Refrigerator having air processing apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators with integrated air processing apparatuses face difficulties in maintenance and repair due to inaccessible PCBs and cumbersome filter removal, particularly for short users.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator design with a movable PCB and easy-to-disconnect power/control lines, along with a detachable filter unit facilitated by a filter mounting system that allows for convenient filter access and installation, enabling improved maintenance and user-friendly operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the PCB is fixed in the top of the refrigerator, then the control function is stable, but it becomes difficult to access the PCB for maintenance or repair
Solution Approach 1:
The PCB mounting structure is segmented into a first mounting unit (in the refrigerator body) and a second mounting unit (in the air processing apparatus). The PCB can be detached from the first mounting unit and mounted on the second mounting unit, allowing separate access to the PCB for maintenance while maintaining stable control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The PCB mounting position is made dynamic rather than fixed. The PCB can be moved between two mounting locations: the first mounting unit in the refrigerator body and the second mounting unit in the air processing apparatus. This dynamic positioning enables easy access for repair while maintaining stable operation.
2Ease of operation
If the air processing apparatus is fixed on the top surface of the refrigerator, then the structure is stable, but it becomes difficult for short users to demount the filter
Solution Approach 1:
The filter mounting structure utilizes a downwardly inclined surface that extends from the rear to the front of the air processing apparatus. This creates a sloped access path that allows users to easily reach and remove the filter from the front, transforming a potentially difficult vertical removal into an easier inclined plane operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The downwardly inclined surface acts as an intermediary element between the filter and the user. This inclined surface provides a convenient ramp that facilitates filter removal, especially for short users, by creating an accessible angle and path for extracting the filter from the air processing apparatus.
3Ease of repair
If power and control lines are permanently connected to the PCB, then electrical connection is reliable, but it becomes difficult to move or maintain the PCB
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is segmented into detachable connectors rather than permanent fixed connections. The power and control lines are connected through detachable connectors that allow the PCB to be separated from the mounting unit for maintenance, while ensuring reliable electrical contact when connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic detachable connection. The connectors are designed to provide reliable electrical contact during operation but can be easily disconnected when maintenance is needed, allowing the PCB to be moved or replaced without damaging wiring.
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 design allows for easy movement and maintenance of the PCB, easy connection/disconnection of power lines, and effortless filter removal, enhancing user convenience and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
a filter unit configured to filter the air drawn into the second cabinet via the inlet hole
Implementation Method 2
a blower fan provided in the second cabinet and configured to blow the air drawn into the inlet hole toward the outlet hole
Implementation Method 3
a first evaporator configured to vaporize the refrigerant having passed the first pressure regulator by absorbing heat from the internal air of the storage compartment
Implementation Method 4
a first condenser configured to condense the refrigerant by exchanging heat between the refrigerant exhausted from the first compressor and external air of the storage compartment
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
There is disclosed a refrigerator having an air processing apparatus comprising: a first cabinet comprising a storage compartment defining a space in which objects for refrigerating or freezing are stored; and a first door for opening and closing the storage compartment; a first cooling unit comprising a first refrigerant pipe defining a circulation path of a refrigerant; a first compressor configured to circulate the refrigerant along the first refrigerant pipe; a first condenser configured to condense the refrigerant by exchanging heat between the refrigerant exhausted from the first compressor and external air of the storage compartment; a first pressure regulator configured to lower the pressure of the refrigerant having passed the first condenser; and a first evaporator configured to vaporize the refrigerant having passed the first pressure regulator by absorbing heat from the internal air of the storage compartment; a second cabinet detachably mounted on one surface of the first cabinet and comprising an inlet hole and an outlet hole; a blower fan provided in the second cabinet and configured to blow the air drawn into the inlet hole toward the outlet hole; a filter unit configured to filter the air drawn into the second cabinet via the inlet hole; a first PCB comprising a first control unit implemented to control at least one of the first compressor and the first pressure regulator; a second PCB comprising a second control unit implemented to control the blower fan; a first mounting unit provided in one surface of the first cabinet and defining a predetermined space which accommodates the first PCB; and a second mounting unit provided in one surface of the second cabinet and defining a predetermined space which accommodates both the first PCB and the second PCB.