Modular Cooler Refrigeration Conversion with External Compressor Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable refrigeration systems are expensive, require technical expertise for setup, occupy significant space, lack portability, and pose risks of refrigerant leaks during mobile use, making it difficult to convert conventional coolers into refrigerators without specialized assistance.
Innovation Solution
A modular refrigeration system with internal and external components, including a heat transfer module and liquid cooling module, connected by a closed loop fluid pathway, powered by a 12-volt battery, allowing easy installation and conversion between cooler and refrigerator modes without technical expertise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a contained box structure with all refrigeration components inside is used, then refrigeration function is achieved, but storage space is significantly reduced and conversion to cooler mode becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigeration system is divided into two separate modules: an internal heat transfer module that fits inside the cooler and an external liquid cooling module that houses the compressor, condenser, and other components. This segmentation allows the internal module to occupy minimal space while the external module contains the bulk of the refrigeration components, thereby preserving storage space while maintaining refrigeration function.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressor, condenser, and other space-consuming refrigeration components are extracted from the cooler interior and placed in an external module. Only the essential heat transfer components remain inside the cooler, minimizing space occupation while still achieving the refrigeration effect through the closed-loop fluid system.
2Reliability
If refrigeration components are integrated inside the cooler, then refrigeration is achieved, but conversion between cooler and refrigerator modes becomes complex and requires technical expertise
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the refrigeration system into removable internal and external modules, the system becomes easily convertible. The internal heat transfer module can be simply removed to convert from refrigerator mode back to cooler mode, and reinstalled to convert to refrigerator mode, without requiring technical expertise or complex disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be dynamically convertible between two states: cooler mode (with internal module removed) and refrigerator mode (with internal module installed). This dynamic adaptability allows users to easily switch between functions based on needs, enhancing versatility while maintaining simplicity.
3Reliability
If a portable refrigeration system is designed with all components inside, then refrigeration is achieved, but portability is reduced due to significant space and weight occupation
Solution Approach 1:
The portable refrigeration system is segmented into a lightweight internal heat transfer module that can be easily placed in the cooler and an external power module that can be connected to various power sources including battery packs. This segmentation reduces the weight burden on the cooler itself while maintaining portable refrigeration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The external liquid cooling module is designed to be universally compatible with different power sources (wall outlets, car adapters, battery packs), making the portable refrigeration system adaptable to various usage scenarios without requiring a dedicated heavy power system integrated into the cooler.
4Reliability
If refrigerant is contained inside the cooler, then refrigeration efficiency is improved, but risk of refrigerant leaks during mobile use increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor, condenser, and large quantities of refrigerant are extracted from the cooler interior and placed in the external liquid cooling module. This extraction removes the primary sources of refrigerant leak risk from the mobile cooler environment, while the internal heat transfer module contains only minimal refrigerant in a controlled closed-loop system, significantly reducing overall leak risk during mobile use.
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
Enables efficient, portable, and safe refrigeration with minimal space impact, allowing easy conversion and removal, reducing the risk of refrigerant leaks and eliminating the need for specialized installation.
Implementation Method 1
a closed loop fluid communication pathway extending from the thermal transfer section through the cooler drain to a fluid cooling module outside the cooler
Implementation Method 2
a second closed loop holding refrigerant for engaging in a heat exchange with the closed loop fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for converting a conventional cooler to a refrigerator. A heat transfer module is disposed within the cooler for cooling the contents therein, while an external cooling module includes refrigerant in a closed loop configuration that stays outside of the cooler. The heat transfer module includes a closed loop chilling fluid that extends outside the cooler through a drain port to perform a heat exchange with the refrigerant loop.