Refrigeration device with removable module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing refrigeration devices lack sufficient variability in their storage systems to accommodate refrigerated goods of different dimensions and types without requiring significant modifications or replacements.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of removable modules with opposing recesses and support points on the inner walls of the refrigeration device, allowing for adjustable and height-adjustable placement of refrigerated goods carriers, such as shelves, via clamping or sliding mechanisms connected by a continuous rail.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed support points are used on the inner walls, then the structure is simple and stable, but the adaptability to store different types and dimensions of refrigerated goods is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to store different types and dimensions of refrigerated goodsVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The inner wall structure is segmented into multiple removable modules, each module containing support points. These modules can be independently installed or removed, allowing the support structure to be reconfigured for different storage needs without redesigning the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support points are designed to be height-adjustable within each module, transforming the static fixed support structure into a dynamic one that can adapt to different shelf positions and cargo configurations, thereby improving versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If height-adjustable support arms are embedded in the rear wall, then the refrigerated goods carrier can be positioned at different heights, but the variability is limited to a single location and requires complex embedding structures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheight adjustment capabilityVSAvoidembedding structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of one complex embedded rail system, the support structure is divided into multiple independent modules distributed across opposite inner walls. Each module contains its own support points, allowing height adjustment at multiple locations without requiring complex continuous embedding structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modules are designed with universal mounting features that can be installed on any inner wall surface. The support points within each module can accommodate refrigerated goods carriers at different heights, providing multi-functional support across the entire refrigeration space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple removable modules with support points are installed on opposite inner walls, then the variability and flexibility of storing different refrigerated goods is significantly improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage variabilityVSAvoidmodule installation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support system is divided into standardized modular units that can be independently manufactured and installed. Each module contains integrated support points and mounting features, reducing the complexity of installation compared to custom-fitted support structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple functions are merged into each module: the module serves as both the mounting structure and the support mechanism, with integrated support points that combine height adjustment capability with structural support. This reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of operation

If the refrigerated goods carrier is designed to be horizontally displaceable on support points, then the ease of operation and repositioning is improved, but the stability and secure mounting may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of repositioningVSAvoidsecure mounting stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection between the refrigerated goods carrier and support points is designed to be dynamically adjustable. The support points allow horizontal displacement for easy repositioning while maintaining secure vertical support, achieving a balance between operability and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2260251B1Refrigeration device with removable module
Publication Date: 2017.05.10 BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH
  • EP2260251B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2260251B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The present invention relates to a refrigeration device comprising a housing (1) and a door (2) delimiting a thermally insulated interior space (3), wherein at least one cavity (5) for receiving a removable module (6) is disposed in the interior space (3) in at least one inside wall (14), wherein the removable module (6) is used for storing the cooled material support (4). Different modules with different supports for holding different cooled material supports (4) can thereby be disposed in the interior space (3).