Refrigerated Display Case LED Layout Inside the Air Curtain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerated display cases with fluorescent light sources experience reduced light output in colder temperatures, leading to inadequate illumination of the product display area, especially when positioned outside the air curtain, which affects marketing and visibility.
Innovation Solution
The use of LED light sources positioned inside the air curtain and adjacent to the interior top wall, along with shelving units, provides improved illumination and reduces energy consumption by maintaining the product at a desired temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If fluorescent light sources are positioned outside the air curtain, then light output is improved in warmer temperatures, but illumination effectiveness is reduced when positioned away from the product display area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating temperature parameter by positioning the light source inside the air curtain where temperatures are warmer, allowing fluorescent lights to operate at higher efficiency while still providing adequate illumination to the product display area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the upper wall to create a new spatial dimension where light sources can be positioned in a corner location, allowing them to be inside the air curtain (warmer temperature) while maintaining illumination effectiveness over the product display area
2Ease of operation
If fluorescent light sources are positioned inside the air curtain, then illumination of the product display area is improved, but light output is reduced due to colder temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter by creating a positioned light source in a corner where the air curtain provides warmer conditions compared to the rest of the refrigerated space, enabling improved light output while maintaining illumination effectiveness
3Use of energy by stationary object
If LED light sources are used inside the air curtain, then energy consumption is reduced and illumination is improved, but additional heat is introduced into the refrigerated space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful heat generated by LED light sources into a beneficial effect by positioning them inside the air curtain where the warm air rises and exits, using the LED heat to supplement the air curtain heating effect and reduce overall energy consumption
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
LED light sources within the air curtain enhance product visibility and reduce overall energy usage compared to traditional fluorescent lights, maintaining effective refrigeration and illumination while minimizing energy input.
Implementation Method 1
A light source is disposed adjacent the interior top wall and inside the air curtain. The light source is adapted to illuminate the food product within the product display area
Implementation Method 2
The case also includes a refrigeration system for cooling air within the air passageway and supplying the refrigerated air to the product display area through the outlet
Implementation Method 3
The air discharged from the outlet defines an air curtain adapted to maintain the food product at the desired temperature
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerated display case for maintaining food product at a desired temperature includes a product display area adapted to support and to display the food product such that the food product is accessible from the front of the case through an opening. An interior top wall is positioned above the product display area and includes an outlet adjacent the opening. An air passageway internal to the case and in fluid communication with the outlet permits refrigerated air from a refrigeration system to be supplied to the product display area through the outlet. The air discharged from the outlet defines an air curtain adapted to maintain the food product at the desired temperature. A light source is disposed adjacent the interior top wall and inside the air curtain and is adapted to illuminate the food product within the product display area.