Refrigeration appliance

Abstract

Disclosed is a refrigeration appliance comprising a heat exchanger assembly accommodated in the machine compartment. The heat exchanger assembly includes a housing, a condenser accommodated in the housing, and a fan unit with a radial fan configured to convey air through the housing to remove heat from the condenser and discharge the air radially into the machine compartment. An evaporation tray is arranged on a lower wall of the machine compartment, and the radial fan is configured to discharge air directly towards the evaporation tray so that the air can impinge on a surface of liquid contained in the evaporation tray to promote evaporation.

Description

[0001] 202501470

[0002] 1 / 63

[0003] Refrigeration appliance

[0004] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005] The present invention relates to a refrigeration appliance, in particular to a domestic refrigeration appliance such as a fridge, a freezer or a combined fridge-freezer.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] A domestic refrigeration appliance, typically, includes a storage compartment and a separate machine compartment in which components of a refrigerant cycle are accommodated. For example, a compressor for compressing and circulating the refrigerant through an evaporator and a condenser, typically, is accommodated in the machine compartment. The compressor, usually, is mounted to a carrier tray forming a bottom of the machine compartment.

[0008] To reduce the size of the condenser and increase the efficiency of the appliance, a heat exchanger assembly comprising the condenser and a fan conveying air through the condenser may also be accommodated in the machine compartment. Furthermore, an evaporation tray to which condensed water from the storage compartment is drained, typically, is arranged in the machine compartment. Since the compressor discharges heat into the machine compartment, evaporation of the water received in the evaporation tray is promoted.

[0009] With increasing efficiency of the compressor, the heat discharge into the machine compartment is reduced. This results in a reduction in the evaporation rates of the condensate collected in the evaporation tray. Therefore, further measures to promote evaporation have been employed.

[0010] For example, KR 2019-0142994 A discloses an axial fan mounted on an evaporation tray, wherein the axial fan is configured to generate an air flow which is substantially parallel to the surface of water contained in the evaporation tray. 202501470

[0011] 2 / 63

[0012] EP 3 473 953 B1 discloses arranging an axial fan in a receptacle formed in an evaporation tray.

[0013] EP 4 421 418 A1 discloses a configuration of a machine compartment of a refrigerator in which a condenser assembly comprising a condenser and a fan is arranged neighboring to an evaporation tray. In this configuration, the evaporation tray and the fan are arranged on opposite sides of the condenser.

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] It is an object of the present invention to provide improved solutions for the configuration of a machine compartment of a refrigeration appliance. Particularly, it is an object to provide a solution that efficiently promotes evaporation of liquid collected in an evaporation tray in the machine compartment.

[0016] These and other objects are achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are subject to the dependent claims and the following description, referring to the drawings.

[0017] The present invention provides a refrigeration appliance, in particular, a domestic refrigeration appliance such as a fridge, a freezer or a combined fridge-freezer.

[0018] The refrigeration appliance comprises a storage compartment for receiving items to be cooled, a machine compartment separate from the storage compartment, and a heat exchanger assembly arranged in the machine compartment and comprising a housing, a condenser accommodated in the housing, and a fan unit coupled to the housing.

[0019] The machine compartment, with respect to a depth direction, may be limited by an inner wall, and, with respect to a vertical direction, may limited by a lower wall and an opposite upper wall. With respect to a width direction, the machine compartment may, for example, be limited by opposite first and second side walls.

[0020] The vertical direction extends transverse to the depth direction. The width direction extends transverse to the depth direction and to the vertical direction. 202501470

[0021] 3 / 63

[0022] According to some embodiments an evaporation tray arranged on the lower wall of the machine compartment. The evaporation tray is configured to collect liquid drained from the storage compartment, such as condensed water. Optionally, the evaporation tray may include a tray base wall and a periphery wall protruding from the tray base wall to define a collection space for receiving and collecting the liquid. The tray base wall, generally, may have an areal expanse and, for example, may be plate shaped. The expression 'tray base wall' may especially be understood as the flat or substantially flat bottom surface of the evaporation tray. It may especially be given in the form of a plate-like element. For example, the tray base wall can be the primary horizontal surface of the evaporation tray upon which collected condensate rests and evaporates, and it may be rectangular or another suitable shape. In other words, it is the floor of the evaporation tray. The expression 'periphery wall' may especially be understood as the upright or inclined wall(s) extending around the perimeter of the tray base wall. It may especially be given in the form of a side wall, rim, or edge. For example, the periphery wall can be a continuous or segmented wall protruding upwards from the edges of the tray base wall, designed to contain the collected liquid within the evaporation tray. In other words, it is the bounding side structure of the evaporation tray. The expression 'collection space' may especially be understood as the volume enclosed by the tray base wall and the periphery wall, where liquid is accumulated. It may especially be given in the form of a reservoir, basin, or container. For example, the collection space can be the internal volume of the evaporation tray that holds the condensed water, allowing it to evaporate into the machine compartment's air. In other words, it is the area where condensate is held.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the housing of the heat exchanger assembly may extend in the depth direction and divide the machine compartment, with respect to the width direction, into a first inner volume and a second inner volume.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the evaporation tray is located between the heat exchanger assembly and the lower wall with respect to the vertical direction and extends, with respect to the width direction, on opposite sides of the heat exchanger assembly. In other words, the evaporation tray may be placed on the lower wall, and the heat exchanger assembly may be arranged above the evaporation tray. Thereby, the evaporation tray may have a large volume and the surface area of the liquid received in 202501470

[0025] 4 / 63 the evaporation tray may be increased, which advantageously promotes evaporation of the liquid.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the heat exchanger assembly may be part of a refrigerant circuit. Specifically, the condenser of the heat exchanger may be integrated into the refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant circuit may comprise an evaporator thermally coupled to the storage compartment to remove heat from the storage compartment by evaporation of refrigerant, a compressor connected to the evaporator and configured to compress gaseous refrigerant coming from the evaporator, a condenser connected to a pressure port of the compressor to receive the compressed refrigerant and discharge heat to the environment under condensation of the refrigerant. The condenser may be coupled to the evaporator, and a throttling member may be disposed between the condenser and the evaporator to expand the condensed refrigerant. For example, a capillary tube may connect the condenser and the evaporator. The compressor may be arranged in the machine compartment, in particular, in the second inner volume of the machine compartment.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the fan unit is arranged in the second inner volume. Further, the fan unit may comprise a radial fan configured to suck air from the first inner volume through the housing to remove heat from the condenser and discharge the air radially into the second inner volume, so that at least a part of the discharged air is directed from the fan towards the evaporation tray. The fan, because it is realized as a radial fan, is configured to discharge the air radially, i.e., in a direction substantially perpendicular to its axis of rotation. Therefore, the fan is configured to direct the discharged air, at least in part, directly towards the tray base wall. In other words, the discharged air may impinge directly, i.e., substantially perpendicular to the surface of the liquid contained in the evaporation tray which efficiently promotes evaporation. The expression 'radial fan' may especially be understood as a fan that draws air in axially and discharges it radially, i.e., perpendicular to its axis of rotation. It may especially be given in the form of a centrifugal fan or blower. For example, a radial fan can have an impeller with blades that force air outwards into a scroll housing, allowing for high static pressure and compact design, and effectively directing air flow in a specific radial direction. In other words, it is a fan that expels air perpendicular to its intake direction. 202501470

[0028] 5 / 63

[0029] According to some embodiments, the radial fan may comprise a rotor having a plurality of blades. The rotor may be rotatable about a rotational axis which extends in the width direction, and tips of the blades, at least over a part of the circumference of the rotor, are not covered. Accordingly, the tips of the blades may form free ends and be directly exposed to the second inner volume, so that air can be directly discharged from the tips radially into the second inner volume, i.e., without any air guide directing the air in a specific direction. Thereby, the air flow is directed at least in part directly towards the evaporation tray to promote evaporation. Further, a rotating flow can be generated in the second inner volume which helps to increase heat transfer rates between the air and other components in the second inner volume such as the compressor. The expression 'rotor' may especially be understood as the rotating component of the radial fan that includes the blades. It may especially be given in the form of an impeller or bladed wheel. For example, the rotor can be an assembly of fan blades mounted on a central hub, driven by a motor, which rotates about an axis to create airflow. In other words, it is the active, rotating part of the fan. The expression 'blades' may especially be understood as the aerodynamic surfaces on the rotor that impart momentum to the air, thereby creating airflow. They may especially be given in the form of vanes or impellers. For example, the blades can be curved or angled surfaces attached to the rotor, designed to efficiently move air when the rotor spins. In other words, they are the air-propelling elements of the fan. The expression 'rotational axis' may especially be understood as the imaginary line about which the rotor spins. It may especially be given in the form of an axis of rotation or central axis. For example, the rotational axis can be the central line through the rotor, extending in the width direction of the machine compartment, defining the orientation of the fan's rotation. In other words, it is the pivot point of the fan's movement.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the blades, with respect to the width direction, have an end portion facing away from the housing, and at least said end portion is not covered over the entire circumference of the rotor. That is, according to some embodiments, a part of the circumference of the rotor may, indeed, be covered. However, axial end portions of the blades are free, i.e., not covered about the entire circumference of the rotor. In this context, “covered” may be understood as a blocking the radial airflow over at a range of more than 5 percent, in particular, more than 10 percent of the circumference of the rotor. Hence, small structures extending laterally of the rotor, such as studs or pins for holding the fan unit may not be seen as “covering” a part of the circumference of the rotor. 202501470

[0031] 6 / 63

[0032] According to some embodiments, the housing of the heat exchanger assembly may comprise a protective shield protruding from an outer surface facing the second inner volume of the machine compartment. The protective shield may extend along only a part of the circumference of the rotor. Preferably, the blades extend beyond the protective shield in the width direction. The protective shield does not extend between the rotor and the evaporation tray. Rather the protective shield may be arranged neighboring to the rotor in the depth direction. The protective shield may be provided to prevent loose structures, such as cables, to contact the blades.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the evaporation tray entirely covers the lower wall. Thereby, the volume of the collection space for receiving the liquid may be further increased. Additionally, a surface of the liquid is increased which further helps to promote evaporation.

[0034] According to some embodiments, a compressor may be arranged in the machine compartment within the second inner volume on the evaporation tray. The compressor, as described above, may form part of a refrigerant circuit. Since the fan is a radial fan which directly discharges the air radially into the second inner volume, a rotating air flow can be generated. Thereby, a turbulent flow is promoted which increases heat transfer between the air and the compressor. Since the compressor, typically, is component with the highest temperature in the machine compartment, the rotating air flow may help to remove heat from the compressor. Thereby, the overall efficiency of the appliance can be increased. The expression 'compressor' may especially be understood as a mechanical device that increases the pressure of the refrigerant vapor, moving it through the refrigeration circuit. It may especially be given in the form of a reciprocating, rotary, or scroll compressor. For example, the compressor can be a hermetic compressor responsible for compressing gaseous refrigerant coming from the evaporator, thereby increasing its temperature and pressure before it enters the condenser. In other words, it is the pump of the refrigeration circuit.

[0035] According to some embodiments, the housing of the heat exchanger assembly may comprise a condenser casing which defines the accommodation space, in which the condenser is accommodated and which extends between a first opening and a second 202501470

[0036] 7 / 63 opening. Optionally, a fan holder may be releasably coupled to the housing, and the fan unit may be coupled to the fan holder.

[0037] The fan holder may comprise a base plate and mounting interfaces formed on the base plate. The base plate, generally, may be configured to be coupled to the condenser casing. In particular, the fan holder may be releasably coupled to the condenser casing. For example, a guide structure may be formed on the condenser casing which guides the fan holder in the housing transverse direction to be removable from the condenser casing in a direction from a second side end lying of the guide structure lying adjacent to the inner wall of the machine compartment to a first side end of the guide structure. In other words, the base plate may be configured to be engaged with the guide structure. For example, for mounting the fan holder to the condenser casing, the base plate may be introduced into the guide structure at the first side end and moved linearly into the guide structure towards the second side end of the guide structure. For removing the fan holder from the condenser casing, the base plate may be moved linearly in the guide structure from the second side end towards the first side end of the guide structure and separated from the condenser casing in the housing transverse direction. The expression 'base plate' may especially be understood as the primary, typically flat, structural component of the fan holder to which the fan unit is attached and which connects to the condenser casing. It may especially be given in the form of a mounting plate or support panel. For example, the base plate can be a rigid, plate-shaped element of the fan holder that provides the interface for mounting the fan unit and engaging with the guide structure of the condenser casing. In other words, it is the main mounting surface of the fan holder.

[0038] The fan unit may be coupled to the mounting interfaces of the fan holder. The mounting interfaces may be formed on an outer surface of the base plate facing away from the condenser housing, i.e., facing the second inner volume.

[0039] According to some embodiments, the base plate of the fan holder may be arranged between the fan and the second opening of the condenser casing and comprises a central opening allowing the air sucked by the fan to pass. That is, with respect to the axial direction (which is parallel to the width direction), the second opening of the condenser casing may be placed on a first side of the fan holder, and the fan may be placed on an opposite second side of the fan holder. The central opening provides a passage for the air 202501470

[0040] 8 / 63 sucked by the fan. Hence, air may enter the condenser housing through the first opening, pass through the condenser accommodated in the condenser housing, through the second opening of the condenser housing, and the central opening of the base plate, substantially along the axial direction, and be discharged by the radial fan in a radial direction.

[0041] Since the base plate is directly coupled to the condenser casing, e.g., through the guide structure, it is possible to place the fan closer to the condenser housing, too. Consequently, a compact design is achieved which is advantageous with respect to the limited space available in the machine compartment of the refrigeration appliance.

