U.S. patent application number 12/962739 was filed with the patent office on 2011-09-29 for atomization of food preservation solution.
This patent application is currently assigned to WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION. Invention is credited to ANDERSON BORTOLETTO, RAMEET SINGH GREWAL, JOHN M. KNIGHT.
Application Number | 20110232321 12/962739 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44168089 |
Filed Date | 2011-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110232321 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BORTOLETTO; ANDERSON ; et
al. |
September 29, 2011 |
ATOMIZATION OF FOOD PRESERVATION SOLUTION
Abstract
Certain embodiments of the presently described technology
provide methods and systems for providing an atomized food
preservation solution to food stored in a refrigerator. Certain
embodiments provide an atomization unit for a refrigerator for
humidifying at least a portion of the refrigerator. The atomization
unit comprises an atomizer for atomizing and dispensing fluid to at
least a portion of the refrigerator, a water supply for providing
water to the atomizer, the water supply providing water along a
fluid supply path to the atomizer, a food preservation solute
dispenser located along the fluid supply path at a location where
fluid will flow over the food preservation solute dispenser. The
food preservation solute dispenser provides a food preservative to
be dissolved in water along the fluid supply path as fluid flows
over the food preservation solute dispenser. The atomizer is
provided with a solution including the food preservative and
dispenses the solution to the at least a portion of the
refrigerator.
Inventors: |
BORTOLETTO; ANDERSON;
(WAUNAKEE, WI) ; GREWAL; RAMEET SINGH; (PUNE,
IN) ; KNIGHT; JOHN M.; (SAINT JOSEPH, MI) |
Assignee: |
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
BENTON HARBOR
MI
|
Family ID: |
44168089 |
Appl. No.: |
12/962739 |
Filed: |
December 8, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61316947 |
Mar 24, 2010 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/389 ;
239/704 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 17/042 20130101;
F25D 2317/0413 20130101; A23L 3/3472 20130101; A23L 3/37
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
62/389 ;
239/704 |
International
Class: |
F25D 3/00 20060101
F25D003/00; F23D 11/32 20060101 F23D011/32 |
Claims
1. An atomization unit for a refrigerator for humidifying at least
a portion of the refrigerator, the atomization unit comprising an
atomizer for atomizing and dispensing fluid to at least a portion
of the refrigerator; a water supply for providing water to the
atomizer, the water supply providing water along a fluid supply
path to the atomizer; a food preservation solute dispenser located
along the fluid supply path at a location where fluid will flow
over the food preservation solute dispenser, the food preservation
solute dispenser providing a food preservative to be dissolved in
water along the fluid supply path as fluid flows over the food
preservation solute dispenser; wherein the atomizer is provided
with a solution including the food preservative and dispenses the
solution to the at least a portion of the refrigerator.
2. The atomization unit of claim 1 wherein the atomizer comprises a
piezo element comprising openings sized to allow controlled passage
of the solution.
3. The atomization unit of claim 1 wherein the food preservation
solute dispenser comprises a removable cartridge.
4. The atomization unit of claim 1 further comprising a primary
tank and a secondary reservoir located along the fluid path, the
primary tank providing fluid to the secondary reservoir, the
secondary reservoir providing fluid to the atomizer, and wherein
the food preservation solute dispenser is located along the fluid
path interposed between the primary tank and the secondary
reservoir.
5. The atomization unit of claim 4 further comprising a tank cap
assembly interposed between the primary tank and the secondary
reservoir, and wherein the tank cap assembly receives the food
preservation solute dispenser.
6. The atomization unit of claim 5 wherein the food preservation
solute dispenser comprises a substantially ring-shaped, water
permeable consumable cartridge accepted by the tank cap.
7. The atomization unit of claim 5 wherein the tank cap assembly
comprises a sealing mechanism that can prevent the flow of fluid
from the primary tank to the secondary reservoir.
8. The atomization unit of claim 1 wherein the food preservative is
selected from the group consisting of vitamins, minerals,
anti-microbial agents, anti-fungal agents, anti-oxidants, flavor
enhancers and scent enhancers.
9. The atomization unit of claim 8 wherein the food preservative
comprises an anti-microbial agent.
10. The atomization unit of claim 9 wherein the anti-microbial
agent is a citrus essential oil.
11. The atomization unit of claim 10 wherein the citrus essential
oil is selected from the group consisting of orange, grapefruit,
mandarin, lemon and mixtures thereof.
12. An atomization unit for a refrigerator for humidifying at least
a portion of the refrigerator, the atomization unit comprising an
atomizer for atomizing and dispensing fluid to at least a portion
of the refrigerator; at least one fluid container, the at least one
fluid container operably connected to the atomizer for providing
fluid thereto; a food preservation solute dispenser located
proximate to at least a portion of the at least one fluid
container, the food preservation solute dispenser providing a food
preservative to be dissolved in water inside the at least one fluid
container; and wherein the atomizer is provided with a solution
including the food preservative and dispenses the solution to the
at least a portion of the refrigerator.
13. The atomization unit of claim 12 wherein the atomizer comprises
a piezo element comprising openings sized to allow controlled
passage of the solution.
14. The atomization unit of claim 12 wherein the food preservation
solute dispenser comprises a removable cartridge adapted for
removable placement in the at least one fluid container.
15. The atomization unit of claim 12 wherein the food preservation
solute dispenser comprises a pouch adapted for removable placement
in the at least one fluid container.
