Embossed Channel System for Faster Vacuum Insulation Evacuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing vacuum insulated structures face a time-intensive process for evacuating air, which hampers the rapid creation of a vacuum state and negatively impacts the construction speed and efficiency of appliances like refrigerators.
Innovation Solution
A channel system is embossed on the outer wrapper of appliances, with multiple vacuum ports and interconnected channels that allow for faster airflow to the vacuum ports, reducing the distance air needs to travel and thereby accelerating the evacuation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a single aperture is used for vacuum evacuation, then the structure is simple, but the evacuation time is long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single aperture into multiple channels distributed across the outer wrapper surface. These channels are segmented into different zones (first plurality in first area, second plurality in second area) that connect to multiple vacuum ports, allowing parallel evacuation pathways that reduce total evacuation time while maintaining manageable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point aperture to a distributed two-dimensional network of channels across the outer wrapper surface. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous evacuation from multiple locations, dramatically reducing evacuation time while the modular channel design keeps the system complexity可控
2Productivity
If multiple vacuum ports with channels are used, then the evacuation speed increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The channel system is segmented into distinct first and second pluralities of channels, each connecting to different vacuum ports. This segmentation allows the evacuation function to be distributed across multiple independent pathways, increasing evacuation speed while each individual channel remains structurally simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The channels serve multiple functions: they act as evacuation pathways, structural embossed features on the outer wrapper, and distribution networks connecting different zones to vacuum ports. This multi-functionality increases evacuation speed while avoiding the need for separate dedicated components, thereby controlling overall device complexity
3Loss of time
If channels are embossed on the outer wrapper, then the airflow distance is reduced and evacuation is faster, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the outer wrapper material itself as the conduit for airflow by embossing channels directly into it. This pneumatic integration allows air to be drawn along predefined pathways within the material, reducing airflow distance and evacuation time while avoiding the need for separate manufactured channel components, thereby maintaining manufacturing simplicity
4Productivity
If a single aperture is used, then the structure is simple, but the construction speed of appliances is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The channel system is divided into first and second pluralities distributed across different areas of the outer wrapper, each connecting to different vacuum ports. This segmentation enables parallel evacuation operations that significantly reduce the time required to create vacuum insulation, thereby increasing appliance construction speed while keeping each individual channel simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent expands from a single-point aperture to a distributed two-dimensional channel network across the outer wrapper surface. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous evacuation from multiple locations, dramatically increasing construction speed while the embossed design keeps the system structurally integrated and relatively simple
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 reduces the evacuation time by approximately 70% by enabling air to be drawn along a system of channels, rather than relying on a single aperture, thus enhancing the construction speed and negative pressure achievement within the insulation space.
Implementation Method 1
A vacuum port is disposed on the outer wrapper and is fluidically coupled to the plurality of channels
Data Source
AI summary
An appliance includes a panel having a raised landing outwardly extending from a first surface of the panel. A vacuum port is disposed on the raised landing. A system of channels is disposed over the first surface of the panel and outwardly extends therefrom. The system of channels substantially covers the first surface of the panel. The first surface of the panel is covered with a filter member that covers the system of channels. The raised landing, and vacuum port thereof, is fluidically coupled to the system of channels at multiple connecting locations.