiments of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The above detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of embodiments of the invention.

[0098] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the attached drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. For example, the use of “including,”“comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

[0099] Also as used herein, ordinal numbers are used for convenience of presentation only and are generally presented in an order that corresponds to the order in which particular features are introduced in the relevant discussion. Accordingly, for example, a “first” feature may not necessarily have any required structural or sequential relationship to a “second” feature, and so on. Further, similar features may be referred to in different portions of the discussion by different ordinal numbers. For example, a particular feature may be referred to in some discussion as a “first” feature, while a similar or substantially identical feature may be referred to in other discussion as a “third” feature, and so on.

[0100] Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms “about” and “approximately,” as used herein with respect to a reference value, refer to variations from the reference value of ± 15% or less (e.g., ± 10%, ± 5%, etc.), inclusive of the endpoints of the range.

[0101] The description of the different advantageous embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, different advantageous embodiments may provide different advantages as compared to other advantageous embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0034]The present disclosure provides for a combination freezer including a first compartment, a second compartment, and a third compartment. The combination freezer is designed to maintain a first temperature within the first compartment, a second temperature within the second compartment, and a third temperature within the third compartment. In some embodiments, third compartment has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment and the second compartment. The combination freezer includes a temperature controller having a user interface that allows a user to control the temperature of the first compartment, the second compartment, and the third compartment. The temperature controller can provide different configurations, such as a first configuration in which all three compartments are maintained at substantially the same temperature, and a second configuration in which the third compartment is maintained at a different temperature from at least one of the first compartment ...

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 763,137, filed on February 25, 2025, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Refrigerators and freezers are provided in many different sizes, shapes, and configurations for various uses. The particular sizes, shapes, and configurations of such refrigerators and freezers are often determined by compatibility with the dimensions and uses of the installation space. Often, space is limited, and it is difficult to fit all the desired features and functions of the refrigerators and freezers within the installation space, especially when refrigerators and freezers are provided as separate pieces of equipment.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a for a refrigerator and a freezer that provides adjustability to fit within limited or unique spaces. Further, there is a need for a device that combines a refrigerator and a freezer.SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0004] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a combination freezer includes a main body, a first compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a first temperature, a second compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a second temperature, and a third compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a third temperature. The third compartment has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment and the second compartment. The combination freezer also includes a user interface that is in operative communication with a temperature controller for selecting the first temperature, the second temperature, and the third temperature. The temperature controller is programmed to provide a first configuration in which the first temperature, the second temperature, and the third temperature are substantially the same, via the user interface. The temperature controller is programmed to provide a second configuration in which the third temperature is different from at least one of the first temperature or the second temperature, via the user interface.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first compartment extends continuously from a left side to a right side of the main body and is positioned above the second compartment and the third compartment. In other embodiments, the second compartment is positioned between the first compartment and a vent panel adjacent to a bottom side of the main body. In yet other embodiments, the third compartment is positioned adjacent to the second compartment. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a hot gas defrost line configured to selectively direct hot refrigerant gas to the evaporator coil during defrost cycles to melt accumulated frost and ice from surfaces of the evaporator coil. In other embodiments, the combination freezer further includes a drain pan positioned beneath the evaporator coil. In yet another embodiment, the hot gas defrost line heats the drain pan during defrost cycles to prevent condensate from refreezing within the drain pan. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes two condenser fans positioned adjacent to the condenser coil for heat dissipation. In other embodiments, the combination freezer further includes a vent panel extending from a left side to a right side adjacent to a bottom side of the main body. In yet another embodiment, the two condenser fans draw ambient air through the vent panel and across the condenser coil. In some embodiments, the combination further includes a first damper positioned adjacent to the third compartment and a second damper positioned adjacent to the first compartment. In other embodiments, the first damper and the second damper are configured to modulate flow of cooled air from the evaporator coil to maintain a first temperature setpoint of the first compartment, a second setpoint of the second compartment, and a third setpoint of the third compartment. In some embodiments, the first compartment and the third compartment are each configured as a freezer to maintain a temperature below a freezing point of water. In other embodiments, the second compartment is configured as a refrigeration device to maintain a temperature above the freezing point of water. In yet another embodiment, the first compartment has a width that is larger than a width of each of the second compartment and the third compartment. In some embodiments, the second compartment has a height that is larger than a height of each of the first compartment and the third compartment. In other embodiments, the combination freezer further includes a depth adjuster positioned adjacent to a top side and extending from a rear side of the main body. In some embodiments, the depth adjuster is configured to create an accommodation space between the rear side and a wall against which the combination freezer is installed.

[0006] In some aspects, a combination freezer includes a main body defining an interior and having a top surface and a plurality of compartments positioned within the interior of the main body. Each of the plurality of compartments is independently maintained at a respective temperature. The combination freezer also includes a refrigeration system configured to maintain each respective temperature of the plurality of compartments. The refrigeration system includes an evaporator coil positioned within the interior adjacent to the top surface. The evaporator coil is positioned at an angle relative to the top surface. The combination freezer further includes a drain pan positioned beneath the evaporator coil and configured to receive condensate and defrost water from the evaporator coil and a drain tube extending from the drain pan for condensate removal. The angled positioning of the evaporator coil facilitates drainage of condensation and defrost water into the drain pan.

[0007] In some embodiments, the combination freezer further includes a first damper and a second damper configured to selectively regulate airflow to the plurality of compartments. In other embodiments, the first damper and the second damper are operatively coupled to a temperature controller to modulate flow of cooled air from the evaporator coil based on user-selected temperature setpoints for each of the plurality of compartments. In yet another embodiment, the combination freezer further includes insulated walls separating each of the plurality of compartments from one another. In some embodiments, the insulated walls thermally isolate each of the plurality of compartments to allow independent temperature control of each compartment. In other embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a suction line extending from the evaporator coil to a compressor, carrying low-pressure refrigerant gas back to the compressor for compression. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a hot gas defrost line configured to selectively direct hot refrigerant gas to the evaporator coil during defrost cycles. In other embodiments, the hot gas defrost line heats the drain pan during defrost cycles to prevent condensate from refreezing within the drain pan.

[0008] In some aspects, a tray for use in a combination freezer includes inner walls extending upwardly from a bottom surface to define a storage volume and a pair of flanges positioned on opposing sides of the tray and extending outwardly from upper portions of the inner walls. The flanges are configured to engage and rest upon corresponding top surfaces of a drawer when the tray is installed within the drawer. The bottom surface defines a contoured, non-planar surface having two angled surfaces that extend upwardly toward one another from opposing sides of the bottom surface and converge to form an apex extending as a ridge across a center of the bottom surface.

[0009] In some embodiments, the apex extends to a height that is between about 2% and about 4% of a total height of the tray. In other embodiments, the two angled surfaces extend from the opposing sides of the bottom surface toward the apex at an angle between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the bottom surface. In another embodiment, the flanges include alignment features configured to correspond to complementary features on the drawer to ensure proper orientation of the tray within the drawer.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described hereinafter below with reference to the following figures.

[0011] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a front, right, and top of combination freezer, according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 2A is a partial, isometric view of a top surface of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 2B is a partial, isometric view of the top surface of FIG. 2A, with sections removed;

[0014] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a front, right, and top the combination freezer of FIG. 1 with its compartments removed;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a front side view of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a partial view of a vent panel and leg holder of the combination freezer of FIG. 4;

[0017] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a back, right, and top the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0018] FIG. 7A is a rear side view of a first compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0019] FIG. 7B is a right side view of the first compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0020] FIG. 8A is a rear side view of a second compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0021] FIG. 8B is a right, side view of the second compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0022] FIG. 9A is a rear side view of a third compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0023] FIG. 9B is a right, side view of the third compartment for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0024] FIG. 10 is an example diagram of a configuration of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0025] FIG. 11 is another example diagram of a configuration of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0026] FIG. 12 is yet another example diagram of a configuration of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0027] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0028] FIG. 14 is a partial, isometric view of a front, right, and bottom of the combination freezer of FIG. 1 with wheels;

[0029] FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a front and right side of a combination freezer, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 16 is a rear view of a schematic of a refrigeration system for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1;

[0031] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view along lines XVII-XVII of FIG. 1;

[0032] FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a front, right, and top of the third compartment with a tray for use in the combination freezer of FIG. 1; and