16. The atomization unit of claim 15 wherein the at least one fluid
container comprises a piercing element for piercing the pouch.
17. The atomization unit of claim 12 wherein the food preservation
solute dispenser comprises a soluble tablet that can be placed in
the at least one fluid container.
18. The atomization unit of claim 12 wherein the at least one fluid
container comprises a primary tank and a secondary reservoir, the
primary tank providing fluid to the secondary reservoir, the
secondary reservoir providing fluid to the atomizer, and wherein
the food preservation solute dispenser is located in at least one
of the primary tank and the secondary reservoir.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/INCORPORATION BY
REFERENCE
[0001] This application makes reference to, claims priority to, and
claims benefit of U.S. Provisional application Ser. No. 61/316,947,
filed on Mar. 24, 2010, which application is hereby incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The presently described technology relates generally to the
provision of water to the interior of a refrigerator. Further,
aspects of the presently described technology relate generally to
providing an atomized solution including a food preservative to
food within an refrigerator.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Certain embodiments of the presently described technology
provide methods and systems for providing an atomized food
preservation solution to food stored in a refrigerator.
[0004] Certain embodiments provide an atomization unit for a
refrigerator for humidifying at least a portion of the
refrigerator. The atomization unit comprises an atomizer for
atomizing and dispensing fluid to at least a portion of the
refrigerator, a water supply for providing water to the atomizer,
the water supply providing water along a fluid supply path to the
atomizer, a food preservation solute dispenser located along the
fluid supply path at a location where fluid will flow over the food
preservation solute dispenser. The food preservation solute
dispenser provides a food preservative to be dissolved in water
along the fluid supply path as fluid flows over the food
preservation solute dispenser. The atomizer is provided with a
solution including the food preservative and dispenses the solution
to the at least a portion of the refrigerator.
[0005] In certain embodiments, the atomizer comprises a piezo
element comprising openings sized to allow controlled passage of
the solution. Further, the food preservation solute dispenser may
comprise a removable cartridge. In certain embodiments, the
atomization unit further comprises a primary tank and a secondary
reservoir located along the fluid path. The primary tank provides
fluid to the secondary reservoir, and the secondary reservoir
provides fluid to the atomizer. The food preservation solute
dispenser is located along the fluid path interposed between the
primary tank and the secondary reservoir. Optionally, the
atomization unit may comprise a tank cap assembly interposed
between the primary tank and the secondary reservoir, and the tank
cap assembly may receive the food preservation solute dispenser.
Further, the food preservation solute dispenser may comprise a
substantially ring-shaped, water permeable consumable cartridge
accepted by the tank cap. Also, the tank cap assembly may comprise
a sealing mechanism that can prevent the flow of fluid from the
primary tank to the secondary reservoir.
[0006] Certain embodiments of the presently described technology
provide an atomization unit for a refrigerator for humidifying at
least a portion of the refrigerator. The atomization unit comprises
an atomizer for atomizing and dispensing fluid to at least a
portion of the refrigerator, at least one fluid container operably
connected to the atomizer for providing fluid thereto, and a food
preservation solute dispenser located proximate to at least a
portion of the at least one fluid container. The food preservation
solute dispenser provides a food preservative to be dissolved in
water inside the at least one fluid container. The atomizer is
provided with a solution including the food preservative and
dispenses the solution to the at least a portion of the
refrigerator.
[0007] In certain embodiments, the atomizer comprises a piezo
element comprising openings sized to allow controlled passage of
the solution. Optionally, the food preservation solute dispenser
comprises a removable cartridge adapted for removable placement in
the at least one fluid container.
[0008] In certain embodiments, the food preservation solute
dispenser comprises a pouch adapted for removable placement in the
at least one fluid container. Optionally, the at least one fluid
container comprises a piercing element for piercing the pouch. In
certain embodiments, the food preservation solute dispenser
comprises a soluble tablet that can be placed in the at least one
fluid container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates an atomization unit formed in accordance
with an embodiment of the presently described technology.
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a refrigerator to which the atomization
unit of FIG. 1 may be added to or removed from, with the
atomization unit in place in the refrigerator.
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a refrigerator to which the atomization
unit of FIG. 1 may be added to or removed from, with the
atomization unit being removed from the refrigerator.
[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a water
tank assembly formed in accordance with an embodiment of the
presently described technology.
[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a water
delivery assembly formed in accordance with an embodiment of the
presently described technology.
[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a docking station
formed in accordance with an embodiment of the presently described
technology.
[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates a sectional view of the atomization unit
of FIG. 1 as the water tank assembly is being inserted into the
docking station.
[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of the atomization unit
of FIG. 1 with the water tank assembly securely positioned in the
docking station.
[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a water
tank assembly formed in accordance with an embodiment of the
presently described technology.
[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a food
preservative cartridge formed in accordance with an embodiment of
the presently described technology.
[0019] FIG. 11 illustrates a sectional view of the water tank
assembly of FIG. 9 assembled with the poppet valve in an open
position.
[0020] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a reservoir and a
food preservative pouch formed in accordance with an embodiment of
the presently described technology.
[0021] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a reservoir and
food preservative tablet formed in accordance with an embodiment of
the presently described technology.
