Refrigerator Water Circuit Assembly to Reduce Complexity and Cost
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigeration appliances with both a water dispenser and an ice maker have complex and costly water circuit systems due to the need for multiple elements like filters, tanks, and valves, which also negatively impact the aesthetic and operational efficiency of the compartments.
Innovation Solution
A water circuit assembly that includes a water filter assembly positioned within the refrigerator compartment, a diverter valve to direct water flow between a water dispenser and an ice maker, and a water tank supported by a bracket, reducing the need for additional elements and simplifying the system while maintaining efficient water distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple elements (filters, tanks, valves) are positioned close to the solenoid valve for each water route, then water delivery to multiple destinations is enabled, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple water route elements into a single integrated water circuit assembly that services both the water dispenser and ice maker. Instead of having separate filters, tanks, and valves for each destination, the invention merges these components into one shared system with a common water source connection, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the capability to deliver water to multiple destinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The water circuit assembly is designed as a universal system that can serve multiple destinations (water dispenser and ice maker) through a single integrated structure. The assembly includes shared components such as a common filter, water source connection, and housing that can distribute water to different destinations as needed, eliminating the need for duplicate specialized elements for each route.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple elements are positioned close to the solenoid valve, then water distribution to multiple destinations is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple water route elements into a single integrated assembly, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs through economies of scale and reduced assembly operations while preserving the multi-destination water delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal water circuit assembly serves multiple destinations through a single manufactured unit, eliminating the need to produce separate specialized components for each water route. This multi-functional design reduces overall manufacturing cost by standardizing the water delivery system across different destinations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate elements are provided for each water route, then water delivery to dispenser and ice maker is enabled, but aesthetic appearance of compartments is negatively affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple water route elements into a single integrated assembly that can be positioned in one location, eliminating the visual clutter of multiple separate components distributed throughout the compartments. This unified structure improves aesthetic appearance while maintaining full water delivery functionality to both the dispenser and ice maker.
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 configuration reduces the complexity and cost of the water circuit, enhances aesthetic appeal, and ensures efficient water delivery to both the dispenser and ice maker, improving overall appliance performance.
Implementation Method 1
a water filter assembly positioned adjacent the top wall and the first side wall of the liner and extends outward from the rear wall of the liner
Implementation Method 2
a diverter valve is attached to the bracket and fluidly connected to the inlet valve to thereby divert the flow of water from the inlet valve to a selected one of the first destination or the second destination
Data Source
AI summary
A water circuit assembly for a refrigerator that delivers water from a source to a first destination and a second destination spaced apart from the first destination. The water circuit assembly includes an inlet valve positioned outside a compartment of the refrigerator and a water filter assembly positioned adjacent a top wall and a first side wall of a liner that defines the compartment. The water circuit further includes a bracket secured to a rear wall of the liner, a water tank supported by the bracket along the rear wall of the liner, and a diverter valve attached to the bracket and fluidly connected to the inlet valve to thereby divert the flow of water from the inlet valve to a selected one of the first destination or the second destination.