U.S. patent application number 15/425784 was filed with the patent office on 2018-08-09 for dual mode air screen refrigerator.
This patent application is currently assigned to Carter Hoffmann, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Carter Hoffmann, LLC. Invention is credited to Frank G. Marolda.
Application Number | 20180224191 15/425784 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 63037054 |
Filed Date | 2018-08-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180224191 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Marolda; Frank G. |
August 9, 2018 |
DUAL MODE AIR SCREEN REFRIGERATOR
Abstract
A refrigerator operates in a single mode and a dual mode. A
plurality of sides defines a storage compartment. At least one door
provides access to the storage compartment via an opening in at
least one of the sides. At least one outlet vent expels air across
the at least one opening towards at least one inlet vent configured
to receive at least a portion of the expelled air. A first cooling
circuit is fluidly coupled to at least the storage compartment. A
second cooling circuit is fluidly coupled to at least one of the
outlet vent, the inlet vent, and at least one air screen inlet
vent. The refrigerator operates in the single mode when the door is
closed during which the first cooling circuit operates. The
refrigerator operates in the dual mode when the door is open during
which the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit
operate.
Inventors: |
Marolda; Frank G.; (Vernon
Hills, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Carter Hoffmann, LLC |
Mundelein |
IL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Carter Hoffmann, LLC
Mundelein
IL
|
Family ID: |
63037054 |
Appl. No.: |
15/425784 |
Filed: |
February 6, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 29/00 20130101;
F25D 2400/38 20130101; F25D 2400/14 20130101; F25D 11/022 20130101;
F25D 19/04 20130101; F25D 23/023 20130101; F25D 2700/123 20130101;
F25D 2700/12 20130101; F25D 2600/02 20130101; F25D 2700/02
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F25D 23/02 20060101
F25D023/02; F25D 11/02 20060101 F25D011/02; F25D 29/00 20060101
F25D029/00 |
Claims
1. A refrigerator comprising: a plurality of sides configured to
define a storage compartment; at least one opening in at least one
of the plurality of sides, the opening being configured to provide
access to the storage compartment, the opening being defined by a
perimeter; at least one outlet vent and at least one inlet vent set
within the perimeter of the opening; at least one door adapted to
open and to close to provide access to the storage compartment via
the at least one opening; a first cooling circuit that includes at
least a first compressor, the first cooling circuit being fluidly
coupled to at least the storage compartment; a second cooling
circuit that includes at least a second compressor, the second
cooling circuit being at least fluidly coupled to at least one of
the at least one outlet vent, the at least one inlet vent, and the
at least one air screen inlet vent; a door switch configured to
generate an open signal representative of an open state of the at
least one door and a closed signal representative of a closed state
of the at least one door; and, a controller coupled to the door
switch, the first cooling circuit, and the second cooling circuit,
the controller being configured to (a) operate the first cooling
circuit when the controller receives the closed signal and to (b)
operate the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit
when the controller receives the open signal.
2. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the controller is
configured to wait a period of time after the controller receives
the open signal before the controller operates the first cooling
circuit and the second cooling circuit.
3. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the period of time is
configured to be adjustable.
4. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the at least one outlet
vent is set substantially opposite from the at least one inlet vent
within the perimeter of the opening.
5. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the at least one outlet
vent includes a plurality of outlet vents positioned within the
perimeter of the opening and the at least on inlet vent includes a
plurality of inlet vents within the perimeter of the opening.
6. The refrigerator of claim 1, further comprising at least one
additional outlet vent set inwardly from the at least one outlet
vent set within the perimeter and at least one additional inlet
vent set inwardly from the at least one inlet vent set within the
perimeter.
7. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein the at least one additional
outlet vent and at least one additional inlet vent are set within
the storage compartment within at least one of the plurality of
sides.
8. The refrigerator of claim 7, wherein the at least one additional
outlet vent is set in one of the plurality of sides substantially
opposite from the at least one additional inlet vent set in another
of the plurality of sides.
9. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at
least one outlet vent and the at least one inlet vent is in a shape
of one of a slot and a hole.
10. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the second cooling circuit
is coupled to the at least one outlet vent and at least one of the
at least one air screen inlet vent the at least one inlet vent.
11. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first
cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit further comprises at
least one evaporator and at least one fan.
12. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the at least one
evaporator is positioned on a top side of the plurality of sides
and at least one of the at least one first compressor and the at
least one second compressor is positioned below the storage
compartment.
13. The refrigerator of claim 1, further comprising at least one
temperature sensor coupled to the controller, the at least one
temperature sensor being configured to generate a temperature
signal representative of a temperature within the storage
compartment, wherein the controller is further configured to
receive the temperature signal and to operate at least one of the
first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit in response to
the temperature signal.
14. The refrigerator of claim 1, when the first cooling circuit is
in a parallel configuration relative to the second cooling
circuit.
15. A refrigerator configured to operate in a single mode and in a
dual mode, the refrigerator comprising: a plurality of sides
configured to define a storage compartment; at least one opening in
at least one of the plurality of sides, the opening being
configured to provide access to the storage compartment; at least
one outlet vent configured to expel air across the at least one
opening towards at least one inlet vent configured to receive at
least a portion of the expelled air; at least one door adapted to
open and to close to provide access to the storage compartment via
the at least one opening; a first cooling circuit that includes at
least a first compressor, at least a first evaporator, and at least
a first fan, the first cooling circuit being fluidly coupled to at
least the storage compartment; a second cooling circuit that
includes at least a second compressor, at least a second
evaporator, and at least a second fan, the second cooling circuit
being at least fluidly coupled to at least one of the at least one
outlet vent, the at least one inlet vent, and the at least one air
screen inlet vent; and, wherein the refrigerator is configured to
(a) operate in the single mode when the at least one door is closed
during which the first cooling circuit is configured to operate and
to (b) operate in the dual mode when the at least one door is open
during which the first cooling circuit and the second cooling
circuit is configured to operate.
16. The refrigerator of claim 15, further comprising a controller
coupled to the first cooling circuit and the second cooling
circuit, the controller being configured to operate the first
cooling circuit in the single mode and to operate the first cooling
circuit and the second cooling circuit in the dual mode.
17. The refrigerator of claim 16, further comprising a door switch
coupled to the controller, the door switch being configured to
generate an open signal representative of an open state of the at
least one door and a closed signal representative of a closed state
of the at least one door, wherein the controller is further
configured to operate the refrigerator in the single mode and in
the dual mode in response to the closed single and to the open
signal, respectively.
18. The refrigerator of claim 15, further comprising at least one
temperature sensor coupled to the controller, the at least one
temperature sensor being configured to generate a temperature
signal representative of a temperature within the storage
compartment, wherein the controller is further configured to
receive the temperature signal and to operate at least one of the
first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit in response to
the temperature signal.
19. A method of operating a refrigerator in a single mode and a
dual mode, comprising: obtaining the refrigerator, which includes:
a plurality of sides configured to define a storage compartment, at
least one opening in at least one of the plurality of sides, the
opening being configured to provide access to the storage
compartment; at least one outlet vent configured to expel air
across the at least one opening towards at least one inlet vent
configured to receive at least a portion of the expelled air; at
least one door adapted to open and to close to provide access to
the storage compartment via the at least one opening; a first
cooling circuit that includes at least a first compressor, at least
a first evaporator, and at least a first fan, the first cooling
circuit being fluidly coupled to at least the storage compartment;
a second cooling circuit that includes at least a second
compressor, at least a second evaporator, and at least a second
fan, the second cooling circuit being at least fluidly coupled to
the at least one outlet vent and to the at least one inlet vent;
operating the first cooling circuit in the single mode when the at
least one door is closed; and, operating the first cooling circuit
and the second cooling circuit in the dual mode when the at least
one door is open.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: maintaining an
integrated average temperature of the storage compartment at 38
degrees Fahrenheit plus or minus 2 degree Fahrenheit; and one of
the following: (a) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.1.times.a volume of
the storage compartment+0.86), wherein the at least one door is
vertically closed and transparent; (b) consuming a maximum daily
amount of energy in kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to
(0.05.times.a volume of the storage compartment+1.36), wherein the
at least one door is vertically closed and solid; (c) consuming a
maximum daily amount of energy in kilowatt-hours per day less than
or equal to (0.06.times.a volume of the storage compartment+0.37),
wherein the at least one door is horizontally closed and
transparent; and, (d) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.1.times.a volume of
the storage compartment+0.86), wherein the at least one door is
horizontally closed and solid.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the steps of maintaining and
consuming are performed according to a test procedure set forth in
Title 10 US Code of Federal Regulations Section 431.66--Appendix B
(2016).