[0022] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of a bottle of food
preservative solution formed in accordance with an embodiment of
the presently described technology
[0023] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of certain embodiments of the presently described
technology, will be better understood when read in conjunction with
the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the
invention, certain embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should
be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited
to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in the attached
drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] Refrigerators are used to preserve food, maintain freshness,
and prolong the shelf life of food. Certain foods benefit from the
provision of water (high relative humidity) to help prolong their
shelf life in a refrigerator. Certain conventional refrigerator
designs do not provide for the addition of a fluid to help preserve
freshness, or may provide such addition of fluid in inefficient,
inflexible, and/or ineffective ways. The design, construction, and
arrangement of many refrigerators places limitations on the
placement and effective use of water delivery systems.
[0025] Further, food preservatives may be added to food to prolong
freshness and taste. Many conventional food preservatives, however,
are not conveniently or efficiently added to foodstuffs after their
sale to a consumer.
[0026] It has been identified or appreciated by applicants that the
challenge remains of providing improved refrigerators and/or
improved delivery of a food preservative in connection with
refrigerators. Applicants now address those challenges with the
presently described technology.
[0027] Certain aspects of the presently described and claimed
technology provide one or more systems and methods for delivering a
food preservation solution to an atomizer for delivery to at least
a portion of a refrigerator.
[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates an atomization unit 10 formed in
accordance with an embodiment of the presently described
technology. The illustrated atomization unit 10 is a modular design
that is configured and adapted to be added to or removed from a
refrigerator as a unit. The illustrated atomization unit 10
comprises a water tank assembly 100, a water delivery assembly 200,
and a docking station 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the
docking station 300 is adapted to securely receive the water tank
assembly 100 and the water delivery assembly 200. In turn, the
docking station 300 may be securely mounted in a refrigerator.
[0029] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate a refrigerator 20 to which the
atomization unit 10 may be added to or removed from. In FIG. 2, the
atomization unit 10 is shown in place, in an assembled condition,
in the refrigerator 20. In FIG. 3, the atomization unit 10 is
illustrated as being removed from the refrigerator 20. The
atomization unit 10 may be removed from the refrigerator 20 for
service, maintenance, or replacement. In certain embodiments, the
atomization unit 10 may be removed from the refrigerator 20 to be
refilled with a fluid, such as water. In other embodiments, the
atomization unit 10 may be re-fillable without removal from the
refrigerator, such as by plumbing provided within the refrigerator
20, or by a user pouring water into the atomization unit 10, or by
the attachment of a replaceable bottle or other filling device to
the atomization unit 10. The atomizer unit 10 may have a footprint
of, for example, about 75 millimeters by about 120 millimeters. The
relatively small footprint of the atomizer unit 10 and/or the
modularity of the atomizer unit 10 also allow for easier
retrofitting to a refrigerator not previously designed for use with
an atomizer unit to accept and use the atomizer unit 10.
[0030] For the illustrated embodiment, the refrigerator 20 includes
a freezer compartment 30 located at a generally higher elevation, a
refrigeration compartment 40 located at a generally intermediate
level, and a refrigeration/humidification compartment 50 located at
a generally lower level. The atomization unit 10 is securable at an
intermediate position between the refrigeration compartment 40 and
the refrigeration/humidification compartment 50, and disperses a
spray of fluid generally downwardly into the
refrigeration/humidification compartment 50. In such an
arrangement, the atomization unit may be supplied with water from a
defrosting process in a compartment located at a higher level, the
water being gravity fed to the atomization unit 10. Other
refrigeration arrangements may be employed in other embodiments. As
an example, an atomization unit may be located proximate a side
wall of a refrigeration compartment. Additionally or alternatively,
the refrigerator compartment and atomization unit may be configured
and adapted so that some subcompartments of a larger compartment
are supplied with atomized fluid and some are not, or further that
subcompartments may be supplied with atomized fluid at different
rates or amounts. Such subcompartments may be defined by bins,
trays, and/or shelves dispersed throughout a compartment. The
various compartments may be differently sized and/or arranged in
other embodiments. As an example, a refrigerator may not comprise a
separate refrigerator/humidification compartment, but may instead
comprise a freezer unit and a refrigerator unit arranged in a
side-by-side fashion, with an atomization unit providing
humidification to all or part of the refrigeration unit.
[0031] Returning to FIG. 1, as also indicated above, the
atomization unit 10 comprises a water tank assembly 100, a water
delivery assembly 200, and a docking station 300. FIG. 4
illustrates an exploded perspective view of the water tank assembly
100. The water tank assembly 100 includes a water tank 102, a
poppet valve seal 104, an o-ring 106, a water tank cap 108, a
poppet valve spring 110, a poppet valve 112, ears 114, and tabs
116.
[0032] The water tank 102 is configured and adapted to hold a
volume of fluid. The water tank 102 is an example of a primary
fluid reservoir or main supply fluid tank. As such, the water tank
102 should be constructed to be water tight, especially around its
sides and bottom, to prevent leakage. The water tank 102 comprises
one or more locations for the controlled entry and/or exit of
fluid. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the water tank 102
is configured to be airtight when the opening 118 is closed to the
entry of air by being shut by a valve or submersed below a liquid
level. The illustrated water tank 102 comprises an opening 118
located proximate the bottom of the water tank 102, which is sized
and adapted to accept the water tank cap 108 and related components
to allow for the controlled dispensing of water from the water tank
102. The water tank 102 may be inverted, with the water tank cap
108 removed, to be manually filled with water. In other
embodiments, the water tank 102, may be re-filled manually through
a separate or additional cap accessible when the atomizer unit 10
is in place in the refrigerator, by a plumbing feed from water from
another portion of the refrigerator or an external supply, and/or
by a replaceably attachable supply such as a bottle. In other
embodiments, a replaceable supply such as a bottle may act as a
supply of water without the use of a separate primary water
tank.
