EP2778583B1 - Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur für einen Kühlschrank - Google Patents
Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur für einen Kühlschrank Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2778583B1 EP2778583B1 EP14158626.3A EP14158626A EP2778583B1 EP 2778583 B1 EP2778583 B1 EP 2778583B1 EP 14158626 A EP14158626 A EP 14158626A EP 2778583 B1 EP2778583 B1 EP 2778583B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- liner
- facing surface
- inner frame
- cabinet structure
- outwardly
- 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.)
- Active
Links
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 claims description 68
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 claims description 68
- 238000009432 framing Methods 0.000 claims description 67
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 claims description 26
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 claims description 23
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000000945 filler Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000012793 heat-sealing layer Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 14
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000005304 joining Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920000219 Ethylene vinyl alcohol Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001328 Polyvinylidene chloride Polymers 0.000 description 1
- XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Chemical compound C=CC=C.C=CC#N.C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920000122 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004676 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920005669 high impact polystyrene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004797 high-impact polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012774 insulation material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010030 laminating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000696 magnetic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005226 mechanical processes and functions Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000005033 polyvinylidene chloride Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002436 steel type Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003319 supportive effect Effects 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
-
- 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
- F25D2323/00—General constructional features not provided for in other groups of this subclass
- F25D2323/02—Details of doors or covers not otherwise covered
- F25D2323/024—Door hinges
-
- 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
- F25D2400/00—General features of, or devices for refrigerators, cold rooms, ice-boxes, or for cooling or freezing apparatus not covered by any other subclass
- F25D2400/40—Refrigerating devices characterised by electrical wiring
Definitions
- the invention is in the field of cabinet structures for refrigerators, and more specifically, cabinet structures that incorporate vacuum panels.
- EP-A1-1338854 discloses a vacuum-insulated refrigerator and method of making it on which the precharacterizing portions of the independent claims are based.
- JP-A-2011-117664 discloses a refrigerator with a frame and vacuum heat-insulating panels.
- JP-A-2-103382 discloses a refrigerator with a metal frame and foam insulating material.
- US-A-5632543 discloses an appliance cabinet comprising a mounting structure and a plurality of vacuum insulation panels.
- the invention provides a vacuum panel cabinet structure, a method of creating a vacuum panel cabinet structure, and an appliance using such a structure, as defined by the appended claims.
- the terms "upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the device as oriented in FIG. 1 .
- the device may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary.
- 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.
- a refrigerator 10 is generally shown.
- the refrigerator 10 can have an interior 12 and a cooling loop 14 (shown in FIGS. 17-19 ).
- At least a portion of the interior 12 can include at least one compartment 16.
- the cooling loop 14 can include at least one evaporator proximate the at least one compartment 16 where the at least one evaporator provides cooling to the at least one compartment 16 within the interior 12.
- a vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 includes a polyurethane inner frame 32 having at least four side framing members 34 that define an inner frame opening 36.
- the polyurethane inner frame 32 also includes a plurality of framing edges 38, a back framing member 40 coupled to at least one of the plurality of framing edges 38, at least one outwardly expanded framing member 42 disposed proximate at least one of the plurality of framing edges 38, an inner facing surface 44, and an outer facing surface 46.
- the side framing members 34 and the back framing member 40 each define a plurality of panel receptacles 48.
- a plurality of vacuum insulated panels 50 are sized and configured for reception in the plurality of panel receptacles 48.
- a barrier film 52 comprising a hermetic barrier film and a heat sealing layer can be disposed on at least a portion of the vacuum insulated panels 50 and at least a portion of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 also includes an outer enclosure 70 having at least one extruded support channel 72 that is configured to engage the at least one outwardly expanded framing member 42 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the outer enclosure 70 also includes an outward surface 74, an enclosure rim 74 defining an enclosure opening 78, at least one outwardly contoured hinge 80 disposed proximate the at least one extruded support channel 72 and an inward surface 82 that defines a structure receptacle 84 configured to receive the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the inward surface 82 of the outer enclosure 70 engages at least a portion of the outer facing surface 46 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- a liner 100 is included that has at least four sidewalls 102 that define a liner opening 104, a liner back panel 106, a liner inner facing surface 108, a liner outer facing surface 110, and a liner perimetrical flange 112 that extends outward and away from the liner opening 104.
- the liner 100 is configured such that the liner outer facing surface 110 is disposed within the inner frame opening 36 of the polyurethane inner frame 32 proximate the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the liner perimetrical flange 112 of the liner 100 includes a perimetrical edge 114 that is disposed to the outer enclosure 70 proximate the enclosure rim 74, thereby encasing the polyurethane inner frame 32, the plurality of vacuum insulated panels 50 and the barrier film 52 within a cavity defined by the inward surface 82 of the outer enclosure 70 and the liner outer facing surface 110, thereby defining the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 includes at least one infrastructure notch 130 defined therein and located proximate the liner perimetrical flange 112. As will be discussed more fully below, a filler member 132 and a gasket 134 are disposed on at least a portion of the liner perimetrical flange 112 proximate the infrastructure notch 130 in order to hermetically seal the infrastructure notch 130.
- the polyurethane inner frame 32 can include a plurality of framing members 150 that are coupled together to form the polyurethane inner frame 32 as well as the plurality of panel receptacles 48.
- the outwardly expanding frame members can include an arcuate profile that extends the length of a framing edge. In this manner, the outwardly expanded framing members 42 increase the structural stability of the polyurethane inner frame 32 and the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 as a whole. Two outwardly expanding framing members are shown, however, additional outwardly expanding framing members can be included in the polyurethane inner frame 32 depending upon the design needs of the refrigerator 10.
- the cross-sectional shape of the outwardly expanded framing members 42 can vary such that the outwardly expanded framing members 42 can have a different arcuate profile, a polygonal profile or some other irregular profile, so long as the outwardly expanded framing member 42 extends outward from one or more of the framing members.
- each of the framing members can include at least one support portion 160 that is configured to further increase the structural strength of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the support portions 160 are typically disposed proximate at least one of the plurality of framing edges 38, however, the support portions 160 can be configured in other orientations that include, but are not limited to, diagonal members, cross members, or other structurally supportive orientations.