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The present application relates to refrigerators and
freezers, typically of the commercial variety although the
disclosed embodiments may be used for private/personal
refrigerators.
[0002] The hospitality, catering, and institutional markets use and
require refrigerators and freezers adapted to their unique
operating environments. For example, these markets require a
refrigerator with a large capacity and the ability to store not
just fresh foods, but also prepared foods, including entire
prepared meals. In addition, these refrigerators are often
frequently opened and closed.
[0003] Unfortunately, opening a door on a refrigerator permits air
at ambient temperature to enter a storage compartment of the
refrigerator. This warmer air must then be cooled by the cooling
system of the refrigerator to ensure that the interior temperature
of the storage compartment remains sufficiently cool. Frequently
opening the door increases the amount of ambient air that enters
the refrigerator. To compensate, either the cooling system must
work harder (e.g., longer and/or more frequently) and/or a larger
cooling system must be employed. Both approaches significantly
increases the energy consumed in order to maintain a desired
internal temperature within the storage compartment.
[0004] In addition to a desire to use less energy, various industry
goals and regulations require refrigerators to use less energy.
Older refrigerators that relied upon simply running cooling systems
longer, more frequently, or using larger cooling systems typically
do not meet the new goals and regulations.
[0005] It is therefore desirable to provide a refrigerator capable
of being used in a single mode and a dual mode that is more energy
efficient than the prior art.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0006] In one embodiment, a refrigerator includes a plurality of
sides configured to define a storage compartment. There is at least
one opening in at least one of the plurality of sides to provide
access to the storage compartment. The opening is defined by a
perimeter. At least one outlet vent and at least one inlet vent are
set within the perimeter of the opening. At least one door is
adapted to open and to close to provide access to the storage
compartment via the at least one opening. A first cooling circuit
includes at least a first compressor and is fluidly coupled to at
least the storage compartment. A second cooling circuit includes at
least a second compressor and is at least fluidly coupled to at
least one of the at least one outlet vent and the at least one
inlet vent. In some embodiments, the second cooling circuit draws
cool air from within the storage compartment via an air screen
inlet vent and expels the cool air through the at least one outlet
vent. A door switch is configured to generate an open signal
representative of an open state of the at least one door and a
closed signal representative of a closed state of the at least one
door. A controller is coupled to the door switch, the first cooling
circuit, and the second cooling circuit. The controller is
configured to (a) operate the first cooling circuit when the
controller receives the closed signal and to (b) operate the first
cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit when the controller
receives the open signal.
[0007] Optionally, the refrigerator includes at least one
temperature sensor coupled to the controller. The at least one
temperature sensor is configured to generate a temperature signal
representative of a temperature within the storage compartment and
the controller is further configured to receive the temperature
signal and to operate at least one of the first cooling circuit and
the second cooling circuit in response to the temperature
signal.
[0008] In another embodiment, a refrigerator is configured to
operate in a single mode and in a dual mode. The refrigerator
includes a plurality of sides configured to define a storage
compartment. There is at least one opening in at least one of the
plurality of sides to provide access to the storage compartment. At
least one outlet vent is configured to expel air across the at
least one opening towards at least one inlet vent configured to
receive at least a portion of the expelled air. At least one door
is adapted to open and to close to provide access to the storage
compartment via the at least one opening. A first cooling circuit
includes at least a first compressor, at least a first evaporator,
and at least a first fan. The first cooling circuit is fluidly
coupled to at least the storage compartment. A second cooling
circuit includes at least a second compressor, at least a second
evaporator, and at least a second fan. The second cooling circuit
is at least fluidly coupled to at least one of the at least one
outlet vent and the at least one inlet vent. In some embodiments,
the second cooling circuit draws cool air from within the storage
compartment via an air screen inlet vent and expels the cool air
through the at least one outlet vent. The refrigerator is
configured to (a) operate in the single mode when the at least one
door is closed during which the first cooling circuit is configured
to operate and to (b) operate in the dual mode when the at least
one door is open during which the first cooling circuit and the
second cooling circuit is configured to operate.
[0009] Methods of operating a refrigerator in a single mode and in
a dual mode are also disclosed. The methods include obtaining a
refrigerator, operating the first cooling circuit in the single
mode when the at least one door is closed, and operating the first
cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit in the dual mode
when the at least one door is open.
[0010] These and other advantages, as well as the invention itself,
will become more easily understood in view of the attached drawings
and apparent in the details of construction and operation as more
fully described and claimed below. Moreover, it should be
appreciated that several aspects of the invention can be used with
other types of refrigerators, freezers, service over counter, or
other kitchen, restaurant, sales, and other similar equipment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
refrigerator.
[0012] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of
a refrigerator with portions of the sides cut away to illustrate
internal components.
[0013] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of
a refrigerator with a closed door.
[0014] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the
refrigerator in FIG. 3 with an open door.
[0015] FIG. 5 is a close-up view of an outlet vent of the
embodiment of the refrigerator in FIG. 3.
[0016] FIG. 6 is a close-up view of a door switch of the embodiment
of the refrigerator in FIG. 3.
[0017] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a controller,
first cooling circuit, and a second cooling circuit for use in a
refrigerator.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] The present invention will now be further described. In the
following passages, different aspects of the embodiments of the
invention are defined in more detail. Each aspect so defined may be
combined with any other aspect or aspects unless clearly indicated
to the contrary. In particular, any feature indicated as being
preferred or advantageous may be combined with any other feature or
features indicated as being preferred or advantageous.
[0019] Several terms used in the specification and claims have a
meaning defined as follows.
[0020] Closed Solid or Solid means a refrigerator and/or the
refrigerator's door or doors in which more than 75 percent of the
outer surface area of all doors on the refrigerator are not
transparent.
[0021] Closed Transparent means a refrigerator and/or the
refrigerator's door or doors in which 25 percent or more of the
outer surface area of all doors on the refrigerator are
transparent.
[0022] Transparent means greater than or equal to 45 percent light
transmittance, as determined in accordance with the ASTM Standard E
1084-86 (Reapproved 2009), (incorporated by reference in its
entirety) at normal incidence and in the intended direction of
viewing.
[0023] Door means a movable panel that separates the interior
volume or storage compartment of a refrigerator from the ambient
environment and is designed to facilitate access to the
refrigerated space/storage compartment for the purpose of loading
and unloading items. This includes hinged doors, sliding doors, and
drawers. Stated differently, a door is adapted to open and to close
to provide access to the storage compartment via an opening in the
refrigerator.
[0024] Door angle means:
[0025] (1) For equipment with flat doors, the angle between a
vertical line and the line formed by the plane of the door,
when
[0026] the equipment is viewed in cross-section; and
[0027] (2) For equipment with curved doors, the angle formed
between a vertical line and the straight line drawn by connecting
the top and bottom points where the display area glass joins the
cabinet, when the equipment is viewed in cross-section.
[0028] Horizontal Closed means a refrigerator with hinged or
sliding doors and a door angle greater than or equal to
45.degree..
[0029] Vertical Closed means a refrigerator with hinged or sliding
doors and a door angle less than 45.degree..
[0030] Integrated average temperature means the average temperature
of all test package measurements, i.e., temperature measurements
taken within the refrigerated space/storage compartment during an
energy consumption test.
[0031] Operating temperature means the range of integrated average
temperatures at which a self-contained commercial refrigeration
unit (refrigerator) with a thermostat is capable of operating.
[0032] Volume typically refers to the geometric definition of the
term. With respect to testing the energy consumption of a
refrigerator, the volume of the storage compartment or refrigerated
space is determined via the method set forth in Association of Home
Appliance Manufacturers' publication HRF-1-2008 ("HRF-1-2008"),
Energy and Internal Volume of Refrigerating Appliances including
Errata to Energy and Internal Volume of Refrigerating Appliances,
Correction Sheet issued Nov. 17, 2009, herein incorporated by
reference.
[0033] The method for testing and calculating energy consumption
are set forth in part in 10 C.F.R. .sctn..sctn. 431.61-431.66
(2016), including Appendices A and B, and in the Air-Conditioning,
Heating and Refrigeration Institute's publication Standard 1200
(I-P)-2010 ("AHRI Standard 1200 (I-P)-2010"), 2010 Standard for
Performance Rating of Commercial Refrigerated Display Merchandisers
and Storage Cabinets, 2010, both of which herein incorporated by
reference.
[0034] Turning to FIG. 1, a refrigerator 10 is illustrated.
Although the application typically refers to refrigerator,
freezers, combined refrigerator-freezers, and service over counter
appliances are all encompassed by the term refrigerator. The
refrigerator 10 is configured to operate in a single mode and in a
dual mode in accordance with a selected condition, such as a door
being open.
[0035] The refrigerator 10 includes a plurality of sides 15, which
may include top, bottom, front, back, and side panels. The sides 15
are constructed of materials and in manners known in the art. The
sides 15 may include various conduits, such as electrical wiring
that may couple various sensors and other components; fluid
conduits for circulating refrigerants (liquid or air); insulation;
and other such components.
[0036] The sides 15 are configured to define a refrigerated space
or storage compartment 20. The refrigerator 10 includes two
separate storage compartments, although the refrigerator might
include one or more than two storage compartments.
[0037] At least one opening 22 in the plurality of sides is
configured to provide access to the storage compartment 20. The
opening is defined by a perimeter 24. The perimeter 24 may be
formed from part of the side 15 into which the opening 22 extends
and/or a portion of the storage compartment 20.
[0038] The refrigerator 10 optionally includes a door 30 adapted to
open and to close to provide access to the storage compartment 20
via the opening 22. Refrigerator 10 includes two doors to access
the two separate storage compartments. In some embodiments, a
single door may be provided to access two or more separate storage
compartments. As with the sides 15, the door 30 is constructed of
materials and in manners known in the art. The door 30 may include
various conduits, such as electrical wiring that may couple various
sensors and other components; fluid conduits for circulating
refrigerants (liquid or air); insulation; and other such
components.
[0039] Further, the door 30 may be solid, partially solid, or
transparent, as defined above. For example, the door 30 may include
one or more separate transparent or semi-transparent panels that
permit a user to view the contents of the storage compartment 20
even though the door 30 may be closed.
[0040] In addition, the door 30 may be oriented vertically,
horizontally, at an angle, curved, or other shapes and orientations
to accommodate the shape of the refrigerator 10 and the plurality
of sides 15. For example, rather than vertical doors 30 positioned
and coupled to a front side 15 of the refrigerator 10, the doors
may be horizontal and positioned and coupled to a top side.
Likewise, while the doors 30 are rectangular in shape, the doors
could be square, round, or any other conceivable shape.
[0041] The door 30 may include one or more variety of mechanical
and electrical latches and/or locks to ensure that the door 30
remains closed as desired, such as mechanical latch 31.
[0042] The refrigerator 10 may include a door switch 234, seen in
FIGS. 4 and 6 and as discussed below, configured to generate an
open signal representative of an open state of the at least one
door 30 and a closed signal representative of a closed state of the
at least one door 30.
[0043] The refrigerator 10 may optionally include various controls
32 that permit a user to turn on and off the refrigerator, adjust
the temperature of the storage compartment, lighting controls,
controls for any air screen functions, any optional timers for the
different functions, and other user-controlled functions and
attributes.
[0044] The refrigerator 10 may also optionally include various
ventilation grates 34 that permit airflow to various mechanical
components, such as compressors, evaporators, and the like.
[0045] The refrigerator 10 also optionally includes wheels 36 or
other similar components to permit a user to more easily transport
or move the refrigerator 10 between desired locations.
[0046] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a refrigerator 110,
which is similar in all respects to the refrigerator 10, therefore
several common components are not discussed again. The refrigerator
110 includes a plurality of sides 115 and a door 130, along with
the other components indicated in refrigerator 10 that are not
labeled in FIG. 2.
[0047] The refrigerator 110 includes a first cooling circuit 140
that optionally includes at least a first compressor 142, at least
a first condenser 144, at least a first evaporator 146, and at
least one fan 148, as illustrated in cutaway view. The first
cooling circuit 140 is fluidly coupled to at least the storage
compartment, such as storage compartment 20 in FIG. 1.
[0048] The refrigerator 110 also includes a second cooling circuit
150 that optionally includes at least a second compressor 152, at
least a second condenser 154, at least a first evaporator 156, and
at least one fan 158 as illustrated in cutaway view. The second
cooling circuit 150 is at least fluidly coupled to at least one
outlet vent 260 and/or to the at least one inlet vent 270, which
are illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 and which are discussed in greater
detail below. In some embodiments, the second cooling circuit 150
draws cool air from within the storage compartment 120 via an
optional air screen inlet vent 274--which is otherwise similar to
the at least one inlet vent 270 but for being positioned within the
storage compartment 220--and expels the cool air through the at
least one outlet vent 260.
[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 2, at least one evaporator 146, 156
is optionally positioned on the top side of the plurality of sides
15 and at least one of the first compressor 142 and the second
compressor 152 are positioned below the storage compartment. Of
course, the components of the first cooling circuit 140 and the
second cooling circuit 150 may be positioned at other locations
external to, around, and/or within the plurality of sides and the
storage compartment of the refrigerator.
[0050] The first cooling circuit 140 optionally may be on a
completely separate circuit from the second cooling circuit 150,
parallel to the second cooling circuit 150, or in series with
second circuit 150. These circuits whether separate, parallel, or
series, refer to both the electrical wiring/circuitry and the fluid
conduits/fluid circuits.
[0051] Illustrated in FIG. 7 is an idealized schematic of an
embodiment of a first cooling circuit 340 fluidly coupled to a
storage compartment 320 and a second cooling circuit 350 fluidly
coupled to at least one outlet vent 360 and/or to at least one
inlet vent 370. The first and second cooling circuits 340, 350 are
similar to the previously discussed cooling circuits. The first and
second cooling circuits 340, 350 may be used in any embodiments of
a refrigerator, including those embodiments illustrated in FIGS.
1-6.
[0052] The first and second cooling circuits 340, 350 are coupled
to a controller 380. The controller 380 may be any type of chip,
computer, or other controller, with a program or hardwiring to
accomplish a specific task. The controller 380 is coupled to a door
switch 334, similar to the door switch 234 discussed below, the
first cooling circuit 340, and the second cooling circuit 350. The
controller 380 is configured to (a) operate the first cooling
circuit 340 when the controller 380 receives a closed signal from
the door switch 334 and to (b) operate the first cooling circuit
340 and the second cooling circuit 350 when the controller 380
receives an open signal from the door switch 334. In other words,
the controller 380 is configured to operate the first cooling
circuit 340 in the single mode and to operate the first cooling
circuit 340 and the second cooling circuit 350 in the dual mode. It
should be understood that "operate" does not necessarily mean
continuous operation. Rather, the controller 380 may operate the
first cooling circuit 340 and the second cooling circuit 350 in
accordance with a program, in response to a temperature signal, or
other guideline, whether user selected or in accordance with an
algorithm.
[0053] For example, when the door switch 334 signals that the door
is closed, the controller 380 optionally would just operate the
first cooling circuit 340, perhaps continuously, but also perhaps
intermittently as required to maintain an interior temperature of
the storage compartment 320. And while the door switch 334 signals
the door is closed the second cooling circuit 350 would not be
operated by the controller 380. Similarly, when the door switch 334
signaled that the door was open, the controller 380 could
optionally operate both the first cooling circuit 340 and the
second cooling circuit 350. The operation of the first cooling
circuit 340 and the second cooling circuit 350 may both be
simultaneous, alternating, one continuous and the other
intermittent, or any other combination of operation. As one
example, with the door open the controller 380 might operate the
second cooling circuit 350 continuously, but only operate the first
cooling circuit 340 intermittently as necessary to maintain a
desired internal temperature within the storage compartment
320.
[0054] Optionally, the controller 380 is configured to wait a
period of time after the controller 380 receives the open signal
from the door switch 334 before the controller 380 operates the
first cooling circuit 340 and/or the second cooling circuit 350.
The period of time may be adjustable, whether manually by a user or
by an algorithm in response to a selected criterion or criteria,
and may extend from a milliseconds to seconds to minutes or longer.
For example, once the door is opened, the controller 380 may delay
operating the second cooling circuit 350 for a period of 5 seconds.
Should the door be closed before the 5 seconds elapses the second
cooling circuit may be capable of operating, but the controller in
fact never actuates or employs the second cooling circuit 350.
Should, however, the door remain open longer than 5 seconds, the
controller may then operate or actuate the second cooling circuit
350 in order to establish an air screen proximate the opening of
the refrigerator. In other embodiments the delay may be other time
periods, such as 15 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, and the
like.
[0055] Optionally, the various embodiments of the refrigerators
disclosed include at least one temperature sensor 390 coupled to
the controller 380. The at least one temperature sensor 390 is
configured to generate a temperature signal representative of a
temperature within the storage compartment 320. The controller 380
is further configured to receive the temperature signal and to
operate at least one of the first cooling circuit 340 and the
second cooling circuit 350 in response to the temperature signal
received from the temperature sensor 390. In some embodiments, the
temperature sensor 390 may be multiple temperature sensors that are
positioned in differing locations within the storage compartment
320. In these embodiments, the controller may take action based
upon some or all of the temperature sensors, such as to control
based upon an average temperature from multiple sensors, a weighted
average, or a lowest or highest reading of all of the temperatures
sensors, or based upon instructions from the user about which (or
which group) of temperature sensors should be controlled upon.
[0056] The use of a dual mode air screen refrigerator is explained
with respect to FIGS. 3-6, which illustrates an embodiment of a
refrigerator 210 that is similar in all respects to the
refrigerators 10, 110. The refrigerator 210 includes a plurality of
sides 215 and a door 230, along with the other components indicated
in refrigerators 10, 110 that are not labeled in FIG. 2.
[0057] The refrigerator 210 is configured to operate in a single
mode, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the door 230 is closed, during
which the first cooling circuit 140 (FIG. 2) is configured to
operate. The refrigerator 210 is configured to operate in a dual
mode, as illustrated in FIG. 4, when the door 230 is open, during
which the first cooling circuit 140 and the second cooling circuit
150 (FIG. 2) is configured to operate.
[0058] The refrigerator 210 may include a door switch 234, seen in
FIGS. 4 and 6, configured to generate an open signal representative
of an open state of the at least one door 230 and a closed signal
representative of a closed state of the at least one door 230. The
door switch 234 may be a contact switch with a subcomponent 238
coupled to the refrigerator 210 along one of the sides 215 and
another subcomponent 236 coupled to the door 230. Of course, other
electrical and electro-mechanical switches can be used.
[0059] The refrigerator 210 also optionally includes at least one
tray 238 that can be slidably withdrawn from and inserted into the
storage compartment 220 along at least one guide 239. Of course,
the storage compartment 220 may include any assortment of trays,
bins, racks, and smaller storage compartments within the storage
compartment 220.
[0060] As previously mentioned, in the dual mode operation the
second cooling circuit 150 (FIG. 2) is fluidly coupled to at least
one outlet vent 260 (FIG. 5) and/or to at least one inlet vent 270
(FIGS. 4 and 5) set within a perimeter 224 of the opening 222 to
the storage compartment 220. In some embodiments, the second
cooling circuit 150 draws cool air from within the storage
compartment 220 via an air screen inlet vent 274--which is
otherwise similar to the at least one inlet vent 270 but for being
positioned within the storage compartment 220--and expels the cool
air through the at least one outlet vent 260. During operation, air
cooled and transmitted from the second cooling circuit 150 is
expelled via the at least one outlet vent 260 in an air flow
direction 268 towards the at least one inlet vent 270, which
receives at least a part or a portion of the expelled air. The air
flow in direction 268 creates an air screen that at least partially
insulates the storage compartment 220 during that time when the
door 230 is open. In other words, the air flow in direction 268 at
least partially prevents warmer ambient air from entering the
storage compartment 220 when the door 230 is open, but is not used
when the door 230 is closed in order to save energy. The air screen
and operation of the second cooling circuit 150 operates at a
reduced energy load as calculated over a day than would otherwise
be required were only the first cooling circuit 140 present to
maintain an interior temperature of the storage compartment 220
both when the door 230 was closed and when it was opened. For
example, conventional refrigerators with air screen functionality
often include a compressor with a 3/4 hp motor, while in some
embodiments, the compressor for the first cooling circuit may
operate with a 3/8 hp motor with the door shut, and the compressor
for the second cooling circuit may operate with a second 3/8 hp
motor when called for with the door open.