[0033] FIG. 19 is a top view of the third compartment of FIG. 18 with the drawer installed.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The present disclosure provides for a combination freezer including a first compartment, a second compartment, and a third compartment. The combination freezer is designed to maintain a first temperature within the first compartment, a second temperature within the second compartment, and a third temperature within the third compartment. In some embodiments, third compartment has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment and the second compartment. The combination freezer includes a temperature controller having a user interface that allows a user to control the temperature of the first compartment, the second compartment, and the third compartment. The temperature controller can provide different configurations, such as a first configuration in which all three compartments are maintained at substantially the same temperature, and a second configuration in which the third compartment is maintained at a different temperature from at least one of the first compartment or the second compartment. The combination freezer also includes a refrigeration system having a hot gas defrost line configured to direct hot refrigerant gas to an evaporator coil during defrost cycles, and the evaporator coil may be positioned at an angle to facilitate drainage of condensation and defrost water. Further, the combination freezer also includes a depth adjuster that allows a location of the combination freezer to be adjustable when permanently or removably installed proximate a wall. The combination freezer further includes a tray having a contoured, non-planar bottom surface configured to prevent ice from clumping or sticking together during storage. A number of implementations are described herein. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 1, a combination freezer 100 is shown. The combination freezer 100 includes a main body 102 having a front side 104 that is opposite a rear side 106, a right side 108 that is opposite a left side 110, and a top side 112 that is opposite a bottom side 114. The main body 102 has three compartments configured as a first compartment 116, a second compartment 118, and a third compartment 120. Each compartment 116, 118, 120 is provided by a drawer 122 (see FIGS. 7A&7B), 124 (see FIGS. 8A&8B), 126 (see FIGS. 9A&9B) that is installed within a corresponding interior 128, 130, 132, respectively, (see FIG. 3) of the main body 102. Each interior 128, 130, 132 is operatively coupled to a refrigeration system (see FIG. 16), as will be further detailed below. Each drawer 122, 124, 126 is slidably coupled to the front side 104 of the main body 102 and has a front panel 134, 136, 138, respectively, that covers the interior 128, 130, 132 (see FIG. 3) of the main body 102 defined by each compartment 116, 118, 120. Each front panel 134, 136, 138 includes a handle 140, 142, 144, respectively, that is configured as an elongate, cylindrical rod that is supported at a distance from the front panel 134, 136, 138, respectively, to provide sufficient spacing for facilitating quick and easy grasping by a user to access to the interior 128, 130, 132 of each compartment 116, 118, 120. In other examples, a knob, a grip, or a latch is used to facilitate the opening of each compartment 116, 118, 120, although other configurations are possible.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, a central axis 146 extends centrally between the left side 110 and the right side 108 and centrally between the front side 104 and the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100. As further shown, a vent panel 148 extends from the left side 110 to the right side 108 and is adjacent to the bottom side 114 of the combination freezer 100. In use, the vent panel 148 has louvered vents 150, 152 that are configured to exhaust heat generated by the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16). In this example, the vent panel 148 includes a first section 154 (including the louvered vents 150) that extends substantially the same width as the second compartment 118. The vent panel 148 also includes a second section 156 (including the louvered vents 152) that extends substantially the same width of the third compartment 120. The second section 156 of the vent panel 148 is larger than the first section 154 such that the second section 156 extends in an upward direction (relative to the bottom side 114 of the combination freezer 100) greater than the first section 154. In this embodiment, the first section 154 and the second section 156 of the vent panel 148 are integrally formed, although other configurations are possible.

[0037] The second section 156 of the vent panel 148 includes a user interface 158 that protrudes outwardly from the second section 156 so as to be exposed and accessible to a user on the front side 104 of the combination freezer 100. The user interface 158 is operatively coupled to a temperature controller (see FIG. 16) that is in communication with the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16) to maintain contents and items kept within the compartments 116, 118, 120 at a temperature below the ambient air temperature (e.g., such as the ambient indoor air temperature of an establishment). For example, the temperature controller (see FIG. 16) is configured as a digital temperature controller that provides inputs and programming for controlling the temperature and humidity of each compartment 116, 118, 120.

[0038] The user interface 158 enables a user to select a temperature setpoint and a humidity setpoint for each compartment 116, 118, 120. The temperature controller (see FIG. 16) is configured to receive input from at least one sensor (not shown), e.g., a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, disposed in each compartment 116, 118, 120 and to compare these results with the user-selected inputs. A plurality of dampers (see FIG. 16) are provided within the combination freezer 100 to selectively regulate airflow to and / or from each compartment 116, 118, 120, thereby providing centralized temperature controls. The plurality of dampers (see FIG. 16) may be arranged proximate to each of the compartments 116, 118, 120. In other embodiments, the dampers may be provided in a manifold upstream of the compartments 116, 118, 120, although other configurations are possible. In this example, the dampers are motorized and can be automatically modulated by the temperature controller in communication with the refrigeration system to provide the desired temperature control (e.g., setpoint maintenance), although other configurations are possible. For example, in other embodiments, the dampers may be manually modulated by a user. Accordingly, the temperature controller (see FIG. 16) operates the refrigeration system of the combination freezer 100 and maintains each setpoint for each compartment 116, 118, 120 based on feedback from the at least one sensor. The temperature controller (see FIG. 16) further accounts for ambient temperature and / or humidity using an ambient sensor (not shown). In this way, a user is able to control the temperature of each compartment 116, 118, 120 using the user interface 158 to maintain the user-settable values or ranges.

[0039] Referring still to FIG. 1, the first compartment 116 extends continuously from the left side 110 to the right side 108 of the main body 102. The first compartment 116 is also positioned above the second compartment 118 and the third compartment 120 (e.g., relative to the top side 112 of the combination freezer 100). The second compartment 118 is positioned between the first section 154 of the vent panel 148 and the first compartment 116. The second compartment 118 is also located proximate the left side 110 of the central axis 146 and is positioned to the left of the third compartment 120. As will be further discussed below, the second compartment 118 extends partially to the right side 108 of the central axis 146, such that the second compartment 118 is not disposed entirely on the left side of the central axis 146.

[0040] The third compartment 120 is located between the second section 156 of the vent panel 148 and the first compartment 116. The third compartment 120 is positioned on the right side 108 of the central axis 146 and is positioned to the right of the second compartment 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the entire third compartment 120 is located on the right side of the central axis 146. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the configuration of the combination freezer 100 can be mirrored or switched relative to the right side 108 and the left side 110, such that the second compartment 118 may be located proximate the right side 108 of the central axis 146 and the third compartment 120 can be located proximate the left side 110 of the central axis 146, although other configurations are possible.

[0041] As further shown in FIG. 1, a depth adjuster 160 adjacent to the top side 112 extends from the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100. As will be further detailed below in connection with FIG. 13, the depth adjuster 160 enables the combination freezer 100 to be installed against a wall 162 (see FIG. 13) that creates an accommodation space 164 between the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100 and the wall 162. This further enables the combination freezer 100 to be installed at varying positions relative to the wall 162, and with sufficient spacing for proper ventilation and operation of the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16).

[0042] Referring still to FIG. 1, a top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 adjacent to the top side 112 has four sections 168 that are removably coupled to the combination freezer 100 such that each section 168 of the top surface 166 is able to be removed and replaced. In this way, a user is able to customize the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 in a variety of different combinations.

[0043] For example, as shown in FIG. 2A, the four sections 168 each have two grips 170 on opposing sides of the section 168. In this embodiment, the grips 170 are configured as semi-circular recesses for grasping and manipulating each section 168 relative to the top surface 166. In other embodiments, the grips 170 are configured with different shapes, such as rectangular or elliptical. In some embodiments, the grips 170 are handles that can be selectively recessed or concealed when not in use and can be selectively extended or revealed when in use to remove one of the sections 168. In this example, each of the sections 168 is configured as a drain board that has perforations or holes to permit excess liquid to drain down from the sections, thereby keeping the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 dry, as will be further detailed below. In other examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 is a flat top or stainless-steel top that is used as a preparation space. In some examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 is a cutting board made of a suitable material (e.g., wood, plastic, bamboo, etc.) for sanitation and exposure to sharp edges. In some examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 is or includes an organizer (not shown), such as, e.g., a garnish caddy top that stores a variety of garnishes and other barware. In some examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 includes a built-in scale for measuring ingredients or portions of fluids or masses. In some embodiments, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 includes a sink basin with a drain connection for rinsing glassware or utensils. In some examples, at least one section 168 of the top surface 166 is a glass rinse device having one or more spray nozzles configured to rinse glassware when pressed against the nozzles.

[0044] Further shown in FIG. 2A, each corner 171 of the top surface 166 is configured as a soft corner, such that no sharp edges are defined on the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 that enhances safety and reduces risk of injury. In some examples, the corners 171 are configured as bullnosed, rounded edges and corners. In some embodiments, the corners 171 are formed by employing a hand bead polished technique, although other configurations are possible.