[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the ears 114 are located
proximate to an external top surface of the water tank 102, and
provide a convenient access point for handling the atomizer unit 10
during installation to and removal from the refrigerator 20. The
ears 114 also provide a convenient access point for removing and/or
installing the water tank 102 to the docking assembly 300. The tabs
116 are configured to help guide the water tank 102 into place into
the docking station 300, and are configured to help secure the
water tank 102 in place in the docking station 300.
[0034] As also previously mentioned, the water tank assembly 100
includes a poppet valve seal 104, an o-ring 106, a water tank cap
108, a poppet valve spring 110, and a poppet valve 112. The water
tank cap 108 is sized and configured to cooperate with the opening
118 of the water tank 102 to allow fluid flow when the poppet valve
112 is open, and to prevent fluid flow when the poppet valve 112 is
closed. The poppet valve seal 104, o-ring 106, water tank cap 108,
and poppet valve spring 110 cooperate to prevent fluid flow when
the poppet valve 112 is in a closed position. For example, the
seals and o-ring are configured to help provide a waterproof
barrier. The poppet valve spring 110 is configured to urge the
poppet valve 112 in a closed position, and the poppet valve seal
104 is mounted to the poppet valve 112 so that the poppet valve
seal 104 moves with the poppet valve 112. In the illustrated
embodiment, the poppet valve seal 104 is generally funnel shaped
and configured to prevent flow through the water tank cap 108 when
the poppet valve 112 is in a closed position. The funnel shape
helps properly seat the poppet valve seal 104 with the assistance
of downward pressure provided by a water column above it, when the
poppet valve 112 is in a closed position. As shown in FIGS. 1 and
4, the poppet valve spring 110 is configured to bias the poppet
valve 112 downward, thus drawing the poppet valve seal 104 down
over an opening in the water tank cap 108. The poppet valve 112 is
opened by pressing upward on the poppet valve 112 against the
urging of the poppet valve spring 110, thereby moving the poppet
valve seal 104 (which is mounted to the poppet valve 112) upward
and away from the opening in the water tank cap 108, thereby
allowing fluid flow. Thus, when fluid flow is desired, the poppet
valve 112 may be urged against the poppet valve spring 110 to an
open position to allow fluid flow through the water tank cap 108.
Once fluid flow is desired to be stopped, the poppet valve 112 may
be returned to a closed position, where the poppet valve spring 110
will help close it and maintain it in place. In other embodiments,
different valve arrangements and/or cap opening/closing
arrangements and/or fluid flow mechanisms may be employed.
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the water
delivery assembly 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the water
delivery assembly includes a wick 202, a wick holder 204, a wick
spring 206, a wick plunger 208, a piezo compression ring 210, a
piezo cell 212, a piezo casing 214, and light emitting diodes
(LEDs) 216. The water delivery assembly 200 in the illustrated
embodiment is modular, and may be assembled and removed from and/or
installed into the docking station 300 as a unit.
[0036] The wick 202 is configured to be a flexible member with
sufficient absorbency to be able to deliver fluid from a reservoir
to the piezo cell 212. The wick 202 may be constructed of a cotton
material, such as material from Pepperell Braiding Co., which can
range in size, for example, from about 1/16 inch to about 1/2 inch
and may be capable of drawing water up to about 8 inches. The wick
holder 204, wick spring 206, and wick plunger 208 are configured
and adapted to maintain one end of the wick 202 in proximity to the
piezo cell 212, so that the wick 202 may act as a fluid conduit to
the piezo cell 212. The wick holder 204 and/or other components
provide an example of a wick guide. The wick 202 is positioned such
that one end of the wick 202 is in fluid communication with a
source of fluid, and the other end is proximate to the piezo cell
212, so that the fluid is provided from a source of fluid to the
piezo cell 212 via the wick 202. In certain embodiments, the wick
is securely attached to the piezo cell, or element. In other
embodiments, the wick is not securely attached to the piezo cell,
but is positioned close enough to the piezo cell to provide water
or other fluid. The piezo casing may define a piezo reservoir that
is supplied by the wick and maintains a volume of water proximate
to the piezo cell.
[0037] The piezo casing 214 and piezo compression ring 210
cooperate to help maintain the piezo cell 212 in a desired
position. The piezo casing 214 also includes a female docking pin
218 adapted to help secure the water delivery assembly 200 in place
in the docking assembly 300. The piezo cell 212 is a relatively
thin, perforated disk that, when stimulated vibrates, whereby fluid
from a top surface of the piezo cell 212 is drawn through the
perforations and distributed in an atomized spray from a bottom
surface of the piezo cell 212. For example, the piezo cell 212 may
be about 20 millimeters in diameter and between about 0.65 and
about 0.83 millimeters thick. The perforations may be sized, for
example, from about 8 to about 12 microns. The piezo cell 212 may
have an activating frequency of about 110 Kilohertz, and may
provide a misting rate of greater than about 10 cubic centimeters
per hour. Perforations above about 12 microns may increase the
possibility of leakage, while perforations under about 6 microns
may contribute to clogging, thereby shortening the effective life.
