Portable Backup Power System for Refrigerator Food Preservation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current refrigerators and freezers lack a backup power source, leading to food spoilage during extended power outages, as they are designed to maximize storage volume rather than include a power reserve.
Innovation Solution
A portable backup power system, known as Redichill, which includes rechargeable batteries, an inverter generator, and indicators for mode switching, automatically activates to power appliances during outages, ensuring food freshness without reducing storage capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If refrigerators and freezers are designed to maximize storage volume, then food storage capacity is improved, but the ability to include a backup power source deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The backup power supply unit is designed to be nested within the refrigerator or freezer structure. The unit includes a battery pack and inverter generator that can be installed in the appliance's interior space, utilizing otherwise wasted space for dual-purpose functionality. This allows the appliance to maintain maximum food storage volume while incorporating backup power capabilities without compromising either function.
2Reliability
If a backup power source is integrated into the appliance, then power reliability during outages is improved, but the appliance's food storage capacity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The backup power system is designed as a modular, separable unit that can be independently installed and removed. The battery pack and inverter generator are segmented into discrete components that occupy minimal space and can be positioned in non-critical areas of the appliance. This segmentation allows the appliance to maintain near-full food storage capacity while providing reliable backup power through the integrated but space-efficient power unit.
3Speed
If the inverter generator switches automatically between reserve mode and backup mode, then response time during power outages is improved, but system complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inverter generator incorporates automatic mode switching capability that operates without external control or user intervention. The system includes built-in sensors and control circuitry that automatically detect power outage conditions and switch from reserve mode to backup mode instantly. This self-service automation provides rapid response time during outages while keeping the control system relatively simple through integrated, plug-and-play control electronics.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The Redichill system effectively prevents food spoilage by providing a reliable backup power source for refrigerators and freezers during outages, indicated by audible and visible alerts, ensuring continued operation until the main power is restored.
Implementation Method 1
at least one rechargeable battery; a power input (such as a power cord) electrically coupled to the at least one battery for power transmission thereto
Implementation Method 2
an inverter generator electrically coupled to the at least one battery; and the inverter generator configured to switch from the reserve mode to the backup mode
Data Source
AI summary
A backup power supply is provided. The backup power supply provides batteries electrically coupled to a power cord for receiving power for charging the batteries and a power outlet for transmitting power for powering electrical equipment coupled to the power outlet. An inverter generator is operatively associated with the power cord, the batteries, and the power outlet in such a way that when the power cord experiences an electrical short the batteries switch from a reserve mode receiving power to a backup mode for transmitting power to the power outlet. The invertor generator is also adapted to sense reception of power through the power cord so as to switch from the backup mode to the reserve mode. Visible and audible indicators are provided for indicating the switching between the reserve mode and the backup mode.