[0045] FIG. 2B illustrates the top surface 166 with the sections 168 removed for illustrative purposes. In this embodiment, the top surface 166 has a sloped drain wall 172 that extends from the front side 104 to the rear side 106. Two ramped sidewalls 174 surround the sloped drain wall 172 on the right side 108 and the left side 110 of the combination freezer 100 that directs excess fluid into the sloped drain wall 172. A drain opening 176 is positioned adjacent to the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100. The drain wall 172 and the ramped sidewalls 174 are sloped toward the drain opening 176 to prevent pooling on the top surface 166 and direct fluid flow toward the rear side 106 where a tube or hose (see FIG. 16) that can be connected to the drain opening 176 for proper disposal of such fluids. When not in use as a drain, the drain opening 176 can be alternatively configured as a conduit to receive one or more power cables or electrical cables that are used to facilitate communication (e.g., wired or wirelessly) with a point of sale (POS) system attached to the top surface 166. In some embodiments, a conduit or passage (not shown) is provided for the cables of the POS system in addition to the drain opening 176. In some examples, the conduit or passage is configured to accommodate cables for a tablet mount, a display panel, an integrated charging station, or other electronic devices positioned on the top surface 166.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 3, the compartments 116, 118, 120 are removed such that the interior cavities 128, 130, 132 are shown. In particular, a first wall 178 separates the first compartment 116 from the second compartment 118 and from the third compartment 120. Furthermore, a second wall 180 separates the second compartment 118 from the third compartment 120. Insulation (not shown) is provided within each of the first wall 178, the second wall 180, and along the perimeter, e.g., the left side 110, the right side 108, the rear side 106, the front side 104, the top side 112, and the bottom side 114, of the main body 102. In this way, each compartment 116, 118, 120 is able to be separately and independently controlled from one another such that each compartment 116, 118, 120 is able to be maintained at different temperature ranges using the user interface 158.

[0047] As further shown in FIG. 3, the combination freezer 100 is supported on a plurality of bases 182 adjacent the bottom side 114 of the combination freezer 100. For example, each base 182 is positioned adjacent to each corner of the combination freezer 100, as will be further discussed below, although fewer or more bases 182 are possible. In this way, the bases 182 are configured to withstand the weight, e.g., loaded and unloaded, of the combination freezer 100. The bases 182 are configured to receive wheels (see FIG. 14), as will be further described below. In some examples, the combination freezer 100 is supported by caster-type wheels (see FIG. 15) that allows the combination freezer 100 to be moved along the surface the combination freezer 100 is installed on, although other configurations are possible.

[0048] FIG. 4 shows a front view of the combination freezer 100. In particular, and as noted above, the second compartment 118 extends on both the left side 110 and the right side 108 of the central axis 146. Accordingly, the first section 154 of the vent panel 148 also extends on both the left side 110 and the right side 108 of the central axis 146.

[0049] Two leg holders 184 are positioned adjacent to and proximal (relative to the central axis 146) to the bases 182. The leg holders 184 are configured to enclose corresponding legs 186 (see FIG. 5) to enable a height of the combination freezer 100 to be adjusted relative to the surface the combination freezer 100 is installed on. For example, a leveling tool (not shown) can be inserted into an aperture 188 of the leg holder 184 that is accessed through cutouts or gaps in the louvers 150 of the first section 154 of the vent panel 148. Rotational engagement between the leveling tool (not shown) and the leg holder 184 enables the leg 186 to move in an upward or downward direction (e.g., relative to the bottom side 114) that therefore adjusts a height of the combination freezer 100.

[0050] FIG. 5 further illustrates another view of the leg holder 184. As noted above, the aperture 188 of the leg holder 184 that enables the adjustment of height of the combination freezer 100 is accessible through a corresponding cutout 190 in the louvers 150 of the first section 154 of the vent panel 148. In this way, the aperture 188 of the leg holder 184 is easily accessible so a user is able to adjust and level the combination freezer 100, as desired. Easy adjustment and leveling of the combination freezer 100 facilitates proper operation of the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16), drainage of fluids from the sloped drain wall 172 and ramped sidewalls 174 to the drain opening 176, and storage of beverages and contents within the compartments 116, 118, 120.

[0051] FIG. 6 illustrates a back view of the combination freezer 100. As shown, a rear vent panel 192 extends on the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100 to permit airflow across the refrigeration system (see FIG. 16) from the front side 104 to the rear side 106, or the reverse thereof. The rear vent panel 192 includes a plurality of openings of different sizes and shapes for ventilation, condensation tube or piping accommodation, power and cable accommodation, and other suitable functions.

[0052] Referring back to FIG. 1, the compartments 116, 118, 120 differ in size from one another. The first compartment 116 is wider (in the left-right direction) than each of the second compartment 118 and the third compartment 120. The second compartment 118 is taller (in the top-bottom direction) than each of the first compartment 116 and the third compartment 120. The different sizes of the compartments 116, 118, 120 are configured to be associated with different functions, such as the storage of particular items or contents. For instance, the first compartment 116 is configured to store a high quantity of shorter items or elongate items that can be stored on their sides. The second compartment 118 is configured to store taller items that must be arranged upright. The third compartment 120 is configured to store smaller items that require particular or isolated conditions, e.g., temperatures, not suitable for the shorter items or taller items in the other compartments.

[0053] Turning now to FIG. 7A, a width 194 is measured between opposing sides of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116. In this example, the width 194 is between a range of about 15 inches and about 22 inches, or between about 16 inches and about 21 inches, or between about 17 inches and about 20 inches. As shown in FIG. 7B, a height 196 is measured from a bottom side to a top side of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116, and the height 196 is between about 6 inches and about 9 inches, or between about 7 inches and about 8 inches. The height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 can include space above the drawer 122 and below a top of the interior 128, when installed in the combination freezer 100, such that the height 196 may have a maximum of about 14 inches. As also shown in FIG. 7B, a depth 198 is measured between a back side and a front side of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 that extends within the interior 128 of the combination freezer 100, and the depth 198 is between about 24 inches and about 26 inches, or between about 25 inches and about 26.50 inches. In this way, for example, the first drawer 122 is configured to hold about 20 to 40 glassware items, such as coupe glasses.

[0054] Referring still to FIG. 7B, the drawer 122 has a track 200 on a right side 202 and a left side 203 that is slidably coupled to a mounting bracket 204 that is installed within the interior 128 of the combination freezer 100 that spans the depth 198 along the drawer 122. In this way, the first compartment 116 is able to be opened and closed by sliding relative to the interior 128 of the combination freezer 100. A gasket 207 (see FIG. 7A) is further installed onto a back side 208 of the front panel 134 enables a soft-close of the first compartment 116 and seals the first compartment 116 for maintaining temperature and humidity, and to prevent the ingress of dirt, dust, and debris.

[0055] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate dimensions of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118. In particular, as shown in FIG. 8A, a width 209 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 is measured between opposing sides of the drawer 124, and the width 209 is between about 10 inches and about 15 inches, or between about 11 inches and 14 inches, or between about 11.50 inches and about 13 inches. As shown in FIG. 8B, a height 210 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 is measured from a bottom side to a top side of the drawer 124, and the height 210 is between about 15.5 inches and about 20 inches, or between about 16 inches and about 18 inches, or between about 16.5 inches and about 17.5 inches. The height 210 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 can include space above the drawer 124 and below a top of the interior 130, when installed in the combination freezer 100, such that the height 210 may have a maximum of about 22 inches. Furthermore, a depth 211 is measured between a back side and a front side of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 that extends within the interior 130 of the combination freezer 100, and the depth 211 is between about 24 inches and about 26 inches, or between about 25 inches and about 26.50 inches. The second compartment 118 also has a track 212 slidably coupled to a mounting bracket 214, and a gasket 216 (see FIG. 8A) installed onto a back side 218 of the front panel 136 that employ the same benefits as discussed above in connection with the first compartment 116.

