Mobile Refrigerator Module Layout for Airflow and Space Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigeration systems lack mobility and efficient air circulation, particularly in mobile applications, and require separate spaces for refrigeration units and generators, leading to inefficiencies and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A mobile refrigerator module with an insulated housing, integrated evaporator coils, air circulation fans, and a trailer configuration that includes a front bench space for both a refrigerator unit and an electric generator, allowing for efficient air circulation and combined use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate spaces are provided for refrigerator units and generators, then thermal insulation and safety are improved, but space utilization and mobility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The interior space is divided into three distinct zones: a first interior space for the refrigerator unit, a second interior space for the generator, and a third interior space accessible from outside. This segmentation allows thermal insulation between the refrigerator and generator while maintaining efficient space utilization through vertical stacking and dedicated access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical dimension by positioning the refrigerator unit in an upper portion and the generator in a lower portion of the trailer, creating overlapping horizontal footprints but separated vertical zones. This dimensional approach maximizes space utilization while maintaining thermal separation.
2Ease of repair
If separate access points are provided for refrigerator and generator, then ease of maintenance is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The access system is segmented into three independent doors: a first access door for the refrigerator unit, a second access door for the generator, and a third access door for the exterior space. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to access each component independently without disrupting other systems, improving ease of repair while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized door designs.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing a single large access point that requires disassembling multiple components, the patent uses multiple smaller dedicated access points that can be opened independently. This inverted approach simplifies maintenance operations by allowing direct access to specific components without exposing the entire interior.
3Productivity
If evaporator coils are distributed across the ceiling, then air circulation is improved, but manufacturing complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The evaporator cooling system is segmented into multiple coil assemblies distributed across different ceiling regions. Each coil assembly can be manufactured and tested independently before installation, improving air circulation efficiency through localized cooling zones while simplifying manufacturing through modular, standardized components that can be assembled using conventional techniques.
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 solution provides a mobile and efficient refrigeration system with integrated components, optimizing space utilization and enhancing air circulation, thereby improving mobility and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an evaporator coil distribution across the ceiling and an air circulation fan adjacent thereto configured to blow across the evaporator coils on the ceiling and circulate a refrigerated air through the inside volume
Implementation Method 2
an air circulation fan adjacent thereto configured to blow across the evaporator coils on the ceiling and circulate a refrigerated air through the inside volume
Implementation Method 3
a first interior space for disposing a refrigerator unit, a second interior space for disposing an electric generator, and a third interior space accessible from an outside of the trailer through a third access door
Data Source
AI summary
The mobile refrigerator module includes an insulated housing module includes a front bench space separate from the inside volume and a back door for loading access, and a front door for maintenance access into the front bench space. The disclosure also includes a trailer to carry the insulated housing module thereon and a hitch and a ball to hitch a plurality of insulated housing modules connected in parallel. The disclosure additionally includes an evaporator coil distribution across the ceiling and an air circulation fan adjacent thereto to blow across the evaporator coils on the ceiling and circulate a refrigerated air through the inside volume. The disclosure further includes a refrigerator unit disposed in the front bench space and a reserved space for an electric generator also in the front bench space and thermally insulated from the inside volume.