Integrated Water Purifying Unit Layout for Refrigerator Drawers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators with separate water purifying filters and tanks waste space and complicate the water supply system, making it difficult to access the filter for replacement and increasing manufacturing costs due to the need for additional components like heaters to prevent freezing.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator design that integrates a water purifying unit between storage containers and a sidewall, featuring a drawer-type storage container with a filter assembly and valve assembly for easy filter replacement and simplified water supply configuration, eliminating the need for a separate heater and reducing system complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the water purifying filter and water tank are separated and installed in different locations, then the water supply system can function properly, but the space utility of the storage compartment deteriorates and the system configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the water purifying filter and water tank into a single integrated water purifying unit. The filter assembly is installed within the water purifying unit housing that also contains the water tank, eliminating the need for separate installations. This integration simplifies the overall system configuration while maintaining proper water supply function.
2Reliability
If the water purifying filter and water tank are separated and installed in different locations, then the water supply system can function properly, but the space utility of the storage compartment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly and water tank are merged into a single compact water purifying unit that occupies a smaller overall volume compared to separate installations. The unit is designed to fit efficiently within the storage compartment, maximizing space utilization while ensuring reliable water supply function.
3Reliability
If the water purifying filter is installed in the upper region of the refrigerating compartment, then the water supply system can be configured, but it becomes difficult for users to access the filter for replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The water purifying unit is designed with the filter assembly positioned in a location that is easily accessible to users, likely in a lower or more accessible region of the storage compartment. The unit may feature a removable or openable housing that allows users to access and replace the filter assembly without difficulty, while still maintaining proper water supply system configuration.
4Reliability
If a heater is provided to prevent the water tank from freezing, then the water tank can be protected in the rear of the refrigerating compartment, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The water purifying unit is designed to be self-protecting against freezing through its integrated design. The unit may be positioned in a location less susceptible to freezing, or the housing design itself provides insulation that prevents freezing without requiring an additional heater component, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining protection.
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
This design enhances space utilization, simplifies the water supply system, facilitates easy filter replacement, and reduces the risk of water tank freezing, thereby improving user convenience and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a filter unit provided in the case and serving to purify water supplied from a water supply source
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a refrigerator. In the refrigerator, a water purifying unit including a filter unit to purify water supplied from a water supply source is arranged adjacent to a drawer type storage container in an otherwise useless space of a storage compartment.