Dual-Path Condenser Layout for Two-Compressor Refrigerators
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators waste energy by using a single compressor to cool both the freezer and refrigerator compartments, leading to inefficient power consumption due to subcooling of the evaporator and inadequate heat dissipation within the limited machine compartment.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator design utilizing two compressors and a dual path condenser with separate condensation paths and heat dissipation fins, where air is forcibly circulated between the compressors to enhance heat dissipation and reduce energy consumption, allowing for independent cooling of the freezer and refrigerator compartments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If one compressor is used to cool both refrigerator and freezer compartments, then device complexity is reduced, but power consumption increases due to subcooling of the evaporator
Solution Approach 1:
The single refrigeration system is segmented into two independent refrigeration cycles, each with its own compressor (first compressor and second compressor). This allows independent control of refrigeration for the refrigerator compartment and freezer compartment, eliminating the subcooling waste that occurs in single-compressor systems where the evaporator must serve both compartments.
2Use of energy by moving object
If two compressors are used for independent refrigeration, then power consumption efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two independent refrigeration cycles into a shared machine compartment, where both compressors and the dual path condenser coexist in a compact integrated design. This combining approach allows independent refrigeration control while managing the complexity through unified spatial arrangement and shared infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine compartment serves multiple functions: housing both compressors, accommodating the dual path condenser, providing heat dissipation pathways, and enabling air circulation for cooling. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise be separate systems into a single integrated unit.
3Loss of energy
If heat dissipation components are added for two refrigeration cycles, then heat dissipation effectiveness is improved, but machine compartment capacity requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dual path condenser is nested within the machine compartment, with its two separate condensation paths integrated into the existing space. The heat dissipation fins are arranged to utilize the available volume efficiently, with air circulation pathways nested through the compartment to provide cooling without requiring additional external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual path condenser utilizes vertical and horizontal space dimensions within the machine compartment by arranging condensation paths at different levels and orientations. Heat dissipation fins extend in multiple directions to maximize surface area for heat transfer without proportionally increasing the footprint of the machine compartment.
4Loss of energy
If a dual path condenser is used for two refrigeration cycles, then heat dissipation effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The condenser is segmented into two separate condensation paths (first condensation path and second condensation path) within a single dual path condenser structure. Each path handles refrigerant from a specific compressor independently, allowing efficient heat dissipation for both refrigeration cycles while maintaining a unified condenser component.
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 design effectively dissipates heat generated in two refrigerating cycles, reducing energy consumption and improving the heat dissipation effect within the machine compartment, while maintaining efficient cooling of both compartments without increasing the machine compartment's capacity.
Implementation Method 1
a first condensation path through which the first refrigerant is condensed, and a second condensation path through which the second refrigerant is condensed
Implementation Method 2
heat dissipation fins may have a width corresponding to a width of the tube
Implementation Method 3
air is forcibly circulated between the compressors to enhance heat dissipation
Implementation Method 4
a blower fan disposed in the machine compartment so as to cool the first compressor, the second compressor, and the dual path condenser
Implementation Method 5
an evaporator for evaporating a liquid refrigerant so as to generate cold air
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A refrigerator having a freezer compartment and a refrigerator compartment that circulates two individual refrigerating cycles using two compressors so as to individually cool the freezer compartment and the refrigerator compartment. The refrigerator includes two compressors, one dual path condenser, two expansion valves, and two evaporators. The dual path condenser has two individual condensation paths.