Refrigerator Water Feed Layout With Integrated Filter Tank Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional water feed systems in French door type refrigerators have a complex configuration due to separately mounted filters, water tanks, and valves, leading to increased pipe length, assembly complications, and inefficient use of interior space.
Innovation Solution
Integrating the filter, water tank, and valve within a case in the refrigerating compartment, with a simplified three-pipe water feed system that reduces pipe length and allows for easy assembly, while maximizing space utilization by positioning them between drawer type storage containers or a sidewall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the filter, water tank and valve are arranged separately in conventional locations (water tank in refrigerating compartment, valve in bottom machine room), then each component can be independently accessed and maintained, but the water feed pipe length increases and the configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the filter, water tank, and valve into a single integrated assembly that is mounted together as one unit. This merging of previously separate components simplifies the overall configuration, reduces the number of separate mounting locations needed, and makes the water feed system easier to manufacture and install while maintaining all necessary functions.
2Ease of operation
If the filter, water tank and valve are mounted separately in different locations, then each component can be independently serviced, but the assembly process becomes inconvenient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the filter, water tank, and valve into a single assembly unit, the patent enables all three components to be installed simultaneously in one operation rather than requiring separate mounting procedures. This significantly reduces assembly time and improves the convenience of the installation process while maintaining the functional independence of each component.
3Area of stationary object
If the water feed pipe extends from the filter to the water tank and icemaker by way of the valve located in different compartments, then each component can be positioned in its traditional location, but the pipe length increases and space utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the filter, water tank, and valve together in the bottom machine room as an integrated assembly. This consolidation dramatically shortens the water feed pipe routing by eliminating the need for the pipe to extend into the refrigerating compartment and back, thereby maximizing interior space utilization while maintaining all necessary water delivery functions.
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 simplifies the assembly process, reduces the complexity of the water feed system, and optimizes interior space by eliminating the need for additional components, enhancing workability and space utilization within the refrigerator.
Implementation Method 1
a water tank in which the water, purified by the filter, is stored so as to be cooled by interior cold air of the refrigerating compartment
Data Source
AI summary
A water feed system usable with a refrigerator having an icemaker and a dispenser, which assures efficient utilization of a storage space. The refrigerator includes a filter to purify water to be fed from an external water source to the icemaker and the dispenser, a water tank in which the water, purified by the filter, is stored so as to be cooled by interior cold air of the refrigerating compartment, and a valve provided at a junction of a hose connecting the filter to the water tank and the icemaker to selectively supply the water, purified by the filter, to the water tank or the icemaker. The filter, the water tank and the valve are received in a case so as to be integrally positioned in the refrigerating compartment.