Case frame and door assembly for a merchandiser
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerated merchandisers experience condensation and fog on glass panels due to temperature differences, leading to obstructed views and increased energy consumption with existing high-wattage heated coatings.
Innovation Solution
A case frame and mullion assembly with integrated light assemblies and heaters, along with a door close mechanism and seal system, to minimize condensation and maintain a clear view while reducing energy usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If high-wattage heated coatings are applied to glass panels to inhibit condensation and fog, then visibility is improved, but energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary thermal barrier system consisting of insulated mullions and thermal break structures between the glass panels and the external environment. This intermediary structure reduces heat transfer to the glass surfaces, preventing condensation and fog formation without requiring high-wattage heated coatings, thus resolving the contradiction between visibility and energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary thermal insulation measures by integrating insulated mullions and thermal break structures into the door assembly framework before the glass panels are installed. This preliminary thermal management prevents the conditions that would otherwise require energy-intensive heated coatings to maintain visibility
2Loss of information
If high-wattage heated coatings are used to remove condensation and fog, then clear viewing is achieved, but heat energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insulated mullions act as thermal intermediaries that block heat loss pathways at the edges of glass panels where condensation typically forms. By providing thermal isolation at these critical locations, the system prevents energy loss and condensation without requiring additional heating energy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effect of thermal bridging at mullion locations into a benefit by using these same mullion structures as thermal barriers. The mullions that would otherwise conduct heat away from the merchandiser are designed with insulation to prevent heat loss and condensation, turning a weakness into a strength
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional door assemblies with separate components are used, then manufacturing is simple, but alignment and electrical connection reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical connector alignment function into the mechanical attachment mechanism of the mullion assembly. The attachment mechanism physically couples the mullion to the frame while simultaneously aligning and coupling electrical connectors, ensuring reliable electrical connections without requiring separate alignment procedures
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 solution effectively reduces condensation and fog on glass panels, enhancing visibility and reducing energy consumption by using integrated light and heater systems within the merchandiser's frame and door mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
use a relatively high amount of heat energy (e.g., 200 Watts, 300 Watts, etc.) to remove condensation and fog on the innermost and outermost surfaces of the door
Implementation Method 2
A light assembly is coupled to the mullion body within the elongated channel
Data Source
AI summary
A door close assembly for a merchandiser including a case defining a product display area and having a case frame. The refrigerated merchandiser further includes a door pivotably coupled to the case frame and enclosing at least a portion of the product display area. The door close assembly includes a door close mechanism configured to be positioned between the case frame and the door to permit movement of the door between a closed position and an open position, and the door close mechanism has a base plate attached to the case frame and a spiral spring supported by the base plate. The spiral spring responds to a closing force of the door to maintain a substantially constant door close force.