Embedded Refrigerator Handle Heating to Prevent Condensate Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Condensate formation on the walls of embedded handles in refrigeration appliances, particularly in freezer compartments, reduces the reliability of the appliance and affects its aesthetic appeal due to the thinner foaming layer and lower surface temperature.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a heating element on the walls of the embedded handle, specifically towards the front panel, to evaporate condensate and maintain a dry handle slot, with optional fastening clips and limit mechanisms for stability and safety, and a rotatable cover to enhance aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If an embedded handle is disposed on the door to reduce space occupation and improve aesthetics, then the space efficiency and appearance are improved, but condensate formation occurs on the handle wall due to reduced foaming layer thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is applied locally only to the embedded handle area where condensate formation occurs, rather than heating the entire door. This localized heating approach addresses the specific problem area while maintaining energy efficiency and preserving the overall aesthetic design of the embedded handle.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating element prevents condensate formation by heating the handle wall before condensate can form. This preliminary anti-action counteracts the condensation tendency caused by the cold surface, eliminating the harmful effect before it manifests.
2Shape
If an embedded handle is disposed on the door to improve aesthetics, then the appearance is improved, but the foaming layer thickness is reduced leading to lower surface temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is positioned specifically on the embedded handle wall where the foaming layer is thinnest and temperature is lowest. This localized heating compensates for the reduced insulation in that specific area without affecting the overall door structure or aesthetic design.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating element changes the temperature parameter of the handle wall by providing localized heat, thereby compensating for the lower temperature caused by the reduced foaming layer thickness while maintaining the embedded handle's aesthetic appearance.
3Reliability
If a heating element is added to the embedded handle to remove condensate, then condensate removal effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is integrated into the embedded handle structure, merging the condensate removal function with the existing handle design. This integration approach adds the necessary heating functionality while minimizing increases in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating element enables the embedded handle to self-regulate its surface temperature and prevent condensate formation autonomously, without requiring external control systems or additional mechanical components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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
Effectively prevents condensate formation, improving the reliability and appearance of the refrigeration appliance by ensuring the handle slot remains dry and maintaining the appliance's aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element is disposed on the wall, towards a direction of the front panel, of the walls forming the handle slot... the heating element is disposed on at least one wall of the embedded handle, so that condensate that is produced on the walls of the embedded handle may be removed
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a refrigeration appliance having an embedded handle, including a case body (11) and a door (12). An embedded handle (16) is provided on the door (12). The embedded handle (16) has a handle slot (14) to be operated. According to the proposal of the present invention, a heating element (15) is disposed on at least one wall (27) of walls (26, 27, 28, 29) forming the handle slot (14).