U.S. patent application number 12/730298 was filed with the patent office on 2011-09-29 for systems and methods for ultrasound-based atomizer for humidity control in refrigerators.
This patent application is currently assigned to WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION. Invention is credited to ANDERSON BORTOLETTO, SANT RANJAN, GUOLIAN WU.
Application Number | 20110233289 12/730298 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44168099 |
Filed Date | 2011-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110233289 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BORTOLETTO; ANDERSON ; et
al. |
September 29, 2011 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ULTRASOUND-BASED ATOMIZER FOR HUMIDITY
CONTROL IN REFRIGERATORS
Abstract
A system and method is provided for monitoring the humidity
inside a refrigerator and increasing the humidity when desired. In
an embodiment, the humidifier is an ultrasonic atomizer that
receives supply water from a removable tank that is refilled by a
consumer. An adaptive control system monitors the humidity level
inside the refrigerator and actuates the ultrasonic atomizer when
an increase in humidity is desired.
Inventors: |
BORTOLETTO; ANDERSON;
(WAUNAKEE, WI) ; RANJAN; SANT; (PUNE, IN) ;
WU; GUOLIAN; (SAINT JOSEPH, MI) |
Assignee: |
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
BENTON HARBOR
MI
|
Family ID: |
44168099 |
Appl. No.: |
12/730298 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
236/44A ; 62/274;
62/441 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 2317/04131
20130101; F25D 17/042 20130101; F25D 2317/0413 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
236/44.A ;
62/441; 62/274 |
International
Class: |
F24F 3/14 20060101
F24F003/14; F25D 13/02 20060101 F25D013/02; F25D 31/00 20060101
F25D031/00 |
Claims
1. A system for providing humidity control in a refrigeration
product, said system including: a refrigeration product, wherein
said refrigeration product includes a refrigeration compartment
that is refrigerated; and a humidifier operatively coupled to said
refrigeration compartment so that the output of said humidifier is
introduced into said refrigeration compartment.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein said humidifier is an
atomizer.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein said atomizer is
ultrasound-based.
4. The system of claim 3 wherein said atomizer is a microfilm
ultrasound water atomizer.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein said humidifier is positioned to
direct at least a portion of the output into at least one of a
vegetable bin and a fruit bin located in said refrigeration
compartment.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein said refrigeration product
includes a removable liquid container for supplying liquid to said
humidifier.
7. A method for controlling humidity in a refrigeration product,
said method including: refrigerating the interior of a
refrigeration compartment of said refrigeration product; and
positioning a humidifier so that output of said humidifier is
introduced into said refrigeration compartment.
8. The method of claim 7 wherein said humidifier is an
atomizer.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein said atomizer is
ultrasound-based.
10. The method of claim 9 wherein said atomizer is a microfilm
ultrasound water atomizer.
11. The method of claim 7 wherein said humidifier is positioned to
direct at least a portion of the output into at least one of a
vegetable bin and a fruit bin located in said refrigeration
compartment.
12. The method of claim 7 wherein said refrigeration product
includes a removable liquid container for supplying liquid to said
humidifier.
13. The method of claim 7 wherein said humidifier is operated
intermittently.
14. A humidification system for the interior of a refrigeration
compartment, said system including: a humidifier, wherein the
output of said humidifier is introduced into the interior of said
refrigeration compartment.
15. The system of claim 14 wherein said humidifier is an
atomizer.
16. The system of claim 15 wherein said atomizer is
ultrasound-based.
17. The system of claim 16 wherein said atomizer is a microfilm
ultrasound water atomizer.
18. The system of claim 14 wherein said humidifier is positioned to
direct at least a portion of the output into at least one of a
vegetable bin and a fruit bin located in the interior of said
refrigeration compartment.
19. The system of claim 14 wherein said humidification system
includes a removable liquid container for supplying liquid to said
humidifier.
20. The system of claim 14 wherein said humidifier is operated
intermittently.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to a refrigerator.
More particularly, the present invention relates to a refrigerator
with an improved system for keeping food fresh.