[0042] According to some embodiments, the mounting interfaces may be formed as pins protruding from the outer surface of the base plate facing the second inner volume, wherein the pins are arranged spaced to one another along the circumference of the central opening. The pins provide the benefit of having a relatively small diameter, e.g., in a range between 3 mm and 12 mm. Thereby, the pins, practically, do not cover the rotor of the fan and, thus, have only minor impact on the radial air flow. The mounting interface comprises preferably three pins. The mounting interfaces may be arranged spaced to one another along the circumference of the central opening. The plurality of, particularly three, mounting pins can be arranged spaced apart from each other along the circumference of the central opening, particularly arranged offset from each other at an angle of 120° each along the circumference of the central opening. Preferably, the at least one mounting pin comprises a free end having a hook shape or a mushroom head shape. Wherein the hook-shaped free end comprises a hook or projection radially protruding from the free end of the mounting pin, which is enlarged in cross-section relative to an intermediate portion thereof. Wherein the mushroom-head-shaped free end preferably comprises a circular top in a horizontal cross-section through the mounting pin and arcuate edge regions running towards each other in a vertical cross-section through the mounting pin, wherein the circular top is enlarged in cross-section in a vertical cross-section through the mounting pin relative to an intermediate portion thereof. The mounting pin comprises a fixed end connected to the base plate, said fixed end having a larger cross-section than the intermediate portion and / or being formed to have a cross-section equal to or larger than the free end of the mounting pin. The fan unit, as described above, may comprise a carrier. Said carrier may, for example, comprise receiving holes which may be engaged 202501470

[0043] 9 / 63 with the pins. Optionally, a coupling member, such as a ring element made of an elastic material such as rubber, may be interposed between an inner circumference of the respective receiving hole and the respective pin to improve stability of the engagement and reduce vibrational noise. The coupling element comprises a mounting opening configured to be slipped over the hook-shaped or mushroom-head-shaped free end and to be received or clamped in the cross-sectionally tapered intermediate region between the fixed and free end, such that the carrier can be attached to the base plate in a vibrationdamped and screw-free manner. This pin-and-hole engagement, especially when supplemented with an elastic coupling member, forms a robust yet vibration-damped connection, isolating the condenser casing from fan-induced vibrations and thereby reducing operational noise. The expression 'pins' may especially be understood as slender, cylindrical or tapered projections serving as mounting points or locators. They may especially be given in the form of posts, dowels, or studs. For example, the pins can be integrally molded projections from the base plate of the fan holder, designed to engage with corresponding receiving holes on the fan unit's carrier, often featuring specific end shapes like hooks or mushroom heads for secure retention. In other words, they are fixed, projecting fasteners. The expression 'hook shape' may especially be understood as a form characterized by a curved or angled projection that allows for engagement by catching or latching onto another component. It may especially be given in the form of a J-shape, L- shape, or barb. For example, a hook shape on the free end of a mounting pin can be a radially protruding projection that allows the pin to be retained by a corresponding opening, preventing disengagement. In other words, it is a catching or retaining profile. The expression 'mushroom head shape' may especially be understood as a form characterized by an enlarged, often rounded, cap-like end on a shaft. It may especially be given in the form of a domed, capstan, or button-head shape. For example, a mushroom head shape on the free end of a mounting pin can feature a circular top that is wider than the pin's intermediate portion, allowing it to be retained within a complementary opening, especially in conjunction with an elastic coupling member. In other words, it is an enlarged, usually rounded, terminal end. The expression 'coupling member' may especially be understood as an intermediate element used to connect two components, often providing additional functionality like vibration damping. It may especially be given in the form of a bushing, grommet, or ring element. For example, the coupling member can be a ring-shaped elastic element, such as a rubber ring, placed between a mounting pin and a receiving hole to absorb vibrations and reduce noise transmitted from the fan unit to 202501470

[0044] 10 / 63 the condenser casing. In other words, it is a resilient connector. The expression 'mounting opening' may especially be understood as a hole or aperture within the coupling member designed to receive a mounting pin. It may especially be given in the form of a bore, passage, or central hole. For example, the mounting opening can be a precisely sized hole in an elastic ring element, configured to be slipped over the free end of a mounting pin and securely engage with its intermediate portion, often clamping in a tapered region. In other words, it is the receptacle within the coupling member for the pin. The expression 'vibration-damped' may especially be understood as having reduced transmission of mechanical vibrations. It may especially be given in the form of isolated from vibrations, shock-absorbing, or oscillation-attenuated. For example, a vibration-damped connection, achieved through an elastic coupling member, ensures that vibrations generated by the fan unit are absorbed and not readily transmitted to the condenser casing, reducing noise and potential structural fatigue. In other words, it means having mitigated mechanical oscillations. The expression 'screw-free manner' may especially be understood as a method of attachment that does not require the use of threaded fasteners like screws. It may especially be given in the form of tool-less assembly, snap-fit connection, or friction fit. For example, the fan unit can be attached to the base plate in a screw-free manner using pins with hook or mushroom head shapes and elastic coupling members, allowing for quick and easy assembly and disassembly without tools. In other words, it is a fastening technique that avoids screws.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the machine compartment, with respect to the width direction, is limited by opposite first and second side walls. The second side wall and the heat exchanger assembly may limit the first inner volume in the width direction, and the first side wall and the heat exchanger assembly may limit the second inner volume in the width direction. The expression 'first side wall' may especially be understood as one of the bounding vertical surfaces of the machine compartment in the width direction. It may especially be given in the form of a lateral panel or partition. For example, the first side wall can be an internal structural panel of the refrigeration appliance that, along with the heat exchanger assembly, defines one boundary of the second inner volume. In other words, it is a vertical boundary of the machine compartment. The expression 'second side wall' may especially be understood as the vertical surface opposite the first side wall, bounding the machine compartment in the width direction. It may especially be given in the form of an opposing lateral panel or partition. For example, the second side wall can 202501470

[0046] 11 / 63 be an internal structural panel of the refrigeration appliance that, along with the heat exchanger assembly, defines one boundary of the first inner volume. In other words, it is the opposing vertical boundary of the machine compartment.

[0047] According to some embodiments, the side walls, the lower wall and the upper wall define a rear opening of the machine compartment. Optionally, a part of the rear opening extending between the first side wall and the heat exchanger assembly is covered by a machine compartment cover which includes a discharge opening arranged adjacent to the upper wall in the vertical direction. By covering the rear opening in the range of the second inner volume, the second inner volume, during operation of the radial fan, becomes a pressurized space. The cover, with the discharge opening provided in an upper region thereof, helps to avoid that air recirculates from the second inner volume into the first inner volume. Additionally, since the second inner volume is a pressurized space, the air can be discharged in a controlled manner, e.g., led outwardly along the vertical direction. This may be beneficial, as the air has a temperature higher than the ambient temperature as a consequence of removing heat from the condenser and, optionally, the compressor. Thereby, the air may help to avoid formation of condensate at an outer casing of the appliance. The expression 'rear opening' may especially be understood as an aperture or access point at the back of the machine compartment. It may especially be given in the form of a back panel opening or a ventilation opening. For example, the rear opening can be a large opening at the back of the machine compartment, defined by the side walls, lower wall, and upper wall, which may be partially covered by a machine compartment cover for airflow management. In other words, it is the posterior access or ventilation point of the machine compartment. The expression 'machine compartment cover' may especially be understood as a panel or enclosure designed to close off or partially close off the rear opening of the machine compartment. It may especially be given in the form of a back plate, access panel, or shroud. For example, the machine compartment cover can be a molded plastic or sheet metal part that fits over a portion of the rear opening, containing a discharge opening to direct airflow and create a pressurized space within the second inner volume. In other words, it is an element that encloses a portion of the machine compartment's rear. The expression 'discharge opening' may especially be understood as an aperture or outlet specifically designed for the exit of air. It may especially be given in the form of a vent, outlet, or exhaust port. For example, the discharge opening can be a slit or grille in the machine compartment cover, 202501470

[0048] 12 / 63 located adjacent to the upper wall, through which air from the pressurized second inner volume is directed outwards. In other words, it is an air exit port. The expression 'pressurized space' may especially be understood as an enclosed volume where the air pressure is maintained at a level higher than the ambient pressure. It may especially be given in the form of a positive pressure chamber. For example, the second inner volume can become a pressurized space when the radial fan actively discharges air into it while a machine compartment cover restricts its escape, thereby controlling airflow direction and preventing recirculation. In other words, it is a region of elevated air pressure.

[0049] According to some embodiments, a part of the rear opening extending between the side wall and the heat exchanger assembly is not covered. That is, first inner volume of the machine part may be accessible or open. Thereby, the fan unit can suck air through the open part of the rear opening, basically, without pressure loss.

[0050] The features and advantages disclosed herein in connection with one aspect of the invention are also disclosed for the other aspects of the invention and vice versa.

[0051] The devices and methods disclosed herein are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, to fulfill a functionality described herein, these may comprise a number of individual elements, components, and units, as well as method steps, that deviates from a number mentioned herein. Furthermore, for the ranges of values specified in this disclosure, values lying within the stated limits shall also be considered as disclosed and as arbitrarily usable.

[0052] It is particularly noted that all features and properties described with respect to a device, as well as methods, are analogously transferable to methods and usable within the scope of the invention and shall be considered as co-disclosed. The same applies in reverse. This means that structural, i.e., device-related, features mentioned with respect to methods can also be considered, claimed, and counted as part of the disclosure within the scope of the device claims.

[0053] In the following, the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the appended figures. The drawing, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will appropriately consider the 202501470

[0054] 13 / 63 features individually and use them meaningfully in combination within the scope of the claims.

[0055] If more than one instance of a specific object is present, only one of them may be provided with a reference numeral in the figures and in the description. The description of this instance can be analogously transferred to the other instances of the object. If objects are designated particularly by ordinal numbers, such as first, second, third object, etc., these serve to name and / or assign objects. Accordingly, for example, a first object and a third object may be comprised, but no second object. However, based on ordinal numbers, a number and / or a sequence of objects could additionally be derivable.

[0056] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] The invention will be explained in greater detail with reference to exemplary embodiments depicted in the drawings as appended.

[0058] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate the embodiments of the present invention and together with the description serve to explain the invention. Other embodiments of the present invention and many of the intended advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding similar parts.

[0059] Fig. 1 is a representative isometric view of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0060] Fig. 2 is an exploded isometric view of a lower part of the refrigeration appliance of Fig. 1 , where a machine compartment of the refrigeration appliance is located, wherein a rear cover is omitted.

[0061] Fig. 3 is another isometric view of the lower part of the refrigeration appliance of Fig. 1 with the rear cover being shown. 202501470

[0062] 14 / 63

[0063] Fig. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the refrigeration appliance through the machine compartment.

[0064] Fig. 5 is a rear view which shows the lower part of the refrigeration appliance of Fig. 1 where the machine compartment is located in a state in which the rear cover is omitted.

[0065] Fig. 6 is another cross-sectional view of the machine compartment and further includes a detailed view which shows at least partial placement of a vertical extension of a condenser casing being introduced in a receiving space between the mutual vertical wall parts.

[0066] Fig. 7 is an isometric view of an evaporation tray of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0067] Fig. 8 is another isometric view of the evaporation tray of Fig. 7.

[0068] Fig. 9 is a top view of the evaporation tray of Fig. 7.

[0069] Fig. 10 is a lateral view of the evaporation tray of Fig. 7.

[0070] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0071] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a condenser casing of the heat exchanger assembly of Fig. 11.

[0072] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the condenser casing with a condenser accommodated therein.

[0073] Fig. 14 is a further perspective view of the heat exchanger assembly of Fig. 11.

[0074] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger assembly of Fig. 11.

[0075] Fig. 16 is a perspective detailed view of the heat exchanger assembly of Fig. 11. 202501470

[0076] 15 / 63

[0077] Fig. 17 is a further detailed view of the heat exchanger assembly of Fig. 11.

[0078] Fig 18 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a carrier tray according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0079] Fig. 19 is a further cross-sectional view of the carrier tray of Fig. 18.

[0080] Fig. 20 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the carrier tray of Fig. 18 with an evaporation tray received therein and a compressor mounted on the carrier tray.

[0081] Fig. 21 is a side view illustrating a process of assembling the heat exchanger assembly on the carrier tray.

[0082] Fig. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view through the machine compartment of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0083] Fig. 23 is a detailed cross-sectional view through the machine compartment of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of the invention in a region of the machine compartment adjacent to an inner wall.

[0084] Fig. 24 is a detailed view of a rear sealing of a condenser casing of the heat exchanger assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0085] Fig. 25 is a schematical, partial cross-sectional view through the machine compartment of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of the invention in a region where the rear sealing contacts the inner wall of the machine compartment.

[0086] Fig. 26 is a partial cross-sectional view through the machine compartment of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of the invention, showing the assembly of a rear cover and the heat exchanger assembly. 202501470

[0087] 16 / 63

[0088] Fig. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view through the machine compartment of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of the invention in the region of a rear cover.

[0089] Fig. 28 is a perspective view to a lower part of a refrigeration appliance according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0090] In the figures, like reference numerals denote like or functionally like components, unless indicated otherwise.

[0091] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0092] In the following, a “width direction” x, a “depth direction” y, and a “height direction” or “vertical direction” z are referred to. The width direction x and the depth direction y extend perpendicular to each other, and the vertical direction z extends perpendicular to the width direction x and the depth direction y.

[0093] The width direction x may be a width direction of a refrigeration appliance 1 , of a storage compartment 4, of a machine compartment 5, of a carrier tray 16 or of an evaporation tray 15.

[0094] The depth direction y may be a depth direction of the refrigeration appliance 1 , of the storage compartment 4, of the machine compartment 5, of the carrier tray 16 or of the evaporation tray 15.

[0095] The height direction z may be a height direction of the refrigeration appliance 1 , of the storage compartment 4, of the machine compartment 5, of the carrier tray 16 or of the evaporation tray 15.

[0096] In Fig. 1 , a representative isometric view of a refrigeration appliance 1 is shown. The refrigeration appliance 1 , for instance, may be a refrigerator. However, the invention is not limited to a refrigerator but the refrigeration appliance may also be a freezer or a combined fridge-freezer or, generally, a domestic refrigeration appliance. 202501470

[0097] 17 / 63

[0098] As exemplarily shown in Fig. 1 , the refrigeration appliance 1 comprises a body or casing 2 which defines at least one storage compartment 4 for storing items to be cooled such as food, beverages, medicine, or such like. The refrigeration appliance 1 further comprises a machine compartment 5 which is separate from the storage compartment 4. For example, the machine compartment 5 may be located below the storage compartment 4 with respect to the vertical direction z.

[0099] The refrigeration appliance 1 may include a refrigerant circuit (not entirely shown) configured to withdraw heat from the storage compartment 4 under evaporation of a refrigerant and to discharge heat to the environment under condensation of refrigerant. For example, the refrigerant circuit may include an evaporator (not shown) thermally coupled to the storage compartment 4, a condenser 10 thermally coupled to the environment, a compressor 9 for circulating refrigerant through the evaporator and the condenser 10, and a throttling member configured to expand the refrigerant before entering the evaporator. Some of these components of the refrigerant circuit may be accommodated in machine compartment 5, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0100] Referring again to Fig. 1 , the refrigeration appliance 1 may comprise at least one door 3, which is preferably provided at a front side 6 of the refrigeration appliance 1 , which may be close to the user. The door 3 can be connected in a rotatable manner to the body or casing 2 by means of at least one hinge mechanism (not shown). The door 3 may be rotatable between a closed position, in which it covers an access opening (not shown) of the storage compartment 4, and an open position in which it at least partially clears the access opening so that access can be provided to the storage compartment 4 from outside. The door 3 may be provided at the front side 6 of the refrigeration appliance 1 in a manner realizing passage between the open position and the closed position.

