Refrigerator appliances with movable individually temperature control bins
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional refrigerators with only two temperature compartments fail to provide adequate storage options for the diverse optimal storage conditions of various food products, as fresh produce and meats require different storage parameters.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of movable bins with individual temperature control, powered by inductive power transfer and equipped with thermoelectric heat pumps, which are controlled by temperature sensors and adjustable resistance devices to maintain setpoint temperatures, allowing for customizable storage conditions within the refrigerator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional two-compartment refrigerator design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different food storage needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigerator interior is segmented into multiple movable bins, each capable of independent temperature control. These bins can be positioned in different locations and adjusted to different temperatures, allowing different food types to be stored in optimal conditions without requiring a fully complex multi-zone refrigerator system.
Solution Approach 2:
The bins are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing users to dynamically reposition them between compartments based on storage needs. The temperature control is also dynamic, with adjustable setpoints for each bin, enabling adaptability without permanent structural complexity.
2Ease of operation
If inductive power transfer is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inductive power transfer system automatically activates when a bin is placed in a compartment with a transmitter coil. The system self-regulates power transfer based on the presence and position of bins, eliminating the need for manual electrical connections or switches while minimizing energy waste through automatic disengagement when bins are removed.
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 solution provides enhanced storage options by allowing users to maintain optimal temperatures for different food items, extending their freshness and uniformity, and enabling the accommodation of a wide range of food products within the refrigerator.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the one or more bins includes a receiver coil. The receiver coil receives power from one of the one or more transmitter coils through inductive power transfer.
Implementation Method 2
Each of the one or more bins includes a thermoelectric heat pump. The thermoelectric heat pump receives power from the receiver coil. The operation of the thermoelectric heat pump is controlled based on the temperature in the bin storage volume read by the temperature sensor, such that the temperature in the bin storage volume is maintained at a setpoint temperature associated with such bin.
Implementation Method 3
Each of the one or more bins includes a temperature sensor positioned to read a temperature in the bin storage volume.
Data Source
AI summary
Refrigerator appliance with movable individually temperature controlled bins are provided. One example refrigerator appliance includes one or more transmitter coils and one or more bins. Each of the one or more bins includes a temperature sensor positioned to read a temperature in a bin storage volume. Each of the one or more bins includes a receiver coil. The receiver coil receives power from one of the one or more transmitter coils through inductive power transfer. Each of the one or more bins includes a thermoelectric heat pump. The thermoelectric heat pump receives power from the receiver coil. The operation of the thermoelectric heat pump is controlled based on the temperature in the bin storage volume read by the temperature sensor, such that the temperature in the bin storage volume is maintained at a setpoint temperature associated with such bin.