Cooling Fan Cover Mechanism for Condenser Dust Blocking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Cooling devices, such as refrigerators and freezers, suffer from reduced performance due to the suction of dust, paper, and other particles by the fan, which are drawn in from the ground, contaminating the fan and disrupting its operation.

Innovation Solution

A cover mechanism is implemented that covers the opening in the cabin base region where the fan is located, comprising a cover and a slit, with locking members and a fixing element, to prevent particles from being sucked by the fan, ensuring the fan operates without interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If the fan operates to cool the condenser, then cooling performance is achieved, but dust and particles are sucked in from the ground and contaminate the fan

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecondenser coolingVSAvoidparticle contamination
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A cover mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the fan and the external environment. The cover includes a dust-proof mesh that filters air intake while blocking dust and particles, allowing the fan to maintain cooling function without direct exposure to contaminants on the ground.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The cover mechanism is selectively applied only at the fan inlet area where particle contamination occurs, rather than enclosing the entire device. The dust-proof mesh provides localized protection while maintaining overall device openness for proper air circulation and cooling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If the cover mechanism is added to protect the fan, then particle contamination is prevented, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefan operation stabilityVSAvoidcover mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cover mechanism utilizes a thin dust-proof mesh film instead of a rigid enclosure. This flexible film approach provides effective particle filtration while maintaining a simple, lightweight structure that does not significantly increase device complexity or interfere with air flow patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The cover mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a dust barrier, maintains air intake for fan cooling, and provides structural support for the mesh. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The cover mechanism effectively prevents dust, paper, and other particles from reaching the fan, maintaining its operation and enhancing the cooling performance by blocking the suction force, thus improving the overall efficiency of the cooling device.

Implementation Method 1

a suction force is generated due to the operation of the fan that is disposed for the aim of cooling the condenser

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction force: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentEP3303953B1Cooling device with a cover mechanism
Publication Date: 2021.09.01 ARCELIK AS
  • EP3303953B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3303953B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3303953B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The present invention relates to a cooling device (1), for example a refrigerator or a freezer, comprising a body; a compressor (2) that enables the refrigeration cycle to be performed; a condenser (3) that enables the refrigerant fluid to be condensed; a fan (4) providing the cooling of the condenser (3) by blowing air thereon; a casing (5) wherein the compressor (2), the condenser (3) and the fan (4) are placed; a panel (7) that forms the rear and upper wall (8 and 9) and the body base (10) of the casing (5); a support member (6) that is disposed inside the casing (5) and whereon the compressor (2), the fan (4) and the condenser (3) are fixed; an opening (A) along the support member (6) that remains between the support member (6) and the rear wall (8) and a cover mechanism (11) covering the opening (A) at the level of the fan.