[0002] In this regard, it has been determined that some
refrigerated foods remain fresh and attractive to the consumer when
the foods are exposed to water or moisture on a regular basis.
However, the interior of the refrigeration compartment of a
refrigerator is typically quite dry.
[0003] Moreover, it is often the case that additional moisture is
undesirable in prior art refrigerators because it may make the
cooling process more energy-intensive. Also, even when not directly
designed to remove water or moisture, many refrigerators tend to
minimize moisture purely as a by-product of their operation.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] One or more of the embodiments of the presently described
technology provide a humidification system for the interior of a
refrigerator. In an embodiment, the humidification system includes
an ultrasonic atomizer providing humidity to the refrigeration
compartment of the refrigerator. The ultrasonic atomizer is
controlled by an adaptive control system and receives its supply
water from a removable tank that is refilled by a consumer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 illustrates an atomization unit formed in accordance
with an embodiment of the present technology.
[0006] 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.
[0007] 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.
[0008] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a water
tank assembly formed in accordance with an embodiment of the
present technology.
[0009] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a water
delivery assembly formed in accordance with an embodiment of the
present technology.
[0010] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a docking station
formed in accordance with an embodiment of the present
technology.
[0011] 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.
[0012] FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of the atomization unit
of FIG. 1 with the water tank assembly securely positioned in the
docking station.
[0013] FIG. 9 illustrates an atomizer unit formed in accordance
with an embodiment of the present technology in position in a
refrigerator.
[0014] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the atomizer unit
of FIG. 9.
[0015] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a water tank
assembly being slid into position into a docking station of the
atomizer unit of FIG. 9.
[0016] FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic view of a main wick with
auxiliary wicks formed in accordance with an embodiment of the
present technology.
[0017] FIG. 13 illustrates a humidity control system for improving
the available humidity and/or moisture in the refrigeration
compartment of a refrigerator.
[0018] FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of the humidity
control system of FIG. 13.
[0019] FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of the humidity
control systems of FIGS. 13 and 14.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] One characteristic of no-frost refrigerators is the high
dehumidification rate of the freezer and fresh food compartments
promoted by the relatively high air flow rate of cold air. For some
types of foodstuff such as leafy vegetables that leads to
considerable degradation in weight and quality due to water loss.
The problem is somewhat reduced by providing a bin/drawer where air
flow and, consequently, the number of air changes can be controlled
by the consumer in the refrigeration compartment. This solution
transfers the burden of humidity control to the foodstuff itself
since it is the only water vapor source available. The current
solution may also prevent water saturation in the storage container
(crisper) from taking place but again does not completely eliminate
the water loss from the foodstuff. There's also an opportunity for
improvement as far as the perceived quality is concerned where the
benefits can be clearly communicated to the consumer. The proposed
solution addresses the problems of dehumidification and lack of
visual appeal.
[0021] More specifically, an ultrasound based water atomizer and
its application and integration in the refrigerator may improve the
amount of available humidity and/or moisture in the refrigeration
compartment. This is turn may help the foodstuffs in the
refrigeration compartment stay free longer and have greater visual
appeal.
[0022] More broadly, FIG. 13 illustrates a humidity control system
for improving the available humidity and/or moisture in the
refrigeration compartment of a refrigerator. As shown in FIG. 13,
the humidity control system includes five segments: a location
segment 1310, a control segment 1320, a core technology segment
1330, a power options segment 1340, and a water source segment
1350. Each of the five segments includes multiple options that are
further discussed below. Additionally, the humidity control system
is primarily intended for no-frost refrigeration products, but may
be useful in other products as well.
[0023] With regard to the location segment 1310, the location of
the emission of the moisture may be in either or both of two
locations, the refrigeration compartment, or the bin, such as a
vegetable, fruit, and/or produce bin in a refrigerator.
[0024] With regard to the control segment 1320, the control may
include a feedback sensor for determining humidity, an adaptive
sensor (for example, based on defrost cycle timings or number of
door openings), and time-based humidity emission, or an evaporation
fan dependent control system.
[0025] Additionally, any of the following systems may be employed:
first, pre-determined or user selected time schedules. In this
embodiment, humidity sensors may not even be required.