[0061] Optionally, the at least one outlet vent 260 is set
substantially opposite from the at least one inlet vent 270 within
the perimeter 224 of the opening 222, as illustrated in FIG. 4. Of
course, the outlet vent 260 and the inlet vent 270 may be
positioned in any relative orientation around the perimeter 224 of
the opening 222.
[0062] Furthermore, the at least one outlet vent 260 optionally
includes a plurality of outlet vents (not illustrated) positioned
within the perimeter 224 of the opening 222 and the at least one
inlet vent 260 includes a plurality of inlet vents within the
perimeter 224 of the opening 222, as illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0063] The refrigerator 210 optionally includes at least one
additional outlet vent 262 set inwardly, or towards the interior of
the storage cabinet 220, from the at least one outlet vent 260 set
within the perimeter 224, as illustrated in FIG. 5. Likewise, the
refrigerator 210 optionally includes at least one additional inlet
vent (not illustrated) set inwardly from the at least one inlet
vent 270 set within the perimeter 224 of the opening 222. As
illustrated, the at least one additional outlet vent 262 and at
least one additional inlet vent may be set within the storage
compartment 220 within at least one of the plurality of sides 215,
whether that is along the sides, top, front, bottom, or back of the
storage compartment 220. In addition, the at least one additional
outlet vent 262 optionally is set in one of the plurality of sides
215 substantially opposite from the at least one additional inlet
vent set in another of the plurality of sides, although the
additional outlet vents 262 and additional inlet vents may be
oriented relative to each other in any desired manner.
[0064] While the at least one outlet vent 260 and the at least one
inlet vent 270, and any additional outlet vents 262 and inlet
vents, are illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 as being holes, the various
outlet vents and inlet vents may additionally or alternatively be
in other shapes, such as slots of one or more orientations,
screens, and other geometric shapes (e.g., rectangles, squares,
etc.).
[0065] As mentioned above, operating embodiments of the disclosed
refrigerators in a single mode and a dual mode may provide
significant energy efficiencies. For example, a method includes
obtaining a disclosed refrigerator, operating the first cooling
circuit in the single mode when the at least one door is closed,
and operating the first cooling circuit and the second cooling
circuit in the dual mode when the at least one door is open.
[0066] Some of these energy efficiencies may be calculated by
conducting a test procedure as set forth in Title 10 US Code of
Federal Regulations Section 431.66--Appendix B (2016), as
previously incorporated by reference.
[0067] For example, the method may include maintaining an
integrated average temperature of the storage compartment at 38
degrees Fahrenheit plus or minus 2 degree Fahrenheit. While
maintaining the integrated average temperature, the consumption of
a maximum daily amount of energy in kilowatt-house per day may be
established for the following conditions:
[0068] (a) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.1.times.a volume of
the storage compartment+0.86), wherein the at least one door is
vertically closed and transparent;
[0069] (b) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.05.times.a volume
of the storage compartment+1.36), wherein the at least one door is
vertically closed and solid;
[0070] (c) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.06.times.a volume
of the storage compartment+0.37), wherein the at least one door is
horizontally closed and transparent; and,
[0071] (d) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.1.times.a volume of
the storage compartment+0.86), wherein the at least one door is
horizontally closed and solid.
[0072] In the event that the refrigerator performs as or is a
freezer, the method may include maintaining an integrated average
temperature of the storage compartment at 0 degrees Fahrenheit plus
or minus 2 degree Fahrenheit. While maintaining the integrated
average temperature, the consumption of a maximum daily amount of
energy in kilowatt-house per day may be established for the
following conditions:
[0073] (a) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.29.times.a volume
of the storage compartment+2.95), wherein the at least one door is
vertically closed and transparent;
[0074] (b) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.22.times.a volume
of the storage compartment+1.38), wherein the at least one door is
vertically closed and solid;
[0075] (c) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.08.times.a volume
of the storage compartment+1.23), wherein the at least one door is
horizontally closed and transparent; and,
[0076] (d) consuming a maximum daily amount of energy in
kilowatt-hours per day less than or equal to (0.06.times.a volume
of the storage compartment+1.12), wherein the at least one door is
horizontally closed and solid.
[0077] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described
herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes
and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present invention and without diminishing its intended
advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and
modifications be covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *