Insulated Structure Servicing Assembly to Maintain Partial Vacuum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Insulated structures, such as those used in appliances, face a gradual loss of insulating capability due to gas permeation, which reduces the partial vacuum and diminishes the pressure differential between the exterior and the insulating cavity over time, leading to decreased efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A servicing assembly is integrated into the insulated structure, comprising a connector, a servicing tube, and a sensor, which allows for repeated evacuation and resealing of the insulating cavity to maintain the partial vacuum, including a cap for accessibility and a unique servicing space to facilitate tool access without compromising the tube's integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional insulated structure is used without a servicing assembly, then the manufacturing process is simpler and the device complexity is lower, but the insulating capability is lost over time due to gas permeation and the structure cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The servicing assembly is divided into separate functional components: a servicing tube for vacuum evacuation, a connector for sealing, and a cap for protection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The servicing assembly enables the insulated structure to service itself by allowing repeated evacuation of the insulating cavity to remove permeated gases. The structure can be maintained without external intervention beyond removing and replacing the cap, extending its operational life and maintaining insulating capability.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a servicing assembly is integrated into the insulated structure, then the insulating cavity can be repeatedly evacuated to maintain partial vacuum, but the device complexity increases and tool access becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The servicing tube is pre-positioned and sealed with a cap during manufacturing. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex tool access during operation - users simply remove the cap to service the structure, making the operation simple while extending lifespan through repeated evacuations.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap is designed to be removable and replaceable, transforming a static sealed structure into a dynamic system that can be accessed for servicing. This dynamic element allows the structure to be maintained over time without permanent access openings that would compromise insulation integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the servicing tube is made accessible for repeated servicing, then the partial vacuum can be maintained, but the tube may become damaged or compromised during access
Solution Approach 1:
The servicing tube is protected by a cap that prevents damage during storage and normal operation. This beforehand protection ensures the tube remains intact and ready for servicing when needed, maintaining both versatility and structural integrity throughout the product lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap acts as a protective shell that can be easily removed and replaced without applying stress to the servicing tube. This flexible access method allows repeated servicing while preserving the tube's integrity, combining adaptability with strength.
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 servicing assembly effectively extends the lifespan of the insulated structure by maintaining the partial vacuum, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing wear, thus prolonging the appliance's operational period.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor (38) coupled to the connector (30) and configured to detect a pressure change within the insulating cavity (58)
Implementation Method 2
allows for repeated evacuation and resealing of the insulating cavity to maintain the partial vacuum, including a cap for accessibility and a unique servicing space to facilitate tool access
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
An insulated structure (10) comprises a first panel (18) and a second panel (22) coupled to the first panel (18). The first and second panels (18, 22) define an insulating cavity (58) therebetween. A port (26) is defined by the second panel (22). The port (26) is an opening (152) into the insulating cavity (58). A connector (30) is coupled to the second panel (22). A tube (34) is coupled to the connector (30) and extends parallel along the second panel (22).