[0026] Second, Adaptive control where the system determines how
much moisture and when to add it to the refrigeration compartments
to be humidity-controlled based on at least one of door opening,
compressor run time, the frequency and length of defrost, etc. In
this embodiment, a humidify sensor may also not be required.
[0027] Third, Closed loop control based on the actual humidity. In
this embodiment, the humidity is preferably measured and used to
initiate the humidifier or atomizer.
[0028] With regard to the core technology segment 1330, the method
for emitting the moisture may be any of an ultrasound atomizer or
another type of atomizer, a wick material, and/or a nozzle
spray.
[0029] With regard to the power options segment 1340, power may be
provided to the control segment 1320 and or the core technology
segment 1330 using any of AC power, DC power, a battery, or power
may not even be required in some cases.
[0030] Finally, with regard to the water source segment 1350, the
source for the water to be emitted may be either the by-product
water of the defrost operation and/or external water supplied by
the consumer. For example, as further described below, the consumer
may fill a water tank, hook up a water supply, or add a water
bottle.
[0031] Returning again to FIG. 13, there is also shown an segment
selection 1375 that describes a specific embodiment of the humidity
control system of FIG. 13. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the
segment selection 1375 has selected the bin of the location segment
1310, the feedback sensor of the control segment 1320, the
ultrasound atomizer of the core technology segment 1330, the DC
power unit of the power options segment 1340, and the defrost water
of the water source segment 1350.
[0032] Thus, the segment selection 1375 describes a specific
humidity control system that provides humidity to the bin of the
refrigerator, uses a feedback sensor to measure humidity, supplies
additional humidity using an ultrasound atomizer, powers the
ultrasound atomizer and/or the feedback sensor using DC power, and
supplies water from the output of the defrost process to the
ultrasound atomizer for emission.
[0033] In this fashion, it can be seen that FIG. 13 describes one
hundred ninety-two (192) embodiments of the humidity control system
because here are two options for the location segment 1310, four
options for the control segment 1320, three options for the core
technology segment 1330, four options for the power options segment
1340 and two options for the water source segment 1350.
[0034] FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of the humidity
control system of FIG. 13. As shown in FIG. 14, the segment
selector 1475 indicates a humidity control system located in the
refrigerator compartment, using time-based control, supplying
humidity using the ultrasonic atomizer, receiving DC power at the
ultrasonic atomizer and/or the time-based control, and receiving
water from an external source supplied by a consumer.
[0035] FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of the humidity
control systems of FIGS. 13 and 14. As shown in FIG. 15, the
segment selector 1575 indicates a humidity control system located
in the refrigerator compartment, using an adaptive control system,
supplying humidity using an ultrasonic atomizer, receiving DC power
at the ultrasonic atomizer and/or adaptive control system, and
receiving water from the output of the defrost process for emission
by the ultrasonic atomizer.
[0036] Additionally, in the core technology segment the proposed
humidification technology may be based on the use of a microfilm
ultrasound water atomizer. This atomizer may humidify the targeted
compartment by generating a mist of water. The low wattage aspect
of the technology is preferable so that its integration with the
refrigerator has few implications on the refrigerator's design.
Additionally, the humidification technology may be either
integrated into the refrigerator at manufacture or may be
retro-fitable.
[0037] Additionally, in the location segment, the atomizer may be
placed anywhere in the refrigerator compartment. However, if the
desired location is inside a bin/drawer, it is preferable to use a
reliable humidity sensor (for example, robust to water saturation)
that may precisely control the desired amount of water addition
without promoting saturation in the bin. The advantage of having
the atomizer placed outside the bin is its robustness to water
saturation due to a much larger number of air changes that the
refrigerator compartment experiences when compared to a bin/drawer.
As a result, there is a lesser need of a precise humidity feedback
control system. However, the impact in number of defrosts may be
increased.
[0038] With regard to the control segment, several options are
available to control humidity. Some options are strongly linked to
the location where the atomizer may be placed as mentioned
previously. Humidity sensors are recommended for a more precise
humidity control such as when the atomizer is located in a small
space (such as a bin or drawer). Conversely, if the atomizer is
installed in the refrigerator compartment, the number of options
are much higher. Adaptive humidity control based upon past defrost
cycles, time-based operation based upon consumer settings and
mechanical activation are the examples for humidity control.
[0039] FIGS. 1-12 illustrate examples of atomizers for use in the
humidity control system described above.
[0040] FIG. 1 illustrates an atomization unit 10 formed in
accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 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 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.
[0041] 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
example, 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, for example, by
plumbing provided within the refrigerator 20, or by a user pouring
water into the atomization unit 10, or, as another example, 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.
[0042] 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, for example, 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 just one example, an atomization unit may be
located proximate a side wall of a refrigeration compartment.
[0043] 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, for example, by bins, trays, and/or
shelves dispersed throughout a compartment. The various
compartments may be differently sized and/or arranged in other
embodiments. As just one example, a refrigerator formed in
accordance with another embodiment 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.
[0044] 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.
[0045] 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, for example, 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, for example, 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, for example, a replaceable
supply such as a bottle may act as a supply of water without the
use of a separate primary water tank.
[0046] 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.
[0047] 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.
[0048] 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.
[0049] 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.
[0050] 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.
[0051] 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, for example, 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.
[0052] 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. For example, 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.
[0053] 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.
[0054] 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. For example, 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 removable received by the piezo casing 214. The LEDs 216 light
to provide information regarding the status and/or function of the
piezo cell 212.
[0055] 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,
such as water, may 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, for example, improve preservation of vegetables and
other fresh foods, helps maintain the color of green vegetables
longer and aid nutrition retention, and improves savings due to
avoiding waste of vegetables.
[0056] 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 ears 114 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.
[0057] 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.
[0058] 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.
[0059] 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, for example, 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.
[0060] 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.
[0061] 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.
[0062] 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.
[0063] 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.
[0064] 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.
[0065] 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 may be delivered to a
desired location in a refrigerator.
[0066] 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 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.
[0067] 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.
[0068] 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.
[0069] 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.
[0070] 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. 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.
[0071] 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. In
other embodiments, for example, 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.
[0072] 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 from 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.
[0073] FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of an atomizer unit
500 in position in a refrigerator 510. As shown in FIG. 9, the
atomizer unit 500, when positioned in the refrigerator 510, is
positioned proximate a side wall of the refrigerator 510. While
differing in some respects from the atomizer unit 10, the atomizer
unit 500 may also have certain similar components to the atomizer
unit 10, and may function in a generally similar manner to above
discussed embodiments. As also shown in FIG. 9, the refrigerator
510 includes a control unit 515. The control unit 515 may be used
to control the times at which the atomizer is turned on and off,
and may optionally provide a user interface for adjusting the
operating settings of the atomizer.
[0074] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the atomizer unit
500. The atomizer unit 500 includes a water delivery assembly 520,
a water tank assembly 530, a docking station 540, and a piezo cover
545 that snaps into place on the docking station 540. FIG. 11
illustrates a perspective view of the water tank assembly 530 being
slid into position into the docking station 540.
[0075] As seen in FIGS. 9-11, the atomized spray from the atomizer
unit 500 is dispersed at an angle from the vertical and not
straight down. Also, the water tank assembly 530 includes a sliding
face 550 that cooperates with the docking station 540 so that the
water tank assembly 530 is slid at an angle into the docking
station 540, and a locking projection 555 that helps secure the
water tank assembly 530 in its final installed position. The water
tank assembly 530 includes a cap assembly 560 that includes a valve
allowing it to be open and closed. Water from the water tank
assembly 530 is delivered to a reservoir in the docking station 540
from where water is delivered to the water delivery assembly via a
flexible wick.
[0076] Various flexible wicks may be used in conjunction with
different embodiments of the presently claimed and described
technology. For example, in some embodiments the wick may be used
to deliver fluid to an atomizer at an elevation a limited distance
above the water reservoir. As will be appreciated by those skilled
in the art, a wick may be used to draw a fluid upward a given
distance based on, for example, the wick material and fluid being
drawn.