[0056] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate dimensions of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, a width 220 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 is measured between opposing right and left sides of the drawer 126, and the width 220 is between about 6 inches and about 10 inches, or between about 5 inches and about 9.50 inches, or between about 7 inches and about 9 inches. As illustrated in FIG. 9B, a height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 is measured from a bottom side to a top side of the drawer 126, and the height 222 is between about 8 inches to about 10 inches, or between about 8 inches and about 9 inches, or between about 8.5 inches and about 9.5 inches. The height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 can include space above the drawer 126 and below a top of the interior 132, when installed in the combination freezer 100, such that the height 222 may have a maximum of about 12 inches. A depth 224 is measured between a back side and a front side of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 that extends within the interior 132 of the combination freezer 100, and the depth 224 is between 24 inches and about 26 inches, or between about 25 inches and about 26.50 inches. In this way, for example, the third compartment 120 is configured to hold about 20 to 30 large craft ice cubes (e.g., sized as 2.5 inches by 2.5 inches). The third compartment 120 also has a track 226 slidably coupled to a mounting bracket 228, and a gasket 230 (see FIG. 9A) installed onto a back side 232 of the front panel 138 that employ the same benefits as discussed above in connection with the first compartment 116.

[0057] With reference to FIGS. 7A-9B, in comparison with the second compartment 118 and the third compartment 120, the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 is configured to have the largest width (e.g., represented by width 194). For example, the width 194 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 may be between about 45% and about 120% larger than the width 209 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118, and between about 50% and about 265% larger than the width 220 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. Correspondingly, the width 209 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 is configured to be larger than the width 220 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. For example, the width 209 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 may be between about 10% and about 150% larger than the width 220 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the third compartment 120 has the smallest width (e.g., represented by width 220).

[0058] Furthermore, the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 is configured to have the largest height (e.g., represented by height 210) as compared with the height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 and the height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. For example, the height 210 of the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118 may be between about 70% and about 235% larger than the height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116, and between about 55% and about 150% larger than the height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120. Correspondingly, the height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 is configured to be larger than the height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116. For example, the height 222 of the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 may be between about 10% and about 65% larger than the height 196 of the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the drawer 122 of the first compartment 116 has the smallest height (e.g., represented by height 196).

[0059] With continued reference to FIGS. 7A-9B, the third compartment 120 has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118. For example, based on the width, height, and depth dimensions described above, the volume of the third compartment 120 is less than the volume of the first compartment 116 and less than the volume of the second compartment 118. In some embodiments, the volume of the third compartment 120 is between about 25% and about 75% of the volume of the second compartment 118, or between about 30% and about 60% of the volume of the second compartment 118, or between about 35% and about 50% of the volume of the second compartment 118. In some embodiments, the volume of the third compartment 120 is between about 15% and about 50% of the volume of the first compartment 116, or between about 20% and about 40% of the volume of the first compartment 116, or between about 25% and about 35% of the volume of the first compartment 116. The smaller volume of the third compartment 120 relative to the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 allows the third compartment 120 to be configured for storage of smaller items that require particular or isolated temperature conditions, such as craft ice cubes, while the larger volumes of the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 accommodate larger quantities of items or taller items.

[0060] The drawer 122 of the first compartment 116, the drawer 124 of the second compartment 118, and the drawer 126 of the third compartment 120 are further configured to extend at a depth (e.g., represented by depth 198, depth 211, and depth 224, respectively) that is substantially the same, although other configurations are possible. As a result, the combination freezer 100 is configured to have a total width 234 (see FIG. 6) of about 23.5 inches to about 27 inches, or between about 24 inches and about 27.5 inches, or between about 24 inches and about 26 inches, although other configurations are possible. Correspondingly, the combination freezer 100 (including the drawers 122, 124, 126) is configured to have a total depth 236 (see FIG. 6) between about 24 inches and about 27.50 inches, or between about 24. 50 inches and about 27 inches, or between about 24 inches and about 26 inches, although other configurations are possible. As noted above, the depth 236 is enabled to be set using the depth adjuster 160 prior to installation. For example, the depth adjuster 160 can be installed during manufacturing of the combination freezer 100 according to architectural drawings or field measurements provided by a technician or user. In other examples, the depth adjuster 160 is omitted or absent from the combination freezer 100. Furthermore, the combination freezer 100 is configured to have a total height 238 (see FIG. 6) that is between about 35 inches to about 37 inches, or between about 34.5 inches and about 36.5 inches, or between about 36 inches and about 37 inches, although other configurations are possible.

[0061] FIG. 10 illustrates a first configuration 240 of the compartments 116, 118, 120. In particular, each of the first compartment 116, the second compartment 118, and the third compartment 120 is configured as a freezer so as to maintain a temperature in each compartment 116, 118, 120 below the freezing point of water (e.g., below 32 degrees Fahrenheit). For example, the first compartment 116 is configured to keep frozen glassware such as coupe glasses, rocks glasses, pint glasses, or stemmed beer glasses. Here, the temperature of the first compartment 116 is maintained within a range between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, the second compartment 118 is configured as a freezer door for taller glassware such as martini glasses, champagne glasses, or margarita glasses in which the second compartment 118 is maintained at a temperature range between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In the illustrated embodiment, the third compartment 120 is configured as an ice maker in which the temperature of the third compartment 120 is maintained within a range of between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In other examples, the compartments 116, 118, 120 are able to be maintained at different ranges of temperatures below freezing using the temperature controller (see FIG. 16).

[0062] FIG. 11 illustrates another configuration 242 of the compartments 116, 118, 120 of the combination freezer 100. In this example, the first compartment 116 and the third compartment 120 are configured as a freezer so as to maintain a temperature below the freezing point of water (e.g., below 32 degrees Fahrenheit). The second compartment 118 is configured as a refrigeration device that maintains items within the compartment 118 in a cool, controlled temperature without freezing. In this embodiment, the first compartment 116 is configured for keeping glassware such as coupes, rocks glasses, pint glasses, or stemmed beer glasses frozen, and the third compartment 120 is configured as an ice drawer configured to store ice. The temperature of the first compartment 116 and the third compartment 120 are maintained between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In this example, the second compartment 118 is configured to keep cool fresh batched cocktails, in which the temperature of the second compartment 118 is maintained with a range between about 30 degrees Fahrenheit to about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. In this way, the first compartment 116 and the third compartment 120 are able to be maintained at a temperature much cooler than the second compartment 118 that allows a user to have a refrigeration device and a freezer device in the same combination freezer 100.

[0063] FIG. 12 illustrates another configuration 244 of the compartments 116, 118, 120 of the combination freezer 100. In this embodiment, the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 are configured as refrigeration devices and the third compartment 120 is configured as a freezer. In this example, the first compartment 116 is configured to keep garnishes fresh and the second compartment 118 is configured to keep cool fresh batched cocktails in which the temperature of the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 is maintained within a range of about 30 degrees Fahrenheit to about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The third compartment 120 is configured as an ice drawer configured to store ice in which the temperature of the third compartment 120 is maintained between about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In other examples, the temperature ranges between the refrigeration devices of the first compartment 116 and the second compartment 118 are able to vary from one another such that the first compartment 116 is maintained within a temperature range that is lower than a temperature range the second compartment 118 is maintained at, although other configurations are possible. As noted above, in some examples, the temperature ranges maintained within the first compartment 116, the second compartment 118, and the third compartment 120 vary from one another based on the function of each compartment 116, 118, 120. In this way, the user interface 158 is able to set these temperature ranges within each compartment 116, 118, 120. Favorably, if the function of the compartment 116, 118, 120 changes, a user is able to adjust the temperature range of the compartment 116, 118, 120 using the user interface 158. Accordingly, each compartment 116, 118, 120 is not limited to being just a freezer or just a refrigeration device, but is able to maintain any temperature range, as discussed above. For example, each compartment 116, 118, 120 is able to withstand temperatures ranging from about -10 degrees Fahrenheit to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, although other configurations are possible.

[0064] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of the combination freezer 100. In particular and as noted above, the combination freezer 100 has the depth adjuster 160 positioned on the rear side 106 of the freezer 100 adjacent the top surface 166. In this example, the accommodation space 164 is created between the rear side 106 of the combination freezer 100 and the wall 162 that is substantially the same size the depth adjuster 160 extends. In particular, the accommodation space 164 affects the total depth 236 (see FIG. 6) of the combination freezer 100 when installed, such that the total depth 236 includes the depth of the main body 102 (and drawers 122, 124, 126), plus the depth of the accommodation space 164. In this way, the accommodation space 164 created facilitates heat dissipation and airflow through the vent panels 148, 192 and enables easy access for maintenance and servicing of the rear side 106 of the combination freezer. As shown, the depth adjuster 160 is configured as a bracket that is mounted to the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100 using a fastener (not shown). In this way, the depth adjuster 160 is able to be interchangeable relative to the wall 162 the combination freezer 100 is installed against to create different sizes of the accommodation space 164, thereby adjusting the total depth 236 of the installed combination freezer 100. In some embodiments, the depth adjuster 160 is provided in a plurality of sizes, each corresponding to a different depth of the accommodation space 164 and a different depth 236 of the freezer 100. In some embodiments, the depth adjuster 160 is adjustable in length such that a single depth adjuster 160 can be configured to create varying sizes of the accommodation space 164 without requiring replacement. In other embodiments, the depth adjuster 160 includes a telescoping or sliding mechanism that permits adjustment of the accommodation space 164 after installation. In some embodiments, the depth adjuster 160 is integrally formed with the main body 102 of the combination freezer 100.