This atomized fluid may then be used to provide moisture in an
easily accepted form to foodstuffs in an appropriate compartment
that is supplied with an atomizer. The wick holder 204 and related
components cooperate with the piezo casing 214 and related
components to form a modular unit that may be handled as a unit,
and helps maintain the piezo cell 212 in proper position. The wick
plunger 208 may urge against the piezo compression ring 210 to help
maintain the piezo cell 212 in place as well as to help prevent any
leakage from the water delivery assembly 200. The wick holder 204
may be snappably and removably received by the piezo casing 214.
The LEDs 216 light to provide information regarding the status
and/or function of the piezo cell 212.
[0038] The piezo cell 212 is an example of an atomizer that may be
used to provide a fine spray of fluid. Such a fine spray of fluid,
for example water, can be beneficial in a refrigerator application,
as certain foodstuffs advantageously absorb the water provided in
such a fine spray in a more effective manner compared to certain
other methods of providing water to foodstuffs. The humidity
provided by the atomizer improves preservation of vegetables and
other fresh foods, prevents food odor transfer to other food in the
refrigerator, helps maintain the color of green vegetables longer
and aid nutrition retention, and improves savings due to avoiding
waste of vegetables.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 1, the docking station 300 includes a male
docking pin 302 and grommet 304 configured to cooperate with the
female docking pin 218 to secure the water delivery unit 200 in
place. The grommet 304 helps maintain water-tightness through the
opening of the docking station 300 that accepts the male docking
pin 302 and grommet 304. Docking station 300 also includes snaps
318 that cooperate with the tabs 116 of the water tank 102 to help
guide, place, and secure the water tank 102 to the docking station
300. With the water tank assembly 100 and water delivery assembly
200 in place in the docking station 300, the assembled components
form a modular assembly that can be conveniently attached to and
removed from the refrigerator 20. The modular design of the entire
unit as well as various modular sub-assemblies also simplifies
repairs and maintenance, as well as easing the process of
retrofitting the unit to a refrigerator not originally designed to
accommodate such a unit.
[0040] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a docking station
300. The docking station 300 of the illustrated embodiment includes
side walls 330 that extend from a base 340 to define an open
volume. The docking station 300 is configured to accept the water
delivery assembly 200 and the water tank assembly 100. In the
illustrated embodiment, the docking station 300 is molded as a
single piece. The docking station 300 comprises a water delivery
assembly mounting hole 306, a valve projection 308, a switch
projection 310, a reservoir wall 312, a docking station reservoir
314, ribs 316, snaps 318, a piezo opening 320, and mounting
features 322, 324.
[0041] The water delivery assembly mounting hole 306 is configured
to cooperate with the female docking pin 218, male docking pin 302,
and grommet 304 to help secure the water delivery assembly 200 in
place in the docking station 300. Additionally, the illustrated
embodiment includes mounting features 322, 324 to help guide,
located, and/or secure the water delivery assembly 200 in place in
the docking station 300. As shown in FIG. 6, mounting features 322
comprise raised surfaces and mounting features 324 comprise holes
in the base 340 of the docking station 300. Further, the docking
station 300 is configured to allow wiring for power supply and
control to be connected to the water delivery assembly 200.
[0042] The valve projection 308 extends from the base 340 of the
docking station 300, and is positioned and configured to press
against the bottom of the poppet valve 112 when the water tank
assembly 100 is lowered into place in the docking station 300. The
atomization unit 10 is configured so that, when the water tank
assembly 100 is securely positioned in place in the docking unit
300, the poppet valve 112 is urged upward by contact with the valve
projection 308 into an open position thereby allowing fluid flow.
In alternative arrangements, the docking station reservoir 300 (or
other reservoir with which a wick is in fluid communication) may be
provided with water from a source other than a water tank, such as
via municipally provided water via plumbing into the refrigerator,
or water obtained from a defrosting process elsewhere in the
refrigerator.
[0043] The switch projection 310 extends upward from the base 340
of the docking station 300. The switch projection 310 cooperates
with a reed switch (not shown) to indicate the position of the
water tank 102, for example, to indicate whether or not the water
tank 102 is in its secure, assembled position within the docking
station 300.
[0044] The reservoir wall 312 is a generally vertical wall that
extends upward from the base 340, and together with portions of the
base 340 and side walls 330 defines a docking station reservoir
314. The docking station reservoir 314 is an example of a secondary
reservoir that accepts fluid from a primary reservoir or main
supply, such as a water tank, and from which fluid is provided to
an atomizer via the wick 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the
docking station reservoir 314 is integrally formed with the docking
station 300. In other embodiments, a secondary reservoir that is
not integrally formed with a docking station may also be employed.
The reservoir wall 312 extends from the base 340 to a height that
is low enough to not interfere with the placement of the water tank
102 in the docking assembly 300, but high enough to retain water in
the docking station reservoir 314 without water spilling over the
top of the reservoir wall 312. As will be appreciated further
below, the reservoir wall 312 in the illustrated embodiment extends
to a height such that its top is located at an elevation higher
than the opening through the water tank cap 108 when the water tank
102 is in its secured, assembled position in the docking station
300.
[0045] The ribs 316 extend upward from the base 340 of the docking
station and are configured to provide support to the water tank 102
when the water tank 102 is placed in the docking station 300. The
ribs 316 also provide a positive stop to help prevent the water
tank 102 from being pressed too deeply into the docking station 300
and damaging portions of the water delivery assembly 200.
