Multi-Module Carrier Plate for Household Cooling Appliance Versatility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing household cooling appliances lack the capability to be easily equipped with various function units, limiting their versatility and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A household cooling appliance with a plate-like separation unit configured as a multi-module carrier plate, allowing for the integration of multiple functionally different electronic modules, including a light module and a separate electronics module, which can be easily added or removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a plate-like separation unit with a single light module is used in the receiving space, then the receiving space can be divided and illuminated, but the appliance lacks versatility and cannot accommodate multiple functionally different modules
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is designed as a multi-module carrier plate that can receive several functionally different function modules (light modules, electronics modules, and other functional modules). This universal design allows the same base plate structure to accommodate various types of modules, thereby enhancing the appliance's versatility without requiring multiple specialized plate designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation unit is divided into modular components: a base plate, multiple removable function modules, and a thermally insulating material. This segmentation allows individual modules to be added, removed, or replaced independently, enabling the appliance to adapt to different functional requirements while maintaining a simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the base plate is designed to accommodate multiple function modules, then versatility is improved, but the mechanical rigidity and thermal insulation requirements become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is constructed as a composite structure combining a rigid plate material (such as plastic or metal) with thermally insulating material. This composite design provides both the mechanical rigidity needed to support multiple function modules and the thermal insulation properties required for the cooling appliance environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The function modules are designed to be nested within or mounted on the base plate structure. The base plate contains recesses or mounting areas where modules can be positioned, allowing the modules to be integrated into the base plate's structure while maintaining the base plate's overall rigidity and form.
3Strength
If the base plate is made thicker to improve mechanical rigidity for supporting multiple modules, then strength is improved, but the space available in the receiving space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of uniformly increasing the base plate thickness throughout, the design applies reinforcement only in specific local areas where mechanical strength is needed to support the function modules. The base plate maintains its standard thickness in other areas, thereby preserving maximum space in the receiving space while providing sufficient rigidity where required.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple function modules are integrated into the separation unit, then the appliance functionality is enhanced, but the ease of operation for adding or removing modules is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the base plate and function modules is designed to be dynamically adjustable - allowing for easy insertion and removal of modules by the user. The modules can be quickly attached and detached without requiring complex tools or procedures, maintaining ease of operation despite the presence of multiple functional modules.
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 enhances the appliance's versatility by enabling the addition of various function units, improving mechanical rigidity, and allowing for efficient and targeted lighting and ventilation of storage compartments.
Implementation Method 1
a clearance (14), which is filled with thermally insulating material (15)
Data Source
AI summary
A household cooling appliance contains a housing and a receiving space for food configured in the housing. A plate-like separation unit is releasably arranged in the receiving space and is arranged for separating the volume of the receiving space. The separation unit has a base plate, which contains a clearance, which is filled with thermally insulating material, and in the base plate at least one light module is arranged as a function module. The base plate is configured as a multi-module carrier plate for receiving several functionally different function modules. Wherein on the base plate is arranged a further electronics module that is separate and functionally different from the light module.