[0101] In the refrigeration appliance 1 exemplarily shown in Fig. 1 , the storage compartment 4 is provided at an upper side with respect to the vertical direction z. For example, the upper side may be further distanced to the ground or floor where the refrigeration appliance 1 is located. The machine compartment 5 may be provided at a lower side of the refrigeration appliance 1 with respect to the vertical direction z. The lower side may be closer to the ground or floor where the refrigeration appliance 1 is located. 202501470

[0102] 18 / 63

[0103] Generally, the machine compartment 5 has an inner volume defined by a front wall or inner wall 511 , opposite first and second side walls 512, 513, a lower wall 514 and an upper wall 515. For example, the machine compartment 5, with respect to the depth direction y, may be limited by the inner wall 511 , with respect to the width direction x, may be limited by the opposite side walls 512, 513, and, with respect to the vertical direction z, may be limited by the lower wall 514 and the upper wall 515 located opposite to the lower wall 514.

[0104] The machine compartment 5 may have a rear opening 8. The rear opening 8 may be provided at a rear side 7 which is at the opposite side of the front side 6. Generally, the rear opening 8 may be located opposite to the inner wall 511 in the depth direction y. For example, the rear opening 8 may be defined by the side walls 512, 513, the lower wall 514 and the upper wall 515. Through the rear opening 8, access is possible to the inner volume. The lower wall 514 may be formed, for example, by a carrier tray 16. The carrier tray 16 may also referred to as compressor traverse or support rail.

[0105] As visible, for example, from Fig. 2, a compressor 9 and a heat exchanger assembly 100 may be accommodated in the machine compartment 5. The heat exchanger assembly 100 will be described in more detail below and may include, for example, a housing 110, a condenser 10 accommodated in the housing 110, and a fan unit 12 coupled to the housing 110 and configured to convey air through the housing 110 to dissipate heat from the condenser 10. The condenser 10 and the compressor 9 may form part of the refrigerant circuit described above. The heat exchanger assembly 100 may be arranged within the machine compartment 5 such that it divides the machine compartment 5 with respect to the width direction x into a first inner volume 13 and a second inner volume 14 (Fig. 5). In particular, the heat exchanger assembly 100 may be arranged within the machine compartment 5 such that the housing 110 extends in the dept direction y. The compressor 9 may, for example, be arranged in the second inner volume 14.

[0106] With reference to Fig. 3, a rear cover 24 may be provided in a manner at least partially covering the rear opening 8. Preferably, as shown in Fig. 3, the rear cover 24 only covers the rear opening 8 in a section extending between the heat exchanger assembly 100 and the first side wall 512, while a part of the rear opening 8 between the second side wall 513 and the heat exchanger assembly 100 is left uncovered. 202501470

[0107] 19 / 63

[0108] With reference to Fig. 2, the refrigeration appliance 1 may include a lower or carrier tray 16 which may form the lower wall 514 of the machine compartment 5. Further, there may be provided an evaporation tray 15 which may be accommodated within the carrier tray 16. As exemplarily shown in Figs. 2 and 20, the evaporation tray 15 may be received in or seated onto the carrier tray 16. The evaporation tray 15 is provided and configured such that water can be collected therein. Specifically, water drained from the storage compartment 4 can be collected and temporarily stored in the evaporation tray 15.

[0109] The carrier tray 16 may be assembled by being moved in the depth direction y into to the machine compartment 5. For example, guiding elements 58 may be provided on the side walls 512, 513 configured to receive and support opposite ends of the carrier tray 16, so that the carrier tray 16 can be slid and moved along the side walls of the machine compartment 5 towards the inner wall 511 .

[0110] Optionally, the side walls 512, 513 may comprise a respective compartment inner wall 22 which faces the inner volume can have an inner wall element made of a plastic material which is resistant to high temperature and burning. The compartment inner wall 22 may comprise a connection wall 23. There may be at least one corresponding connection hole 25 on the connection wall 23. The carrier tray 16, optionally, may comprise connection flaps 20 provided essentially in a parallel plane with respect to the related connection walls 23, and at least one connection hole 21 may be provided on each of the connection flaps 20. By passing of a connection member (not shown) like a screw or a bolt through the related corresponding connection hole 25 and the connection hole 21 , the carrier tray 16 can be connected and fixed to the side walls 512, 513. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration and the carrier tray 16 may also be fixed within the machine compartment 5 in a different way.

[0111] The carrier tray 16 is exemplarily shown in Fig. 2 in a perspective view, and Figs. 18 to 20 each show cross-sectional views of the carrier tray 16.

[0112] As exemplarily shown in Figs. 2 and 18, the carrier tray 16 may comprise a bottom wall or carrier base wall 610 and a circumferential wall 620. The carrier base wall 610 may be generally plate shaped and have a first or upper surface 610a. The circumferential wall 202501470

[0113] 20 / 63

[0114] 620 protrudes from the carrier base wall 610, in particular, to an upper side defined by the upper surface 610a of the carrier base wall 610. The circumferential wall 620 may form a closed frame so that the circumferential wall 620 and the carrier base wall 610 define a receiving cavity 17.

[0115] The carrier tray 16 may have a substantially rectangular circumference. For example, the circumferential wall 620 may have first and second side sections 621 A, 621 B which are opposite to each other, and first and second longitudinal sections 622A, 622B which are opposite to each other and extend between the first and second side sections 621A, 621 B. The first and second side sections 621 A, 621 B may, for example, extend in the depth direction y, when the carrier tray 16 is assembled in the machine compartment 5, and the first and second longitudinal sections 622A, 622B may extend in the width direction x, when the carrier tray 16 is assembled in the machine compartment 5. The first longitudinal section 622A may face the inner wall 511 .

[0116] As further shown in Figs. 18 and 19, the carrier tray 16 may comprise a first coupling portion 631 and a second coupling portion 632 each protruding from the circumferential wall 620. The coupling portions 631 , 632 may be provided for coupling the heat exchanger assembly 100 to the carrier tray 16 as will be explained in further detail below.

[0117] For example, the first coupling portion 631 may be formed on the first longitudinal section 622A of the circumferential wall 620. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 19, the first coupling portion 631 may be formed in an end region of the first longitudinal section 622A facing the second side section 621 B. The second coupling portion 622B may be formed on the second longitudinal section 622B of the circumferential wall 620. Generally, the first and the second coupling portions 631 , 632 may be arranged opposite to each other in the depth direction y. As exemplarily shown in Figs. 2 and 19, the second coupling portion 632, optionally, may extend over the entire length of the second longitudinal section 622B.

[0118] The first and second coupling portions 631 , 632 may be integrally formed with the circumferential wall 620, for example, by being bent from an end of the circumferential wall 620. In particular, the first and second coupling portions 631 , 632 protrude in the depth direction y from an end of the circumferential wall 620 facing away from the base wall 610 of the carrier tray 16. 202501470

[0119] 21 / 63

[0120] As visible best in Fig. 19, the first and second coupling portions 631 , 632 may have a U- shaped or C-shaped cross-section with a convex outer surface. The coupling portions 631 , 632 may be formed such that the convex outer surfaces of the coupling portions 631 , 632 face away from each other. The second coupling portion 632, in the following, may also be referred to as curved wall part 55. As further shown in Fig. 18, the coupling portions 631 , 632 may define an engagement groove 36. The first coupling portion 631 may comprise a first free end portion 541 and the second coupling portion 632C may comprise the second free end portion 542 forming the engagement groove 36 with the circumferential wall, respectively.

[0121] Optionally, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 19, the first coupling portion 631 may comprise at least one slit 631 B. For example, the slit 631 B may be formed in an upper part of the coupling portion 631 which is located opposite to the end of the circumferential wall, especially formed in the first free end portion 541. The optional slit 631 B may help to position the heat exchanger assembly 100 precisely on the carrier tray 16 during assembly, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0122] Further optionally, the carrier tray 16 may comprise an air guide plate 18. The air guide plate 18 may protrude from the circumferential wall 620. For example, the air guide plate 18 may protrude from the first longitudinal section 622A as exemplarily shown in Figs. 2, 18, and 19. Preferably, the air guide plate 18 may protrude outwardly from the circumferential wall 620 in an inclined manner. An end portion 18A of the air guide plate 18 facing away from the circumferential wall 620 may be bent to have a U-shape. The air guide plate 18, generally, may extend over at least a part of the first longitudinal section 622A. For example, the air guide plate 18 may extend from an end of the first coupling section 631 to an end of the first longitudinal section 622A adjacent to the first side section 621A, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 18. When the carrier tray 16 is assembled in the machine compartment 5, the end portion 18A of the air guide plate 18 may abut the inner wall 511. For example, the end portion 18A may engage a groove 511 A formed in the inner wall 511 , as exemplarily shown in Fig. 23.

[0123] As further shown in Figs. 2, 18, and 19, the carrier tray 16 may comprise embossment parts 19, e.g., four embossment parts 19 as exemplarily shown. However, the invention is 202501470

[0124] 22 / 63 not limited to four embossment parts 19. Rather, at least two, preferably at least three embossment parts may be provided. Alternatively, it is also possible that only one embossment part is provided. In the following, however, a configuration with multiple embossment parts is described by way of example.

[0125] The embossment parts 19 may be formed in the carrier base wall 610 to protrude on the side defined by the upper surface 610a of the carrier base wall 610. For example, each embossment part 19 may comprise a standing wall 641 , a top wall 642, and a connection element 26.

[0126] The standing wall 641 may extend transverse to the upper surface 610a of the carrier base wall 610, in particular, transverse to a surface region of the upper surface 610a surrounding the respective embossment part 19. Said surface region may be planar or substantially planar. As further exemplarily shown in Figs. 18 to 20, the standing wall 641 may have opposite planar portions and opposite curved portions connecting the planar portions. That is, the standing wall 641 may define a closed circumference with opposite planar portions and opposite curved portions, each curved portion connecting the opposite planar portions. The standing wall 641 may extend inclined relative to the upper surface 610a. For example, the standing wall 641 may comprise plate shaped side parts, and a distance between said side parts may decrease with increasing distance to the upper surface 610a. More specifically, the upper surface 610a of the carrier base wall 610 may have a planar surface area, and the standing wall 641 may extend inclined relative to a normal vector on the planar surface area of the upper surface 610a of the carrier base wall 610. For example, an angle between the standing wall 641 and the normal vector may be in a range between 15 degrees and 45 degrees, and preferably between 20 degrees and 30 degrees. In the example shown in Figs. 18 to 20, the angle is approximately 30 degrees.

[0127] The top wall 642 may extend parallel or essentially parallel to the upper surface 610a. Generally, the top wall 642 may have a planar surface 642a facing away from the carrier base wall 610.

[0128] A connection element 26, which may, for example, be hook shaped, may protrude from the top wall 642 of the embossment part 19, in particular, transverse to the top wall 642. 202501470

[0129] 23 / 63

[0130] Preferably, the connection element 26 is integrally formed with the embossment part 19. For example, the top wall 642 may comprise a cutout 643 corresponding to an outer circumference of the connection element 26, and the connection element 26 may be bent from the top wall 642. The connection elements 26 may be provided to attach the compressor 9 thereon as shown in Fig. 20 and as will be further explained below.

[0131] As exemplarily shown in Figs. 18 and 19, one connection element 26 may be provided per embossment part 19. However, the invention is not limited to such a configuration. Rather, it may also be provided that two or more connection elements 26 are formed on one embossment part 19. For example, deviating from Figs. 18 and 19, there may be formed only two embossment parts 19 in the carrier base wall 610, wherein on one of the two embossment parts 19 two connection elements 26 are formed, and on the other one of the two embossment parts 19 one or more connection elements 26 may be formed.

[0132] Generally, it may be advantageous to have two or more connection elements 26 distributed to one or more embossment parts 19 for stably fixing the compressor 9.

[0133] As exemplarily shown in Figs. 18 and 19, the embossment parts 19 may be arranged pairwise, e.g., in symmetry with respect to an axis of symmetry extending in the depth direction y. For example, among at least two embossment parts 19, a first embossment part 19A and a second embossment part 19B may arranged spaced to a second embossment part in a spacing direction, i.e., in a direction transverse to the axis of symmetry. In the example of Figs. 18 and 19 the first and second embossment parts 19A, 19B are spaced in the width direction x, e.g., along the longitudinal sides 622A, 622B. As shown in Fig. 19, the connection elements 26 of the first and second embossment parts 19A, 19B each are bent relative to the top wall 642 about a respective bending axis b26 which extends transverse to the spacing direction. As further shown in Fig. 19, the bending axes b26 may extend in the depth direction y. The bending axis b26 of the connection element 26 of the first embossment part 19A may be arranged in a first end portion of the top wall 642, and the bending axis b26 of the connection element 26 of the second embossment part 19B may be arranged in a second end portion of the top wall 642, wherein the first and second end portions are located facing away from each other in the spacing direction. In other words, the connection element 26 may be bent in a direction away from each other. Thereby, the major part of the upper surfaces 642a of the 202501470

[0134] 24 / 63 top walls 642 of the first and second embossment parts 19A, 19B is arranged between the respective connection elements 26. This has the advantage that the embossment parts 19A, 19B can be arranged basically completely below the compressor 9, whereby the limited space provided in the machine compartment can be more efficiently used.

[0135] The carrier tray 16 may be formed of a metal material. For example, the carrier tray 16 may be formed from a metal sheet by deforming and cutting the metal sheet. For example, the carrier tray 16 may be formed from a metal sheet having a thickness in a range between 0.8 mm and 1.3 mm.

[0136] The carrier tray 16 may be manufactured by cutting slits into a sheet material to define edges of the connection elements 26. That is, one step the connection elements 26 are cut according to the intended circumference. This may be done, e.g., in a die cutting process. In further step, deforming the sheet material to form the carrier base wall 610, the circumferential wall 620, and the embossment parts 19 is carried out, e.g., in a deep drawing process. The step of deforming the sheet may be carried out before or after the cutting process. Optionally, the first and second coupling portions 631 , 632 may also be formed in this step. Further, the method includes bending the connection elements 26 to protrude transverse from the top wall 642 of the embossment part 19.