[0046] The snaps 318 extend upward from the sides of the docking
unit 300. The snaps are configured to be resiliently biasable, and
to cooperate with the tabs 116 of the water tank 102 to secure the
water tank 102 in place to the docking station 300.
[0047] The piezo opening 320 extends through the base 340 and is
configured to provide an opening for the piezo cell 212, so that an
atomized spray from the piezo cell 212 is delivered to a desired
location in a refrigerator.
[0048] The assembly of the atomization unit 10 may be accomplished
as discussed below. FIG. 7 illustrates a sectional view of the
atomization unit 10 as the water tank assembly 100 is being
inserted into the docking station 300, and FIG. 8 illustrates a
sectional view of the atomization unit 10 with the water tank
assembly 100 securely positioned in the docking station 300. The
water delivery system 200 may be assembled, positioned, and secured
in place to the docking station 300, with one end of the wick 202
proximate the piezo cell 212, and the other end of the wick 202
positioned in the docking station reservoir 314 where the wick 202
will be in fluid communication with a liquid supply to provide
liquid to the piezo cell 212. The docking station 300 may then be
securely positioned in the refrigerator 20, and all necessary
connections made to provide power and/or control to the water
delivery system 200. As an alternative, the water tank assembly 100
may be positioned in the docking station 300 before the docking
station 300 is positioned in the refrigerator 20.
[0049] Before installing the water tank assembly 100, the water
tank 102 may be filled with water. To fill, the water tank 102 is
inverted so that the opening faces upward, and the water tank cap
108 and related components are removed from the water tank 102,
providing access to the opening. A desired amount of water is then
poured into the water tank 102, and the water tank cap 108 and
related components are re-positioned on the water tank 102. With
the water tank cap 108 securely fastened to the water tank 102 and
the poppet valve spring 110 urging the poppet valve 112 into a
closed position, the opening is closed and the water tank 102 is
sealed, so that it may transferred without spillage.
[0050] The water tank 102 is then oriented for installation, with
the water tank cap 108 oriented downward and aligned over the valve
projection 308. As shown in FIG. 7, the water tank assembly 100 is
then lowered in place into the docking station 300. Eventually, as
the water tank assembly 100 is lowered, the poppet valve 112 will
come into contact with the valve projection 308 to initiate opening
of the poppet valve 112. Also, during the lowering, the tabs 116 of
the water tank 102 encounter the snaps 318 of the docking station
300, and as the water tank 102 is further lowered, the tabs 116
press against the snaps 318, resiliently biasing the snaps 318
outwardly. For example, the tabs 116 may comprise sloped surfaces
to assist in biasing the snaps 318 outwardly. As the water tank
reaches its final, secured position, the tabs 116 pass beyond the
snaps 318, allowing the snaps 318 to resiliently snap back into
their original position, helping secure the water tank 102 in
place.
[0051] At the same time, as the water tank 102 reaches its final,
secured position, the poppet valve 112 is moved into its open
position by its contact with the valve projection 308. With the
poppet valve 112 in its open position, liquid flows from the water
tank 102 through the opening in the water tank cap 108 into the
docking station reservoir 314. Thus, the poppet valve 112 is an
example of a secondary reservoir supply valve. The liquid continues
to flow and fill the docking station reservoir 314 until the liquid
rises to a level high enough to cover the opening in the water tank
cap 108, such that the opening is not exposed to atmospheric
pressure but is instead surrounded by liquid. At this point,
atmospheric pressure acting on the top of the liquid in the docking
station reservoir 314 is sufficient to prevent any further flow
into the docking station reservoir 314. Thus, the atomization unit
10 is configured to provide a maximum, controlled height of fluid
in the docking station reservoir 314. As liquid is removed from the
docking station reservoir via the wick 202 (which delivers liquid
to the piezo cell 212 from where it is atomized into at least a
portion of a refrigerator), water from the water tank 102 will
replenish the docking station reservoir 314 to maintain the water
level in the docking station reservoir 314 at a height sufficient
to shield the opening in the water tank cap 108 from atmospheric
pressure.
[0052] The atomization unit 10 may be configured to maintain the
level of water in the docking station reservoir 314 below a certain
height to prevent water at too high of a pressure from being
delivered to the piezo cell 212. For example, certain piezo cells
do not function properly when exposed to water pressure caused by a
head of about 3 inches. Thus, in certain embodiments, the
atomization unit 10 is configured so that the level of water in the
docking station reservoir 314 is maintained at a level below about
3 inches. The opening and closing of a valve from the water tank
may be controlled by sensors and switches based on the level of
water in the secondary reservoir. For example, the valve may be
opened when the level of water falls below a certain height, and
closed when the level reaches a second height. In other
embodiments, sensors may send signals to control the flow of water
into the docking station reservoir 314 from an external supply via
plumbing into the refrigerator.
[0053] With the atomizer unit 10 in place, an atomized spray may
now be provided to a desired portion or portions of a refrigerator.
The atomizer unit 10 defines a fluid flow path including the water
tank 102, through the water tank cap 108 and into the docking
station reservoir 314, and from the docking station reservoir 314
to the piezo cell 212 via the wick 202. The piezo cell 212 then may
deliver an atomized spray.
