Display Case Airflow Layout for Uniform Shelf and Deck Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature-controlled display cases, such as refrigerated and frozen merchandisers, often experience uneven air distribution and varying temperatures due to inadequate air circulation systems, leading to inconsistent product storage conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a temperature-controlled case design featuring an air flow device, intermediate wall with strategically placed openings, and air diverting devices that direct air flows through specific pathways to ensure uniform temperature distribution across the case, including a deck and shelves, enhancing air circulation and cooling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a conventional air circulation system is used in refrigerated display cases, then the cooling function is provided, but uneven air distribution and varying temperatures occur
Solution Approach 1:
The air distribution system is segmented into multiple independent air outlets positioned at different locations (front, center, rear) within the display case. Each outlet receives air from dedicated passages, allowing independent control and optimization of air flow to different zones, thereby achieving uniform temperature distribution throughout the case
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the air distribution system are designed with locally optimized characteristics. The air outlets are strategically positioned and sized according to the specific cooling requirements of different product display zones, with front, center, and rear outlets configured to address the unique thermal conditions of each location
2Temperature
If air outlets are positioned to reach front products, then front cooling is improved, but rear and center areas experience insufficient air distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The air distribution system is divided into multiple independent channels with separate air outlets positioned at the front, center, and rear of the display case. Each channel is configured to deliver cooled air to its specific zone, ensuring that front products receive adequate cooling without compromising air distribution to rear and center areas
Solution Approach 2:
Air outlets are positioned at multiple locations along the depth dimension of the display case (front, center, rear), transforming the air distribution from a single-point source into a distributed multi-dimensional system. This spatial arrangement ensures comprehensive coverage of all product zones
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
This configuration achieves balanced cooling and maintains products at a uniform temperature, preventing temperature disparities between different storage locations within the case, thereby improving storage conditions and product quality.
Implementation Method 1
an air circulation or distribution system for distributing air chilled by a cooling element throughout a display space within the case
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature-controlled case is provided including a rear wall spaced apart from an intermediate wall, forming a cavity therebetween. The intermediate wall includes a first set of openings disposed below a second set of openings. A deck may be disposed proximate to the first set and the shelves proximate to the second set of openings. Each shelf may include a shelf base and cover, the cover having openings through which air may be directed. An air distribution system having an air diverting device provides for improved air flow and cooling of products within the case. The air diverting device directs a first portion of an air flow toward the deck and permits a second portion to be directed toward the shelves. The air diverting device may direct the first portion of the air flow through the cavity and towards the deck, or away from the cavity and towards the deck.