Apparatus, method, and system for filtering air to and from a refrigerated compartment of a refrigeration appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air filtration systems in refrigeration appliances face challenges in balancing functionality, maintenance, space utilization, cost, and aesthetic integration, with a need for improved identification and location of replaceable filters.
Innovation Solution
An air filter assembly with a luminous frame and recessed air filter cover, integrated into the refrigerator's interior liner, providing accent lighting to highlight the filter's location while maintaining a flush design that does not obstruct space and using energy-efficient LED lighting to enhance aesthetics and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If an air filter assembly is integrated into the refrigerator interior liner, then aesthetic integration and space utilization are improved, but filter identification and location become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a luminous frame that emits light to highlight the filter cover location. This optical effect creates visual contrast against the surrounding interior liner, making the otherwise flush-integrated filter assembly easily identifiable. The light-emitting component transforms the invisible flush design into a visually detectable feature without compromising the aesthetic integration.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If LED lighting is added to highlight filter location, then filter identification is improved, but electrical power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes LED technology, which provides high luminous efficiency with minimal power consumption. LEDs are designed to operate at low voltages and draw minimal current from the refrigerator's electrical system. Their long operational lifespan and energy efficiency make them suitable for continuous or periodic illumination of the filter location without significantly impacting overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system can be configured to illuminate the filter location periodically or on-demand rather than continuously. For example, the light may activate when the refrigerator door is opened or when a user interacts with the control panel, reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective filter identification when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are integrated into the air filter assembly, then functionality and space utilization are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated assembly: the air filter media, the luminous frame for identification, and the filter cover for access. These components are structurally merged into one unit that performs filtration, illumination, and user interface functions simultaneously. The integration is achieved through careful design of the frame structure that houses both the filter media and the light-emitting component.
Solution Approach 2:
The air filter assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that serves as both the air filtration element and the identification/display element. The luminous frame serves dual purposes: structurally supporting the filter while optically providing location identification. This universal design reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture.
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 effectively integrates air filtration functionality with aesthetic appeal, easy filter identification, and efficient space use, while minimizing electrical power consumption and production costs, thus addressing the existing deficiencies in air filtration systems.
Implementation Method 1
using energy-efficient LED lighting to enhance aesthetics and accessibility
Implementation Method 2
an air filter covered by and recessed from the surface, and an air path from the interior space through the filter
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes a liner having an opening defining an inner perimeter therein, a frame coupled with the liner around the inner perimeter and recessed from the opening, and a cover. The cover is coupled with the frame and has a major surface positioned generally flush with a portion the liner surrounding the opening. The cover defines an outer perimeter spaced apart from the inner perimeter of the opening with a portion of the frame at least partially enclosing a channel extending between the outer perimeter of the cover and the inner perimeter of the opening. The assembly further includes at least one light source directed into the channel and illuminating a portion of the frame and an air filter disposed at least partially within the cover positioned behind the major surface.