Integrated Refrigerator Water Filter Layout for Easy Replacement
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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 separate water supply pipes and heaters.
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 independently, but the space utility of the storage compartment deteriorates and the 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 disposed within the water tank, creating a unified structure that performs both filtration and storage functions. This merging eliminates the need for separate independent installations while maintaining the water supply function, thereby simplifying the overall system configuration.
2Ease of manufacture
If the water purifying filter and water tank are separated, then each component can be independently installed, but the space utilization of the storage compartment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the filter assembly is placed inside the water tank. The filter assembly includes a housing that fits within the tank's internal volume, allowing the filtration component to be nested within the storage component. This nesting arrangement maximizes space utilization by eliminating the need for separate installation spaces for both components.
3Shape
If the water tank is provided in the rear of the refrigerating compartment, then it can be hidden from view, but it becomes difficult for users to access the filter for replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the water purifying unit into two independently accessible parts: the water tank body and the filter assembly. The filter assembly is designed to be removable from the front of the tank, allowing users to access and replace the filter without needing to access the rear of the refrigerating compartment. This segmentation enables the tank to remain concealed while maintaining easy filter accessibility.
4Reliability
If a heater is provided to prevent the water tank from freezing, then the water supply reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the refrigerator's existing cooling system to maintain the water tank temperature. The insulated walls of the water tank and the refrigerator's ambient cooling environment work together to prevent freezing without requiring additional heating components. This self-service approach leverages the refrigerator's inherent thermal management capabilities, eliminating the need for separate heaters and reducing manufacturing costs.
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 manufacturing costs by integrating the filter and tank, while preventing water tank freezing and ensuring reliable water supply.
Implementation Method 1
a filter assembly (130) to be pushed into or pulled out of the case
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.