[0137] Referring again to Fig. 2, the carrier tray 16 may have a receiving cavity 17. At least one embossment part 19 may be formed on a surface of a carrier base wall 610, which defines the carrier base wall of the carrier tray 16, facing the evaporation tray 15. At least one connection element 26 may be provided which is formed as a vertical extension on said embossment parts 19. The carrier tray 16 preferably has four embossment parts 19 where each of said embossment parts 19 has a connection element 26 thereon. On the carrier tray 16, moreover there may be an air guide plate 18 provided in a manner to guide the air so as to be close to the front side 6 of the machine compartment 5. The air guide plate 18 is provided in a manner extending essentially in the width direction x on a front edge of the carrier tray 16 which is at the front side. The air guide plate 18 is preferably provided in a manner having an inclination. In more detail, the air guide plate 18 may be realized to have an inclination angle in between with respect to the horizontal plane where the ground extends. 202501470

[0138] 25 / 63

[0139] The evaporation tray 15 may be received in the receiving cavity 17 of the carrier tray 16. In other words, the evaporation tray 15 may be arranged or seated on the upper surface 610a of the carrier base wall 610.

[0140] Generally, the evaporation tray may comprise a tray base wall 45 and a periphery wall 44 protruding from the tray base wall 45 in a direction transverse to the tray base plate 45. The tray base wall 45 and a periphery wall 44 define a collection space 46 for receiving the water drained from the storage compartment 4.

[0141] When the evaporation tray 15 seats onto the carrier tray 16, at least one part of the evaporation tray 15 is placed within the receiving cavity, i.e., in a manner remaining inside the receiving cavity 17. The evaporation tray 15, may comprise receiving portions 27 formed corresponding to the embossment parts 19 of the carrier tray 16. The receiving portions 27 may be formed in the tray base wall 45. The receiving portions 27 are shaped and dimensioned in a manner so that they can at last partially receive the related embossment parts 19 (Fig. 6). A receiving hole 28, which may have an essentially circular shape, may be formed on each of the receiving portions 27. Each receiving portion 27, on a lower surface of a base plate or tray base wall 45 of the evaporation tray 15 facing the carrier tray 16 may form a recess or groove in which the respective embossment part 19 can be received. On an upper surface 45a of the tray base wall 45, the receiving portion 27 may form a protrusion or embossment. The connection element 26 of the respective embossment parts 19 protrudes through the receiving hole 28 of the respective receiving portion 27. Optionally, the receiving portion 27 contacts the standing wall 641 of the embossment part 19.

[0142] The compressor 9 may be fixed on the carrier tray 16. Specifically, the compressor 9 may be provided with cylindrical elements 57 configured to be engaged with the connection elements 26 protruding from the embossment part(s) 19 (Fig. 20). For example, a carrier structure 90 of the compressor 9 may engage an outer circumference of the cylindrical elements 57, and the cylindrical elements 57 may have an engagement opening 57A into which a respective connection element 26 can be introduced. Into each receiving hole 28, a respective cylindrical element 57, provided on the compressor 9 and which essentially has a cylindrical shape, can be placed. Said cylindrical elements 57 may be made of a rubber material. Each cylindrical element 57 may rest on the top wall 642 of the respective 202501470

[0143] 26 / 63 embossment part 19. When the compressor 9 is seated onto the receiving portions 27 provided at the evaporation tray 15, the cylindrical elements 57 are placed in a manner engaging into the receiving holes 28. In this case, by means of passing the related connection elements 26 through the related cylindrical elements 57, connection of the compressor 9 to the carrier tray 16 is provided by means of the connection elements 26. Optionally, the connection elements 26 may be hook shaped so that they form fittingly engage the cylindrical elements 57 (Fig. 4).

[0144] Irrespective of the connection to the compressor 9, generally, the evaporation tray 15 may be positioned between the compressor 9 and the carrier tray 16. In other words, the evaporation tray 15 may be positioned below the compressor 9, i.e., with respect to the vertical direction z. Thereby, liquid received in the evaporation tray 15 may form a greater surface which promotes evaporation, and an individual design of the evaporation tray 15 for different compressor types 9 can be avoided compared to evaporation trays seated on the compressor.

[0145] With reference to Fig. 7, the evaporation tray 15 may have, as already mentioned above, a peripheral periphery wall 44 and a bottom plate or tray base wall 45 in a manner defining a collection space 46 in which water can be collected. The tray base wall 45, generally, may have an areal expanse. For example, the tray base wall 45 may be substantially plate shaped. The tray base wall 45 may comprise an upper surface 45a and a lower surface 45b oriented opposite to the upper surface 45a. The lower surface 45b may face the upper surface 610a of the carrier base wall 610 of the carrier tray 16 when the evaporation tray 15 is placed or seated onto the carrier tray 16. When the evaporation tray 15 is arranged on or seated on the carrier tray 16, it may be arranged on the carrier base wall 610 of the carrier tray 16. More specifically, the tray base wall 45 may rest on the carrier base wall 610. The periphery wall 44 may surround or define a substantially rectangular circumference. Generally, the periphery wall 44 may comprise first and second longitudinal wall portions 44A, 44B which are opposite to each other, and first and second side wall portions 44C, 44D which are opposite to each other and extend between the first and second longitudinal wall portions 44A, 44B. When the evaporation tray 15 is received in the carrier tray 16, the first longitudinal wall portion 44A may extend along the first longitudinal section 622A of the circumferential wall 620 of the carrier tray 16, the second longitudinal wall portion 44B may extend along the second longitudinal section 202501470

[0146] 27 / 63

[0147] 622B of the circumferential wall 620 of the carrier tray 16, the first side wall portion 44A may extend along the first side section 621A of the carrier tray 16, and the second side wall portion 44B may extend along the second side section 621 B of the carrier tray 16. In the following, the first longitudinal wall portion 44A may also be referred to as the front wall 60, and an end of the second longitudinal wall 44B facing away from the tray base wall 45 may be referred to as the rear edge 59.

[0148] Thus, generally, the periphery wall 44 may, for example, extend along the circumferential wall 620 of the carrier tray 16, when the evaporation tray 15 is arranged on the carrier tray 16. Optionally, the evaporation tray 15, in particular the tray base wall 45 may cover the entire carrier base wall 610 of the carrier tray 16. Thereby, the area of the evaporation tray 15 is increased which helps promoting evaporation of the water contained therein.

[0149] As exemplarily shown in Figs. 7, 8 and 20, the evaporation tray 15 may comprise a retaining portion 463 formed on the periphery wall 44. In particular, the retaining portion 463 may protrude outwardly from an end of the periphery wall 44 facing away from the tray base wall 45, e.g., at the rear edge 59, as exemplarily shown in Figs. 7, 8, and 20. Generally, the retaining portion 463 may protrude in the depth direction y towards the rear opening 8.

[0150] The retaining portion 463 may comprise at least one curved receiving wall 63. Said curved receiving wall 63 may, for example, protrude from the rear edge 59 of the periphery wall 44 which, when the evaporation tray 15 is positioned in the machine compartment 5, is close to the rear opening 8. The curved receiving wall 63 essentially defines a first edge receiving space or receiving groove 31 which may have U-shaped or a V-shaped cross section. Optionally, the retaining portion 463 may include more than one, preferably two curved receiving walls 63 provided distanced from each other along the periphery wall 44, e.g., in a distanced manner in width direction x on the rear edge 59 of the evaporation tray 15. The receiving grooves 31 defined by each of the curved receiving walls 63 may support a lower edge 29 of the rear cover 24 (Figs. 3 and 26). The lower edge 29 may face the tray base wall 45. After the lower edge 29 of the rear cover 24 is supported by the related first edge receiving spaces 31 , the rear cover 24 may be fixed to the casing 2 by passing of a connection member like a bolt or a screw through at least one related cover 202501470

[0151] 28 / 63 connection hole 30 provided on the rear cover 24. Thus, assembly of the rear cover 24 is facilitated.

[0152] Generally, the retaining portion 463 may protrude from the periphery wall 44 in the depth direction y. The receiving groove 31 may extend in the width direction x. Further, the retaining portion 463, irrespective of its specific configuration, may be arranged between the first side wall 512 and the heat exchanger assembly 100 with respect to the width direction x.

[0153] The retaining portion 463, in particular, the curved receiving wall 63, moreover may define a second edge receiving space 62 configured to at least partially receive a corresponding curved wall part 55 of the carrier tray 16. The retaining portion 463, in particular, the curved receiving wall 63, may be formed such that the second edge receiving space 62 is formed, at least in parts, corresponding to the curved wall part 55 of the carrier tray 16. The second edge receiving space 62 may have groove with a U-shaped or V-shaped cross-section. As the evaporation tray 15 seats onto the carrier tray 16, a lengthwise section of the curved wall part 55 is positioned inside the second edge receiving space 62. Generally, the retaining portion 463 of the evaporation tray 15 may be supported by the circumferential wall 620 of the carrier tray 16.

[0154] The retaining portion 463 may further comprise a retaining projection 464 for securing a capillary tube 901. This projection extends, preferably in the region of the circumferential wall of the evaporation tray 15, in the vertical direction (z-direction) from the retaining portion 463. The retaining projection 464 consists of several retaining arms arranged parallel to one another, which are provided with inwardly directed retaining lugs at their free ends. The retaining arms form a gap between them, which is dimensioned such that a capillary tube 901 can snap into it and be securely held. Optionally, several such retaining projections 464 may be provided in the width direction (x-direction) of the evaporation tray 15.

[0155] In the evaporation tray 15, at a front wall 60 which is at the opposite side of the rear edge 59 where the curved receiving walls 63 are provided, a wall cut part 49 may be provided for safely discharging of the water accumulated in the evaporation tray 15, in case the water reaches a specific level. By means of this, the accumulated water is prevented from 202501470

[0156] 29 / 63 reaching a level which leads to contact of said accumulated water to the compressor 9, whereby the electrical safety is increased. Optionally, at least one support rib 51 may be provided to support a concavely curved transition 61 between the periphery wall 44 of the evaporation tray 15 and the tray base wall 45. As exemplarily shown, these support ribs 51 may have a triangular shape.

[0157] As further exemplarily shown in Figs. 7 to 9, at least one engagement element 35 may be formed on an outwardly facing outer surface of the periphery wall 44 of the evaporation tray 15. Preferably, at least one pair of engagement elements 35 are formed on opposite sides on the periphery wall 44 of the evaporation tray 15. As shown Fig. 4, when the evaporation tray 15 is seated onto the carrier tray 16, the engagement elements 35 may be positioned in or engage the engagement grooves 36. In other words, in case where the evaporation tray 15 is seated onto the carrier tray 16, the engagement elements 35 are configured to be at least partially inside the engagement grooves 36. As described above, the curved wall parts 55 may be formed to be essentially in a form which is similar to U- shape. The engagement elements 35 essentially have a cross-section which is similar to L-shape. At least one of the free end portions 541 , 542 of the curved wall parts 55 and the related engagement elements 35 are configured to be close to each other, in case the evaporation tray 15 is seated onto the carrier tray 16. In other words, a free end section 53 of the engagement element 35 and a second free end portion 542 of the curved wall part 55 are configured to be close to each other. For example, as schematically shown in Fig. 10, the engagement elements 35 are configured such that there is an angle A between the engagement elements 35 and a horizontal axis in the depth direction y. Preferably, said angle A is an acute angle which is smaller than 90°. The engagement elements 35 may have a flexible structure when the engagement elements 35 are pushed for connecting the evaporation tray 15 to the carrier tray 16 or when the engagement elements 35 are pulled for separating the evaporation tray 15 from the carrier tray 16. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 4, the engagement elements 35 may have a contact face 56 provided in a manner contacting with the related curved wall parts 55. Guiding ridges may be provided on said contact face 56. When the evaporation tray 15 is pushed towards the carrier tray 16, the contact face 56 contacts the second free end portion 542 and flexes so that it can pass the second free end portion 542, and then is placed in a manner corresponding to the related engagement groove 36. In an opposite case, in other words, when the evaporation tray 15 is pulled for removing it from the carrier tray 16, since the 202501470

[0158] 30 / 63 engagement element 35 is positioned in an angled manner, the contact face 56 again contacts the second free end 54 and flexes so that it can pass the second free end 542, and then it disengages from the related engagement groove 36.

[0159] Further optionally, the tray base wall 45 may have at least one base wall beam 47 protruding from the upper surface 45a of the tray base wall 45. Preferably, multiple base wall beams 47 which are distanced to each other in a width direction x of the evaporation tray 15 may be provided. By means of this, at least one part of at least one electrical cable 37, which may be connected to a component of the refrigerant circuit, for instance to the compressor 9 which seats to the evaporation tray 15, may be supported in a manner staying away from the tray base wall 45. As shall be seen in Figs. 5 and 6, the compressor 9 is placed onto, i.e., above the evaporation tray 15 which seats to the carrier tray 16. One end of the electrical cable 37 may be connected to a casing connection housing 38. The casing connection housing 38, as shown in Fig. 5, may be located distanced from the tray base wall 45, e.g., the casing connection housing 38 may be arranged adjacent to the upper wall 515. The casing connection housing 38, for example, may form part of or be connected to an electronic control unit 300. The other end of the electrical cable 37 may be connected to a compressor connection part 39 which is closer to the tray base wall 45 than the casing connection housing 38. The electrical cable 37 extends by following a path from the casing connection housing 38 towards the compressor connection part 39. Specifically, the cable 37 may hang down from the compressor connection part 39 (Fig. 5). The base wall beams 47 are configured to support a region of the electrical cable 37 which is close to the tray base wall 45, in the route followed by the electrical cable 37. The base wall beams 47, for example, may extend transverse to the rear edge 59, i.e., in depth direction y which is in orthogonal direction essentially to the width direction x of the evaporation tray 15. By means of this, the electrical cable 37 can be reliably away from the tray base wall 45 in case the electrical cable 37 follows a different route in the depth direction y of the evaporation tray 15. As indicated in Fig. 9, an intermediate distance m between adjacent base beams 47 in the width direction x at most 3 mm, preferably at most 1.5 mm. Further optionally, the intermediate distance m may be at least 0.5 mm. Thus, the electrical cable 37 is prevented from deflecting between the related base wall beams 47 and from contacting the tray base wall 45. 202501470

[0160] 31 / 63

[0161] As visible in Figs. 7 to 9, the evaporation tray 15 may comprise vertical wall parts or sealing ribs 40, 41. The optional sealing ribs 40, 41 protrude from the upper surface 45a of the tray base wall 45 and extend in a direction transverse to the first and second longitudinal wall portions 44A, 44B of the periphery wall 44. For example, the sealing ribs 40, 41 may extend from the first to the second longitudinal wall portions 44A, 44B. Generally, the sealing ribs 40, 41 may extend in the depth direction y. As exemplarily shown in Figs. 7 to 9, a first and a second sealing rib 40, 41 may be provided adjacent to one another. The first and the second sealing rib 40, 41 may define a gap or receiving space 43 therebetween which may have, for example, a width in a range between 0.75 mm and 3 mm. The sealing ribs 40, 41 may comprise at least one cut out 48 through which a pipe or a cable can be routed. In the examples shown (Figs. 7 to 9 and 22), the sealing ribs 40, 41 have three cut outs 48, two of which being formed at opposite end portions of the ribs 40, 41 and one being formed in a central region. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration.

