Integrated Refrigerated Container Structure to Prevent Air Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerated containers with self-contained refrigeration units face issues with structural support and air leakage due to bolted assemblies, which can compromise the integrity and efficiency of temperature control during transit.
Innovation Solution
The refrigeration unit is integrated with the container's structural frame by welding, eliminating the need for a perimeter flange and bolting, thus providing enhanced structural support and reducing the risk of air leakage, while allowing for increased size of evaporator and condenser components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the refrigeration unit is bolted to the container front wall using a flange assembly, then the refrigeration unit can be easily installed and removed, but the assembly creates gaps that cause air leakage and compromises structural strength
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigeration unit is merged with the container structure by welding the refrigeration unit directly to the container's front wall, eliminating the separate flange assembly. This integration removes the gaps between components that cause air leakage, while the welded joint provides both secure attachment and structural strength.
2Strength
If a flange assembly with bolt holes is used to mount the refrigeration unit, then the refrigeration unit can be securely attached, but the flange and bolts add weight and manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting function is merged into the container structure itself. The front wall of the container is designed with integrated reinforcement that directly receives and welds the refrigeration unit, eliminating the need for separate flanges, bolts, and associated alignment features. This reduces component count while maintaining attachment strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange assembly and bolted connection system are extracted from the design, leaving only the essential welding joint between the refrigeration unit and container. This simplification removes unnecessary components while the welded connection provides sufficient attachment strength.
3Strength
If the refrigeration unit is integrated by welding directly to the container structure, then structural strength is enhanced and air leakage is eliminated, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The container front wall is prepared in advance with integrated reinforcement structures and positioning features during container manufacturing. These preliminary preparations guide the refrigeration unit into correct alignment, making the welding process straightforward and reducing installation complexity despite the permanent nature of welding.
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 integration enhances the structural strength of the container, reduces weight and cost, and improves temperature control by eliminating gaps that cause air leakage, leading to more efficient and reliable refrigeration.
Implementation Method 1
said refrigeration unit being welded to said common structural member
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~6
AI summary
A refrigerated container includes a box-like structure having a floor, a pair of opposed side walls, a rear wall, and a roof panel defining an interior volume having an open forward end; and a refrigeration unit disposed in the forward end of the box-like structure and integrated into the box-like structure.