Insulated Structure Servicing Assembly for Vacuum Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Insulated structures in appliances experience a decrease in insulating capability due to gas permeation, which diminishes the partial vacuum and reduces the pressure differential over time, leading to inefficient energy retention.
Innovation Solution
A servicing assembly is integrated into the insulated structure, comprising a connector, a servicing tube, and a sensor that monitors pressure changes, allowing for repeated evacuation and resealing of the insulating cavity to maintain the partial vacuum, with a cap for selective access and a unique servicing space to facilitate efficient maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the insulated structure is sealed to maintain partial vacuum, then insulating capability is improved, but gas permeation causes pressure differential to decrease over time
Solution Approach 1:
The servicing assembly includes a pre-installed connector and tube system that enables future evacuation operations without requiring structural modifications. This preliminary preparation allows the vacuum to be restored when gas permeation occurs, extending the functional life of the insulated structure
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor coupled to the connector can detect pressure changes and trigger evacuation operations automatically. This self-monitoring and self-service capability allows the system to maintain its vacuum state without external intervention, addressing the gas permeation issue proactively
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a servicing assembly is added to enable repeated evacuation, then vacuum maintenance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves multiple functions: it provides the evacuation port, supports the sensor, and anchors the tube. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while still enabling repeated evacuation operations
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is coupled to the connector in a nested arrangement where the sensor is positioned within or attached to the connector structure. This nesting minimizes the space required for additional components and reduces overall assembly complexity
3Ease of operation
If the servicing tube extends along the panel, then access to the port is improved, but the tube may interfere with the insulating cavity
Solution Approach 1:
The tube is routed to extend along the exterior surface of the panel rather than through the insulating cavity. This extraction of the tube from the cavity space eliminates interference with the insulation volume while maintaining access to the evacuation port
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 enhancing the appliance's overall longevity.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor is coupled to the connector
Implementation Method 2
allowing for repeated evacuation and resealing of the insulating cavity to maintain the partial vacuum
Implementation Method 3
Gas permeation diminishes the partial vacuum and reduces the pressure differential over time, leading to inefficient energy retention
Data Source
AI summary
An insulated structure comprises a first panel and a second panel coupled to the first panel. The first and second panels define an insulating cavity therebetween. A port is defined by the second panel. The port is an opening into the insulating cavity. A connector is coupled to the second panel. A tube is coupled to the connector and extends parallel along the second panel.