[0054] In certain embodiments, liquid delivered to the piezo cell
is a food preservative solution. Because the atomization does not
involve a phase change, a food preservative solute dissolved or
dispersed in liquid that is atomized will be atomized and
distributed with the liquid. A food preservative solute may be
added to water along the fluid flow path, or fluid supply path,
before reaching the piezo cell. As examples, a food preservation
solute in connection with embodiments similar to the atomizer unit
10 discussed above may be added to water before it is placed in the
main water tank or fluid supply, may be provided to the water
inside a reservoir such as the main water tank or the secondary
reservoir, may be provided at a location interposed between the
main water tank and the secondary reservoir, or may be provided at
a location interposed between the secondary reservoir and the piezo
cell. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art,
further alternative locations and arrangements of liquid supplies
and fluid supply paths may also be employed.
[0055] Food preservatives that can be incorporated into the liquid
that is atomized include a wide variety of substances that are
intended to preserve and/or enhance one or more qualities of the
stored food products, such as, for example, freshness, nutritional
value, shelf-life, appearance, flavor and texture. Such food
preservatives include, for example, vitamins, minerals,
anti-oxidants, anti-fungal and anti-microbial agents, and flavor
and/or scent enhancers. The food preservatives should be soluble or
dispersible in water so that they can be delivered to the stored
food products in the form of the atomized water. The food
preservatives also must be safe for use on food products, for
example those substances that have been designated as Generally
Regarded as Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration.
[0056] Suitable food preservatives that can be used to form the
food preservative solution include vitamins and minerals, such as,
for example, ascorbic acid, thiamine, niacin, Beta-carotene,
pantothenic acid, calcium, magnesium, copper and zinc, and
derivatives thereof. Alternatively, the food preservative can be an
anti-microbial composition that is effective against bacteria,
fungi and yeast. Such anti-microbial compositions are preferably
natural or plant-based materials that can increase storage life and
freshness of the stored produce without having a negative impact on
the quality of such produce.
[0057] Another alternative for the food preservative is an
anti-fungal agent. Particularly suitable anti-fungal agents for use
herein are food safe anti-fungal agents such as citrus essential
oils. Exemplary citrus essential oils include lemon, orange,
mandarin and grapefruit essential oils. Mixtures of such oils are
also contemplated. Because the citrus essential oils are coming
from natural, plant-based materials, they are compatible with
fruits and vegetables contained within the crisper compartment of
the refrigerator. Suitable anti-microbial agents can also be
derived from other essential oils, including clove oil, cinnamon
oil, bay oil, oregano oil, thyme oil, coriander oil, paprika oil,
caraway oil, dill oil and coconut oil. Additional anti-microbial
agents that can be used, for example, include benzoic acid, lactic
acid, methyl paraben, calcium sorbate, calcium benzoate, sodium
diacetate, and calcium oxide.
[0058] It is also contemplated that, although not a food
preservative in the technical sense, flavor and/or scent enhancers
can be atomized like a food preservative and used alone or in
conjunction with one or more of the other food preservatives to
impart improved flavor or aroma to the food. For purposes of this
application, such flavor and scent enhancers are encompassed by the
term "food preservative." Such flavor and/or scent enhancers
include, for example, extracts derived from anise, caraway,
cinnamon, coriander, lavender, nutmeg, peppermint, spearmint,
vanilla, clove, oregano, thyme, paprika, lemon and orange. Other
flavor enhancers contemplated for use in the present technology
include, but are not limited to, acetic acid, citric acid, benzoic
acid, lactic acid, propionic acid, succinic acid, tartaric acid,
ammonium citrate, sodium citrate, sodium carbonate, potassium
carbonate, potassium lactate, potassium sulfate, potassium chloride
and magnesium sulfate.
[0059] The food preservative can be provided in a variety of forms
such as a liquid, solid, powder or gel that is soluble in the
atomization liquid. The food preservative is present in the
atomization liquid in an amount such that the atomized liquid
applied to the stored produce delivers an effective amount of food
preservative to preserve and/or enhance one or more qualities of
the produce compared to an atomized liquid not containing the food
preservative. An effective amount of food preservative will depend
on the type of food preservative, the nature and type of produce
stored within the refrigerator, as well as the atomization cycle
times and amount of atomization liquid delivered to the produce. In
general, it is contemplated that an effective amount of food
preservative ranges from about 0.001% by weight to about 5.0% by
weight of the delivered atomization fluid.
[0060] FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a water
tank assembly 500 formed in accordance with certain embodiments of
the presently described technology. The water tank assembly may be
compatible with the atomizer unit 10 discussed above, and generally
similar in certain respects to the water tank assembly 100
discussed above.
[0061] The water tank assembly 500 includes a water tank 502,
poppet valve seal 504, a water tank cap 506, an o-ring 508, a
poppet valve spring 510, a food preservative cartridge 512, and a
poppet valve 516. The water tank assembly 502 may be in many
respects similar in structure and function to the previously
described water tank assembly 102. The water tank cap 506 of the
water tank assembly 500 is configured to receive and hold the food
preservative cartridge 512, and the water tank assembly 500 is
configured so that water flowing out of the water tank 502 passes
through the food preservative cartridge 512 on its way to a
secondary reservoir and/or to a piezo cell. This is one example of
how a food preservative cartridge may be located along the fluid
supply path.