[0065] FIG. 14 illustrates another bottom view of the combination freezer 100. In particular, and as noted above, wheels 246 can be mounted into the bases 182, such that the combination freezer 100 is able to be moved along a floor or surface. Further, the leg holders 184 serve as both leveling features and as locking features or stoppers for the wheels 246 to secure the combination freezer 100 in place. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, two leg holders 184 are shown. When the combination freezer 100 is in a desired position, the leg holders 184 are configured to extend downwardly and contact the floor surface, thereby preventing movement of the wheels 246. In some embodiments, more leg holders 184 can be provided. In particular, four leg holders 184 may be provided (e.g., such as two positioned adjacent the front side 104 and two positioned adjacent the rear side 106). In this example, the leg holders 184 additionally provide the function of adjusting a height of the combination freezer 100 by lifting the wheels 246 off the floor or surface, which also prevents movement of the combination freezer 100. In this way, the combination freezer is able to be adjusted in both position and height. In some embodiments, the wheels 246 are configured as swivel casters that permit multidirectional movement of the combination freezer 100. In other embodiments, the wheels246 are configured as fixed casters that permit movement in a single direction.

[0066] FIG. 15 shows another example of a combination freezer 300. Elements of the combination freezer 300 that are shared with elements of the combination freezer 100 (i.e., structurally or functionally equivalent to) of FIGS. 1-14 will be labelled and discussed with like reference numerals increased by 200. For example, the combination freezer 300 has a front side 304, a rear side 306, a top side 312, a bottom side 314, first compartment 316, a second compartment 318, a third compartment 320 each having a front panel 334, 336, 338 with a handle 340, 342, 344, respectively, and a vent panel 348 having louvers 350.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the combination freezer 300 is supported by wheels 352 adjacent to each corner of the combination freezer 300 and the bottom side 314. In this example, the wheels 352 enable rolling movement of the combination freezer 300 relative to the surface the combination freezer 300 is installed on. In this way, the combination freezer 300 is able to be continually adjusted in position such that the combination freezer 300 is capable of easy servicing and maintenance, has flexible placement and mobility, and is adaptable for different environments. Each wheel 352 has a locking caster 354 in which the wheel 352 is able to be locked in a desired position such that unwanted movement of the combination freezer 300 via the wheel 352 is prohibited.

[0068] Referring still to FIG. 15, the vent panel 348 of the combination freezer 300 is smaller compared to vent panel 148 of the combination freezer 100 such that the second compartment 318 is larger in height (e.g., as compared to height 210). In this example, there is no first section of the vent panel 348 that extends beneath (relative to the bottom 314) the second compartment 318. This enables the second compartment 318 to be larger in height and compacts size of the vent panel 348 such that the vent panel 348 still efficiently provides airflow for the combination freezer 300.

[0069] Turning now to FIG. 16, an example refrigeration system 400 for use in either of the combination freezers 100, 300 is shown. The refrigeration system 400 includes a hot gas defrost line 404 that selectively directs hot refrigerant gas to an evaporator coil 408 during defrost cycles to melt accumulated frost and ice from the evaporator coil 408 surfaces. During normal cooling operation, frost and ice accumulate on the surfaces of the evaporator coil 408 as moisture in the air condenses and freezes on the cold coil surfaces. Over time, this frost accumulation can reduce airflow across the evaporator coil 408 and decrease cooling efficiency. During defrost cycles, the hot gas defrost line 404 directs hot refrigerant gas to the evaporator coil 408 to melt the accumulated frost and ice from the evaporator coil 408 surfaces. An evaporator inlet 412 receives low-pressure refrigerant (e.g., configured as a two-phase mix of liquid and gaseous refrigerant) from an expansion device (such as a capillary tube 414 in this example) and delivers the refrigerant to the evaporator coil 408.

[0070] Within the evaporator coil 408, the refrigerant absorbs thermal energy from the air circulating within the compartments 116, 118, 120 as the refrigerant undergoes a phase change from a low-pressure liquid to a low-pressure vapor. Accordingly, the evaporator coil 408 is positioned within the interior 128 adjacent to the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100, and functions as the primary heat exchanger that cools the air within the combination freezer 100.

[0071] Turning briefly to FIG. 17, the evaporator coil 408 is positioned at an offset angle relative to the top surface 166 of the combination freezer 100. In particular, a top side 416 of the evaporator coil 408 is tilted forward relative to the central axis 146 and in a direction of airflow (e.g., from the front side 104 towards the rear side 106) such that condensation drips off of the evaporator coil 408 and into a drain pan 420 positioned beneath the evaporator coil 408. The angled orientation of the evaporator coil 408 increases the area over which warm humid air is drawn during normal cooling operation, which more evenly distributes frost over the surface of the evaporator coil 408. Furthermore, the angled orientation of the evaporator coil 408 encourages condensation rolling down the evaporator coil 408 to accumulate at a bottom front edge (e.g., relative to the central axis 146) in larger droplets of liquid water, which can accelerate shedding of water during defrost cycles. In some embodiments, the offset angle of the evaporator coil 408 is between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the central axis 146 (or vertical direction), or between about 10 degrees and about 30 degrees, or between about 15 degrees and about 25 degrees, although other configurations are possible.

[0072] In some examples, the freezer 100 includes drain tubes that are provided for directing liquid away from the electrical and refrigeration components of the freezer 100. For example, a first drain tube 422a is coupled to the drain opening 176 of the top surface 166 and routes excess liquid from the top surface 166 to an external drain source (not shown). A second drain tube 422b extends from the drain pan 420 through the unit 100 for condensate removal, directing collected water away from the refrigeration components and out of the interior compartments 128, 130, 132 to prevent water accumulation and maintain sanitary operating conditions. In particular, the runoff is directed to a drain pan 423 (see FIG. 16) positioned below the condenser fans 448. In this example, the refrigerant hot gas discharge line 404 is routed through the drain pan 423 to accelerate evaporation of the runoff moisture without requiring external drainage, and the evaporating water cools the hot gas discharge line 404 to improve the efficiency of the refrigeration system 400. Further shown in FIG. 17, a backsplash 425 positioned adjacent to the depth adjuster 160 is configured as an adjustable height backsplash. In this example, the adjustable height backsplash 425 can accommodate different installation configurations and provides a barrier to prevent items from falling behind the freezer 100.

[0073] Referring still to FIG. 16, the hot gas defrost line 404 is configured to work in combination with the drain pan 420 positioned beneath the evaporator coil 408. For example, the hot refrigerant gas flowing through the evaporator coil 408 during defrost cycles melts frost and ice from the evaporator coil 408 surfaces and also heats the drain pan 420 positioned below. As the frost and ice melt from the evaporator coil 408, the resulting condensate drips downwardly into the drain pan 420. Because the drain pan 420 is heated by a section of the hot gas defrost line 404 that is heated during the hot gas defrost cycle, the condensate within the drain pan 420 is heated and thawed to aid in free, gravity-induced flow toward the drain tube 422b for removal from the combination freezer 100, thereby helping to prevent condensate collected in the drain pan 420 from freezing. This combination of the hot gas defrost line 404 and the drain pan 420 facilitates efficient removal of ice and condensate from the combination freezer 100 and maintains proper drainage during and after defrost cycles.

[0074] A suction line 424 extends from the evaporator coil 408 and carries the low-pressure refrigerant gas that has absorbed heat from the compartments 116, 118, 120 back to a compressor 428 for compression into high-pressure vapor. In particular, the suction line 424 connects the evaporator coil 408 to the compressor 428, completing the low-pressure side of the refrigeration cycle. The first wall 178 includes insulation to thermally separate the interior 128 from the interiors 130, 132, as noted above. In some configurations, the first wall 178 only separates the first compartment 116 from the second compartment 118. In other configurations, the first wall 178 may extend a full width of the freezer 100 to thermally isolate different compartments 128, 130, 132 depending on whether independent temperature control is desired between compartments operating at the same or different temperature ranges. In other embodiments, compartments operating at different temperature ranges (e.g., such as a freezer compartment and a refrigeration compartment) are thermally separated, while compartments operating at the same temperature range may or may not be thermally separated.

