Composite Center Frame for Easier Refrigerated Case Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of refrigerated display cases is labor-intensive due to the complexity and weight of modular components, such as evaporator coils, plumbing, and controls, which requires a significant amount of on-site labor and results in higher costs.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerated display case design featuring an integrated center end frame made from composite materials, including a retainer member and support base, which reduces the number of parts and weight, allowing for easier assembly and installation by using polyurethane foam to fill gaps and a single, larger pass-through for conduits, thereby simplifying the assembly process and reducing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional modular components are used in refrigerated display cases, then the system provides flexibility and functionality, but the installation becomes labor-intensive and complex due to the number of parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (center end frame, retainer member, support base, and insulation material) into a single integrated center end frame assembly. This merging reduces the number of individual parts that need to be handled and installed separately, directly addressing the technical contradiction by simplifying installation while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated center end frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, retains insulation material, supports shelving units, and facilitates conduit passage. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace several separate parts, reducing installation complexity while maintaining system flexibility and functionality.
2Weight of moving object
If multiple separate components are used in the center end frame assembly, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall weight and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the center end frame, retainer member, and support base into a single integrated assembly, the patent reduces the total weight that handlers must lift and position during installation. Although the integrated component itself has weight, the elimination of multiple separate heavy components and their associated fasteners and connections results in a net weight reduction and simpler handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated center end frame is designed with built-in segmentation features including holes for conduit passage and attachment points for shelving units. This allows the single component to provide the functional segmentation of multiple separate parts while maintaining a unified structure that is easier to manufacture and install as one piece.
3Productivity
If traditional assembly methods are used with multiple parts, then each part can be independently manufactured and quality controlled, but the on-site labor requirements and installation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated center end frame reduces installation time by eliminating the need to assemble multiple separate components on-site. The pre-integrated design allows installers to position and secure a single unit rather than coordinating the assembly of multiple parts, directly improving productivity and reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The integration of the retainer member, support base, and insulation material into the center end frame is performed during manufacturing rather than during installation. This preliminary action transfers complex assembly operations from the installation phase to the manufacturing phase, where they can be performed more efficiently with specialized equipment, thereby reducing on-site labor requirements and installation time.
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 use of an integrated composite center end frame in refrigerated display cases reduces the part count, weight, and installation complexity, leading to cost savings and improved assembly efficiency while minimizing condensate leakage.
Implementation Method 1
flowing a polyurethane foam through a number of holes in the integrated, composite material center end frame
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides a refrigerated display case. The refrigerated display case includes a number of tubs, a pair of end frames positioned about the tubs, and an integrated center end frame positioned between a pair of the tubs. The integrated center end frame may include a composite material retainer member and a composite material support base.