- each of the side framing members 34 is configured to include at least a portion of the one or more panel receptacles 48.
- Each panel receptacle 48 is configured to receive and support at least one of the vacuum insulated panels 50.
- Each of the vacuum insulated panels 50 includes an outer wall that defines an inner cavity with an insulation material disposed within the cavity. The cavity is hermetically sealed and at least partially pressurized to define the vacuum insulated panel.
- each of the plurality of panel receptacles 48 defines a receptacle opening 170 within the polyurethane inner frame 32 into which one of the plurality of vacuum insulated panels 50 is disposed and supported.
- the panel receptacles 48 can include receptacle slots 172 defined by the framing members, where the vacuum insulated panel 50 is inserted into the slot and held by the receptacle in a predetermined configuration.
- each of the panel receptacles 48 can be defined by an offset 174 in each of the side framing members 34, wherein each of the plurality of vacuum insulated panels 50 is inserted into the offset 174. It should be understood that the exact configuration of each of the plurality of vacuum insulated panels 50, as well as the method for installing the vacuum insulated panels 50 within the panel receptacles 48 can vary.
- the barrier film 52 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 is disposed proximate the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32, such that the barrier film 52 is disposed on at least a portion of each of the vacuum insulated panels 50 and at least a portion of the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the barrier film 52 can include at least one layer of polymeric barrier films and at least one heat sealing layer.
- the one or more polymeric barrier films can include, but are not limited to, ethylene vinyl alcohol co-polymer, or polyvinylidene chloride films.
- the barrier film 52 can be disposed upon the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32 and at least a portion of the vacuum insulated panel 50 by thermally forming the barrier film 52 onto the polyurethane inner frame 32 and the vacuum insulated panels 50 by methods that include, but are not limited to, laminating, coating, rolling, or co-extruding the barrier film 52 onto portions of the polyurethane inner frame 32 and the vacuum insulated panels 50. Alternatively, these and other methods can be used to dispose the barrier film 52 onto various components used in the manufacture of the polyurethane inner frame 32 and the vacuum insulated panels 50. In the various embodiments, the barrier film 52 provides a hermetic surface to increase the ability of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 to retain cooling within an interior 12 of the refrigerator 10.
- the barrier film 52 can be placed on at least a portion of the outer facing surface 46 of the polyurethane inner frame 32 and a portion of the vacuum insulated panels 50 that is disposed proximate the outer facing surface 46 of the polyurethane inner frame 32. In other alternate embodiments, the barrier film 52 can be placed on both the inner facing and outer facing surface 46s of the polyurethane inner frame 32. In still other alternate embodiments, the barrier film 52 is placed only on at least a portion of the vacuum insulated panels 50.
- the liner 100 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 is disposed within the inner frame opening 36 such that the liner outer facing surface 110 is disposed proximate the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32 and at least a portion of the vacuum insulated panels 50.
- the liner 100 is configured such that the liner outer facing surface 110 is disposed on at least a portion of the polyurethane inner frame 32 and at least a portion of the vacuum insulated panels 50, or alternatively, the barrier film 52 that is disposed on the polyurethane inner frame 32 and the vacuum insulated panels 50.
- the liner 100 can include at least one corner protuberance 190 proximate each of the outwardly expanding framing members.
- Each of the corner protuberances 190 includes a profile that matches the profile of the outwardly expanding framing member such that the liner 100 can be disposed on at least a portion of the outward expanding framing member at the corner protuberance 190.
- the liner 100 can also include support protuberances that are configured to engage the support portions 160 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the liner perimetrical flange 112 extending from the liner opening 104 is configured to extend over at least a portion of the framing edges 38 of the polyurethane inner frame 32 that are disposed proximate the inner frame opening 36.
- the liner perimetrical flange 112 is contoured such that it can cover these framing edges 38 including the support portions 160 and front ends 200 of the outwardly expanded framing members 42 that are located proximate the inner frame opening 36. In this manner, the liner perimetrical flange 112 extends outward from the liner opening 104 to the perimetrical edge 114 proximate the outer facing surface 46 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the liner 100 can be made of materials that include, but are not limited to, high impact polystyrene or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene that has been thermally formed into the shape described above. While not preferred, it is understood that the liner 100 can be formed from a single member, or by connecting various members together to form the liner 100 as described above.
- the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 can include a mullion member 210.
- the mullion member 210 includes a polyurethane mullion frame 212 that is coupled with at least a portion of the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the polyurethane mullion frame 212 includes at least one of the plurality of panel receptacles 48, wherein one of the plurality of vacuum insulated panels 50 is sized and configured for reception in the panel receptacle 48 of the polyurethane mullion frame 212.
- a portion of the barrier film 52 can be disposed upon at least a portion of the polyurethane mullion frame 212 and the vacuum insulated panel 50 that is disposed within the panel receptacle 48 of the polyurethane mullion frame 212.
- the polyurethane mullion frame 212 and the vacuum insulated panel 50 disposed therein define a mullion member outer surface 214.
- a mullion portion 216 of the liner outer facing surface 110 is configured such that, when the liner 100 is disposed within the inner frame opening 36 proximate the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32, the mullion portion 216 of the liner outer facing surface 110 is disposed proximate the mullion member outer surface 214.
- the liner inner facing surface 108 defines at least two compartments 16 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the number and configuration of the mullion members 210 disposed within the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 can vary.
- two or more mullion members 210 can be included in the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 to define three or more compartments 16 within the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the mullion members 210 can be configured vertically or horizontally within the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 or can be configured in different orientations within the same vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the mullion member 210 can include more complex geometries that can include, but are not limited to, "T" or "+” configurations.
- the liner inner facing surface 108 within each of the compartments 16 can include platform receptacles for receiving one or more interior platforms.
