Vacuum insulated panel for counteracting vacuum bow induced deformations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Vacuum insulated refrigerator cabinet structures face deformation issues due to vacuum pressures, leading to inconsistent outer parameters and aesthetic concerns.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of pre-deformed cover members and a thermal bridge to create a sealed insulating cavity, where the pre-deformed portions collapse inwardly under vacuum pressure, maintaining a substantially planar structure and reducing the cavity's volume.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If a vacuum is drawn on the insulating cavity, then insulation efficiency is improved, but cover member deformation occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinsulation efficiencyVSAvoidcover member planarity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The cover members are pre-deformed during manufacturing to have portions extending outwardly from the planar level. This preliminary deformation is designed to collapse inwardly when vacuum is applied, allowing the cover members to return to their intended planar configuration under vacuum conditions, thus resolving the deformation issue while maintaining insulation efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Shape

If pre-deformed portions are added to cover members, then vacuum-induced deformation is counteracted, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecover member planarityVSAvoidcover member structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the physical state and configuration of the cover members by introducing pre-deformed portions with specific geometric parameters. These portions are designed with controlled extension distances and locations that allow them to collapse predictably under vacuum pressure, transforming the cover members from a simple planar structure to a pre-conditioned structure that self-corrects under operational conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 effectively counters vacuum-induced deformations, maintaining a consistent and aesthetically pleasing structure while enhancing insulation efficiency by minimizing volume changes and maintaining a thin profile.

Implementation Method 1

The pre-deformed portions of the first and second cover members move inwardly towards the first and second planar levels under a force of the vacuum within the insulating cavity

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVacuum pressure: Vacuum

Data Source

PatentUS11480385B2Vacuum insulated panel for counteracting vacuum bow induced deformations

Publication Date: 2022.10.25 WHIRLPOOL CORP

AI summary

A vacuum insulated cabinet structure includes first and second cover members having pre-deformed portions and perimeter portions. The perimeter portions of the first and second cover members are disposed along first and second planar levels and the pre-deformed portions of the first and second cover members include portions thereof extending outwardly relative to the first and second planar levels. A thermal bridge interconnects the first cover member and the second cover member at the perimeter portions thereof to define an insulating cavity therebetween. The insulating cavity is a sealed cavity having a vacuum drawn therefrom. The pre-deformed portions of the first and second cover members move inwardly towards the first and second planar levels under a force of the vacuum within the insulating cavity.