In-Door Refrigerator Cooling Layout for Independent Temperature Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators often require separate cooling systems for the refrigerator and freezer compartments, which can increase complexity and energy consumption, and do not allow for customizable temperature settings between the compartments.
Innovation Solution
An in-the-door cooling system is integrated into the refrigerator door, comprising a compressor, evaporator, condenser, and capillary tube, with the evaporator partially exposed to either compartment, allowing for independent temperature control of the refrigerator and freezer compartments, and includes an ice maker and dispenser for convenient ice access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate cooling systems are used for refrigerator and freezer compartments, then independent temperature control is achieved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cooling systems of the refrigerator and freezer compartments into a single integrated unit located in the door. This single cooling system includes one compressor, one evaporator, and shared refrigerant circulation that serves both compartments, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to independently control temperatures through a movable divider that adjusts the thermal boundary between compartments
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate cooling systems are used for refrigerator and freezer compartments, then independent temperature control is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cooling functions into a single system that shares the compressor and refrigerant circulation, reducing the total energy consumption compared to two separate systems. The movable divider allows optimization of the thermal boundary to minimize energy waste while maintaining independent temperature zones
Solution Approach 2:
The single cooling system performs multiple functions by serving both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. The evaporator can be positioned to cool both spaces, and the system adapts to provide appropriate cooling for different temperature requirements through the adjustable divider mechanism
3Volume of moving object
If the cooling system is integrated into the door, then space utilization is improved, but door structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the cooling system from the traditional cabinet body to the door, utilizing the door's internal cavity space. This dimensional relocation optimizes the main cabinet interior volume while the door structure absorbs the complexity of housing the compressor, evaporator, and associated components
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 simplifies the cooling system, reduces energy consumption by using a single cooling source, and allows users to customize the temperature ratio between compartments through a movable divider, enhancing flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The evaporator is at least partially exposed to one of a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment
Implementation Method 2
a capillary tube
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes a cabinet defining a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment. A door is pivotally coupled with the cabinet. A cooling system is disposed solely in the door and is in fluid communication with the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment. The cooling system maintains a temperature of the refrigerator compartment at a different temperature than the freezer compartment.