Swing Seal Structure for Variable-Height Freezer Rack Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-stage freezer warehouses require separate blast and storage rooms, consuming large space, and existing racking systems require manual adjustment for sealing, which is inefficient for stacks of varying heights.
Innovation Solution
An automatically adjustable swing seal system is integrated into the racking structure, allowing for seamless sealing of palletized product stacks of varying heights without manual adjustment, using hinged seals that rotate inward to create a tight seal with the product stack and air intake openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of seals is used for different product stack heights, then sealing can be achieved, but operation efficiency decreases and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is designed to dynamically adjust its position automatically based on the height of the product stack. The seal moves vertically along the racking structure to match different stack heights, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while maintaining effective sealing contact throughout the freezing process
Solution Approach 2:
The seal system performs self-adjustment through its own mechanical design, automatically positioning itself to seal against different stack heights without requiring external manual intervention. The seal's weight and friction characteristics enable it to self-set at the appropriate height position
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed seal position is used in racking structure, then structure simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying stack heights is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seal transitions from a fixed position to a dynamically adjustable position along the racking structure. It can move vertically to accommodate different product stack heights while maintaining sealing effectiveness, providing adaptability without requiring complex mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The seal is divided into functional segments that allow independent movement and adjustment. The seal body can slide along the racking structure while maintaining contact with the product stack, enabling height adaptation through segmented motion rather than complex reconfiguration
3Productivity
If separate blast and storage rooms are used, then freezing and storage functions are clearly separated, but warehouse space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the blast freezing and storage functions into a single integrated warehouse space. The racking structure with movable seals creates distinct functional zones within the same physical space, allowing freezing operations and storage to coexist without requiring separate buildings
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic seal system enables the same physical space to serve multiple functions at different times. When the seal is in the closed position, the space functions as a blast freezing chamber; when open, it allows access for loading and storage operations
Data Source
AI summary
An automatically adjustable swing seal for a rack-aisle freezing and chilling system extends, for example, from the top horizontal frame member of a racking structure and defines an intake opening along with side seals and a bottom seal. The swing seal is positioned at a height such that a product stack having a top edge positioned at any point along the face of the swing seal creates a seal between the intake opening and the stack via the swing seal, the side seals, and the bottom seal. Thus, stacks of varying heights may automatically be accommodated. Further, the bottom edge of the swing seal may be beveled, such that if a product stack is not evenly stacked a portion of the uneven stacking will not catch against the swing seal when the stack is pulled away from the opening.