refrigerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerators using thermoelectric elements for cooling face challenges in effectively cooling storage compartments, ease of assembly, coupling strength, and durability of the thermoelectric modules.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator design that incorporates a thermoelectric module with a heat-absorbing surface and a heat-generating surface, coupled with a cooling sink and a heat sink, respectively, and a coupling member to securely attach these components to the insulating wall, enhancing cooling efficiency and assembly ease.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a thermoelectric element is used to cool the storage compartment, then the storage compartment can be cooled, but the cooling efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric element is divided into multiple heating sections and cooling sections, allowing independent optimization of heat generation and heat absorption areas. This segmentation enables better thermal management and improved cooling efficiency in the storage compartment.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the thermoelectric element are designed with different properties - the cooling sections are optimized for heat absorption with high thermal conductivity materials, while the heating sections are optimized for heat generation. This local quality differentiation enhances overall cooling effectiveness.
2Ease of manufacture
If the thermoelectric module components are separately assembled, then assembly is complex, but coupling strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The holder integrally combines the first holder portion and second holder portion, eliminating the need for separate assembly of these components. This integration maintains strong coupling between the thermoelectric element and heat sinks while simplifying the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder serves multiple functions simultaneously: it supports the thermoelectric element, couples the heat sinks to the element, and provides structural stability. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed while maintaining assembly strength.
3Ease of manufacture
If the thermoelectric module is designed for easy assembly, then assembly is simplified, but durability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric element is pre-positioned within the holder during manufacturing, with the first holder portion and second holder portion already formed to receive the heat sinks. This preliminary arrangement ensures proper alignment and secure coupling, enhancing durability while maintaining assembly simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder structure is designed to automatically secure the thermoelectric element and heat sinks through its integral geometry, without requiring additional fastening mechanisms. This self-securing design ensures durable connections while simplifying the assembly process.
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 provides improved cooling efficiency, enhanced ease of assembly, increased coupling strength, and improved durability of the thermoelectric modules, ensuring reliable operation and effective temperature regulation in the storage compartment.
Implementation Method 1
The refrigerator may use a thermoelectric element as the cold air supply device, the thermoelectric element generating heating and cooling by means of the Peltier effect. The Peltier effect is a phenomenon in which the flow of heat is induced by the flow of electric current.
Implementation Method 2
a cooling sink in contact with the heat-absorbing surface and configured to exchange heat with the heat-absorbing surface
Implementation Method 3
a heat sink in contact with the heat-generating surface and configured to exchange heat with the heat-generating surface
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator may include a body including an insulating wall having a hole, a compartment in the body, and a thermoelectric module in the hole and configured to cool the compartment the thermoelectric module includes a thermoelectric element including: a heat-absorbing surface on a first side facing and configured to absorb heat from the compartment, a heat-generating surface on a second side, opposite the first side, and configured to receive heat from the heat-absorbing surface and discharge the received heat, a cooling sink in contact with the heat-absorbing surface and configured to exchange heat with the heat-absorbing surface, a heat sink in contact with the heat-generating surface and configured to exchange heat with the heat-generating surface, and a coupling member coupling the cooling sink and heat sink so that the cooling sink is pressed against the heat-absorbing surface and the heat sink is pressed against the heat-generating surface.