[0075] An evaporator fan 432 is mounted below the first wall 178 to circulate cooled air throughout the compartments 116, 118, 120. In particular, air enters the evaporator coil 408 through inlet openings in the first compartment 116 and exits the evaporator coil 408 through openings in the third compartment 120 in front of the evaporator fan 432. The evaporator fan 432 creates a pressure differential that circulates air from the third compartment 120 to the first compartment 116 and through the evaporator coil 408, as will be discussed below. The angled positioning of the evaporator coil 408 enhances the efficiency of heat transfer between the refrigerant within the evaporator coil 408 and the circulating air by increasing volume of air flow and surface area contact between the air and the coil surfaces. As noted above, the suction line 424 extends from an outlet of the evaporator coil 408 downwardly through the combination freezer 100 to the compressor 428, carrying low-pressure refrigerant gas back to the compressor 428 for compression.

[0076] Referring still to FIG. 16, the refrigeration system 400 further includes a solenoid valve 434. In this example, the solenoid valve 434 is configured as a hot gas defrost solenoid valve that controls the defrost cycle by selectively directing high-temperature gaseous refrigerant from the compressor 428 directly to the evaporator coil 408, bypassing the condenser and capillary tube, to melt accumulated frost on the evaporator coil 408. During normal cooling operation, the solenoid valve 434 remains closed, and high-pressure, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant flows from the compressor 428 to a condenser coil 436 where the refrigerant releases heat and at least fully condenses into a liquid before passing through the capillary tube 414 to the evaporator coil 408. During defrost cycles, the solenoid valve 434 opens to allow high-pressure, high-temperature gaseous refrigerant to bypass the condenser coil 436 and the capillary tube 414, and flow directly through the hot gas defrost line 404 to the evaporator coil 408, thereby rapidly melting frost accumulation.

[0077] The compressor 428 drives the refrigeration cycle by compressing low-pressure refrigerant gas received from the suction line 424 into high-pressure refrigerant gas that is directed to the condenser coil 436. The compression process increases both the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant vapor, allowing the refrigerant to release absorbed heat to the ambient environment when the refrigerant passes through the condenser coil 436. The second wall 180 is insulated and thermally separates the interior 130 from the interior 132, and insulation is provided within the second wall 180 to thermally isolate the second compartment 118 from the third compartment 120, thereby allowing each of the second compartment 118 and the third compartment 120 to be maintained at different temperature setpoints.

[0078] A first damper 440 is positioned adjacent to the interior 130 for regulating airflow to the second compartment 118. Correspondingly, a second damper 444 regulates airflow into the first compartment 116. The dampers 440, 444 are configured to modulate the flow of cooled air from the evaporator coil 408 to each of the compartments 116, 118, 120 to maintain different temperature setpoints in each compartment 116, 118, 120. By selectively opening and closing the dampers 440, 444, the refrigeration system 400 can regulate air circulation to and from each compartment 116, 118, 120, as needed to maintain the user-selected or programmed temperature setpoints. For example, when the damper 440 is opened to the second compartment 118, a parallel air path is created by the evaporator fan 432 from the third compartment 120 through the second compartment 118 to the first compartment 116 and through the evaporator coil 408, in addition to the direct path from the third compartment 120 to the first compartment 116.

[0079] The condenser coil 436 and two condenser fans 448 are positioned proximate the bottom of the combination freezer 100 for heat dissipation through the vent panel 148 (see FIG. 1). In particular, the condenser coil 436 receives high-pressure refrigerant gas from the compressor 428 and dissipates heat to the surrounding air as the refrigerant undergoes a phase change from gas to liquid state. The two condenser fans 448 are positioned upstream of the condenser coil 436 in the direction of airflow and are configured as push-through fans that draw ambient air into the unit through the louvered vent 152 (e.g., configured as an inlet vent) of the vent panel 148, through the condenser fans 148, and across the condenser coil 436, with the resultant heated air exhausted out of the unit through the louvered vent 150 (e.g., configured as an outlet vent) of the vent panel 148. In some embodiments, the rear vent panel 192, when not blocked off, serves as an additional area of openings through which air is drawn in. The positioning of the condenser coil 436 and condenser fans 448 adjacent to the vent panel 148 ensures adequate airflow for efficient heat dissipation while maintaining a compact overall footprint for the combination freezer 100. In some embodiments, the dual-fan arrangement of the condenser fans 448 provides redundancy such that if one fan fails, the other fan continues to operate and provide cooling. The dual-fan arrangement of the condenser fans 448 also permits modulation of cooling capacity by selectively powering one or both fans to operate at approximately 50% or 100% capacity, which may reduce power consumption and sound compared to a single fan that operates in a binary on / off manner, as the refrigeration system 400 can operate at reduced capacity during periods of lower cooling demand. Additionally, the use of two smaller fans 448 rather than a single larger fan permits a more compact arrangement in the height dimension 238 of the freezer 100, which allows the compartment positioned above the condenser fans 448 (e.g., the third compartment 120) to be taller and accommodate larger items or greater storage capacity.

[0080] A filter drier 452 is connected between the condenser coil 436 and the capillary tube 414to remove moisture and contaminants from the refrigerant, thereby protecting the refrigeration system 400 components from damage caused by moisture-induced corrosion or debris-related blockages and ensuring efficient operation of the refrigeration cycle.

[0081] A controller 460 is positioned outside of and adjacent to the interior 132 and corresponds to the user interface 158. The controller 460 is operatively coupled to temperature sensors (not shown) that may be disposed in one, two, or all three compartment 116, 118, 120, the dampers 440, 444, the compressor 428, the evaporator fan 432, the condenser fans 448, and the solenoid valve 434 to coordinate operation of the refrigeration system 400. In this example, the temperature sensors are configured to enable the refrigeration system 400 to control air and product temperature in each compartment 116, 118, 120. In addition, a temperature sensor (not shown) is attached to the suction line 424 near an outlet of the evaporator coil 408 for controlling the hot gas defrost operation, such as, e.g., by opening or closing the solenoid valve 434 to start or stop the cycle. In particular, the controller 460 receives temperature feedback from the temperature sensors and compares the measured temperatures to the user-selected temperature setpoints entered via the user interface 158. Based on this comparison, the controller 460 modulates the dampers 440, 444 and controls the operation of the compressor 428, evaporator fan 432, and condenser fans 448 to maintain each compartment 116, 118, 120 at its respective temperature setpoint. An on / off switch 466 is also provided as a safety and convenient device for shutting off power to the freezer 100. In this way, the refrigeration system 400 allows for independent temperature control for each compartment 116, 118, 120 via the dampers 440, 444 and the controller 460 operatively coupled to the user interface 158, allowing the combination freezer 100 to simultaneously maintain different temperature ranges in each compartment 116, 118, 120 according to the configurations described above in connection with FIGS. 10-12.

[0082] FIG. 18 illustrates the third compartment 120 having a tray 500 configured to be removably positioned within the drawer 126 of the combination freezer 100, such that the tray 500 can be placed within and removed from the drawer 126 without tools or permanent attachment. It should be appreciated that while the tray 500 is shown for use in the third compartment 120, the tray 500 may similarly be used in each of the first 116 or second compartments 118. As shown, the tray 500 includes inner walls 504 that extend upwardly from a bottom surface 508 to define a storage volume 512 configured to receive and retain items such as ice cubes, craft ice, beverages, or other contents requiring temperature-controlled storage.

[0083] A pair of flanges 516 are positioned on opposing sides of the tray 500 and are located opposite the bottom surface 508. In particular, the flanges 516 extend outwardly from upper portions of the inner walls 504 and are configured to engage and rest upon corresponding top surfaces of the drawer 126 when the tray 500 is installed within the drawer 126 (see FIG. 19). This engagement between the flanges 516 and the top surfaces of the drawer 126 prevents lateral movement of the tray 500 within the drawer 126 and maintains the tray 500 in position relative to the drawer 126. As a result, the flanges 516 are configured to ensure the tray 500 is positioned correctly within the drawer 126. In some embodiments, the flanges 516 include one or more alignment features such as notches, tabs, or recesses that correspond to complementary features on the drawer 126 to ensure proper orientation of the tray 500 within the drawer 126. In some embodiments, the flanges 516 are configured with a friction-fit engagement with the drawer 126 such that the tray 500 is removably secured within the drawer 126 but resists unintentional displacement during normal use.