[0077] FIG. 12 illustrates a view of a wick 600 formed in
accordance with an embodiment of the presently claimed and
described technology. The wick 600 may be used in a refrigeration
system for providing fluid to a plurality of atomizers dispersed in
different locations of a refrigerator. Such an arrangement can be
used to provide atomization to separately located discrete portions
of a refrigerator, and/or different amounts of atomization to
different portions of a refrigerator, and/or atomization to
different portions of a refrigerator at different times based upon,
for example, different localized conditions. The wick includes a
main wick 610 and auxiliary wicks 620, 630, and 640. Each of the
auxiliary wicks 620, 630, and 640 provide liquid to atomizaters
650, 660, and 670, respectively. The atomizers 650, 660, 670
provide an atomized spray to compartments 680, 690, 700,
respectively of the refrigerator.
[0078] Thus, each of the auxiliary wicks provides an example of a
compartment wick, and the atomizers provide examples of compartment
atomizers that are configured to deliver liquid to one of a
plurality of compartments in a refrigerator. As one example,
different numbers of auxiliary wicks may be used in other
embodiments. As further examples, a primary wick may branch off to
different locations in a refrigerator and there may be wicks that
branch off from auxiliary wicks as well. In other embodiments, more
than one wick and/or atomizer may provide fluid to a
compartment.
[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the main wick 610 includes a
source end 612. The source end 612 is in fluid communication with a
water source. Water is drawn from the source proximate the source
end 612 through the main wick 610 to the auxiliary wicks 620, 630,
and 640. Each of the auxiliary wicks 620, 630, and 640 include a
terminal end 622, 632, and 642, respectively. Atomizers are located
proximate to each of the terminal ends 622, 632, and 642. Water is
provided to the atomizers from the source through the main wick
from the source end 612 to the various auxiliary wicks, and then to
the terminal ends of the auxiliary wicks, which provide the water
to the atomizers, which may comprise, for example, piezo cells. In
another embodiment, the main wick may also proceed to a terminal
end that provides water to a piezo cell. Use of such a main wick
and auxiliary wicks as discussed, for example, in connection with
embodiments described above, allows water from a single source to
be provided to different portions of a refrigerator, providing
added flexibility and adjustability in water delivery.
[0080] As can be gathered from the foregoing, certain embodiments
of the present technology thus can provide, for example, a modular
assembly and/or sub-assemblies for the atomization of water in a
refrigerator. Such a modular unit or units improves ease and cost
of maintenance, assembly, and/or replacement. Further, certain
embodiments of the present technology provide improved flexibility
with respect to the location of water supply for an atomizer,
and/or location of an atomizer or atomizers within a refrigerator.
For example, multiple atomizers may be used that are supplied from
a single water source, and/or atomizers can be positioned both
above and below a water source. Atomizers can also be positioned at
various remote distances from a water source, with water delivered
via a wick. Use of multiple atomizers may allow discrete portions
of a refrigerator to receive an atomized spray, as well as allow
different portions to receive an atomized spray at different times
and/or in different amounts.
[0081] As discussed above, the atomization unit 10 may be used to
raise the moisture or humidity level in the interior of the
refrigeration compartment of a refrigerator, for example. Further,
a variable and/or user-controllable humidity level may be
desirable. In this regard, it has been determined that a highly
accurate estimate of moisture or humidity level may be obtained by
analyzing one or more measured variables from the interior of the
refrigeration compartment, as further discussed below. Further,
because a value for the humidity level is available, a user may set
a desired humidity level and the atomization unit 10 may be
operated in a fashion to approximate the desired humidity level
selected by the user.
[0082] Further, the humidifier and/or atomizer mentioned above may
be switched on and off or otherwise controlled. Additionally, the
humidifier and/or atomizer and/or its control system may be
operated intermittently
[0083] While particular elements, embodiments, and applications of
the present technology have been shown and described, it is
understood that the invention is not limited thereto because
modifications may be made by those skilled in the art, particularly
in light of the foregoing teaching. It is therefore contemplated by
the appended claims to cover such modifications and incorporate
those features which come within the spirit and scope of the
invention.
* * * * *