- one or more of the platform receptacles can also be used as a structural member for the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30, wherein the polyurethane inner frame 32, the liner 100, or both, have an increased thickness at one or more of the platform receptacles to provide additional structural support to the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the outer enclosure 70 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 includes two side panels 230, top and bottom panels 232, 234, and a back panel 236, wherein the two side panels 230 and the top and bottom panels 232, 234 define the enclosure rim 74 and the enclosure opening 78.
- the inward surface 82 of the outer enclosure 70 defines the structure receptacle 84 for receiving the polyurethane inner frame 32 with the vacuum insulated panels 50 and the barrier film 52 disposed thereon, as well as the liner 100 disposed on the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the extruded support channels 72 of the outer enclosure 70 are configured to have a profile substantially similar to that of the outwardly expanding framing members, such that the inner surface of the outer enclosure 70 is disposed on at least a portion of the outwardly expanding members.
- at least a portion of the outer enclosure 70 is configured to be disposed upon at least a portion of the support portions 160 of the polyurethane inner frame 32. In this manner, the outer enclosure 70 provides additional support to the outwardly expanded framing members 42 and the support portions 160 of the polyurethane inner frame 32, thereby providing additional support to the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 as a whole.
- the outwardly contoured hinges 80 each include a hinge body 250 disposed at least partially on the outward surface 74 of the outer enclosure 70 and a reinforcing portion 252 disposed at least partially on the inward surface 82 of the outer enclosure 70.
- At least one connection member 254 couples the hinge body 250 to the reinforcing portion 252, such that the outwardly contoured hinge 80 is disposed on the outer enclosure 70 proximate one of the outwardly expanded framing members 42.
- the outwardly contoured hinge 80 includes an extension arm 256 that substantially wraps around one of the outwardly expanded framing members 42 to a hinge end 258, wherein the hinge end 258 includes a hinge pin 260 for connecting a door 262 to the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the hinge body 250 includes a perimetrical channel 264 that extends around the hinge body 250 and the extension arm 256 to provide additional structural support to the hinge body 250 and the outwardly contoured hinge 80 as a whole.
- the hinge body 250 also includes one or more connector receptacles 266 for receiving the connection members 254 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80.
- connection members 254 include screw or bolt type fasteners with cooperative nuts that tighten the outwardly contoured hinge 80 to the outer enclosure 70 in the location described above.
- the connecting members 254 can also include other types of connectors and fasteners that can include, but are not limited to, rivets, welds, clasps, pins, and other connecting fastening mechanisms.
- the reinforcing portion 252 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80 is disposed on the inward surface 82 of the outer enclosure 70 such that, when the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 is assembled, at least a portion of the reinforcing portion 252 is disposed between the outer enclosure 70 and the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the polyurethane inner frame 32 or the outer enclosure 70, or both may include an offset portion to accommodate the reinforcing portion 252 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80 being disposed therein.
- the reinforcing portion 252 can include a reinforcing arm 276 that cooperates with the hinge body 250 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80 to form the extension arm 256 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80.
- the reinforcing portion 252 can also include at least one of the connector receptacles 266 for receiving the connecting members 254 that couple the outwardly contoured hinge 80 to the outer enclosure 70, as described above.
- the hinge body 250 and the reinforcing portion 252 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80 can cooperate to form an extruded hole 278 for receiving the connecting member 254.
- the hinge body 250 includes an upper flared member 280 that cooperates with a lower flared member 282 of the reinforcing portion 252.
- the lower flared member 282 of the reinforcing portion 252 extends upward and through the outer enclosure 70 to engage the upper flared member 280 of the hinge body 250 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80.
- the connecting member 254 is then disposed through the extruded hole 278 to engage the outwardly contoured hinge 80 and the outer enclosure 70 to couple the outwardly contoured hinge 80 to the outer enclosure 70.
- the lower flared member 282 of the reinforcing portion 252 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80 can include an integral post connector that extends upward through the outer enclosure 70 and through the upper flared member 280 of the hinge body 250 of the outwardly contoured hinge 80 to couple the outwardly contoured hinge 80 to the outer enclosure 70.
- the outer enclosure 70 can include a single metal piece that is formed, stamped, or otherwise contoured into a configuration necessary to form the outer enclosure 70 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the back panel 236 and the bottom panel 234 can include separate embers that are coupled together with the side and top panels 230, 232 to form the outer enclosure 70.
- a plurality of structural recesses 290 can be disclosed within the outer enclosure 70 to provide additional structural support to the outer enclosure 70 and the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the structural recesses 290 can be configured in a diagonal orientation across one or more of the side, top, back, or bottom panels of the outer enclosure 70.
- structural recesses 290 can include various other configurations that can include, but are not limited to, horizontal or vertical configurations, or a combination of horizontal, vertical and diagonal configurations, or some other configuration that is sufficient to provide structural support to the outer enclosure 70.
- the outer enclosure 70 can be made of a metal material that can include, but is not limited to, aluminum, steel, or other formable metallic material.
- the outwardly contoured hinge 80 can be made of a metallic material that is substantially strong enough to support the weight of a door 262 of the refrigerator 10 door and any contents disposed therein and can include, but is not limited to, steel, aluminum, or other structurally sufficient metallic material.
- the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 can include one or more cavity recesses 300 that provide a space for disposing mechanical aspects of the refrigerator 10 proximate the vacuum cabinet structure.
- the cavity recesses 300 defined by an inward protruding portion 302 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30, wherein the outer enclosure 70, the liner 100, and the polyurethane inner frame 32 cooperatively protrude inward to define the cavity recess 300.
- the refrigerator 10 can include a metal clad covering 320 having a finished outer surface 322 and an interior surface 324.
- the interior surface 324 of the metal clad covering 320 is configured to be disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface 326 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the finished outer surface 322 of the metal clad covering 320 can have varying finishes that can include, but are not limited to, painted metal, stainless steel, magnetic steel-type finishes, or other metallic finish.
- the interior surface 324 of the metal clad covering 320 defines a cabinet receptacle 328 for receiving the exterior surface 326 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the exterior surface 326 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 can include the finished outer surface 322.
- the metallic finishes described above, or various indicia, patterns, or colors can be disposed on the exterior surface 326 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the infrastructure notch 130 of the vacuum insulated cabinet structure is disposed proximate the liner perimetrical flange 112 and includes the filler member 132 that hermetically seals the infrastructure notch 130.
- the infrastructure notch 130 is configured to receive and provide a path of travel for at least a portion of the cooling loop 14 that supports the mechanical aspects of the refrigerator 10 disposed in the cavity recess 300.
- the cooling loop 14 is configured to pass through the infrastructure notch 130 and into the interior 12 of the refrigerator 10 to additional mechanical aspects that can include, but are not limited to, evaporators, specialty cooling modules, and other mechanical aspects of a refrigerator 10.
- the filler material provides a hermetic seal within the infrastructure notch 130 and around the portion of the cooling loop 14 disposed within the infrastructure notch 130.
- the gasket 134 can be disposed on at least a portion of the liner perimetrical flange 112 proximate the infrastructure notch 130 to further seal the infrastructure notch 130.
- the location and number of infrastructure notches 130 can vary depending upon the cooling features and other mechanical features included within the refrigerator 10. In this manner, the use of the infrastructure notches 130 substantially limits the need to provide conduits 370 or other openings through the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30. The number and size of openings in the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 that need to be installed within the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 are thereby limited, while also providing for the mechanical functions of the refrigerator 10.
- a magnetic gasket 330 is included on the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 proximate the liner perimetrical flange 112 and a mullion edge 218 of the mullion member 210 at a cabinet rim 336 to provide a seal between the at least one door 262 and the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the magnetic gasket 330 substantially seals the interior 12 of the refrigerator 10 and substantially limits the amount of cooling that escapes the interior 12 of the refrigerator 10 when the at least one door 262 is in the closed position.
- the magnetic gasket 330 includes a gasket channel 338 that is configured to engage the cabinet rim 336 and extend around at least a portion of an interior surface 340 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- a tubular extruded portion 342 is disposed proximate the gasket channel 338, wherein the tubular extruded portion 342 includes at least one elongated magnet member 344.
- the elongated magnet member 344 is configured to engage a magnetic portion 332 disposed on at least a portion of the at least one door 262 of the refrigerator 10.
- the magnetic portion 332 can include, but is not limited to, the outer enclosure 70 or the metal clad covering 320.
- the elongated magnet member 344 selectively cooperates with the magnetic portion 332 disposed on the at least one door 262 to bias the at least one door 262 toward the cabinet rim 336 when the at least one door 262 is disposed in or substantially near the closed position.
- the elongated magnet member 344 is pulled toward the magnetic material, thereby extending the tubular extruded portion 342 such that the elongated magnet member 344 can outwardly extend toward and engage the magnetic portion 332 of the door 262.
- the tubular extruded portion 342 includes a compression limiting channel 334 that is configured to substantially prevent the tubular extruded portion 342 from fully compressing, thereby substantially limiting damage that may occur when the at least one door 262 is closed in a rapid or forceful manner.
- the magnetic gasket 330 includes at least one flared tubular member 346 disposed proximate the tubular extruded portion 342 and the at least one elongated magnet member 344.
- At least one extruded flange 348 is disposed proximate the at least one flared tubular member 346, wherein the at least one flared tubular member 346 and the at least one extruded flange 348 are configured to further engage at least a portion of a perimeter recess 350 of the at least one door 262.
- the at least one flared tubular member 346 and the at least one extruded flange 348 are compressed against the perimeter recess 350 of the at least one door 262 to create a seal between the at least one door 262 and the cabinet rim 336 of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 can include one or more conduits 370 disposed within the polyurethane inner frame 32 to provide a path of travel for mechanical and electrical aspects of the refrigerator 10 through the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 and the refrigerator 10 in general. Because of the increased cross-sectional thickness of the polyurethane inner frame 32 in certain portions, the conduits 370 are typically disposed within the support portions 160 and the outwardly expanding framing members of the polyurethane inner frame 32. In this manner, the conduits 370 provide a path of travel through the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 while minimizing the loss of insulative properties of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 due to the loss of material as a result of the conduits 370.
- the typical cross-sectional thickness of the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30 constructed, as described above can be approximately 15 mm measured from the outward surface 74 of the outer enclosure 70 to the liner inner facing surface 108.
- a step 402 of this method 400 includes providing the polyurethane inner frame 32 having the at least four side framing members 34 that define the inner frame opening 36, where the polyurethane inner frame 32 also includes the plurality of framing edges 38, the back framing member 40 coupled to at least one of the plurality of framing edges 38, the at least one outwardly expanding framing member is disposed proximate at least one of the plurality of framing edges 38, the inner facing surface 44, and the outer facing surface 46.
- the at least four side frame members and the back framing member 40 define the plurality of panel receptacles 48.
- Another step 404 in the method 400 includes providing the plurality of vacuum insulated panels 50 configured for reception in the plurality of panel receptacles 48.
- the method 400 also includes the step 406 of providing the outer enclosure 70 and disposing the at least one outwardly contoured hinge 80 onto the outer enclosure 70 proximate one of the outwardly expanding framing members, wherein the outwardly contoured hinge 80 includes an extension arm 256 that extends around the outwardly expanding framing member.
- the outwardly contoured hinge 80 can include the hinge body 250, the reinforcing portion 252, and the connection members 254 that couples the hinge body 250 to the reinforcing portion 252 and disposes the outwardly contoured hinge 80 to the outer enclosure 70.
- Another step 408 in the method 400 includes providing the liner 100 having a perimeter flange 112 that extends from a liner opening 104 to a liner perimetrical edge 114.
- Another step 410 in the method 400 includes disposing the vacuum insulated panels 50 within the plurality of panel receptacles 48.
- the method 400 also includes the step 412 of disposing the barrier film 52 comprising a hermetic barrier film and a heat sealing layer onto at least a portion of the vacuum insulated panel 50 and at least a portion of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- Another step 414 in the method 400 includes disposing the polyurethane inner frame 32 with the vacuum insulated panels 50 and the barrier film 52 disposed thereon into the structure receptacle 84 of the outer enclosure 70. In this manner, the inward surface 82 of the outer enclosure 70 engages at least a portion of the outer facing surface 46 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- Yet another step 416 in the method 400 includes disposing the liner 100 within the inner structure opening, such that the liner outer facing surface 110 is disposed proximate the inner facing surface 44 of the polyurethane inner frame 32.
- the liner perimetrical flange 112 of the liner 100 is then disposed to the enclosure rim 74 of the outer enclosure 70 to define the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30.
- Yet another step 418 in the method 400 includes hermetically sealing the liner 100 to the outer enclosure 70 such that the perimetrical edge 114 of the liner 100 is disposed proximate the enclosure rim 76 of the outer enclosure70.
- This step 418 can also include providing at least one infrastructure notch 130 defined by the vacuum panel cabinet structure 30, such that the at least one infrastructure notch 130 is disposed proximate the liner perimetrical flange 112.
- a filler material is disposed within the infrastructure notch 130 to hermetically seal the infrastructure notch 130.
- This step also includes selectively disposing a gasket 134 on at least a portion of the liner perimetrical flange 112 such that, when the gasket 134 selectively engages the liner perimetrical flange 112, the gasket 134 further seals the infrastructure notch 130.
- the term "coupled” in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc. generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.
- elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied.
- the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.
Landscapes
- 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)
Claims (15)
- Eine Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) umfassend:einen inneren Rahmen (32), der mindestens vier seitliche Rahmenglieder (34) aufweist, die eine innere Rahmenöffnung (36) definieren, eine Vielzahl von Rahmenkanten (38), ein hinteres Rahmenglied (40), das mit mindestens einem der mehreren Rahmenkanten (38) verbunden ist, eine innere Verkleidungsfläche (44) und eine äußere Verkleidungsfläche (46), wobei die mindestens vier seitlichen Rahmenglieder (34) und das hintere Rahmenglied (40) eine Vielzahl von Tafel-Aufnahmefassungen (48) definieren;eine Vielzahl von vakuumisolierten Tafeln (50), die in der Größe angepasst und zur Aufnahme in der Vielzahl von Tafel-Aufnahmefassungen (48) ausgelegt sind;eine Sperrschichtfolie (52), die eine luftdichte Sperrschichtfolie und eine wärmedämmende Schicht umfasst, die auf mindestens einem Teil der vakuumisolierten Tafeln (50) und mindestens auf einem Teil des inneren Rahmens (32) aufgebracht sind;ein äußeres Gehäuse (70), das eine äußere Verkleidungsfläche (74) aufweist,eine Gehäusefassung (76), die eine Gehäuseöffnung (78) definiert und eine innere Verkleidungsfläche (82), die eine Aufnahmefassung (84) definiert, zur Aufnahme des inneren Rahmens (32), wobei die innere Verkleidungsfläche (82) des äußeren Gehäuses (70) zumindest zu einem Teil in die äußere Verkleidungsoberfläche (46) des inneren Rahmens (32) eingreift;eine Auskleidung (100), die mindestens vier Seitenwände (102) aufweist, die eine Öffnung der Auskleidung (104) definiert, eine Rück-Tafel der Auskleidung (106), eine innere Verkleidungsfläche der Auskleidung (108), eine äußere Verkleidungsfläche der Auskleidung (110), wobei die äußere Verkleidungsfläche der Ausdehnung (110) innerhalb der inneren Rahmenöffnung (36) des inneren Rahmens (32) nahe der inneren Verkleidungsfläche (44) des inneren Rahmens (32) angeordnet ist, wodurch die Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) definiert wird; undmindestens eine Infrastruktur-Aussparung (130);gekennzeichnet durchden aus Polyurethan bestehenden inneren Rahmen, der mindestens ein nach außen ausgedehntes Rahmenglied (42) umfasst, das mindestens in der Nähe von einem der mehreren Rahmenkanten (38) angeordnet ist,das äußere Gehäuse (70), das mindestens einen extrudierten Trägerkanal (72) aufweist, der ausgelegt ist, in mindestens das eine nach außen ausgedehnte Rahmenglied (42) des aus Polyurethan bestehenden inneren Rahmens (32) einzugreifen und mindestens ein nach außen geformtes Scharnier (80) aufweist, das zumindest in der Nähe von mindestens einem der extrudierten Trägerkanäle (72) angeordnet ist,die Auskleidung (100), die einen umlaufenden Bund der Auskleidung (112) aufweist, der sich von der Auskleidungsöffnung (104) nach außen erstreckt, und wobei der umlaufende Bund der Auskleidung (112) an dem äußeren Gehäuse (70) nahe der Gehäusefassung (76) angebracht ist,die mindestens eine Infrastruktur-Aussparung (130), die auf dem inneren Rahmen (32) in der Nähe des umlaufenden Bundes der Auskleidung (112) definiert wird, und wobei ein Füllmaterial (132) die Infrastruktur-Aussparung (130) luftdicht abdichtet, und wobei eine Dichtung (134) wahlweise auf einem Teil des umlaufenden Bundes der Auskleidung (112) angeordnet wird.
- Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das mindestens eine nach außen geformte Scharnier (80) einen Scharnierkörper (250), der auf der äußeren Verkleidungsfläche (74) des äußeren Gehäuses (70) angeordnet ist, ein Verstärkungsteil (252), das auf der Oberfläche der inneren Verkleidungsfläche (82) des äußeren Gehäuses (70) angeordnet ist, und mindestens ein Verbindungsglied (254) umfasst, das den Scharnierkörper (250) an das Verstärkungsteil (252) koppelt, wobei das mindestens eine nach außen geformte Scharnier (80) in der Nähe von zumindest einem des einen oder der mehreren nach außen ausgedehnten Rahmenglieder (42) angeordnet ist und wobei das mindestens eine nach außen geformte Scharnier (80) sich zumindest um eines des einen oder der mehreren nach außen ausgedehnten Rahmenglieder (42) erstreckt.
- Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Verstärkungsteil (252) des mindestens einen nach außen geformten Scharniers (80) mindestens einen extrudierten Bereich (342) umfasst, der sich nach oben durch das äußere Gehäuse (70) erstreckt und mit dem Scharnierkörper verbunden ist, wobei das Verstärkungsteil (252) und der Scharnierkörper (250) mindestens ein extrudiertes Loch (278) durch den mindestens einen extrudierten Bereich (342) definieren, und wobei das mindestens eine Verbindungsglied (254) das mindestens eine nach außen geformte Scharnier (80) mit dem äußeren Gehäuse (70) bei dem mindestens einen extrudierten Loch (278) verbindet.
- Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) nach Anspruch 1, 2 oder 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Verstärkungsteil (252) des mindestens einen nach außen geformten Scharniers (80) mindestens einen extrudierten Bereich (72) umfasst, der sich nach oben durch das äußere Gehäuse (70) erstreckt und weiterhin einen Post-Steckverbinder umfasst, wobei der Teil des Scharnierkörpers (250) mindestens ein extrudiertes Loch (278) in der Nähe von dem mindestens einen extrudierten Bereich (72) definiert, und wobei der Post-Steckverbinder eines jeden extrudierten Bereichs (72) das mindestens eine nach außen geformte Scharnier (80) mit dem äußeren Gehäuse (70) zumindest an jedem des einen oder der mehreren extrudierten Löcheer (278) verbindet, und wobei das mindestens eine nach außen geformte Scharnier (80) in der Nähe von mindestens einem der mehreren nach außen ausgedehnten Rahmenglieder (42) angeordnet ist, und wobei das mindestens eine nach außen geformte Scharnier (80) sich um das mindestens eine der mehreren nach außen ausdehnenden Rahmenglieder (42) erstreckt.
- Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) nach einem der vorangegangenen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das äußere Gehäuse (70) eine metallische Rückseiten-Tafel und eine metallische Bodenabdeckung (232) umfasst, wobei das äußere Gehäuse (70) eine Vielzahl von strukturellen Ausnehmungen (290) umfasst.
- Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) nach einem der vorangegangenen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der aus Polyurethan bestehende innere Rahmen (32) oder die innere Struktur mindestens eine Leitung (370) umfasst, die zumindest innerhalb eines der einen oder der mehreren sich nach außen erstreckenden Rahmenglieder (42) definiert wird.
- Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) nach einem der vorangegangenen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass:ein Mittelpfosten (210), der einen aus Polyurethan bestehenden Mittelpfostenrahmen (212) umfasst, eine von mehreren Tafel-Aufnahmefassungen (48) definiert, wobei der aus Polyurethan bestehende Mittelpfostenrahmen (212) mit mindestens einem Teil der inneren Verkleidungsfläche (108) der inneren Struktur oder des aus Polyurethan bestehenden inneren Rahmen (32) verbunden ist, und wobei eine von mehreren vakuumisolierten Tafeln (50) in der Größe angepasst und zur zur Aufnahme in die Tafel-Aufnahmefassung (48) des aus Polyurethan bestehenden Mittelpfostenrahmens (212) ausgelegt ist;eine äußere Fläche des Mittelpfostens (110);ein Teil des Mittelpfostens (216) der äußeren Verkleidungsfläche der Auskleidung (214), wobei der Teil des Mittelpfostens (216) mindestens zum Teil an der äußeren Fläche des Mittelpfostens (110) angeordnet ist, und wobei die innere Verkleidungsfläche der Auskleidung (108) mindestens zwei Kammern (16) der Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) definiert.
- Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) nach einem der vorangegangenen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Dichtung (134) auf mindestens einer operablen Tafel (262) der vakuumisolierten Gehäusestruktur (30) angeordnet ist, wobei die mindestens eine operable Tafel (262) zwischen einer offenen und einer geschlossenen Position betätigbar ist, und wobei, wenn die mindestens eine betätigbare Tafel (262) sich in der geschlossenen Position befindet, die Dichtung (134) wahlweise zumindest zum Teil auf dem umlaufenden Bund der Auskleidung (122) angebracht ist, wodurch eine im Wesentlichen luftdichte Dichtung zwischen der mindestens einen betätogbaren Tafel (262) und dem umlaufenden Bund der Auskleidung (112) bereitgestellt wird und weiterhin die Infrastruktur-Aussparung (130) abgedichtet wird.
- Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) nach einem der vorangegangenen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass:ein Metallverkleidungs-Außengehäuse (320) eine innere Fläche (324) aufweist, die eine Aufnahmevorrichtung definiert, die dafür ausgelegt ist, die Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) aufzunehmen.
- Vorrichtung (10), gekennzeichnet durch das Vorhandensein einer Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30), wie in einem der vorangegangenen Ansprüche dargelegt.
- Verfahren zum Erzeugen einer Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30), das die folgenden Schritte aufweist:Bereitstellung eines inneren Rahmens (32), der mindestens vier seitliche Rahmenglieder (34) aufweist, die eine innere Rahmenöffnung (32) definieren, eine Vielzahl von Rahmenkanten (38), ein hinteres Rahmenglied (40), das mit mindestens einem der mehreren Rahmenkanten (38) verbunden ist, eine innere Verkleidungsfläche (42) und eine äußere Verkleidungsfläche (46), wobei mindestens vier seitliche Rahmenglieder (34) und das hintere Rahmenglied (40) eine Vielzahl von Tafel-Aufnahmefassungen (48) definieren;Bereitstellung einer Vielzahl von vakuumisolierten Tafeln (50), die zur Aufnahme in mehreren Tafel-Aufnahmefassungen (48) ausgelegt sind;Anbringen der vakuumisolierten Tafeln (50) innerhalb von mehreren Tafel-Aufnahmefassungen (48);Aufbringen einer Sperrsichtfolie (52), die eine luftdichte Sperrschichtfolie und eine wärmedämmende Sicht umfasst, die auf mindestens einem Teil der vakuumisolierten Tafeln (50) und auf einem Teil des inneren Rahmens (32) aufgebracht ist;Bereitstellen eines äußeren Gehäuses (70), das eine äußere Verkleidungsfläche (74) aufweist, eine Gehäusefassung (76), die eine Gehäuseöffnung (78) definiert, und eine innere Verkleidungsfläche (108), die eine Aufnahmefassung (84) zur Aufnahme des inneren Rahmens (32) definiert;Anbringen des inneren Rahmens (32) in der Aufnahmefassung (84), wobei die innere Verkleidungsfläche (44) des äußeren Gehäuses (70) zumindest zum Teil in die äußere Verkleidungsoberfläche (46) des inneren Rahmens (32) eingreift;Bereitstellung einer Auskleidung (100), die mindestens vier Seitenwände (34) aufweist, die eine Öffnung der Auskleidung (104) definieren, eine RückseitenTafel der Auskleidung (106), eine innere Verkleidungsfläche der Auskleidung (108), eine äußere Verkleidungsfläche der Auskleidung (110);Anbringen der Auskleidung (100) innerhalb der inneren Strukturöffnung, so dass die äußere Verkleidungsfläche der Auskleidung (110) nahe der inneren Auskleidungsfläche (108) des inneren Rahmens (32) angeordnet ist;Bereitstellung mindestens einer Infrasturktur-Aussparung (130), die durch die Gehäusestruktur (30) definiert wird;gekennzeichnet durch:den inneren Rahmen (32), der aus Polyurethan besteht und mindestens ein nach außen ausgedehntes Rahmenglied (42) umfasst, das in der Nähe von mindestens einem der mehreren Rahmenkanten (38) angeordnet ist;das äußere Gehäuse (70), das mindestens einen extrudierten Trägerkanal (72) aufweist, der ausgelegt ist, in mindestens das eine nach außen ausgedehnte Rahmenglied (42) einzugreifen;das Anbringen des mindestens einen nach außen geformten Scharniers (80) auf dem äußeren Gehäuse (70), wobei jedes des einen oder der mehreren nach außen geformten Scharniere (80) einen Scharnierkörper (250) umfasst, der auf der äußeren Verkleidungsfläche (110) des äußeren Gehäuses (70) angeordnet ist;ein Verstärkungsteil (252), das auf der inneren Verkleidungsfläche (108) des äußeren Gehäuses (70) angeordnet ist, und mindestens ein Verbindungsglied (254), das den Scharnierkörper (250) mit dem Verstärkungsteil (252) verbindet, wobei das mindestens eine nach außen geformte Scharnier (80) in der Nähe von zumindest einem des einen oder der mehreren nach außen ausgedehnten Rahmenglieder (42) angeordnet ist;die Auskleidung (100), die einen umlaufenden Bund der Auskleidung (112) aufweist, der sich von der Auskleidungsöffnung (104) weg erstreckt und durch Anordnung des umlaufenden Auskleidungsbundes (112) der Auskleidung (100)auf der Gehäusefassung (76) des äußeren Gehäuses (70) eine Gehäusestruktur (30) definiert;die mindestens eine Infrasturktur-Aussparung (130), die durch die Gehäusestruktur (30) definiert wird und sich in der Nähe des umlaufenden Auskleidungsbundes (112) befindet, wobei ein Füllmaterial (132) innerhalb der Infrastruktur-Aussparung (130) angeordnet ist, um die Infrasturktur-Aussparung (130) luftdicht abzudichten und wahlweise eine Dichtung (134) auf mindestens einem Teil des umlaufenden Auskleidungsbundes (112) anzubringen, wobei die Dichtung (134) ausgelegt ist, wahlweise einzugreifen und die Infrasturktur-Aussparung (112) abzudichten.
- Verfahren nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Verstärkungsteil (252) von jedem des einen oder der mehreren nach außen geformten Scharniere (80) mindestens einen extrudierten Teil (342) umfasst, der sich nach oben durch das äußere Gehäuse (70) erstreckt und mit dem Scharnierkörper (250) des mindestens einem dazugehörenden einem nach außen geformten Scharniers (80) verbunden ist, wobei das Verstärkungsteil (252) und der Scharnierkörper (250) mindestens ein extrudiertes Loch (278) durch den mindestens einen extrudierten Teil (342) definieren, und wobei das mindestens eine Verbindungsteil (254) des mindestens einen nach außen geformten Scharniers (80) mit dem äußeren Gehäuse (70) bei dem mindestens einen extrudierten Loch (278) verbunden ist.
- Verfahren nach Anspruch 11 oder 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das äußere Gehäuse (70) eine metallische Rück-Tafel (106) und eine metallische Bodenabdeckung (232) umfasst, wobei das äußere Gehäuse (70) eine Vielzahl von strukturellen Ausnehmungen (290) umfasst.
- Verfahren nach den Ansprüchen 11, 12 oder 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der aus Polyurethan bestehende innere Rahmen (32) mindestens eine Leitung (370) umfasst, die innerhalb von zumindest einem des einen oder der mehreren nach außen ausgedehnten Rahmenglieder (42) definiert wird.
- Verfahren nach Anspruch 11, 12, 13 oder 14, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der aus Polyurethan bestehende innere Rahmen (32) einen Mittelpfostenrahmen (212) umfasst, der eine von mehreren Tafel-Aufnahmevorrichtungen (48) definiert, wobei der Mittelpfostenrahmen (212) mit mindestens einem Teil der inneren Auskleidungsfläche (44) des aus Polyurethan bestehenden inneren Rahmens (32) verbunden ist, und wobei die mindestens eine der mehreren vakuumisolierten Tafeln (50) in der Größe angepasst und zur Aufnahme in den Tafel-Aufnahmevorrichtungen (48) des Mittelpfostenrahmens (212) ausgelegt und wobei die Auskleidung (100) einen Mittelpfostenteil (210) umfasst, wobei die äußere Auskleidungsfläche der Auskleidung (110) des Mittelpfostenteils (210) in der Nähe des Mittelpfostenrahmens (212) angeordnet ist, und wobei der Mittelpfostenteil (210) der Auskleidung (100) mindestens zwei Kammern (16) der Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur (30) definiert.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/835,449 US8944541B2 (en) | 2012-04-02 | 2013-03-15 | Vacuum panel cabinet structure for a refrigerator |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2778583A2 EP2778583A2 (de) | 2014-09-17 |
EP2778583A3 EP2778583A3 (de) | 2015-07-29 |
EP2778583B1 true EP2778583B1 (de) | 2017-03-01 |
Family
ID=50238258
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP14158626.3A Active EP2778583B1 (de) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-10 | Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur für einen Kühlschrank |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2778583B1 (de) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
KR102222572B1 (ko) * | 2014-10-16 | 2021-03-05 | 삼성전자주식회사 | 냉장고 |
US10767919B2 (en) | 2016-07-26 | 2020-09-08 | Whirlpool Corporation | Method for ensuring reliable core material fill around the pass throughs in a vacuum insulated structure |
WO2018101954A1 (en) | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-07 | Whirlpool Corporation | Hinge support assembly |
US11150008B2 (en) * | 2020-01-16 | 2021-10-19 | Whirlpool Corporation | Cabinet reinforcing assembly |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2723556B2 (ja) * | 1988-10-11 | 1998-03-09 | 松下冷機株式会社 | 断熱箱体 |
JPH0861834A (ja) * | 1994-08-18 | 1996-03-08 | Toshiba Corp | 断熱箱体及びその製造方法 |
US5632543A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1997-05-27 | Owens-Corning Fiberglas Technology Inc. | Appliance cabinet construction |
US6109712A (en) * | 1998-07-16 | 2000-08-29 | Maytag Corporation | Integrated vacuum panel insulation for thermal cabinet structures |
DE60031005T2 (de) * | 2000-12-22 | 2007-05-10 | Arcelik A.S., Tuzla | Isoliereinheit |
ES2337233T3 (es) * | 2002-02-26 | 2010-04-22 | Whirlpool Corporation | Refrigerador con aislamiento al vacio con estructura modular de bastidor y placa. |
TW593919B (en) * | 2002-05-31 | 2004-06-21 | Matsushita Refrigeration | Vacuum heat insulating material and method for producing the same, and refrigerator using the vacuum heat insulating material |
US7185509B2 (en) * | 2002-08-31 | 2007-03-06 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Refrigerator |
JP5595720B2 (ja) * | 2009-12-03 | 2014-09-24 | 株式会社東芝 | 冷蔵庫 |
US8881398B2 (en) * | 2011-05-26 | 2014-11-11 | General Electric Company | Method and apparatus for insulating a refrigeration appliance |
-
2014
- 2014-03-10 EP EP14158626.3A patent/EP2778583B1/de active Active
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
---|
None * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2778583A2 (de) | 2014-09-17 |
EP2778583A3 (de) | 2015-07-29 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8944541B2 (en) | Vacuum panel cabinet structure for a refrigerator | |
US3933398A (en) | Refrigeration apparatus enclosure structure | |
EP2778583B1 (de) | Vakuumtafel-Gehäusestruktur für einen Kühlschrank | |
EP2639533A2 (de) | Kühlschrank | |
US3910658A (en) | Refrigeration apparatus enclosure structure | |
US4050145A (en) | Method of making refrigeration apparatus enclosure structure | |
CN110140019B (zh) | 冰箱 | |
WO2012117732A1 (ja) | 冷蔵庫 | |
KR20130105065A (ko) | 냉장고 | |
EP3851778A1 (de) | Ein geräteschrank mit verstärkungsanordnung | |
US9506685B2 (en) | Refrigerator | |
CN112188852B (zh) | 电器铰链组件 | |
US3989329A (en) | Refrigeration apparatus enclosure structure | |
US3999820A (en) | Refrigeration apparatus enclosure structure | |
EP2789945B1 (de) | Wärmedämmungsschrank | |
EP2893274B1 (de) | Kühlschrank und herstellungsverfahren dafür | |
US4033806A (en) | Method of making refrigeration apparatus enclosure structure | |
CN113418342A (zh) | 门体及具有其的冰箱 | |
CN220541497U (zh) | 冷柜 | |
JP6189621B2 (ja) | 冷却貯蔵庫 | |
US9228774B1 (en) | Concealed mount for refrigerator appliance door panel | |
CN217504097U (zh) | 冰箱 | |
US11435130B2 (en) | Vacuum insulated door structure for an appliance incorporating a dispenser structure | |
JP2012184917A (ja) | 冷蔵庫扉 | |
CN103175367A (zh) | 一种制冷器具 |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20140310 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A2 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: BA ME |
|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
PUAL | Search report despatched |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A3 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: BA ME |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: F25D 23/06 20060101AFI20150622BHEP |
|
R17P | Request for examination filed (corrected) |
Effective date: 20160129 |
|
RBV | Designated contracting states (corrected) |
Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
INTG | Intention to grant announced |
Effective date: 20160928 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: REF Ref document number: 871867 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20170315 Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R096 Ref document number: 602014006992 Country of ref document: DE |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: MP Effective date: 20170301 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: LT Ref legal event code: MG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: MK05 Ref document number: 871867 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20170301 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170602 Ref country code: HR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: LT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: NO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170601 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170601 Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: RS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: LV Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: NL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: RO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: PL |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SM Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170703 Ref country code: IS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170701 Ref country code: PL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R097 Ref document number: 602014006992 Country of ref document: DE |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: MM4A |
|
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MC Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20170310 Ref country code: DK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 |
|
26N | No opposition filed |
Effective date: 20171204 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 5 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20170310 Ref country code: CH Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20170331 Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 Ref country code: LI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20170331 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: BE Ref legal event code: MM Effective date: 20170331 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20170331 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20170310 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO Effective date: 20140310 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CY Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20170301 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: TR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: AL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20170301 |
|
P01 | Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered |
Effective date: 20230522 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R082 Ref document number: 602014006992 Country of ref document: DE Representative=s name: SEIDE, CHRISTIAN, DIPL.-PHYS.(ETH ZUERICH) DR., DE |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20240328 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20240319 Year of fee payment: 11 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IT Payment date: 20240321 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20240327 Year of fee payment: 11 |