[0162] As can be seen in Figs 2, 3 and 5, the heat exchanger assembly 100 accommodated in the machine compartment 5 may comprise a housing 110 which includes a condenser casing 11 and a fan holder 130 (Fig. 11).

[0163] As exemplarily shown in Figs. 2, 3 and 5, the condenser casing 11 may be arranged in the machine compartment 5 such that it extends in the depth direction y. Thereby, the housing 110, particularly the condenser casing 11 may divide the inner volume of the machine compartment 5 into two sections or sub-volumes. For example, the housing 110, particularly the condenser casing 11 may be positioned in a manner dividing the machine compartment 5 into the first inner volume 13 and the second inner volume 14. The condenser casing 11 may be seated onto the evaporation tray 15. The condenser casing 11 may be configured to at least partially encircle the condenser 10. In other words, the condenser 10 may be accommodated in the condenser casing 11. Moreover, as schematically shown in Fig. 6, the fan unit 12 may be connected to the condenser casing 11. The fan unit 12, preferably, is positioned in or so as to face the second inner volume 14. The fan unit 12 comprises a fan, in particular, a radial fan 140 which sucks air from the first inner volume 13 through the condenser 10 and discharges the air into the second inner volume 14. Thus, the second inner volume 14 may be referred to as a high pressure volume, and the first inner volume 13 may be referred to as a low pressure volume. 202501470

[0164] 32 / 63

[0165] The base wall beams 47 may be arranged in a region of the tray base wall 45 which is located between the compressor 9 and the condenser casing 11. Thus, the electrical cables 37, which extend by following a route in the region of the evaporation tray 15 between the compressor 9 and the condenser casing 11 , are prevented from contacting with the water collected in the evaporation tray 15, and by means of this, electrical safety is increased.

[0166] With reference to Fig. 6, the condenser casing 11 may have a vertical extension or sealing fin 42, which may also be referred to as lower sealing fin. The sealing fin 42 may protrude from the condenser casing towards the tray base wall 45. The sealing fin 42 is formed on a face of the condenser casing 11 which faces the tray base wall 45. The sealing ribs 40, 41 formed on the tray base wall 45 may extend essentially parallel to the sealing fin 42. The sealing fin 42 is configured to be positioned at least partially inside the receiving space 43 defined by the sealing ribs 40, 41. Thus, the sealing fin 42 provides a labyrinthlike structure together with the sealing ribs 40, 41. The sealing ribs 40, 41 and the sealing fin 42 may extend longitudinally in the depth direction y. By means of this, the labyrinthlike structure is provided along the depth direction y of the evaporation tray 15. Thereby, leakage air flow, which can occur from the second inner volume 14 with high pressure region in the machine compartment 5 towards the first inner volume 13 with the low pressure region, is prevented.

[0167] The sealing fin 42 may form part of a sealing structure 160 of the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100. The sealing structure 160 will be explained in more detail below.

[0168] Further optionally, is the evaporation tray 15 may comprise at least one support wall 50 which may extend transverse, i.e., essentially orthogonal to the base beam 47 and / or the sealing ribs 40, 41. As shown, for example, in Fig. 8, a support wall 50 may extend between a respective base beam 47 and the second sealing rib 41 which is closer to the base beams 47. Additionally or alternatively, at least one further support wall 50 may be provided extending from the first sealing rib 40. This support wall 50 may also be provided in a manner extending essentially in an orthogonal plane to the first sealing rib 40. Said support walls 50 are provided in a manner forming a structure which is essentially similar 202501470

[0169] 33 / 63 to a plus-shape. By means of this structure which is similar to a plus-shape, a faulty assembly of the condenser casing 11 may be prevented.

[0170] As already briefly discussed above and as exemplarily shown in Fig. 7, the sealing ribs 40, 41 may have at least one pair of cut outs 48 realized in a manner corresponding to each other and formed such that a heating pipe 32 (Fig. 4) can pass through. The heating pipe 32, for example, may be a pressure duct connected to a pressure port of the compressor 9 for conveying gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 9. On each of the base beams 47, there is a beam cut part 52 formed corresponding to and / or aligned with the cut outs 48. Moreover, on the evaporation tray 15, at least one pipe receiving part 34 may be positioned in a manner corresponding to at least one of the beam cut parts 52 or the related cut outs 48. That is the pipe receiving part 34 may be aligned with the cut outs 48 and / or the cut parts 52, in particular, in the width direction x. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 4, the pipe receiving part 34 may be configured to surround the heating pipe 32 at least partially. For example, the pipe receiving part 34 may have a form which is essentially similar to a C-shape, so that the heating pipe 32 can be tightly placed therein. Optionally, the at least one flexible extension 33 may be formed at an upper side of the pipe receiving part 34 facing away from the tray base 45. Preferably, two flexible extensions 33 are positioned opposite to each other. Said flexible extensions 33 have an inclined and flexible end part to guide the heating pipe 32 to the pipe receiving part 34 during insertion of the heating pipe 32. Besides tightly encircling of at least one part of the heating pipe 32 by the pipe receiving part 34, by means of the flexible extensions 33, in a condition where the heating pipe 32 is placed to the related pipe receiving part 34 as shown in Fig. 4, the heating pipe 32 is locked in the height direction z. The pipe receiving part 34 and the flexible extensions 33, thus, together form a pipe fixation structure.

[0171] As further exemplarily shown in Fig. 7, at least one of the base beams 47 may comprises a pipe receiving part 34 which is integrally formed with the respective base beam 47 in a manner corresponding to the cut outs 48 provided centrally on the sealing ribs 40, 41. By means of realizing flexible extensions 33 together with said pipe receiving part 34, a pipe fixation structure is formed in one-piece with the respective base beam 47. 202501470

[0172] 34 / 63

[0173] The evaporation tray 15 may be made of a plastic material, preferably of a polypropylene (PP) material. By means of usage of this material, evaporation tray 15 is provided which is made of both flexible and low-cost material. The evaporation tray 15 may be formed, for example, in an injection molding process.

[0174] As exemplarily shown in Figs. 3 and 28, the rear cover 24, generally, may have an areal expanse. For example, the rear cover 24 may be substantially plate shaped. Generally, the rear cover may extend between a first or lower edge 29 and a second or upper edge. The lower edge 29 defines an end of a lower end portion 241A, and the upper edge defines an end of an upper end portion 241 B lying opposite to the lower end portion 241 A. Further, the rear cover may extend between a first side end portion 247A and an opposite second side end portion 247B. As further shown in Figs. 3 and 28, the rear cover 24 may comprise a discharge opening 245 which, for example, may be formed in the upper end portion 241 B. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 3, two discharge openings 245 separated from one another in the width direction x may be provided. Alternatively, one continuous discharge opening 245 may be provided, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 28.

[0175] The rear cover 24 may be arranged to partially cover the rear opening 8 of the machine compartment 5. In particular, the rear cover 24 may extend only between the first side wall 512 and the heat exchanger assembly 100 to cover the rear opening 8 only between the first side wall 512 and the heat exchanger assembly 100. When the rear cover 24 is assembled, the lower end portion 241A of the rear cover 24 faces or is arranged in the region of the lower wall 514, the upper end portion 241 B faces or is arranged in the region of the upper wall 515, the first side end portion 247A is arranged in the region of the first side wall 512, and the second side end portion 247B is arranged in the region of the heat exchanger assembly 100. The discharge opening 245 is arranged adjacent to the upper wall 515. In the assembled state of the rear cover 24, an inner surface 24i of the rear cover 24 faces the machine compartment 5, i.e., the inner wall 511 , and an opposite outer surface 24a faces away from the machine compartment 5.

[0176] Since the part of the rear opening 8 between the second side wall 513 and the heat exchanger assembly 100 is left uncovered, the fan unit 12 of the heat exchanger assembly 100 may suck air through said uncovered part of the rear opening 8 into the first inner volume 13, convey the air through the heat exchanger assembly 100, e.g., to 202501470

[0177] 35 / 63 remove or dissipate heat from the condenser 10, and discharge the air into the second inner volume 14. From the second inner volume 14, which forms a pressurized volume, the air is released from the machine compartment 5 through the discharge opening 245 of the rear cover 24. By leaving the part of the rear opening 8 between the second side wall 513 and the heat exchanger assembly 100 uncovered, a pressure loss for sucking the air into the machine compartment is minimized.

[0178] As visible best in Figs. 27 and 28, the rear cover 24 may comprise a planar main portion 240 and a projecting portion 242 protruding from the main portion 240 on a side of the outer surface 24a. That is, the projecting portion 242 forms an embossment on the outer surface 24a, and a recess on the inner surface 24i. Thus, the projecting portion 242 protrudes in the depth direction y towards a side of the rear cover 24 facing away from the machine compartment 5. The projecting portion 242 may partially define the circumference of the discharge opening 245. In particular, in the projecting portion 242, the inner surface 24i may extend distanced to an end of the upper wall 515 in the depth direction y, so that a gap is formed in the depth direction y that defines the discharge opening 245. Hence, the air can be release along the vertical direction z with reduced pressure loss. Further optionally, the projecting portion 242 may comprise a plurality of perforation holes 246, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 28. These holes 246 allow discharge of air and further reduce pressure loss.

[0179] To reduce pressure loss of the discharged air, it may also be advantageous when the discharge opening 245 extends over at least a substantive part of the width of the rear cover 24 in the width direction x, e.g., over at least 50 percent of the width, irrespective of the specific definition of the discharge opening 245.

[0180] As shown in Fig. 27, the lower end portion 241 A of the rear cover 24 may be formed in a step shape. For example, the lower end portion 241A may comprise a first bent section which is bent to the side of the inner surface 24i of the rear cover 24 to extend transverse to the main portion 240, and a second bent section which is bent transverse to the first bent section to form the step. The lower edge 29 is the end of the second bent section facing away from the first bent section. Hence, when the rear cover 24 is assembled, the step is formed such that the lower edge 29 is distanced in the depth direction y towards the inner wall 511 from the main portion 240 of the rear cover 24. 202501470

[0181] 36 / 63

[0182] With further reference to Fig. 27, irrespective of whether the lower end portion 241 A of the rear cover 24 may be formed in a step shape, it may be provided that the lower edge 29 is received in the receiving groove 31 of the retaining portion 463 of the evaporation tray 15. That is, the retaining portion 463 may support the rear cover 24 in the vertical direction z. The upper end portion 241 B of the rear cover 24 may be fixed to at least one of the first side wall 512, the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100, and the upper wall 515. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 28, the upper end portion 241 B of the rear cover 24 may be fixed, for example, to the first side wall 512 and to the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100, e.g., by screws 250. Generally, the rear cover 24 may be fixed to at least one of the first side wall 512, the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100, and the upper wall 515 by means of a screw 250. For example, the rear cover 24 may be provided with a first fixing hole (not visible in the figures) in the first side end portion 247A, and a second fixing hole (not visible in the figures) in the second side end portion 274B, wherein one screw 250 passes through each fixing hole 250. Optionally, one of the first and second fixing holes may be realized as a longitudinal hole extending in the width direction, and the other one the first and second fixing holes may be a circular hole. For example, the first fixing hole may be circular, and the second fixing hole may be a longitudinal hole which extends in the width direction x.

[0183] As further shown in Fig. 28, the first side end portion 247A may be in contact with the first side wall 512, and second side end portion 247B may be in contact with the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100. As shown in detail in Fig. 26, the second side end portion 247B may comprise a first contact section 248A and a second contact section 248B extending transverse to the first contact section 248A. For example, the second contact section 248B may be bent relative to the first contact section 248A to protrude on the side of the inner surface 24i of the rear cover 24. Generally, when the rear cover 24 is assembled, the first contact section 248A may extend in the width direction x, and the second contact section 248B may extend in the depth direction y. Further, the first contact section 248A may be in contact with a surface 101 b of the housing 110 oriented in the depth direction y, and the second contact section 248B may be in contact with a second end face 101c of the housing 110 oriented in the width direction x. Hence, the first and second contact sections 248A, 248B define an L-shape which covers a corner portion of the housing 110. Thereby, recirculation of air from the second inner volume 14 into the 202501470

[0184] 37 / 63 first inner volume 13 can be more reliably prevented. For securing the rear cover 24 to the housing 110, the second contact section 248B may comprise a retaining edge 249 at its free end. The retaining edge 249 is preferably configured as a 180° bend or overlapping bend at its free end, thereby forming a hook-shaped or U-shaped retaining edge 249. Said retaining edge 249 is adapted to positively engage a complementary contour on the housing 110, thereby establishing an anchoring connection.

[0185] The rear cover 24 may be assembled according to the following method. In a first step, the lower edge 29 of the rear cover 24 may be placed in the receiving groove 31 of the retaining portion 463 of the evaporation tray 15. In this state, the rear cover 24 may extend inclined relative to the vertical direction z. For example, the upper end portion 241 B of the rear cover 24 may be placed distanced to the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100 and the first side wall 512.

[0186] As a next step, the rear cover 24 may be moved in contact with the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100 and the first side wall 512, in particular, the upper end portion 241 B of the rear cover 24 may be moved in contact with the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100 and the first side wall 512. For example, the rear cover 24 may be moved into contact with the housing 110 and the first side wall 512 by pivoting it about a pivot axis extending in the width direction y. Said pivot axis may extend in and be defined by the receiving groove 31 .

[0187] The method may further comprise fixing the upper end portion 241 B of the rear cover 24 to at least one of the first side wall 512, the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100, and the upper wall 515. For example, screws 250 may be driven through the rear cover 24 into the respective one of the first side wall 512, the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100, and the upper wall 515.

[0188] Before fixing the upper end portion 241 B, an optional step of pre-fixing the upper end portion 241 B of the rear cover 24 to the upper wall 515 may be carried out. For example, the upper end portion 241 B may be pre-fixed to the upper wall 515 by engaging complementary snap-fit structures (not shown) formed in the upper end portion 241 B and the upper wall 515. 202501470

[0189] 38 / 63

[0190] Next, the heat exchanger assembly 100 will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 11 to 17.

[0191] As already discussed above, the heat exchanger assembly 100 includes the housing 110, the condenser 10 accommodated in the housing 110, and the fan unit 12 for conveying air through the housing 110 to remove or dissipate heat from the condenser 10.

[0192] The housing 110, for example, may include a condenser casing 11 and a fan holder 130.

[0193] The condenser casing 11 is shown separately in Figs. 12 and 13. The condenser casing 11 , generally, defines an accommodation space extending in an axial direction a1 between a first opening 111A and a second opening 111 B. As shown in Fig. 13, the condenser 10 is accommodated in the accommodation space defined by the condenser casing 11.

[0194] The condenser casing 11 may be realized as a substantially rectangular frame, limiting the accommodation space in a housing transverse direction a2 and in a housing vertical direction a3. The housing transverse direction a2 extends transverse to the axial direction a1 , and the housing vertical direction a3 extends transverse to the axial direction a1 and to the housing transverse direction a2. With respect to the axial direction a1 , the condenser casing 11 may extend between a first axial end region and an opposite second axial end region. The first opening 111A may be located on a side of the first axial end region, and the second opening 111 B may be located on a side of the second axial end region. When the heat exchanger assembly 100 is accommodated in the machine compartment 5, the first axial end region of the condenser casing 11 may face the second side wall 513, and the second axial end region may face the first side wall 512.

[0195] For example, the condenser casing 11 may include a first side part 101 and a second side part 102 arranged opposite to the first side part 101 in the housing transverse direction a2, wherein the first and second side parts 101 , 102 extend in the housing vertical direction a3. Further, the condenser casing 11 may comprise a bottom part 103 extending in the housing transverse direction a2 between the first side part 101 and the second side part 102, and a top part 104 arranged opposite to the bottom part 103 in the housing vertical direction a3. The top part 104 may extend in the housing transverse direction a2 between 202501470

[0196] 39 / 63 the first side part 101 and the second side part 102. Further, the first and second side parts 101 , 102, the top part 104, and the bottom part 103 each may extend in the axial direction a1 to define the accommodation space and the first and second openings 111 A, 111 B.

[0197] When the housing 110 is arranged in the machine compartment 5, it is oriented such that the axial direction a1 is parallel to the width direction x, the housing transverse direction a2 is parallel to the depth direction y, and the housing vertical direction a3 is parallel to the vertical direction z. Therefore, the second side part 102 may be arranged adjacent to the inner wall 511 , the top part 104 may be arranged adjacent to the upper wall 515, and the bottom part 103 may be arranged adjacent to the lower wall 514. The first side part 101 may be arranged facing the rear opening 8. For example, the first side part 101 may include the lateral surface 101 b and the second end face 101c to which the first and second contact sections 248A, 248B of the rear cover 24 are contacted as shown in Fig. 26.

[0198] As shown in Fig. 13, the condenser 10 may be arranged adjacent to the first opening 111 A of the condenser casing 11. To fix the condenser 10 within the accommodation space, the condenser casing 11 may comprise a condenser fixing hooks 112 protruding into the first opening 111 A and configured to snap-fittingly engage with lateral portions of the condenser 10.

[0199] The condenser 10, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 13, may be a MCHE-condenser. That is, the condenser 10 may include a tube within which a plurality of separate channels are formed to conduct a refrigerant therein, and a plurality of fins which are in contact with the tube. The channels, for example, may have a diameter of about 1 mm or less. The tube may also comprise several parallel and separate pipes or pipe sections. An MCHE- condenser may provide the benefit of having a very compact design while allowing high heat transfer rates. Furthermore, it can be provided that the fins protrude beyond the tube on a side of the MCHE condenser facing away from the fan unit 12, in particular radial fan. If the fins additionally protrude from the tube on the side of the tube remote from the radial fan, partially open flow guiding structures may be provided in the protruding partial areas in the circumferential direction. Consequently, the openings of the flow channels, through which air is drawn in, are effectively enlarged. This advantageously may further reduce 202501470

[0200] 40 / 63 flow losses. In addition, by enlarging the openings, flow losses that occur as a result of dust accumulation in the area of the openings are reduced.

[0201] Optionally, the housing 110 may comprise a support part 107 which may, for example, be realized integrally with the condenser casing 11 , in particular, with the second side part 102. For example, the support part 107 may be realized in a lower end region of the second side part 102 facing the bottom part 103, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 12. Generally, the support part 107 may be realized at a lower end region of the housing 110 facing the lower wall 514. As further shown in Fig. 12, the support part 107 may have a triangular or wedge shape.

[0202] The support part 107 may serve to prevent movement of the housing 110 in the vertical direction upon application of an external force, e.g., to the lower wall 514 of the machine compartment 5. For example, as schematically shown in Fig. 23, the inner wall 511 may comprise a first wall part 511C extending in the vertical direction z, and a second wall part 511 D, which extends from the first wall part 511C towards the lower wall 514 and inclined relative to the first wall part 511C. Hence, the second wall part 511 D forms a pocket with respect to the vertical direction z. The support part 107 is introduced into said pocket. Thus, when a force acts on the housing 110 upwardly in the vertical direction z, the support part 107 may be urged against the second wall part 511 D of the inner wall 511 and further movement of the housing 110 in the vertical direction z may be prevented. Thereby, an electronic control unit 300, which may be arranged in the machine compartment 5 in the vertical direction z between the housing 110 and the upper wall 515, may be prevented from being squeezed and potentially damaged.

[0203] As further shown in Figs. 11 to 13, a sealing structure 160 may be integrally formed with the housing 110. Said sealing structure 160, in particular, may be integrally formed with the condenser casing 11. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0204] Generally, the sealing structure 160 may include at least one of a rear seal 162, an upper seal 161 , and a sealing fin 42.

[0205] The rear seal 162 may protrude from the second side part of the condenser casing 11 in the housing transverse direction a2. That is, when the housing 110 is arranged in the 202501470

[0206] 41 / 63 machine compartment 5, the rear seal 162 protrudes from the housing 110 in the depth direction y and is in contact with the inner wall 511. For example, the rear seal 162 may be integrally formed with the condenser casing 11 , e.g., from a plastic material in an injection molding process or in a 2K-molding process. When the housing 110, i.e., the condenser casing 11 , is provided with the optional support part 107, the rear seal 162 may extend also on the support part 107 and may be in contact with the second wall part 511 D of the inner wall 511. With respect to the axial direction a1 , the rear seal 162 may be arranged in the second axial end region of the condenser casing 11.

[0207] The rear seal 162, optionally, may be realized as a web having a trapezoidal or substantially trapezoidal cross-section as schematically shown in Figs. 24 and 25. The rear seal 162 may be dimensioned to be elastically deformable. For example, the rear seal 162 may be configured to deflect in the axial direction a1 or to be deformable upon applying an external force in the axial direction a1. That is, in the machine compartment 5, the rear seal 162 may be elastically deformable in the width direction x. The rear seal 162 may be relatively thin. For example, a smallest thickness of the cross-section of the rear seal 162, e.g., of the web, may be in a range between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm.

[0208] As schematically shown in Fig. 25, the rear seal 162 may protrude inclined from the housing 110, in particular, from the second side part 102, such that it contacts a surface of the inner wall 511 at an angle c of smaller than 90 degrees. Since the contact angle c is non-perpendicular, a smooth line contact can be reliably achieved, thus, improving sealing performance. Additionally, the elasticity, particularly, in combination with the nonperpendicular contact angle c may help damping impact of an external force urging the housing 110 towards the inner wall 511 , e.g., towards the second wall part 511 D.

[0209] As further exemplarily shown in Figs. 11 to 13, the upper seal 161 may protrude from the condenser casing 11 , specifically, from the top part 104 of the condenser casing 11 , in the housing vertical direction a3. Thus, generally, the upper seal 161 may protrude from the housing 110 in the vertical direction x towards the upper wall 515 and, optionally, be in contact with the upper wall 515, when the heat exchanger assembly 100 is arranged in the machine compartment 5. As exemplarily shown in Figs. 11 to 13, the upper seal may extend in the housing transverse direction a2, preferably, over the entire width between the first and second side parts 101 , 102. With respect to the axial direction a1 , the upper 202501470

[0210] 42 / 63 seal 161 may be arranged in the second axial end region of the condenser casing 11. The upper seal 161 may be substantially plate shaped. Further optionally, the upper seal 161 may extend substantially parallel to the vertical direction z. That is, the upper seal 161 may define an angle with the upper wall 515 of approximately 90 degrees. The upper seal 161 may be integrally formed with the condenser casing 11 , e.g., from a plastic material in an injection molding process or in a 2K-molding process.

[0211] As already explained by reference to Fig. 6 above, the sealing fin 42 may be provided on a lower face of the condenser casing 11. For example, as shown in Figs. 11 to 13, the sealing fin 42 may protrude from the bottom part 103 of the condenser casing 11 in the housing vertical direction a3 and may extend in the housing transverse direction a2. Optionally, the sealing fin 42 may extend over the entire width between the first and second side parts 101 , 102. When the heat exchanger assembly 100 is arranged in the machine compartment 5, the sealing fin 42 protrudes from the housing 110 towards the lower wall 514 and extends in the depth direction y. The sealing fin 42 may be integrally formed with the condenser casing 11 , e.g., from a plastic material in an injection molding process or in a 2K-molding process. When the heat exchanger assembly 100 is arranged in the machine compartment 5, as exemplarily shown in Figs. 6 and 22, the evaporation tray 15 is located between the heat exchanger assembly 100 and the carrier tray 16 with respect to the vertical direction z and extends, with respect to the width direction x, on opposite sides of the heat exchanger assembly 100. In this state, the sealing fin 42 is introduced into the receiving space 43 so that a sealing labyrinth is formed.

[0212] Each of the seals 161 , 162 and the sealing fin 42, either alone or in combination, helps to seal the first inner volume 13 and the second inner volume 14 relatively to each other. Thereby, recirculation of air from the second inner volume 14 into the first inner volume 13 can be efficiently prevented.

[0213] The fan holder 130 may be releasably coupled to the condenser casing 11. For example, a releasable connection between the condenser casing 11 and the fan holder 130 may be achieved through a guide structure 114. However, the invention is not limited to a guide structure but may also be realized differently, e.g., through connection members, or similar. 202501470

[0214] 43 / 63

[0215] Again with reference to Fig. 12, the guide structure 114 may be part of the condenser casing 11 and define a guide extending in the housing transverse direction a2 between a first side end and a second side end. The first side end of the guide structure 114 may be located in the region of the first side part 101 of the condenser casing 11. The second side end of the guide structure 114 may be located in the region of the second side part 102 of the condenser casing 11 .

[0216] The guide structure 114, generally, defines a guide track that allows moving the fan holder 130 in the housing transverse direction a2 for coupling it to the condenser casing 11 or removing it from the condenser casing 11 .

[0217] As exemplarily shown in Fig. 12, the guide structure 114 may include a first guide rib 115A and a second guide rib 115B. The first guide rib 115A, for example, may be formed on the bottom part 103. The second guide rib 115B may be formed on the top part 104. Generally, the first and second guide ribs 115A, 115B are arranged opposite to each other in the housing vertical direction a3. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 12, the first and second guide ribs 115A, 115B may be arranged at corresponding positions in the housing transverse direction a2. Optionally, the first guide rib 115A and the second guide rib 115B, with respect to the housing transverse direction a2, may be positioned in the region of the second side end of the guide structure 114, e.g., neighboring to the second side part 102 as exemplarily shown in Fig. 12.

[0218] The first and second guide ribs 115A, 115B extend in the housing transverse direction a2. In particular, the first and second guide ribs 115A, 115B may extend in the housing transverse direction a2 over only a part of a width of the second opening 111 B in the housing transverse direction a2. Generally, the first and second guide ribs 115A, 115B may have a length in the housing transverse direction a2 which is smaller than the width of the second opening 111 B. For example, the first guide rib 115A and the second guide rib 115B each may extend over 3 percent to 20 percent, preferably over 5 percent to 15 percent of the width of the second opening 111 B in the housing transverse direction a2.

[0219] As further shown in Fig. 12, the first guide rib 115A and the second guide rib 115B protrude into the second opening 111 B in the housing vertical direction a3. That is, they 202501470

[0220] 44 / 63 generally protrude in the housing vertical direction a3 from the bottom part 103 and the top part 104.

[0221] Further optionally, the guide structure 114 may include a first web 116A and a second web (not visible in the drawings) arranged opposite to each other in the housing vertical direction a3. The first web 116A may be formed, for example, on the bottom part 103. The second web may be formed on the top part 104. The first web 116A may protrude from the bottom part 103 in the housing vertical direction a3 towards the top part 104, and the second web may protrude from the top part 104 in the housing vertical direction a3 towards the bottom part 103. In particular, the first web 116A and the second web may protrude into the second opening 111 B in the housing vertical direction a3.

[0222] As shown in Fig. 12, the first web 116A and the second web may extend in the housing transverse direction a2 over at least a part of the width, preferably over the entire width of the second opening 111 B in the housing transverse direction a2. That is, the first web 116A and the second web may extend continuously between the first and second side parts 101 , 102.

[0223] The first web 116A and the second web may be disposed spaced to the first guide rib 115A and the second guide rib 115B, respectively, in the axial direction a1. Thus, a guide space is defined between the respective rib and the respective web, and the fan holder 130 can be introduced into said guide space along the housing transverse direction a2.

[0224] Referring particularly to Figs. 11 , 14, and 15, the fan holder 130 may comprising a base plate 132 and mounting interfaces 133 formed on the base plate 132.

[0225] The base plate 132, generally, may have an areal expanse and may comprise an inner surface 132i and an opposite outer surface 132a. For example, the base plate 132 may be plate shaped or substantially plate shaped. The base plate 132 comprises a central opening 134 extending between the inner surface 132i and the outer surface 132a. Thus, the central opening 134 defines a passage through which air can be conveyed by means of the fan unit 12. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 14, the central opening 134 may comprise a circular circumference. 202501470

[0226] 45 / 63

[0227] The mounting interfaces 133 may, for example, be integrally formed with the base plate 132. Generally, the mounting interfaces 133 may be formed on the outer surface 132a of the base plate 132 and are configured for attaching the fan unit 12 thereto. For example, the mounting interfaces 133 may be realized as pins protruding from the outer surface 132a of the base plate 132, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 14. Irrespective of their specific form, the mounting interfaces 133 may be arranged spaced to one another along the circumference of the central opening 134.

[0228] The fan holder 130 may be releasably coupled to the condenser casing 11 by means of the guide structure 114. In particular, the guide structure 114 may guide the fan holder 130 in the housing transverse direction a2 to be removable from the condenser casing 11 in a direction from the second to the first side end of the guide structure 114. For example, the base plate 132 of the fan holder 130 may be inserted between the first web 116A and the first guide rib 115A and between the second web and the second guide rib 115B. To remove the fan holder 130 from the condenser casing 11 , the fan holder 130 may be moved in the axial transverse direction a2 in a direction away from the second side part 102.

[0229] When the fan holder 130 is coupled to the condenser casing 11 , as shown in Figs. 11 , 14, and 15, the inner surface 132i of the base plate 132 faces the accommodation space of the condenser casing 11. Further, the central opening 134 of the base plate 132 is arranged overlapping with the second opening 111 B of the condenser casing 11. Preferably the central opening 134 is arranged completely within the circumference of the second opening 111 B. The mounting interfaces 133 face away from the condenser casing 11 . For example, the pins may extend in the axial direction a1 .

[0230] As shown in Fig. 15, the condenser casing 11 may include a fixing opening 105 formed adjacent to the first side end of the guide structure 114 and being oriented in the housing transverse direction a2. For example, the fixing opening 105 may be located 105 on the first side part 101. Referring again to Fig. 12, the first side part 101 may have a first end face 101a oriented in the axial direction a1. The first end face 101a may define an end of the first side part 101 on the side of the second axial end region of the condenser casing 11. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 12, a profile 106 may protrude from the first end face 101a and may be realized in the form of a yoke. Generally, the profile 106 together with 202501470

[0231] 46 / 63 the first end face 101a limits the fixing opening 105. Hence, a central axis of the fixing opening 105 extends parallel to the housing transverse direction a2. The profile 106 may be arranged adjacent to the second opening 111B.

[0232] As further shown in Fig. 15, the fan holder 130 may comprise a fixing hook 135 protruding from an inner surface 132i of the base plate 132. The hook 135 may comprise a first hook part 135A protruding from the inner surface 132i of the base plate 132, e.g., in the axial direction a1 , and a second hook part 135B protruding from an end of the first hook part 135A and extending transverse thereto, e.g., in the housing transverse direction a2. The fixing hook 135 is introduced into the fixing opening 105. Specifically, the second hook part 135B may be introduced into the fixing opening 105, so that so that the profile 106 is located between the second hook part 135B and the inner surface 132i of the base plate 132 in the axial direction a1. Thus, the fan holder 130 can be precisely positioned and reliably fixed, in particular, with respect to the axial direction a2. Since the first hook part 135A may abut against the profile 106, the fan holder 130 may also be positioned more precisely with respect to the housing transverse direction a2.

[0233] Further optionally, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 11 , at least one snap-fit hook 108 may be provided on the first end face 101a of the condenser casing 11 , i.e., the first end face 101a of the first side part 101 that engage a lateral end of the fan holder 130, e.g., a lateral end of the base plate 132, to lock the fan holder 130 in the housing transverse direction a2. As exemplarily shown, two (or more) snap-fit hooks 108 may be provided spaced apart from one another in the housing vertical direction a3.

[0234] Referring to Figs. 11 and 16, the fan unit 12 may comprise a fan 140, in particular, a radial fan. That is, the fan 140 may be configured to suck air along an axial direction and discharge the air radially, i.e., in a direction transverse to the axial direction. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 11 , the fan unit 12 may further comprise a carrier 143 carrying the fan 140 and being mounted to the mounting interfaces 133 of the fan holder 130. The carrier 143, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 11 , may comprise a frame, which may be circular, and carrier beams extending within the frame. The carrier beams, for example, may cross-each other in the center of the frame. Further, carrier interfaces may protrude radially from the frame. The number of carrier interfaces may correspond to the number of mounting interfaces 133 of the base plate 132 of the fan holder 130. The carrier 202501470

[0235] 47 / 63 interfaces, for example, may be fork shaped and a rubber ring may be fixed within the respective carrier interface. Said rubber ring, as shown in Fig. 11 , may receive an end portion of the respective pin that forms the mounting interface 133.

[0236] The fan 140 may include a rotor 141 which is coupled to the carrier 143 so as to be rotatable about a rotational axis A O. The rotational axis A O may extend parallel to the axial direction a1. The rotor 141 may have a plurality of blades 142 that have a certain expanse in the axial direction a1 , and tips 142A defining radial ends of the blades 142. The rotor 141 may be rotatable by a motor, e.g., an electric motor (not shown). The motor may be mounted to the carrier 143. As visible in Fig. 11 , the tips 142A of the blades 142, at least over a part of the circumference of the rotor 141 , are not covered. That is, fan holder 130 is configured to allow a radial discharge of the air from the tips 142A at least over a part of the circumference of the rotor 141.

[0237] As shown in Figs. 11 and 16, when the fan unit 12 is coupled to the fan holder 130, the base plate 132 of the fan holder 130 is arranged between the fan 140 and the second opening 111 B of the condenser casing 11. This arrangement allows that the fan 140 sucks air from the first opening 111A through the condenser 10, through the second opening 111 B of the condenser casing 11 , and through the central opening 134 of the base plate 132 along the axial direction a1 and discharges it radially into the machine compartment 5. As apparent from Fig. 11 , this arrangement allows that the fan 140 can be placed close to the condenser casing 11 in the axial direction a1. Hence, the heat exchanger assembly 100 is compact which is advantageous when it is accommodated in the machine compartment 5.

[0238] As exemplarily shown in Fig. 16, the fan holder 130 may comprise a protective shield 136. The protective shield 136 may be formed on the outer surface 132a of the fan holder 130 and may, for example, protrude from the outer surface 132a in the axial direction a1. Further, as shown in Fig. 16, the protective shield may extend along a part of the circumference of the central opening 134. For example, the protective shield 136 may be arranged on a side of the central opening 134 facing the first side part 101 of the condenser casing 11 , when the fan holder 130 is coupled to the condenser casing 11.

[0239] When the heat exchanger assembly 100 is accommodated in the machine compartment 5, the protective shield 136 may face the rear opening 8. Generally, the protective shield 202501470

[0240] 48 / 63

[0241] 136 may help to avoid that loose parts, e.g., cables 37, 156, arranged laterally of the fan 140 collide with the blades 142 of the fan 140. Preferably, the blades 142 extend beyond the protective shield 136 in the axial direction a1 so that the tips 142A of the blades 142 remain uncovered. Thereby, the impact of the protective shield 136 on the air flow in the radial direction is reduced.

[0242] Optionally, a cable fixture 150 may be formed on a side of the protective shield 136 facing away from the radial fan 140. For example, as shown in Fig. 16, the cable fixture 150 may be is integrally formed with the protective shield 136 and may protrude from the protective shield 136 along the housing transverse direction a2. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 16, the cable fixture 150 may include a first fixture 151 arranged to define a first gap together with the outer surface 132a of the base plate 132, and a second fixture 152 defining a second gap together with the first fixture 151. A first cable 37, e.g., an electrical cable connected to the compressor 9 (e.g., to the compressor connection part 39), may be clamped in the first gap, and at least one second cable 156, e.g., an electrical cable connected to the fan 140, may be clamped in the second gap.

[0243] With reference to Fig. 17, the condenser casing 11 may comprise a capillary guide groove 118. The capillary guide groove 118, as exemplarily shown, may be formed in the first side part 101 of the condenser casing 11 , e.g., in the lateral surface 101 b which is oriented in the depth direction y facing the rear opening 8 when the heat exchanger assembly 100 is assembled in the machine compartment 5. Generally, the capillary guide groove 118 may be formed in a lateral surface 101 b of the condenser casing 11 , which is oriented in the housing transverse direction a2. Preferably, the capillary guide groove 118 is formed in a lower end region of the condenser casing 11 with respect to a housing vertical di-rection a1 , e.g., in an end region of the first side part 101 facing the bottom part 103. The capillary guide groove 118 extends in the axial direction a1 to form a continuous channel between a first axial side and a second axial side of the condenser casing 11. As shown in Fig. 17, a capillary tube 901 may be received in the capillary guide groove 118. Thus, the groove 118 enables routing the capillary tube 901 within the machine compartment 5 from first inner volume 13 to the second inner volume 14. 202501470

[0244] 49 / 63

[0245] Referring particularly to Figs. 17, 21 and 22, the heat exchanger assembly 100 may be coupled to the carrier tray 16. Specifically, the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100 may be coupled to an outer circumference of the carrier tray 16.

[0246] Generally, the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100 may comprise a first clamping part 191 formed complementary to the first coupling portion 631 of the carrier tray 16, and a second clamping part 192 formed complementary to the second coupling portion 632 of the carrier tray 16 (Fig. 19).

[0247] As exemplarily shown in Figs. 12 and 13, the first and second clamping parts 191 , 192 may be formed as part of the condenser casing 11 , in particular, integrally with the condenser casing 11. In particular, the first and second clamping parts 191 , 192 may protrude from a lower portion of the condenser casing 11 , e.g., from the bottom part 103. The first clamping part 191 may be formed, with respect to the housing transverse direction a2, in an end region of the bottom part 103 facing the second side part 102, and the second clamping part 192 may be formed, with respect to the housing transverse direction a2, in an end region of the bottom part 103 facing the first side part 101.

[0248] As further shown in Figs. 12 and 13, the first and second clamping parts 191 , 192 may be formed, generally, as arc shaped parts. In particular, the first clamping part 191 may have a first concave receiving groove 191 A formed complementary to the convex first outer surface of the first coupling portion 631. Similar, the second clamping part 192 may have a second concave receiving groove 192A formed complementary to the convex second outer surface of the first coupling portion 632. The first and second receiving grooves 191 A, 192A may extend in the axial direction a1.

[0249] As further exemplified in Figures 12 and 13, at least one resilient catch 193 may be provided with the housing 110, specifically with the condenser casing 11 , and may especially be integrally formed therewith. The resilient catch 193 is configured to engage with the second coupling portion 632 of the carrier tray 16 in the assembled state. This resilient catch 193 protrudes from the lower portion of the condenser casing 11 , specifically from the bottom part 103, and faces towards the evaporation tray 15 and / or the carrier tray 16. Specifically, only one resilient catch 193 is provided. The resilient catch 193 is preferably formed integrally with the bottom part 103. The resilient catch 193 may 202501470

[0250] 50 / 63 be positioned closer to the second clamping part 192 than to the first clamping part 191. In the assembled state, the second coupling portion 632 may be received, clamped, or engaged between the resilient catch 193 and the second clamping part 192. The resilient catch 193 may have substantially a V-shaped or L-shaped or angled cross-section, wherein a fixed leg may be provided and connected to the bottom part 103, and its free leg preferably protrudes towards the second clamping part 192. The fixed leg and the free leg preferably form an acute angle. With the first clamping part 191 already engaged with the first coupling portion 631 , the housing 110, or condenser casing 11 , is pivoted about the first coupling portion 631. As the second clamping part 192 subsequently contacts and, when force is applied, engages with the second coupling portion 632, the resilient catch 193 readily slides along the second free end portion 542 of the second coupling portion 632. This action elastically deforms the resilient catch 193, allowing it to fully engage with the second coupling portion 632 or snap into the engagement groove 36, thereby securing the housing 110 to the carrier tray 16. Specifically, the free leg of the resilient catch 193 engages with the second free end portion 542 of the second coupling portion 632 or the second free end portion 542 is clamped between the resilient catch 193, particularly the free leg, and the bottom part 103 of the housing 110. Conversely, when the housing 110 shall be removed from the carrier tray 16, the resilient catch 193 must first be disengaged. To do this, the resilient catch 193, particularly the free leg, may first be displaced, for example with a tool, out of the engagement groove 36 of the carrier tray 16, specifically away from the second clamping part 192, so that the resilient catch 193 may then be able to pass the second free end portion 542 for pivotal disassembly of the housing 110 from the carrier tray 16.

[0251] As exemplarily shown in Fig. 13, the first clamping part 191 may be connected to the optional support part 107. In particular, an outer surface of the arc shaped clamping part 191 may be connected to an end of the support part 107. Thereby, the stiffness of the first clamping part 191 is increased. Meanwhile, the second clamping part 192 may be dimensioned to be elastically deformable.

[0252] With reference to Fig. 21 , the heat exchanger assembly 100 can be coupled to the carrier tray 16 by first engaging the first clamping part 191 of the condenser casing 11 with the first coupling portion 631 as indicated by arrow P1. Specifically, the convex outer surface of the first coupling portion 631 may be introduced into and engaged with the first 202501470

[0253] 51 / 63 receiving groove 191A. Then, the condenser casing 11 may be pivoted about the first coupling portion 631 , as indicated by arrow P2 so that the second clamping part 192 approaches the second coupling portion 632 and engages therewith. In particular, the second clamping part 192 may be pushed onto the second coupling portion 632, i.e., the second receiving groove 192A may receive and engage the second convex outer surface of the second coupling portion 632. As a result, the first and second coupling portions 631 , 632, with respect to the depth direction y, are clamped between the first and second coupling parts 191 , 192, as shown in Fig. 22.

[0254] To further ease engaging the second clamping part 192 and the second coupling portion 632, a free end section 192C of the second clamping part 192 facing away from the condenser casing 11 may be bent outwardly. Thus, when the first clamping part 191 is already engaged with the first coupling portion 631 and the condenser casing 11 is pivoted about the first coupling portion 631 , the free end section 192C is oriented outwardly in the depth direction y, and when the free end section 192C contacts the second coupling portion 632, it can easily slide along the outer convex surface of the second coupling portion 632 so that the second clamping portion is elastically deformed before it engages the second coupling portion 632.

[0255] With reference to Figs. 12 and 21 , the first clamping part 191 may comprise at least one inner rib 191 B extending within and transverse to the first receiving groove 191 A. This rib 191 B may engage a respective slit 631 B (Fig. 19) formed in the first coupling portion 631 , particularly formed in the first free end portion 541 . Thereby, the heat exchanger assembly 100 can be more precisely positioned with respect to the width direction x.