[0084] When engaged with the drawer 126, the flanges 516 suspend the tray 500 within the drawer 126 at an elevated position, thereby creating a gap beneath the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500 and a bottom surface of the drawer 126 that allows air circulation for more efficient and uniform cooling of the contents stored within the storage volume 512. In some embodiments, a clearance is also provided between the exterior surfaces of the tray 500 and the inner surfaces of the drawer 126 when the tray 500 is installed within the drawer 126. This clearance creates an air gap that allows cooled air to circulate around the exterior surfaces of the tray 500, thereby facilitating more uniform cooling of the contents stored within the storage volume 512. Additionally, the solid inner walls 504 of the tray 500 reduce direct air travel and contact with the ice stored within the storage volume 512, which preserves the integrity of the ice because the cold air has low moisture content and can have the effect of sublimating the ice if in direct contact. In this way, the air gap between the tray 500 and the drawer 126 allows external air circulation to uniformly cool the tray 500 and product within, while the solid inner walls 504 protect the ice from sublimation. In some embodiments, the clearance between the tray 500 and the drawer 126 is between about 0.125 inches and about 1 inch, or between about 0.25 inches and about 0.75 inches, or between about 0.375 inches and about 0.5 inches, although other configurations are possible. In this example, the clearance may be uniform around the perimeter of the tray 500. In other examples, the clearance may vary at different locations to accommodate airflow patterns within the drawer 126.

[0085] The inner walls 504 of the tray 500 include a contoured profile defined by multiple edges and inflection points. For example, a first interior edge 520 is positioned between the bottom surface 508 and a first inflection point 524. As shown, the first interior edge 520 extends obliquely at a first angle 526 defined relative to the bottom surface 508 and the storage volume 512, thereby providing a tapered transition from the bottom surface 508. From the first inflection point 524, the inner wall 504 transitions to extend substantially vertically upward to a second inflection point 528. A second interior edge 532 is positioned between the second inflection point 528 and a third inflection point 536. In particular, the second interior edge 532 extends at an outward second angle 534 defined relative to the bottom surface 508 and away from the storage volume 512 between the second inflection point 528 and the third inflection point 536, thereby widening the upper portion of the tray 500. From the third inflection point 536 to the flanges 516, the inner wall 504 extends substantially vertically upward to complete the wall profile. This multi-angled configuration of the inner walls 504 facilitates easy removal of contents from the tray 500 while maximizing the storage volume 512. In this example, the first angle 526 and the second angle 534 are the same, and are less than ninety degrees in a range of between about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees, or between about 10 degrees and 50 degrees, or between about 20 degrees and about 45 degrees, although other configurations are possible. In other examples, the first angle 526 and the second angle 534 are different from one another. For example, in some embodiments, the first angle 526 is about 5 degrees less than the second angle 534, between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees less than the second angle 534, or between about 8 degrees and about 15 degrees less than the second angle 534, although other configurations are possible. For instance, in other embodiments, the first angle 526 greater than the second angle 534, between about 5 degrees greater than the second angle 534, or between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees greater than the second angle 534, or between about 8 degrees and about 15 degrees greater than the second angle 534, although other configurations are possible.

[0086] Referring now to FIG. 19, the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500 defines a contoured, non-planar bottom surface 508 having two angled surfaces 540 that extend upwardly toward one another from opposing sides of the bottom surface 508. The two angled surfaces 540 converge to form an apex 544 that extends as a flat, elongate ridge along the bottom surface 508 approximately centrally between the opposing angled surfaces 540. This V-shaped or peaked configuration creates a non-planar bottom surface 508 that advantageously prevents ice from clumping or sticking together during storage. The contoured profile of the bottom surface 508 reduces the contact area between individual ice pieces and the bottom surface 508, thereby minimizing adhesion between the ice and the tray 500. In particular, the valleys formed along the lower edges of the angled surfaces 540 maintain separation between individual ice pieces by preventing the ice pieces from resting flat against one another. This separation prevents the ice pieces from freezing together into a solid mass over time and facilitates easier retrieval and dispensing of individual ice pieces from the tray 500 without requiring the user to break apart frozen clumps of ice. Although one apex 544 is shown, it should be appreciated that greater apexes can be utilized such as two apexes, three apexes, or four apexes, although other configurations are possible. Furthermore, although the apex 544 is shown as being centrally disposed within the tray 500, it should be appreciated that the apex 544 can extend anywhere along the bottom surface 508.

[0087] In some embodiments, the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500 is integrally formed, stamped, or bent with the inner walls 504 of the tray 500 such that the contoured profile of the bottom surface 508 is formed as a unitary piece with the rest of the tray 500. In this example, the bottom surface 508 includes multiple parallel apexes 544 that create a non-planar surface configuration, such as, e.g., a corrugated, undulated, sinusoidal, or parabolic pattern across the bottom surface 508. Each apex 544 extends as a ridge across the bottom surface 508, with valleys formed between adjacent apexes 544. The non-planar surface configuration increases the total surface area of the bottom surface 508 but reduces the contact area on which ice pieces are stored by providing multiple ridges to prevent the ice pieces from resting flat against the bottom surface 508 and, thus, sticking or adhering thereto. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 508 includes two apexes 544, three apexes 544, four apexes 544, or more apexes 544 arranged in parallel across the bottom surface 508. The spacing between adjacent apexes 544 may be uniform or may vary across the bottom surface 508.

[0088] In other embodiments, the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500 is flat, and a separate insert or panel is provided within the tray 500 that has a shape or pattern configured to prevent ice from clumping or sticking together. The insert may be formed from metal, rubber, wood, plastic, or other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the insert is fastened to the bottom surface 508 of the tray 500, such as by screws, clips, or adhesive. In other embodiments, the insert is friction-fit between the inner walls 504 of the tray 500 such that the insert is held in place by contact with the inner walls 504. In yet other embodiments, the insert is simply rested on the bottom surface 508 without attachment. In some embodiments, the insert includes perforations or openings that allow airflow through the insert and reduce the weight of the insert. The insert may be removable from the tray 500 to facilitate cleaning of the tray 500 and the insert.

[0089] In some embodiments, the apex 544 extends to a height that is proportional to the overall height of the tray 500. For example, the apex 544 may extend to a height that is between about 2% and about 50% of the total height of the tray 500, or between about 5% and about 10% of the total height of the tray 500, or between about 2% and about 4% of the total height of the tray 500, although other configurations are possible. In some embodiments, the apex 544 extends to a height that is between about 0.25 inches and about 2 inches above the bottom surface 508, or between about 0.5 inches and about 1.5 inches, or between about 0.75 inches and about 1.25 inches, although other configurations are possible.

[0090] The proportional height of the apex 544 relative to the tray 500 is configured to balance ice separation with storage capacity. For example, a higher apex 544 can provide greater separation between individual ice pieces and reduces the likelihood of ice pieces freezing together, but may reduce the overall storage volume 512 available for ice storage. Conversely, a lower apex 544 maximizes the storage volume 512 but may provide less separation between ice pieces. In some embodiments, the height of the apex 544 is selected based on the size of the ice pieces intended to be stored within the tray 500. For example, larger ice pieces such as craft ice cubes may benefit from a higher apex 544 to maintain separation, while smaller ice pieces may be stored in a tray 500 having a lower apex 544.

[0091] In some embodiments, the angle at which the angled surfaces 540 extend from the sides of the bottom surface 508 toward the apex 544 is between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the bottom surface 508, or between about 10 degrees and about 30 degrees, or between about 15 degrees and about 25 degrees, although other configurations are possible.

[0092] In some embodiments, the tray 500 is formed as a single, unitary piece, such as by molding, stamping, or deep drawing from a single sheet of material. Forming the tray 500 as a single piece may provide structural integrity and eliminate seams or joints where moisture or debris could accumulate. In other embodiments, the tray 500 is assembled from multiple components that are joined together, such as by welding, fastening, or adhesive bonding. For example, the inner walls 504 may be formed separately from the bottom surface 508 and subsequently attached thereto. In some embodiments, the flanges 516 are formed as separate components that are attached to the upper portions of the inner walls 504, although other configurations are possible.

[0093] In some embodiments, the tray 500 includes one or more dividers or partitions positioned within the storage volume 512 to separate individual ice pieces from one another. For instance, the dividers may extend upwardly from the bottom surface 508 and may be integrally formed with the bottom surface 508 or removably positioned within the storage volume 512. In some embodiments, the dividers are configured to create a grid pattern of individual cells, with each cell sized to receive a single ice piece. In other embodiments, the dividers extend in a single direction to create elongate channels within the storage volume 512. The dividers may extend to a height that is less than the height of the inner walls 504 such that the dividers do not interfere with removal of ice pieces from the tray 500. In some embodiments, the dividers are removable to allow the tray 500 to be used with or without the dividers depending on the size and type of ice pieces being stored.

[0094] As noted above, in some embodiments, the dimensions of the tray 500 are configured to correspond to the dimensions of the drawer 126 such that the tray 500 is sized to fit within the drawer 126 while providing the desired clearance for air circulation. For example, the width of the tray 500 may be between about 70% and about 95% of the width 220 of the drawer 126, or between about 75% and about 90% of the width 220, or between about 80% and about 85% of the width 220. Similarly, the depth of the tray 500 may be between about 70% and about 95% of the depth 224 of the drawer 126, or between about 75% and about 90% of the depth 224, or between about 80% and about 85% of the depth 224. In some embodiments, the height of the tray 500 is configured such that the tray 500 does not extend above the top surfaces of the drawer 126 when installed, thereby allowing the drawer 126 to be fully closed within the third compartment 120.

[0095] The embodiments of the invention described herein are exemplary, and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims, and all changes that fall within the meaning and range of equivalents are intended to be embraced therein.

[0096] In some implementations, devices or systems disclosed herein can be utilized, manufactured, or installed using methods embodying aspects of the invention. Correspondingly, any description herein of particular features, capabilities, or intended purposes of a device or system is generally intended to include disclosure of a method of using such devices for the intended purposes, a method of otherwise implementing such capabilities, a method of manufacturing relevant components of such a device or system (or the device or system as a whole), and a method of installing disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support such purposes or capabilities. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or limited, discussion herein of any method of manufacturing or using for a particular device or system, including installing the device or system, is intended to inherently include disclosure, as embodiments of the invention, of the utilized features and implemented capabilities of such device or system.

[0097] The above discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the invention. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from embodiments of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The above detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of embodiments of the invention.

[0098] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the attached drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. For example, the use of “including,”“comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

[0099] Also as used herein, ordinal numbers are used for convenience of presentation only and are generally presented in an order that corresponds to the order in which particular features are introduced in the relevant discussion. Accordingly, for example, a “first” feature may not necessarily have any required structural or sequential relationship to a “second” feature, and so on. Further, similar features may be referred to in different portions of the discussion by different ordinal numbers. For example, a particular feature may be referred to in some discussion as a “first” feature, while a similar or substantially identical feature may be referred to in other discussion as a “third” feature, and so on.

[0100] Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms “about” and “approximately,” as used herein with respect to a reference value, refer to variations from the reference value of ± 15% or less (e.g., ± 10%, ± 5%, etc.), inclusive of the endpoints of the range.

[0101] The description of the different advantageous embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, different advantageous embodiments may provide different advantages as compared to other advantageous embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0034]The present disclosure provides for a combination freezer including a first compartment, a second compartment, and a third compartment. The combination freezer is designed to maintain a first temperature within the first compartment, a second temperature within the second compartment, and a third temperature within the third compartment. In some embodiments, third compartment has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment and the second compartment. The combination freezer includes a temperature controller having a user interface that allows a user to control the temperature of the first compartment, the second compartment, and the third compartment. The temperature controller can provide different configurations, such as a first configuration in which all three compartments are maintained at substantially the same temperature, and a second configuration in which the third compartment is maintained at a different temperature from at least one of the first compartment ...

Claims

1. A combination freezer, comprising: a main body;a first compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a first temperature;a second compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a second temperature;a third compartment positioned within the main body and configured to be maintained at a third temperature, wherein the third compartment has a smaller volume than each of the first compartment and the second compartment;a refrigeration system including a compressor, an evaporator coil, and a condenser coil; anda user interface in operative communication with a temperature controller for selecting the first temperature, the second temperature, and the third temperature,wherein, via the user interface, the temperature controller is configured to be programmed to provide a first configuration in which the first temperature, the second temperature, and the third temperature are substantially the same, andwherein, via the user interface, the temperature controller is configured to be programmed to provide a second configuration in which the third temperature is different from at least one of the first temperature or the second temperature.

2. The combination freezer of claim 1, wherein the first compartment extends continuously from a left side to a right side of the main body and is positioned above the second compartment and the third compartment.

3. The combination freezer of claim 2, wherein the second compartment is positioned between the first compartment and a vent panel adjacent to a bottom side of the main body, and wherein the third compartment is positioned adjacent to the second compartment.

4. The combination freezer of claim 1, wherein the refrigeration system further includes a hot gas defrost line configured to selectively direct hot refrigerant gas to the evaporator coil during defrost cycles to melt accumulated ice from surfaces of the evaporator coil.

5. The combination freezer of claim 4, further comprising a drain pan positioned beneath the evaporator coil, wherein the hot gas defrost line heats the drain pan during defrost cycles to prevent condensate from refreezing within the drain pan.

6. The combination freezer of claim 1, wherein the refrigeration system further includes two condenser fans positioned adjacent to the condenser coil for heat dissipation.

7. The combination freezer of claim 6, further comprising a vent panel extending from a left side to a right side adjacent to a bottom side of the main body, wherein the two condenser fans draw ambient air through the vent panel and across the condenser coil.

8. The combination freezer of claim 1, further comprising a first damper positioned adjacent to the third compartment and a second damper positioned adjacent to the first compartment, wherein the first damper and the second damper are configured to modulate flow of cooled air from the evaporator coil to maintain a first setpoint of the first compartment, a second setpoint of the second compartment, and a third setpoint of the third compartment.

9. The combination freezer of claim 1, wherein the first compartment and the third compartment are each configured as a freezer to maintain a temperature below a freezing point of water, and wherein the second compartment is configured as a refrigeration device to maintain a temperature above the freezing point of water.

10. The combination freezer of claim 1, wherein the first compartment has a width that is larger than a width of each of the second compartment and the third compartment, and wherein the second compartment has a height that is larger than a height of each of the first compartment and the third compartment.

11. The combination freezer of claim 1, further comprising a depth adjuster positioned adjacent to a top side and extending from a rear side of the main body, wherein the depth adjuster is configured to create an accommodation space between the rear side and a wall against which the combination freezer is installed.

12. A combination freezer, comprising: a main body defining an interior and having a top surface;a plurality of compartments positioned within the interior of the main body, wherein each of the plurality of compartments is independently maintained at a respective temperature;a refrigeration system configured to maintain each respective temperature of the plurality of compartments, the refrigeration system including an evaporator coil positioned within the interior adjacent to the top surface, wherein the evaporator coil is positioned at an angle relative to the top surface;a drain pan positioned beneath the evaporator coil and configured to receive condensate and defrost water from the evaporator coil; anda drain tube extending from the drain pan for condensate removal, wherein the angled positioning of the evaporator coil facilitates drainage of condensation and defrost water into the drain pan.

13. The combination freezer of claim 12, further comprising a first damper and a second damper configured to selectively regulate airflow to the plurality of compartments, wherein the first damper and the second damper are operatively coupled to a temperature controller to modulate flow of cooled air from the evaporator coil based on user-selected temperature setpoints for each of the plurality of compartments.

14. The combination freezer of claim 12, further comprising insulated walls separating each of the plurality of compartments from one another, wherein the insulated walls thermally isolate each of the plurality of compartments to allow independent temperature control of each compartment.

15. The combination freezer of claim 12, wherein the refrigeration system further includes a suction line extending from the evaporator coil to a compressor, carrying low-pressure refrigerant gas back to the compressor for compression.

16. The combination freezer of claim 12, wherein the refrigeration system further includes a hot gas defrost line configured to selectively direct hot refrigerant gas to the evaporator coil during defrost cycles, and wherein the hot gas defrost line heats the drain pan during defrost cycles to prevent condensate from refreezing within the drain pan.

17. A tray for use in a combination freezer, comprising: inner walls extending upwardly from a bottom surface to define a storage volume; anda pair of flanges positioned on opposing sides of the tray and extending outwardly from upper portions of the inner walls, wherein the flanges are configured to engage and rest upon corresponding top surfaces of a drawer when the tray is installed within the drawer, andwherein the bottom surface defines a contoured, non-planar surface having two angled surfaces that extend upwardly toward one another from opposing sides of the bottom surface and converge to form an apex extending as a ridge across a center of the bottom surface.

18. The tray of claim 17, wherein the apex extends to a height that is between about 2% and about 4% of a total height of the tray.

19. The tray of claim 17, wherein the two angled surfaces extend from the opposing sides of the bottom surface toward the apex at an angle between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the bottom surface.

20. The tray of claim 17, wherein the flanges include alignment features configured to correspond to complementary features on the drawer to ensure proper orientation of the tray within the drawer.

Images