Integrated Refrigerator Water Filter Assembly for Space-Saving Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators face difficulties in assembly and increased material and labor costs due to separate installation of the water filter device and storage tank, which are not integrated.
Innovation Solution
Integration of the water filter device and storage tank into a single assembly within the refrigerator, with a filter unit to purify water and a storage tank unit to store purified water, connected via a case with supply and discharge tubes, allowing for efficient water distribution to an ice maker and dispenser.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the water filter device and storage tank are installed separately, then each component can be independently maintained and replaced, but the assembly operation becomes difficult and material and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the water filter device and storage tank into a single integrated assembly where the filter unit is housed within or directly connected to the storage tank structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate installation of two independent components, simplifying assembly operations while reducing material and labor costs. The integrated design allows the filter cartridge to be accessed and replaced through the storage tank opening, maintaining ease of maintenance while achieving component integration.
2Ease of manufacture
If the water filter device and storage tank are integrated into a single assembly, then assembly operation becomes easier and costs are reduced, but the internal space utilization must be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the filter unit inside the storage tank structure, where the filter housing is positioned within the tank's internal volume. This nested arrangement allows the filter components to occupy the same spatial envelope as the storage tank, maximizing space utilization. The filter cartridge can be accessed through the tank opening, and the integrated design ensures that the combined assembly occupies minimal space while providing both filtration and storage functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical space arrangement where the filter unit and storage tank are arranged in a vertical configuration rather than horizontal placement. This dimensional change allows efficient use of the refrigerator's internal volume by stacking functions vertically. The supply tube connects the filter outlet to the storage tank inlet, and the discharge tube connects the storage tank outlet to the dispenser, creating a compact vertical water flow path that optimizes three-dimensional space utilization.
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 integration enhances assemblability, reduces material and labor costs, and improves the utilization of internal space while maintaining efficient water supply and ice production.
Implementation Method 1
a filter unit to purify water supplied from a water supply source
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes a cabinet to define an outer appearance of the refrigerator and having a storage chamber therein; and a water filter device installed in the storage chamber, to purify water supplied from an external water supply source. The water filter device includes a filter unit to purify the water supplied from the water supply source, a storage tank unit to store the water purified through the filter unit, a case to accommodate the filter unit and the storage tank unit, a filter head assembly, and a water filter assembly separably coupled to the filter head assembly.