[0256] Although it has been described above that the first and second clamping parts 191 , 192 are part of the condenser casing 11 , the present invention is not limited to this configuration. Rather, the first and second clamping parts 191 , 192 may also be realized as part of the fan holder 130, or they may be realized as part of housing 110 which is not assembled from a condenser casing 11 and a fan holder 130 realized as separate parts.

[0257] Referring particularly to Figs. 2, 5 and 23, the advantages of overall configuration of the refrigeration appliance 1 will be described in the following. 202501470

[0258] 52 / 63

[0259] The evaporation tray 15 may be received on the carrier base wall 610 of the carrier tray 16. Preferably, the evaporation tray 15 may entirely cover the carrier base wall 610 so that the surface of liquid received in the evaporation tray 15 can be increased.

[0260] The compressor 9 may be mounted to the connection elements 26 protruding through the receiving holes 28 of the evaporation tray 15.

[0261] The heat exchanger assembly 100 may be coupled to the outer circumference of the carrier tray 16, in particular, by engaging the clamping portions 191 , 192 to the coupling portions 631 , 632 formed on the outer circumference of the carrier tray 16 as shown in Fig. 21. The evaporation tray 15, therefore, may be arranged between the carrier tray 16 and the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100 with respect to the vertical direction z. Further, the evaporation tray 15 may extend, with respect to the width direction x, on opposite sides of the heat exchanger assembly 100.

[0262] When the carrier tray 16 is arranged to form the lower wall 514 of the machine compartment 5, the heat exchanger assembly 100, in particular, the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100 extends in the depth direction y and divides the machine compartment into the first inner volume 13 and the second inner volume 14. The air guide plate 18 may contact the inner wall 511 , as exemplarily shown in Fig. 23. The housing 110, in particular, the condenser casing 11 may contact the inner wall 511 , e.g., via the rear seal 162 (Figs. 22 and 23). The condenser casing 11 , e.g., the support part 107 of the condenser casing 11 , may optionally also contact the air guide plate 18. If provided, the upper seal 161 may contact the upper wall 515 of the machine compartment 5, and the sealing fin 42 may be received between the pair of sealing ribs 40, 41 (Fig. 6).

[0263] The rear cover 24 may be arranged to cover the rear opening 8 only between the heat exchanger assembly 100 and the first side wall 512 (Fig. 28), wherein the lower edge of the rear cover 24 may, for example, be received in the receiving groove 31 of the retaining portion 463 of the evaporation tray 15.

[0264] That is, the second inner volume 14 is reliably sealed relative to the first inner volume 13. The fan unit 12 may preferably face or be arranged within the second inner volume 14 and may suck air through the uncovered portion of the rear opening 8 into the machine 202501470

[0265] 53 / 63 compartment 5, convey the air through the condenser casing 11 to remove or dissipate heat from the condenser 10, and discharge the air into the second inner volume 14 from where it is discharged through the discharge opening 245 of the rear cover 24.

[0266] As already stated above, the fan 140 of the fan unit 12, preferably, is a radial fan which is configured to expel the air radially, i.e., in a direction transverse to its rotational axis. The fan 140, generally, may be configured to discharge at least a part of the conveyed air directly towards the evaporation tray 15. In other words, the discharged air may impinge directly, i.e., substantially perpendicular to the surface of the liquid contained in the evaporation tray 15 which efficiently promotes evaporation.

[0267] The tips 142A of the blades 142 may form free ends of the blades 142 and are directly exposed to the second inner volume 14, so that air can be directly discharged from the tips 142A radially into the second inner volume 14, i.e., without any air guide directing the air in a specific direction. This may be achieved, generally, in that the tips 142A are not covered with respect to the radial direction, at least over a part of the circumference of the rotor 141 facing the evaporation tray 15. Further, the blades 142, with respect to the width direction x, may have an axial end portion facing away from the housing 110, and at least said axial end portion is not covered over the entire circumference of the rotor 141. For example, if the optional protective shield 136 is provided, as shown in Fig. 16, it may not extend beyond the tips 142A of the blades 142 in the axial direction a1 so that it is still possible to direct air radially beyond the protective shield 136.

[0268] Since the air is discharged by the radial fan 140 substantially along the radial direction, not only part of the airflow directly impinges onto the surface of the liquid contained in the evaporation tray 15 but also a rotating flow may be generated in the second inner volume 14. Thereby, efficient heat transfer is achieved between the liquid and the air as well as the air and the compressor 9 arranged in the second inner volume 14.

[0269] Operation of the compressor 9 and the fan unit 12 may be controlled by electronic control unit 300, which may also be arranged in the machine compartment 5. For example, the electronic control unit 300 may be configured to control operation of the fan 140 and / or the compressor 9, e.g., controlling rotational speed of the fan 140 and / or the compressor. As exemplarily shown in Figs. 5 and 28, the electronic control unit 300 may be arranged in 202501470

[0270] 54 / 63 the first inner volume 13, preferably in the region of the upper wall 515. Optionally, the electronic control unit 300 may extend into a gap between the upper wall 515 and the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100, e.g., a gap formed between the top part 104 of the condenser casing 11 and the upper wall 515. Thus, a space saving arrangement of the electronic control unit 300 can be achieved.

[0271] In the above description and the drawings, specific embodiments have been exemplarily described. However, the invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0272] For example, although a sealing arrangement between the evaporation tray 15 and the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly has been described with one sealing fin protruding from the housing 110 and a pair of sealing ribs formed in the evaporation tray 15, it would also be possible, that a pair of sealing fins is formed on the housing 110 and at least one rib is formed on the evaporation tray 15 so as to protrude into a gap between the pair of sealing fins. Generally, the sealing arrangement extends in the depth direction y between opposite sides of the periphery wall 44 and is formed between the tray base wall 45 and the housing 110 of the heat exchanger assembly 100.

[0273] Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that a variety of alternate and / or equivalent implementations may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown and described without departing from the scope of the present invention. Generally, this application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specific embodiments discussed herein.

[0274] 202501470

[0275] 55 / 63

[0276] LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0277] 1 refrigeration appliance

[0278] 3 door

[0279] 4 storage compartment

[0280] 5 machine compartment

[0281] 6 front side

[0282] 7 rear side

[0283] 8 rear opening

[0284] 9 compressor

[0285] 10 condenser

[0286] 11 condenser casing

[0287] 12 fan unit

[0288] 13 first inner volume

[0289] 14 second inner volume

[0290] 15 evaporation tray

[0291] 16 carrier tray

[0292] 17 receiving cavity

[0293] 18 air guide plate

[0294] 19 embossment part

[0295] 19 related embossment parts 19A first embossment part 19B second embossment part 20 connection flaps

[0296] 21 , 25 connection holes

[0297] 22 compartment inner wall

[0298] 23 connection wall

[0299] 24 rear cover

[0300] 26 connection element

[0301] 27 receiving portion 28 receiving hole

[0302] 30 cover connection hole

[0303] 31 receiving groove

[0304] 32 heating pipe 202501470

[0305] 56 / 63

[0306] 33 flexible extensions

[0307] 34 pipe receiving part

[0308] 35 engagement element

[0309] 36 engagement groove

[0310] 37, 156 cables

[0311] 38 casing connection housing

[0312] 39 compressor connection part

[0313] 40 first sealing rib

[0314] 43, 62 receiving space

[0315] 44 periphery wall

[0316] 44A first longitudinal wall portion

[0317] 44B second longitudinal wall portion

[0318] 44C first side wall portion

[0319] 44D second side wall portion

[0320] 45 tray base wall

[0321] 46 collection space

[0322] 47 base beam

[0323] 48 cut outs

[0324] 50 support wall

[0325] 51 support ribs

[0326] 52 cut parts

[0327] 53 free end section

[0328] 541 first free end portion

[0329] 542 second free end portion

[0330] 55 curved wall part

[0331] 56 contact face

[0332] 57 cylindrical element

[0333] 59 rear edge

[0334] 62 second edge receiving space

[0335] 60 front wall

[0336] 63 curved receiving wall

[0337] 90 carrier structure

[0338] 100 heat exchanger assembly

[0339] 101 first side part 202501470

[0340] 57 / 63 101a first end face

[0341] 101 b lateral surface 101c second end face 102 second side part 103 bottom part 104 top part

[0342] 105 fixing opening 106 profile 107 support part 108 hook 110 housing

[0343] 111 A first opening 111 B second opening 112 condenser fixing hooks 114 guide structure 115A first guide rib

[0344] 115B second guide rib 116A first web 118 capillary guide groove 130 fan holder 132 base plate

[0345] 133 mounting interfaces 134 central opening 135 fixing hook

[0346] 135A first hook part 135B second hook part

[0347] 136 protective shield 140 fan 141 rotor 142 blades 142A tips

[0348] 143 carrier 150 cable fixture 151 first fixture 202501470

[0349] 58 / 63

[0350] 152 second fixture

[0351] 160 sealing structure

[0352] 161 upper seal

[0353] 162 rear seal

[0354] 191 first clamping part

[0355] 191A first receiving groove

[0356] 191 B inner rib

[0357] 192 second clamping part

[0358] 192A second receiving groove

[0359] 192C free end section

[0360] 193 resilient catch

[0361] 240 main portion

[0362] 241 B upper end portion

[0363] 242 projecting portion

[0364] 245 discharge opening

[0365] 246 perforation holes

[0366] 247A first side end portion

[0367] 247B second side end portion

[0368] 248A first contact section

[0369] 248B second contact section

[0370] 249 retaining edge

[0371] 250 screw

[0372] 264 retaining projection

[0373] 300 electronic control unit

[0374] 463 retaining portion

[0375] 511 inner wall

[0376] 511 A groove

[0377] 511C first wall part

[0378] 511 D second wall part

[0379] 512 first side wall

[0380] 513 second side wall

[0381] 514 lower wall

[0382] 515 upper wall

[0383] 610 carrier base wall 202501470

[0384] 59 / 63

[0385] 620 circumferential wall

[0386] 621A first side section

[0387] 621 B second side sections

[0388] 622A first longitudinal section

[0389] 622B second longitudinal section

[0390] 631 first coupling portion

[0391] 631 B slit

[0392] 632 second coupling portion

[0393] 641 standing wall

[0394] 642 top wall

[0395] 643 cutout

[0396] 901 capillary tube

Claims

20250147060 / 63CLAIMS1 . A refrigeration appliance (1), in particular, a domestic refrigeration appliance (1), comprising: a storage compartment (4) for receiving items to be cooled; a machine compartment (5) separate from the storage compartment (4), wherein the machine compartment (5), with respect to a depth direction (y), is limited by an inner wall (511), and, with respect to a vertical direction (z), is limited by a lower wall (514) and an opposite upper wall (515); an evaporation tray (15) arranged on the lower wall (514) of the machine compartment (5) and configured to collect liquid drained from the storage compartment (4); and a heat exchanger assembly (100) arranged in the machine compartment (5) and comprising a housing (110), a condenser (10) accommodated in the housing (110), and a fan unit (12) coupled to the housing (110), wherein the housing (110) extends in the depth direction (y) and divides the machine compartment (5), with respect to a width direction (x), into a first inner volume (13) and a second inner volume (14), characterized in that the evaporation tray (15) is located between the heat exchanger assembly (100) and the lower wall (514) with respect to the vertical direction (z) and extends, with respect to the width direction (x), on opposite sides of the heat exchanger assembly (100), and the fan unit (12) is arranged in the second inner volume (14) and comprises a radial fan (140) configured to suck air from the first inner volume (13) through the housing (110) to remove heat from the condenser (10) and discharge the air radially into the second inner volume (14), so that at least a part of the discharged air is directed from the fan (140) towards the evaporation tray (15).

2. The refrigeration appliance (1) of claim 1 , wherein the radial fan (140) comprises a rotor (141) having a plurality of blades (142), the rotor (141) is rotatable about a rotational axis (A O) which extends in the width direction (x), and tips (142A) of20250147061 / 63 the blades (142), at least over a part of the circumference of the rotor (141), are not covered.

3. The refrigeration appliance (1) of claim 2, wherein the blades (142), with respect to the width direction (x), have an end portion facing away from the housing (110), and at least said end portion is not covered over the entire circumference of the rotor (141).

4. The refrigeration appliance (1) of claim 2 or 3, wherein the housing (110) of the heat exchanger assembly (100) comprises a protective shield (136) protruding from an outer surface (132a) facing the second inner volume (14) of the machine compartment (5), wherein the protective shield (136) extends along only a part of the circumference of the rotor (141), and the blades (142) extend beyond the protective shield (136) in the width direction (x).

5. The refrigeration appliance (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaporation tray (15) entirely covers the lower wall (514).

6. The refrigeration appliance (1) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a compressor (9) arranged in the machine compartment (5) within the second inner volume (14) on the evaporation tray (15).

7. The refrigeration appliance (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (110) comprises a condenser casing (11) which defines the accommodation space, in which the condenser (10) is accommodated and which extends between a first opening (111 A) and a second opening (111 B), and a fan holder (130) releasably coupled to the housing (110), wherein the fan unit (12) is coupled to the fan holder (130).

8. The refrigeration appliance (1) of claim 7, wherein the fan holder (130) comprises a base plate (132) and mounting interfaces (133) formed on the base plate (132), wherein the fan unit (12) is coupled to the mounting interfaces (133), wherein the base plate (132) of the fan holder (130) is arranged between the fan (140) and the20250147062 / 63 second opening (111 B) of the condenser casing (11) and comprises a central opening (134) allowing the air sucked by the fan (140) to pass.

9. The refrigeration appliance (1) of claim 8, wherein the mounting interfaces (133) are formed as pins protruding from an outer surface (132a) of the base plate (132) facing the second inner volume (14), wherein the pins are arranged spaced to one another along the circumference of the central opening (134).

10. The refrigeration appliance (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the machine compartment (5), with respect to the width direction (x), is limited by opposite first and second side walls (512, 513), wherein the second side wall (513) and the heat exchanger assembly (100) limit the first inner volume (13) in the width direction (x), and the first side wall (512) and the heat exchanger assembly (100) limit the second inner volume (14) in the width direction (x), wherein the side walls (512, 513), the lower wall (514) and the upper wall (515) define a rear opening (8) of the machine compartment (5), and a part of the rear opening (8) extending between the first side wall (512) and the heat exchanger assembly (100) is covered by a rear cover (24) which includes a discharge opening (245) arranged adjacent to the upper wall (515) in the vertical direction (z).

Images