PVC Foam Airflow Holder for Refrigerated Case Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerated cases face inefficiencies in air circulation and filtration due to the use of metallic components that are poor insulators and result in turbulence and increased manufacturing costs, along with air leakage from multi-piece holders.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece PVC foam holder with a vertical and angled surface is used to accelerate and redirect air downward, incorporating a filter member to enhance airflow and reduce turbulence, while eliminating metallic components and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metallic components are used in the holder, then structural strength is provided, but thermal insulation performance deteriorates and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is constructed from composite materials consisting of a rigid structural framework providing strength and insulation material integrated within, achieving both structural integrity and thermal insulation performance simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The material composition and thermal properties of the holder are optimized by adjusting the ratio and arrangement of metallic structural elements and insulating materials, transforming the holder from a purely metallic structure to a composite structure with superior thermal performance
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-piece holders are used, then assembly flexibility is provided, but air leakage occurs and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate holder components are merged into a single integrated piece, eliminating the joints and seams that cause air leakage while maintaining the necessary assembly flexibility through internal design features
Solution Approach 2:
The single-piece holder incorporates internal segmentation or modular design elements that provide assembly flexibility and adaptability while maintaining external integrity to prevent air leakage
3Speed
If conventional holder design is used, then basic air direction is achieved, but turbulence increases and air circulation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder incorporates curved and streamlined surfaces instead of sharp edges and angular transitions, creating smooth airflow paths that reduce turbulence and enhance air circulation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric parameters of the holder, including surface curvature, angle of attack, and cross-sectional shape, are optimized to control airflow characteristics, minimizing turbulence and maximizing circulation efficiency
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 PVC foam holder improves air circulation efficiency, reduces turbulence, and lowers manufacturing costs by providing a smooth airflow path and decorative appearance, while ensuring effective filtration and insulation.
Implementation Method 1
the angled surface arranged to accelerate and redirect the flow of air in a downward direction toward the bottom
Implementation Method 2
a filter member at least partially supported by the holder and positioned to receive the flow of air in the downward direction and to redirect that flow into the display space
Implementation Method 3
the one piece holder formed as a unitary component using a PVC foam material
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerated case includes a case body including a top panel, a rear panel, and a bottom that cooperate to define a display space, a portion of a refrigeration system disposed in the case and operable to cool a flow of air, and a first air passage positioned to direct the flow of air near the top panel from the rear panel generally toward a front of the case. A one piece holder is positioned to receive the flow of air adjacent the front of the case, the one piece holder formed as a unitary component using a PVC foam material and arranged to accelerate and redirect the flow of air in a downward direction toward the bottom, and a filter member is at least partially supported by the holder and positioned to receive the flow of air in the downward direction and to redirect that flow into the display space.