Filter assembly for ice making appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ice making appliances consume significant water due to the accumulation of dissolved solids, which require frequent water replacement, and lack efficient filtration systems to remove these solids, especially in compact designs where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A filter cartridge assembly with a rectilinear shape and partitioned internal chamber containing deionization media that creates a serpentine pathway for water filtration, effectively removing dissolved solids and reducing water consumption by integrating the filtration system within the appliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional filtration systems are used to remove dissolved solids, then water can be filtered, but the filter consumes valuable space that would be used for ice storage and the appliance becomes less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is segmented into multiple functional components: a housing, a filter cartridge containing deionization media, and integration with the water distribution system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter cartridge is nested within the water distribution housing, and the deionization media is nested within the filter cartridge. This nested arrangement maximizes filtration functionality within minimal space, allowing the system to maintain compactness while providing effective dissolved solids removal.
2Productivity
If water is circulated over the evaporator to form ice, then ice production is achieved, but dissolved solids accumulate and require frequent water replacement consuming significant water
Solution Approach 1:
The deionization filter performs preliminary action by removing dissolved solids from water before the water reaches the evaporator. This pre-filtration prevents solid accumulation during the ice making process, eliminating the need for frequent water replacement and reducing overall water consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter assembly is integrated into the water distribution system to provide continuous filtration of dissolved solids throughout the ice production cycle. This continuous action ensures water quality is maintained without interruption to ice production, allowing sustained productivity without water replacement.
3Area of stationary object
If the appliance is designed to be compact for convenient placement, then space efficiency is improved, but adding a filter assembly becomes impractical due to space constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is merged with the water distribution housing, combining two functional elements into a single integrated component. This merging eliminates the need for separate filter housings and mounting structures, reducing overall appliance footprint while maintaining filtration functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The water distribution housing serves multiple functions: it distributes water to the evaporator, houses the filter cartridge, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality allows the appliance to maintain compact dimensions while incorporating the filtration system without adding extra components.
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 enables the production of clear ice with reduced water usage and eliminates the need for frequent water replacement, optimizing space in compact appliances and enhancing ice production efficiency by maintaining a drainless ice production system.
Implementation Method 1
A deionization filter for an ice making appliance including a clear ice making appliance
Data Source
AI summary
A filter cartridge assembly for an ice making appliance having a rectilinear filter cartridge with a plurality of partitions that are positioned within an internal chamber, form multiple sub-chambers, and create a non-linear pathway for the flow of water through the filter cartridge. Filter media positioned in the sub-chambers of the filter cartridge are configured to remove dissolved solids from water travelling through the filter cartridge and used by the appliance to create ice, including clear ice.