[0062] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the food
preservative cartridge 512. The food preservative cartridge 512
comprises a body 520 and an opening 522. The body 520 is a
generally ring-shaped structure sized and configured to be accepted
and retained by cooperating features in the water tank cap 506. The
opening 522 is a generally circular opening sized and configured to
allow passage of portions of the poppet valve 516 and related
components. The food preservative cartridge 512 is a water
permeable structure that provides a food preservation solute that
is dissolved in water that passes over the food preservative
cartridge 512. For example, the body 522 may be constructed of a
solid food preservative that allows water to permeate through and
dissolve portions of it as the water passes. As another example,
the body 522 may comprise a fine mesh structure that surrounds and
supports a dissolvable food preservative in a powder or gel
form.
[0063] FIG. 11 provides a sectional view of the water tank assembly
500, with the poppet valve 516 in an open position. As shown, the
food preservative cartridge 512 is positioned in the water tank cap
506 such that water leaving the water tank 502 must pass over the
food preservative cartridge 512. In the illustrated embodiment, the
water tank cap 506 and related components provide an annular
ring-shaped passage through which liquid from the water tank 502
may flow, and the food preservative cartridge 512 is positioned to
cover the annular ring-shaped passage so that liquid leaving the
water tank 502 will flow through the food preservative cartridge
512.
[0064] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a reservoir 600
and a food preservative pouch 602 formed in accordance with an
embodiment of the presently described technology. The food
preservative pouch 602 comprises a food preservative solute that
dissolves in water. For example, embodiments of the presently
described technology utilize a food preservative pouch that
comprises a fine mesh structure that surrounds and supports a
dissolvable food preservative in a powder or gel form. In the
illustrated embodiment, the food preservative pouch 602 comprises a
generally solid exterior surrounding a food preservative solute,
and the reservoir 600 comprises a piercing structure 604. The
piercing structure 604 may comprise a pin protruding from an
internal surface of the reservoir 600. The food preservative pouch
602 is pressed onto the piercing structure 604, thereby exposing
the contents of the food preservative pouch 602 to water in which
it may be dissolved, as well as securing the food preservative
pouch 602 in place within the reservoir 600. A main water tank,
secondary reservoir, or piezo reservoir as discussed above provide
examples of reservoirs into which the food preservative pouch 602
may be placed. In other embodiments the food preservative pouch 602
may be freely disposed in the reservoir 600. Care should be
exercised, however, that the food preservative pouch 602 is not
free to travel directly to a piezo cell where it may act to block
the perforations.
[0065] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a reservoir 700
and food preservative tablet 702 formed in accordance with an
embodiment of the presently described technology. The food
preservative tablet 702 comprises a food preservative solute that
dissolves in water. A main water tank, secondary reservoir, or
piezo reservoir as discussed above provide examples of reservoirs
into which the food preservative tablet 702 may be placed. In the
illustrated embodiment, the food preservative tablet 702 is adapted
to be securely and/or adhesively affixed to a side wall of the
reservoir 700. In other embodiments the tablet 702 may be freely
disposed in the reservoir 700. Care should be exercised, however,
that the tablet 702 before its dissolution is not free to travel
directly to a piezo cell where it may act to block the
perforations.
[0066] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of a bottle 800 of food
preservative solution formed in accordance with an embodiment of
the presently described technology. The bottle 800 may be purchased
by a consumer pre-filled with a desired food preservation solution.
As an example, a consumer may purchase a food preservation solute
in a powder, gel, or liquid form that is mixed with water to form a
food preservation solution that is then poured into the bottle 800.
The bottle 800 may be attached to a refrigerator and/or contained
within the refrigerator. The bottle 800 comprises an upper portion
802 that is adapted to cooperate with a mounting feature to secure
the bottle in place. As an example, the upper portion 802 may
accept a cap assembly similar to that of the previously discussed
water tank cap 108. Such a bottle may then be mounted to a docking
station in lieu of a water tank. In other embodiments, the bottle
may supply a main water tank, and in still other embodiments, the
bottle may be configured to provide liquid to a piezo cell without
the use of intermediate or secondary reservoirs.
[0067] In selecting and configuring a food preservative solute
and/or food preservative dispenser, several factors may be
considered in addition to the general effectiveness of the food
preservative itself. The system should be selected and configured,
for example, such that the solute is compatible with the atomizer,
and the resulting solution does not clog the atomizer or impede its
general performance. Other considerations include the rate which
the solute and/or dispenser allow for dissolving of the solute, and
its impact on the concentration of solute in the solution formed as
well as the time required before the solute must be
replenished.
[0068] Embodiments of the presently described technology provide a
wide variety of arrangements and methods by which a food
preservative solution may be atomized and distributed in a
refrigerator. Delivery of a food preservative may be accomplished
in fluid delivery arrangements either with or without the use of a
flexible wick, and either with or without the use of a secondary
reservoir. Further, multiple atomizers may be used to provide food
preservative solution to multiple compartments and/or
subcompartments of a refrigerator. Further still, the use of
multiple liquid sources allows for the delivery of atomized food
preservative solution to one or more portions of a refrigerator and
delivery of an atomized spray that contains no food preservative
(or a different food preservative) to other portions of a
refrigerator.
[0069] Certain embodiments of the presently described technology
thus can provide a modular assembly and/or sub-assemblies for the
provision of atomized food preservation solutions in a
refrigerator. Such an assembly improves the ease, convenience,
and/or effectiveness of adding food preservative by a consumer.
[0070] While the presently described technology has been described
with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by
those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and
equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of
the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt
a particular situation or material to the teachings of the
presently described technology without departing from its scope.
Therefore, it is intended that the presently described technology
not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the
presently described technology will include all embodiments falling
within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *