EP2778582A2 - Folded vacuum insulated structure - Google Patents
Folded vacuum insulated structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2778582A2 EP2778582A2 EP14158619.8A EP14158619A EP2778582A2 EP 2778582 A2 EP2778582 A2 EP 2778582A2 EP 14158619 A EP14158619 A EP 14158619A EP 2778582 A2 EP2778582 A2 EP 2778582A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- cabinet
- sheet
- layer
- extending
- forming
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 claims abstract description 25
- 239000002861 polymer material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 30
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 claims description 28
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 claims description 21
- 239000000945 filler Substances 0.000 claims description 11
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Chemical compound O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000005057 refrigeration Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000012815 thermoplastic material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 claims 6
- IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N Atomic nitrogen Chemical compound N#N IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims 2
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 238000003856 thermoforming Methods 0.000 claims 2
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 238000010030 laminating Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims 1
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims 1
- 229920001187 thermosetting polymer Polymers 0.000 claims 1
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 229920005830 Polyurethane Foam Polymers 0.000 description 8
- 239000011496 polyurethane foam Substances 0.000 description 8
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 3
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002826 coolant Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004715 ethylene vinyl alcohol Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008014 freezing Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000010354 integration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920000219 Ethylene vinyl alcohol Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229910001209 Low-carbon steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- RZXDTJIXPSCHCI-UHFFFAOYSA-N hexa-1,5-diene-2,5-diol Chemical compound OC(=C)CCC(O)=C RZXDTJIXPSCHCI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920005669 high impact polystyrene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004797 high-impact polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012774 insulation material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000377 silicon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000013022 venting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D23/00—General constructional features
- F25D23/06—Walls
- F25D23/062—Walls defining a cabinet
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D2201/00—Insulation
- F25D2201/10—Insulation with respect to heat
- F25D2201/14—Insulation with respect to heat using subatmospheric pressure
Definitions
- Known refrigerator cabinets may include inner and outer side walls with a layer of insulating material such as polyurethane foam disposed between the inner and outer side walls.
- the foam provides insulation for the cabinet structure.
- known cabinet constructions may suffer from various drawbacks.
- One aspect of the present invention is a method of fabricating a refrigerator having a vacuum insulated cabinet.
- the method includes forming an outer cabinet skin blank, the blank including an elongated portion having a generally rectangular perimeter with elongated side edges and end edges extending between the side edges.
- the blank defines a plurality of fold lines extending between the side edges to define a plurality of generally planar panel regions.
- the outer cabinet skin blank comprises a sheet of material that includes a metal layer and an outer layer of polymer material on a first side of a sheet.
- the polymer material is preferably a heat sealable thermoplastic polymer material.
- the method further includes providing a plurality of pouches having porous filler material disposed in the pouches.
- the pouches are positioned on the first side of the outer cabinet skin blank to cover the panel regions.
- the method includes providing a barrier layer that forms a barrier with respect to gasses and water vapor sufficient to maintain a vacuum.
- the barrier layer may comprise EVOH, metal foil, or other suitable material that is laminated with a layer of thermoplastic polymer material.
- the barrier layer may be sealed to the layer of polymer material around the pouches utilizing a heat seal process, mechanical pressure, adhesives, or other suitable technique. The pouches are thereby sealed inside an air-tight space formed between the layer of heat sealable polymer material and the barrier layer.
- the method also includes forming a vacuum in the air-tight space, and folding the cabinet skin blank along the fold lines to form a vacuum insulated cabinet structure having upright outer side walls and a transverse wall extending between the outer side walls.
- the vacuum insulated cabinet structure may include a floor structure having a front portion and a raised rear portion that is elevated relative to the front portion to define an exterior component-mounting space that is separated from the insulated interior space.
- One or more components of an electrically-powered refrigeration system may be mounted in the component-mounting space.
- a refrigerator 1 includes a vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2.
- the vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2 includes upright side walls 4A and 4B, an upper horizontal wall 6, and a generally horizontal lower wall 8 (see also Fig. 2 ). Doors 10A and 10B are moveably mounted to the cabinet structure 2 in a known manner.
- the vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2 may include a first cabinet structure or portion 12 and a liner 14.
- Liner 14 may be thermoformed from polymer material utilizing known materials and processes.
- the first portion 12 comprises sheet metal that is bent to form side walls 4A and 4B, upper horizontal wall 6, floor structure 18, and an optional rear wall 16.
- the first portion 12 defines an interior space 20 that receives liner 14. Insulating materials such as polyurethane foam may be injected between liner 14 and first portion 12.
- floor structure 18 includes a horizontal first portion 22, a vertical second portion 24, and a horizontal third portion 26.
- Third portion 26 is elevated relative to first portion 22 to define an exterior component mounting space 28 that may be utilized to mount a compressor and/or other cooling system components outside of insulated interior space 19 of vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2.
- the first portion 12 includes a plurality of vacuum insulated panels 30A-30G that are positioned on inner sides of metal outer layer 32 of first portion 12.
- the vacuum insulated panels 30A-30G are positioned between metal outer layer 32 of vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2 and the polymer inner liner 14.
- Doors 10A and 10B may be vacuum insulated in a manner that is substantially similar to the vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2, or the doors 10A and 10B may include a known insulation material suck as foam insulation 34A and 34B.
- a layer of sheet metal is cut to form a blank 36 having an elongated rectangular portion 38 defining elongated opposite edges 40A and 40B, and end edges 42A and 42B.
- the blank 36 may optionally include a transversely-extending portion 44 that is utilized to form rear wall 16 of first portion 12 of vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2.
- the blank 36 includes a plurality of panel regions 46A-46G.
- the blank 36 also defines a plurality of fold lines 48A-48C extending between opposite side edges 40A and 40B to define the boundaries of panel regions 46A-46D.
- a plurality of fold lines 48D-48F extend between panel regions 46E-46G. It will be understood that the fold lines 48A-48F do not necessarily comprise actual lines marked on blank 36, but rather represent lines where the blank 36 is to be folded.
- a plurality of vacuum insulated panels 20A-20G are formed on panel regions 46A-46G (see also Fig. 5 ).
- insulated panel 20D includes a polymer retaining structure 50.
- the polymer retaining structure 50 is preferably thermoformed from a sheet of material that includes one or more layers of a thermoplastic material such as high impact polystyrene that is laminated to a barrier layer.
- the barrier layer may comprise ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) or other material (e.g. metal foil) that forms a barrier with respect to gasses and water vapor.
- EVOH ethylene vinyl alcohol
- the barrier layer preferably retains a vacuum in vacuum space 52 sufficient to prevent the thermal conductivity of the insulated panels from exceeding a value that is 200% of an initial value for at least 10 years.
- the retaining structure 50 includes a planar main wall 54 and transversely extending side walls 56A-56D (see also Fig.
- the polymer retaining structure 50 includes a flange 60 extending around retaining structure 50 to define a perimeter 58.
- the perimeter 58 (flange 60) of retaining structure 50 is configured to follow the contours of panel region 46A. It will be understood that the size and shape of each polymer retaining structure 50 depends on the size and shape of the panel region 46A-46G for which the polymer retaining structure 50 is configured.
- the blank 36 is formed from a sheet of material having a metal layer 62 comprising low carbon steel or other suitable metal, and a heat sealable polymer layer 64 laminated to the metal layer 62.
- the polymer retaining structure 50 can be connected to the blank 36 by sealing the flange 60 to polymer layer 64 to thereby form the air-tight interior vacuum space 52.
- Flange 60 can be sealed to polymer layer 64 utilizing a heat sealing process, mechanical pressure, adhesives, or other suitable process.
- a plurality of pouches 66 Prior to sealing polymer retaining structure 50 to blank 36, a plurality of pouches 66 are positioned on the panel regions 46A-46G.
- Pouches 66 comprise an outer layer 68, and filler material 70 that is disposed inside the outer layer 68.
- the filler material 70 may comprise silica powder or other suitable filler material of a type used in vacuum insulated panels.
- the outer layer 68 may comprise paper or other material that permits air to escape from inside the pouch 66, while retaining the filler material 70 inside the pouch 66.
- the pouches 66 include outer sides 72, inner sides 73 and peripheral edge 76.
- the pouches 66 are relatively thin, and the edges 76 of the pouches 66 preferably have a shape that conforms to the shape of panel regions 46A-46G.
- the pouches 66 are positioned on panel regions 46A-46G, and polymer retaining structures 50 are positioned over the pouches 66.
- the entire blank 36 may then be positioned within a vacuum chamber (not shown), and the flanges 60 of the polymer retaining structures 50 are then sealed to the heat sealable polymer layer 64 of blank 36 to form interior vacuum spaces 52, with pouches 66 being disposed within the interior vacuum spaces 52.
- the blank 36 can then be removed from the vacuum chamber.
- each polymer retaining structure 50 may be sealed to polymer layer 64 in a vacuum chamber
- the polymer retaining structure 50 can also be sealed to the polymer layer 64 along only a portion of flange 60 prior to positioning the blank 36 in a vacuum chamber. After the blank 36 is positioned within a vacuum chamber, the previously unsealed portion of flange 60 can then be sealed to polymer layer 64 in a vacuum chamber.
- the blank 36 is deformed along fold lines 48A-48F to thereby form the first portion 12 (see also Fig. 2 ) of the vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2.
- the side walls 56A-56D of polymer retaining structure 50 may be angled inwardly as shown in Fig. 6 at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, such that the side walls 56 of adjacent panel regions 46A-46G are closely fitted against one another after folding of blank 36.
- some of the side walls 56 may be substantially orthogonal to the blank 36 if required.
- the side wall 56C of vacuum insulated panel 20D may be orthogonal because the side wall 56C is not adjacent a fold line, but rather fits closely adjacent a flange 78 ( Fig. 2 ) of liner 14 when assembled.
- the edges of the blank 36 can be interconnected by welding, deforming, or other suitable process to form corners 82A-82C ( Figs. 2 and 3 ).
- liner 14 can then be inserted into space 19 of first portion 12 of vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2.
- Polyurethane foam or the like may be injected between liner 14 and first cabinet structure 12 to fill gaps that may remain along the edges of vacuum insulated panels 20.
- refrigerator 1 may include a cooling system 84.
- the cooling system 84 may include an electrically powered compressor 86 and/or other components mounted in exterior component mounting space 28.
- Refrigerator 1 may also include a divider 88 disposed within interior space 19.
- Divider 88 is configured to receive mechanical equipment for operating various functions of the refrigerator.
- a cooling module 90 may be disposed within interior volume 92 of divider 88 to cool the compartments on opposite sides of divider 88. Examples of various cooling module sets are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 13/108,226 entitled "COOLING SYSTEM INTEGRATION ENABLING A PLATFORM ARCHITECTURE" filed on May 16, 2011; U.S. Patent Application No.
- the cooling module 90 may be operably connected to compressor 86 and/or other components by utility lines 94A and 94B.
- the utility lines 94A and 94B pass through rear panel 16 at fittings 96A and 96B, respectively.
- the fittings 96A and 96B seal off the vacuum space 52 to ensure the space 52 maintains a vacuum.
- the utility lines 94A and 94B may comprise coolant lines, and cooling module 90 may comprise an evaporator and fan unit. Utility lines 94A and 94B may further comprise electrical lines to provide power for a fan of cooling module 90.
- utility lines 94A and 94B may also extend through third portion 26 of floor structure 18 at a fitting 96. If the utility lines 94A and 94B are routed into interior space 19 as shown in Fig. 8 , the utility lines 94A and 94B may be routed directly adjacent inner surface 98 of first portion 12 of the cabinet structure 2, between liner 14 and one or more insulated panels 20A-20G. As discussed above, polyurethane foam or the like can be injected into the space between liner 14 and vacuum insulated panels 20A-20G. Accordingly, the utility lines 94A and 94B may be embedded in the polyurethane foam.
- a vacuum insulated cabinet structure 102 is constructed in a manner that is substantially similar to the vacuum insulated cabinet structure 2 described in more detail above.
- the insulated cabinet structure 102 includes a rear panel assembly 16A having a vertical panel portion 16B that may comprise a vacuum insulated panel, or it may comprise a conventional insulated panel having polyurethane foam disposed internally.
- Rear panel 16A may include a partition 88A that includes cooling modules (not shown) that are operably connected to a compressor (also not shown) that is disposed in an exterior space 28A.
- the vacuum insulated cabinet structure 102 may include a plurality of vacuum insulated panels 120 that are substantially similar to the vacuum insulated panels 20A-20G described in more detail above.
- the vacuum insulated cabinet structure 102 is fabricated in substantially the same manner as described in more detail above in connection with Figs. 4-6 .
- the blank 36 utilized to form vacuum insulated cabinet structure 102 does not include a panel region 46G ( Fig. 4 ), such that an enlarged rear opening 100 is formed in vacuum insulated cabinet structure 102.
- floor structure 118 may be formed from a separate blank 36A, and vacuum panels 120B, 120E and 120F may be formed at panel regions 146B, 146E and 146F.
- a front flange 101 may, when assembled, be connected to flange 78 of a liner 14 ( Fig. 2 ), and an upright rear flange 103 may be connected to rear panel wall 16B.
- Panels 99A and 99B may be secured to the floor structure 118 to close off open ends 97A and 97B of exterior space 28A.
- the panels 99A and 99B may include one or more apertures (not shown) to provide for routing of utility lines from a compressor or other cooling system component disposed in exterior space 28A to a location within the interior space 119 of insulated cabinet structure 102.
- rear panel 16B may comprise a panel structure having inner and outer side walls with a polyurethane foam insulating material disposed in an interior space of the panel 16B.
- Utility lines from a compressor or other component disposed in exterior space 28A may be routed within panel 16B to an evaporator, fan, and/or other such components disposed within divider 88.
- a liner 14 ( Fig. 2 ) may be inserted into interior space 119 ( Fig. 10 ) of vacuum insulated cabinet structure 102.
- Figs. 12-19 show additional embodiments of refrigerators according to the present invention.
- Figs. 12 and 13 show a refrigerator 201A
- Figs. 14 and 15 show a refrigerator 201B
- Figs. 16 and 17 show a refrigerator 201C
- Figs. 18 and 19 show a refrigerator 201D.
- the insulated cabinet structures 202A-202D of refrigerators 201A-201D respectively may comprise vacuum insulated cabinets constructed as described in more detail above in connection with Figs. 1-11 .
- the insulated cabinet structures 202A-202D may include conventional insulation such as polyurethane foam or the like.
- the refrigerators 201A-201D include partitions 288A-288D that include cooling modules 290A-290D that provide independent cooling for compartments 210A-210D and 220A-220D formed on opposite sides of the partitions 288A-288D.
- the compartments 210A-210D may comprise fresh food compartments that are maintained at a first temperature that is above freezing
- the compartments 220A-220D may comprise freezer compartments that are maintained at a temperature below freezing.
- Openings 205A-205D may be formed in the insulated cabinet structures 202A-202D to provide for venting of heated air produced by the cooling modules 290A-290D.
- Refrigerators 201A-201D may include exterior spaces 228A-228D that are substantially similar to the space 28 described in more detail above in connection with Figs. 1-9 .
- a compressor (not shown) may be mounted in the spaces 228A-228D of refrigerators 201A-201D, and coolant lines (not shown) may be routed to the cooling modules 290A-290d through the insulated cabinet structure 202 as described in more detail above in connection with Figs. 1-11 .
- the cooling modules 290A-290D may include a compressor, such that the compressor is not mounted in the external spaces 228A-228D.
- cooling module 290A may comprise a thermoelectric cooling unit that does not include a compressor, such that substantially all of the components can be mounted within the modules 290A-290D.
- refrigerator 201A includes an upper fresh food compartment 210A, and a lower freezer compartment 220A.
- refrigerator 201B includes a fresh food compartment 210B and a freezer compartment 220B that are disposed in a side-by-side configuration.
- refrigerator 201C includes an upper freezer compartment 220C and a lower fresh food compartment 210C.
- refrigerator 201D includes a fresh food compartment 210D and a freezer compartment 220D.
- Refrigerator 201D also includes a third compartment 225D.
- the third compartment 225D may be maintained at a third temperature that is not equal to the temperatures of compartments 210D and 220D.
- Third compartment 225D may be operably connected to compartments 210D and/or 220D by powered "air doors" (not shown) in partitions 288D and 214D.
- the air doors may be configured to open as required to permit airflow between third compartment 225D and compartments 210D and/or 220D to thereby control the temperature of third compartment 225D.
- the temperature of third compartment 225D may also be independently controlled utilizing other known arrangements.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Refrigerator Housings (AREA)
- Laminated Bodies (AREA)
- Shaping Of Tube Ends By Bending Or Straightening (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- Various types of insulated cabinet structures for refrigerators, freezers, and the like have been developed. Known refrigerator cabinets may include inner and outer side walls with a layer of insulating material such as polyurethane foam disposed between the inner and outer side walls. The foam provides insulation for the cabinet structure. However, known cabinet constructions may suffer from various drawbacks.
- One aspect of the present invention is a method of fabricating a refrigerator having a vacuum insulated cabinet. The method includes forming an outer cabinet skin blank, the blank including an elongated portion having a generally rectangular perimeter with elongated side edges and end edges extending between the side edges. The blank defines a plurality of fold lines extending between the side edges to define a plurality of generally planar panel regions. The outer cabinet skin blank comprises a sheet of material that includes a metal layer and an outer layer of polymer material on a first side of a sheet. The polymer material is preferably a heat sealable thermoplastic polymer material. The method further includes providing a plurality of pouches having porous filler material disposed in the pouches. The pouches are positioned on the first side of the outer cabinet skin blank to cover the panel regions. The method includes providing a barrier layer that forms a barrier with respect to gasses and water vapor sufficient to maintain a vacuum. The barrier layer may comprise EVOH, metal foil, or other suitable material that is laminated with a layer of thermoplastic polymer material. The barrier layer may be sealed to the layer of polymer material around the pouches utilizing a heat seal process, mechanical pressure, adhesives, or other suitable technique. The pouches are thereby sealed inside an air-tight space formed between the layer of heat sealable polymer material and the barrier layer. The method also includes forming a vacuum in the air-tight space, and folding the cabinet skin blank along the fold lines to form a vacuum insulated cabinet structure having upright outer side walls and a transverse wall extending between the outer side walls. The vacuum insulated cabinet structure may include a floor structure having a front portion and a raised rear portion that is elevated relative to the front portion to define an exterior component-mounting space that is separated from the insulated interior space. One or more components of an electrically-powered refrigeration system may be mounted in the component-mounting space.
- These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.
- The present invention will be further described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:-
-
Fig. 1 is an isometric view of a refrigerator having a vacuum insulated cabinet structure according to one aspect of the present invention; -
Fig. 2 is an exploded isometric view of a vacuum insulated cabinet structure and liner; -
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator ofFig. 1 taken along the line III-III; -
Fig. 4 is a plan view of an outer cabinet skin blank; -
Fig. 5 is an isometric view of the cabinet skin blank ofFig. 4 showing the formation of a floor structure and a back panel; -
Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the outer cabinet skin blank ofFig. 4 taken along the line VI-VI; -
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator ofFig. 1 taken along the line VII-VII; -
Fig. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of the refrigerator ofFig. 7 ; -
Fig. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of the refrigerator ofFig. 7 ; -
Fig. 10 is an exploded isometric view of a vacuum insulated cabinet structure according to another aspect of the present invention; -
Fig. 11 is an exploded isometric view of a portion of the vacuum insulated structure ofFig. 10 ; -
Fig. 12 is a front elevational view of a refrigerator cabinet having a divider that includes a cooling module; -
Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the insulated cabinet structure ofFig. 12 taken along the line XIII-XIII; -
Fig. 14 is a front elevational view of a refrigerator cabinet having a divider wall that includes a cooling module; -
Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the insulated cabinet structure ofFig. 14 taken along line XV-XV; -
Fig. 16 is a front elevational view of a refrigerator cabinet having a divider that includes a cooling module; -
Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the insulated cabinet structure ofFig. 16 taken along line XVII-XVII; -
Fig. 18 is a front elevational view of a refrigerator cabinet having a divider that includes a cooling module; and -
Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the insulated cabinet structure ofFig. 18 taken along the line XIX-XIX. - For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in
Fig. 1 . However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. - With reference to
Fig. 1 , arefrigerator 1 includes a vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2. The vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2 includesupright side walls horizontal wall 6, and a generally horizontal lower wall 8 (see alsoFig. 2 ).Doors cabinet structure 2 in a known manner. - With further reference to
Fig. 2 , the vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2 may include a first cabinet structure orportion 12 and aliner 14.Liner 14 may be thermoformed from polymer material utilizing known materials and processes. As discussed in more detail below, thefirst portion 12 comprises sheet metal that is bent to formside walls horizontal wall 6,floor structure 18, and an optionalrear wall 16. Thefirst portion 12 defines an interior space 20 that receivesliner 14. Insulating materials such as polyurethane foam may be injected betweenliner 14 andfirst portion 12. - As also discussed in more detail below,
floor structure 18 includes a horizontalfirst portion 22, a verticalsecond portion 24, and a horizontalthird portion 26.Third portion 26 is elevated relative tofirst portion 22 to define an exteriorcomponent mounting space 28 that may be utilized to mount a compressor and/or other cooling system components outside of insulatedinterior space 19 of vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2. Thefirst portion 12 includes a plurality of vacuum insulatedpanels 30A-30G that are positioned on inner sides of metalouter layer 32 offirst portion 12. - With further reference to
Fig. 3 , the vacuum insulatedpanels 30A-30G are positioned between metalouter layer 32 of vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2 and the polymerinner liner 14.Doors cabinet structure 2, or thedoors foam insulation - With reference to
Fig. 4 , during fabrication of vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2, a layer of sheet metal is cut to form a blank 36 having an elongatedrectangular portion 38 defining elongatedopposite edges edges portion 44 that is utilized to formrear wall 16 offirst portion 12 of vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2. - The blank 36 includes a plurality of
panel regions 46A-46G. The blank 36 also defines a plurality offold lines 48A-48C extending betweenopposite side edges panel regions 46A-46D. A plurality offold lines 48D-48F extend betweenpanel regions 46E-46G. It will be understood that the fold lines 48A-48F do not necessarily comprise actual lines marked on blank 36, but rather represent lines where the blank 36 is to be folded. When the blank 36 is in a flat, unfolded condition (Fig. 4 ), a plurality of vacuum insulatedpanels 20A-20G are formed onpanel regions 46A-46G (see alsoFig. 5 ). - With further reference to
Fig. 6 ,insulated panel 20D includes apolymer retaining structure 50. Thepolymer retaining structure 50 is preferably thermoformed from a sheet of material that includes one or more layers of a thermoplastic material such as high impact polystyrene that is laminated to a barrier layer. The barrier layer may comprise ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) or other material (e.g. metal foil) that forms a barrier with respect to gasses and water vapor. The barrier layer preferably retains a vacuum invacuum space 52 sufficient to prevent the thermal conductivity of the insulated panels from exceeding a value that is 200% of an initial value for at least 10 years. The retainingstructure 50 includes a planarmain wall 54 and transversely extendingside walls 56A-56D (see alsoFig. 4 ). Thepolymer retaining structure 50 includes aflange 60 extending around retainingstructure 50 to define aperimeter 58. The perimeter 58 (flange 60) of retainingstructure 50 is configured to follow the contours ofpanel region 46A. It will be understood that the size and shape of eachpolymer retaining structure 50 depends on the size and shape of thepanel region 46A-46G for which thepolymer retaining structure 50 is configured. - The blank 36 is formed from a sheet of material having a
metal layer 62 comprising low carbon steel or other suitable metal, and a heatsealable polymer layer 64 laminated to themetal layer 62. Thepolymer retaining structure 50 can be connected to the blank 36 by sealing theflange 60 topolymer layer 64 to thereby form the air-tightinterior vacuum space 52.Flange 60 can be sealed topolymer layer 64 utilizing a heat sealing process, mechanical pressure, adhesives, or other suitable process. Prior to sealingpolymer retaining structure 50 to blank 36, a plurality ofpouches 66 are positioned on thepanel regions 46A-46G.Pouches 66 comprise anouter layer 68, and filler material 70 that is disposed inside theouter layer 68. The filler material 70 may comprise silica powder or other suitable filler material of a type used in vacuum insulated panels. Theouter layer 68 may comprise paper or other material that permits air to escape from inside thepouch 66, while retaining the filler material 70 inside thepouch 66. In general, thepouches 66 includeouter sides 72,inner sides 73 andperipheral edge 76. Thepouches 66 are relatively thin, and theedges 76 of thepouches 66 preferably have a shape that conforms to the shape ofpanel regions 46A-46G. - During fabrication of vacuum insulated
cabinet structure 2, thepouches 66 are positioned onpanel regions 46A-46G, andpolymer retaining structures 50 are positioned over thepouches 66. The entire blank 36 may then be positioned within a vacuum chamber (not shown), and theflanges 60 of thepolymer retaining structures 50 are then sealed to the heatsealable polymer layer 64 of blank 36 to forminterior vacuum spaces 52, withpouches 66 being disposed within theinterior vacuum spaces 52. The blank 36 can then be removed from the vacuum chamber. Although theentire flange 60 of eachpolymer retaining structure 50 may be sealed topolymer layer 64 in a vacuum chamber, thepolymer retaining structure 50 can also be sealed to thepolymer layer 64 along only a portion offlange 60 prior to positioning the blank 36 in a vacuum chamber. After the blank 36 is positioned within a vacuum chamber, the previously unsealed portion offlange 60 can then be sealed topolymer layer 64 in a vacuum chamber. - With reference to
Fig. 5 , after the vacuum insulatedpanels 20A-20G are formed, the blank 36 is deformed alongfold lines 48A-48F to thereby form the first portion 12 (see alsoFig. 2 ) of the vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2. Referring again toFig. 6 , theside walls 56A-56D ofpolymer retaining structure 50 may be angled inwardly as shown inFig. 6 at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, such that the side walls 56 ofadjacent panel regions 46A-46G are closely fitted against one another after folding of blank 36. However, some of the side walls 56 may be substantially orthogonal to the blank 36 if required. For example, with reference toFig. 4 , theside wall 56C of vacuum insulatedpanel 20D may be orthogonal because theside wall 56C is not adjacent a fold line, but rather fits closely adjacent a flange 78 (Fig. 2 ) ofliner 14 when assembled. - Referring again to
Fig. 5 , after the blank 36 is folded along the fold lines 48A-48F, the edges of the blank 36 can be interconnected by welding, deforming, or other suitable process to formcorners 82A-82C (Figs. 2 and3 ). Referring again toFig. 2 ,liner 14 can then be inserted intospace 19 offirst portion 12 of vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2. Polyurethane foam or the like may be injected betweenliner 14 andfirst cabinet structure 12 to fill gaps that may remain along the edges of vacuum insulated panels 20. - With further reference to
Figs. 7-9 ,refrigerator 1 may include acooling system 84. Thecooling system 84 may include an electrically poweredcompressor 86 and/or other components mounted in exteriorcomponent mounting space 28.Refrigerator 1 may also include adivider 88 disposed withininterior space 19.Divider 88 is configured to receive mechanical equipment for operating various functions of the refrigerator. As an example, acooling module 90 may be disposed withininterior volume 92 ofdivider 88 to cool the compartments on opposite sides ofdivider 88. Examples of various cooling module sets are disclosed inU.S. Patent Application No. 13/108,226 U.S. Patent Application No. 13/108,293 U.S. Patent Application No. 13/108,183 cooling module 90 may be operably connected tocompressor 86 and/or other components byutility lines utility lines rear panel 16 atfittings fittings vacuum space 52 to ensure thespace 52 maintains a vacuum. Theutility lines cooling module 90 may comprise an evaporator and fan unit.Utility lines cooling module 90. - Referring to
Fig. 8 ,utility lines third portion 26 offloor structure 18 at a fitting 96. If theutility lines interior space 19 as shown inFig. 8 , theutility lines inner surface 98 offirst portion 12 of thecabinet structure 2, betweenliner 14 and one or moreinsulated panels 20A-20G. As discussed above, polyurethane foam or the like can be injected into the space betweenliner 14 and vacuum insulatedpanels 20A-20G. Accordingly, theutility lines - With further reference to
Fig. 10 , a vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 102 according to another aspect of the present invention is constructed in a manner that is substantially similar to the vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 2 described in more detail above. However, theinsulated cabinet structure 102 includes arear panel assembly 16A having avertical panel portion 16B that may comprise a vacuum insulated panel, or it may comprise a conventional insulated panel having polyurethane foam disposed internally.Rear panel 16A may include apartition 88A that includes cooling modules (not shown) that are operably connected to a compressor (also not shown) that is disposed in anexterior space 28A. The vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 102 may include a plurality of vacuum insulatedpanels 120 that are substantially similar to the vacuum insulatedpanels 20A-20G described in more detail above. The vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 102 is fabricated in substantially the same manner as described in more detail above in connection withFigs. 4-6 . However, the blank 36 utilized to form vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 102 does not include apanel region 46G (Fig. 4 ), such that an enlargedrear opening 100 is formed in vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 102. - With further reference to
Fig. 11 ,floor structure 118 may be formed from a separate blank 36A, andvacuum panels panel regions front flange 101 may, when assembled, be connected to flange 78 of a liner 14 (Fig. 2 ), and an uprightrear flange 103 may be connected torear panel wall 16B.Panels floor structure 118 to close offopen ends exterior space 28A. Thepanels exterior space 28A to a location within theinterior space 119 ofinsulated cabinet structure 102. As discussed above,rear panel 16B may comprise a panel structure having inner and outer side walls with a polyurethane foam insulating material disposed in an interior space of thepanel 16B. Utility lines from a compressor or other component disposed inexterior space 28A may be routed withinpanel 16B to an evaporator, fan, and/or other such components disposed withindivider 88. A liner 14 (Fig. 2 ) may be inserted into interior space 119 (Fig. 10 ) of vacuum insulatedcabinet structure 102. -
Figs. 12-19 show additional embodiments of refrigerators according to the present invention.Figs. 12 and 13 show arefrigerator 201A,Figs. 14 and 15 show arefrigerator 201B,Figs. 16 and 17 show arefrigerator 201C, andFigs. 18 and 19 show arefrigerator 201D. Theinsulated cabinet structures 202A-202D ofrefrigerators 201A-201D respectively, may comprise vacuum insulated cabinets constructed as described in more detail above in connection withFigs. 1-11 . Alternately, theinsulated cabinet structures 202A-202D may include conventional insulation such as polyurethane foam or the like. Therefrigerators 201A-201D includepartitions 288A-288D that includecooling modules 290A-290D that provide independent cooling forcompartments 210A-210D and 220A-220D formed on opposite sides of thepartitions 288A-288D. For example, thecompartments 210A-210D may comprise fresh food compartments that are maintained at a first temperature that is above freezing, and thecompartments 220A-220D may comprise freezer compartments that are maintained at a temperature below freezing.Openings 205A-205D may be formed in theinsulated cabinet structures 202A-202D to provide for venting of heated air produced by thecooling modules 290A-290D. -
Refrigerators 201A-201D may includeexterior spaces 228A-228D that are substantially similar to thespace 28 described in more detail above in connection withFigs. 1-9 . A compressor (not shown) may be mounted in thespaces 228A-228D ofrefrigerators 201A-201D, and coolant lines (not shown) may be routed to thecooling modules 290A-290d through the insulated cabinet structure 202 as described in more detail above in connection withFigs. 1-11 . Alternately, thecooling modules 290A-290D may include a compressor, such that the compressor is not mounted in theexternal spaces 228A-228D. Alternately,cooling module 290A may comprise a thermoelectric cooling unit that does not include a compressor, such that substantially all of the components can be mounted within themodules 290A-290D. - With reference to
Figs. 12 and 13 ,refrigerator 201A includes an upperfresh food compartment 210A, and alower freezer compartment 220A. With reference toFigs. 14 and 15 ,refrigerator 201B includes afresh food compartment 210B and afreezer compartment 220B that are disposed in a side-by-side configuration. With reference toFigs. 16 and 17 ,refrigerator 201C includes anupper freezer compartment 220C and a lowerfresh food compartment 210C. With reference toFigs. 18 and 19 ,refrigerator 201D includes afresh food compartment 210D and afreezer compartment 220D.Refrigerator 201D also includes athird compartment 225D. Thethird compartment 225D may be maintained at a third temperature that is not equal to the temperatures ofcompartments Third compartment 225D may be operably connected tocompartments 210D and/or 220D by powered "air doors" (not shown) inpartitions third compartment 225D and compartments 210D and/or 220D to thereby control the temperature ofthird compartment 225D. The temperature ofthird compartment 225D may also be independently controlled utilizing other known arrangements.
Claims (15)
- A method of fabricating a vacuum insulated cabinet, the method comprising:providing a first sheet of material, the first sheet comprising a metal layer and a polymer material;providing a barrier layer capable of maintaining a vacuum;positioning porous filler material between the first sheet and the barrier layer;sealing the first sheet and barrier layer together to form a seal line that extends around the porous filler material to form an air-tight space containing the porous filler material.
- A method according to claim 1 wherein the polymer material is thermoplastic and the barrier layer is a second sheet of material.
- A method of according to claim 1 or 2 further comprising:forming an outer cabinet skin blank from first said sheet, the blank including an elongated portion having a generally rectangular perimeter with elongated side edges and end edges extending between the side edges, the blank defining a plurality of fold lines extending between the side edges to define a plurality of generally planar panel regions, and wherein the outer cabinet skin blank comprises the polymer material as an outer layer on a first side of the sheet;sealing an inner liner to the outer cabinet to form an airtight space, wherein the filler material is disposed in the airtight space;providing a plurality of pouches having the porous filler material disposed in the pouches;positioning the pouches on the first side of the outer cabinet skin blank to cover the panel regions;sealing the barrier layer to the layer of polymer material around the pouches such that the pouches are sealed inside an airtight space formed between the layer of polymer material and the barrier layer;forming a vacuum in the airtight space;folding the cabinet skin blank along the fold lines to form a vacuum insulated cabinet structure having upright outer sidewalls and a transverse wall extending between the outer sidewalls.
- The method of claim 3, wherein:the outer side walls define generally horizontal upper edges, and the transverse wall comprises a generally planar upper wall having opposite side edges connected to the horizontal upper edges of the outer side walls.
- The method of claim 1, 2, 3 or 4 including:forming the barrier layer to define a retaining structure having a shallow cavity having an opening, the retaining structure defining a perimeter extending around the opening;wherein the perimeter is sealed to the layer of polymer material.
- The method of claim 5, wherein:the retaining structure is formed to include a generally planar side wall having a generally rectangular perimeter, the retaining structure further including edge walls extending traversely from the rectangular perimeter to define the shallow cavity, the retaining structure further including an outwardly extending flange at the perimeter of the opening, the outwardly extending flange at the perimeter of the opening, the outwardly extending flange forming a generally planar annular surface extending around the opening; and wherein the generally planar annular surface is brought into contact with the polymer material and heat sealed to the polymer material;optionally further including:laminating the barrier layer to a layer of thermoplastic polymer material and wherein forming the barrier layer includes thermoforming the layer of thermoplastic polymer material.
- The method of claim 3 or 4, including:forming a cabinet floor structure extending between lower portions of the outer side walls, the floor structure including a front portion and a raised rear portion that is elevated relative to the front portion to define an exterior component-mounting space that is separated from the insulated interior space;providing an electrically-powered refrigeration system having a plurality of components;mounting at least a first one of the components to the cabinet in the component-mounting space.
- The method of claim 7, wherein:the outer side walls have vertically extending rear edges;the upper wall includes a horizontally extending rear edge;the floor structure defines a rear edge;the rear edges of the outer side wall, the upper wall, and the floor structure define an enlarged rear opening;forming an insulated rear cabinet wall structure;closing off the enlarged rear opening with the rear cabinet wall structure.
- The method of claim 6, wherein:the vacuum insulated cabinet structure forms an insulated interior space;providing a partition, the partition including a cooling module;connecting a partition to the rear cabinet wall structure;positioning the partition in the insulated interior space to define first and second insulated compartments on opposite sides of the partition such that the cooling module provides cooling for at least one of the first and second insulated compartments;routing utility lines to operably interconnect the cooling module with the first component mounted in the component-mounting space.
- The method of claim 9, wherein:forming the outer cabinet skin blank includes forming a central portion defining first, second, and third rectangular floor panel regions disposed side-by-side, and first and second rectangular side panel regions disposed on opposite sides of the rectangular floor panel regions, and a rectangular upper panel region disposed adjacent the first rectangular side panel region; and including:cutting the outer cabinet skin blank along opposite side edges of the first panel region;bending the outer cabinet skin blank between the first and second floor panel regions such that the second floor panel region extends upwardly transverse to the first floor panel region;bending the outer cabinet skin blank between the second and third floor panel regions such that the third floor panel region extends horizontally rearwardly from the second floor panel region and forms the raised rear portion of the cabinet floor structu re;bending the outer cabinet skin blank along fold lines on opposite sides of the central portion of the outer cabinet skin blank such that the side panel regions extend vertically relative to the first floor panel region;bending the outer cabinet skin blank between the first rectangular side panel region and the upper panel region to form a horizontal upper side wall extending between the side panel regions.
- The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein:the first sheet and barrier layer are sealed together in a vacuum chamber.
- The method of claim 2 or any claim dependent thereon; including at least one of the following steps:(a) the first and second sheets are sealed together utilizing a heat sealing process that includes heating at least one of the first and second sheets of material;(b) the second sheet comprises at least first and second layers, the first layer comprising thermoplastic material, the second layer comprising polymer material that forms a barrier with respect to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen, and water vapor;(c) thermoforming the second sheet of material to define a retaining structure that includes a generally planar central sidewall portion having a perimeter, and edge sidewall portions extending transversely from the perimeter, the retain structure further including a peripheral edge flange including outwardly from the edge sidewall portions and, optionally, positioning the peripheral edge flange in contact with the thermoplastic polymer material of the first sheet; and heat-sealing the peripheral edge flange to the thermoplastic polymer material.
- The method according to claim 2 or any claim dependent thereon, including:forming at least two airtight spaces on the first sheet of material;bending the first sheet of material in an area between the two airtight spaces.
- The method in claim 13, including:forming at least three air-tight spaces on the first sheet of materialbending the first sheet of material to a structure define at least three generally planar sidewalls, optionally wherein:the three panel sidewalls define spaced apart upright sidewalls and a horizontal upper wall extending between the side walls; and including:forming a floor structure that extends between and interconnects the upright sidewalls;securing a rear panel to the upright sidewalls, the horizontal upper wall, and the floor structure to form a primary cabinet structure that defines a forwardly-opening compartment;and optionally further including:forming a polymer liner;positioning the polymer liner in the compartment; andproviding a thermosetting foam insulating material between the polymer liner and the primary cabinet structure.
- A vacuum insulated refrigerator cabinet, comprising:an outer sheet of material comprising a metal layer and a thermoplastic polymer material;an inner sheet of material comprising a barrier layer, wherein the inner sheet of material is sealed to the outer sheet of material to define a vacuum space between the inner and outer sheets;porous filler material disposed in the vacuum space.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US13/837,659 US8986483B2 (en) | 2012-04-02 | 2013-03-15 | Method of making a folded vacuum insulated structure |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP2778582A2 true EP2778582A2 (en) | 2014-09-17 |
EP2778582A3 EP2778582A3 (en) | 2015-07-22 |
EP2778582B1 EP2778582B1 (en) | 2018-04-25 |
Family
ID=50238256
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP14158619.8A Active EP2778582B1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-10 | Folded vacuum insulated structure |
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EP (1) | EP2778582B1 (en) |
BR (1) | BR102014005925B1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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WO2016141021A1 (en) * | 2015-03-02 | 2016-09-09 | Whirlpool Corporation | Gas barrier for vacuum insulation |
WO2017157522A3 (en) * | 2016-03-16 | 2017-11-09 | Liebherr-Hausgeräte Lienz Gmbh | Refrigerator and/or freezer device |
EP3447418A1 (en) * | 2017-08-21 | 2019-02-27 | Liebherr-Hausgeräte Ochsenhausen GmbH | Refrigeration and/or freezer device |
EP3397906A4 (en) * | 2015-12-29 | 2019-08-07 | Whirlpool Corporation | Injection molded gas barrier parts for vacuum insulated structure |
EP3839387A1 (en) * | 2019-12-18 | 2021-06-23 | Whirlpool Corporation | Refrigerator |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US9038403B2 (en) | 2012-04-02 | 2015-05-26 | Whirlpool Corporation | Vacuum insulated door structure and method for the creation thereof |
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IT1201782B (en) * | 1986-09-18 | 1989-02-02 | Zanussi Zeltron Inst | PROCEDURE FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF REFRIGERATING APPLIANCES |
US5273801A (en) * | 1991-12-31 | 1993-12-28 | Whirlpool Corporation | Thermoformed vacuum insulation container |
US5638896A (en) * | 1994-02-03 | 1997-06-17 | Nippon Sanso Corporation | Cold-hot storage box with inert gas insulating jacket |
US5934085A (en) * | 1997-02-24 | 1999-08-10 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Thermal insulator cabinet and method for producing the same |
JP3968612B2 (en) * | 1998-01-27 | 2007-08-29 | 三菱電機株式会社 | FULL VACUUM INSULATION BOX, REFRIGERATOR USING THE VACUUM VACUUM INSULATION BOX, METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE FULL VACUUM INSULATION BOX, AND METHOD OF DECOMPOSING |
US6109712A (en) * | 1998-07-16 | 2000-08-29 | Maytag Corporation | Integrated vacuum panel insulation for thermal cabinet structures |
GB0209067D0 (en) * | 2002-04-20 | 2002-05-29 | Microtherm Int Ltd | Flexible vacuum insulation panel and method of manufacture |
JP3559035B2 (en) * | 2002-12-05 | 2004-08-25 | 松下冷機株式会社 | Vacuum insulation material, method of manufacturing the same, and cold protection equipment and personal computer using vacuum insulation material |
JP5236550B2 (en) * | 2009-03-30 | 2013-07-17 | 三菱電機株式会社 | Vacuum heat insulating material and manufacturing method thereof, and heat insulating box provided with the vacuum heat insulating material |
JP5689387B2 (en) * | 2011-08-30 | 2015-03-25 | 日立アプライアンス株式会社 | Refrigerator and manufacturing method thereof |
-
2014
- 2014-03-10 EP EP14158619.8A patent/EP2778582B1/en active Active
- 2014-03-13 BR BR102014005925-3A patent/BR102014005925B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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WO2016141021A1 (en) * | 2015-03-02 | 2016-09-09 | Whirlpool Corporation | Gas barrier for vacuum insulation |
EP3397906A4 (en) * | 2015-12-29 | 2019-08-07 | Whirlpool Corporation | Injection molded gas barrier parts for vacuum insulated structure |
WO2017157522A3 (en) * | 2016-03-16 | 2017-11-09 | Liebherr-Hausgeräte Lienz Gmbh | Refrigerator and/or freezer device |
CN108779950A (en) * | 2016-03-16 | 2018-11-09 | 利勃海尔-家用电器利恩茨有限责任公司 | Cooling and/or freezing equipment |
RU2734934C2 (en) * | 2016-03-16 | 2020-10-26 | Либхерр-Хаусгерете Линц Гмбх | Refrigerator and/or freezer |
EP3447418A1 (en) * | 2017-08-21 | 2019-02-27 | Liebherr-Hausgeräte Ochsenhausen GmbH | Refrigeration and/or freezer device |
EP3839387A1 (en) * | 2019-12-18 | 2021-06-23 | Whirlpool Corporation | Refrigerator |
US11175089B2 (en) | 2019-12-18 | 2021-11-16 | Whirlpool Corporation | Flexible passthrough insulation for VIS |
US11867451B2 (en) | 2019-12-18 | 2024-01-09 | Whirlpool Corporation | Flexible passthrough insulation for vis |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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BR102014005925A8 (en) | 2020-07-21 |
EP2778582B1 (en) | 2018-04-25 |
EP2778582A3 (en) | 2015-07-22 |
BR102014005925A2 (en) | 2015-06-23 |
BR102014005925B1 (en) | 2021-01-19 |
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