EP3290835B1 - Refrigerated display case and corresponding refrigeration method - Google Patents
Refrigerated display case and corresponding refrigeration method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3290835B1 EP3290835B1 EP17188153.5A EP17188153A EP3290835B1 EP 3290835 B1 EP3290835 B1 EP 3290835B1 EP 17188153 A EP17188153 A EP 17188153A EP 3290835 B1 EP3290835 B1 EP 3290835B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- air
- evaporator
- pipe
- compartment
- flow
- 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.)
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Links
- 238000005057 refrigeration Methods 0.000 title claims description 26
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 12
- 230000005496 eutectics Effects 0.000 claims description 50
- 238000010257 thawing Methods 0.000 claims description 31
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 claims description 26
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000010339 dilation Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000009833 condensation Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000005494 condensation Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000006866 deterioration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004321 preservation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000012780 transparent material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000014676 Phragmites communis Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007792 addition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000903 blocking effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005352 clarification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008021 deposition Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002542 deteriorative effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000015243 ice cream Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007726 management method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007711 solidification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008023 solidification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- 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
- F25D16/00—Devices using a combination of a cooling mode associated with refrigerating machinery with a cooling mode not associated with refrigerating machinery
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47F—SPECIAL FURNITURE, FITTINGS, OR ACCESSORIES FOR SHOPS, STOREHOUSES, BARS, RESTAURANTS OR THE LIKE; PAYING COUNTERS
- A47F3/00—Show cases or show cabinets
- A47F3/04—Show cases or show cabinets air-conditioned, refrigerated
- A47F3/0404—Cases or cabinets of the closed type
- A47F3/0408—Cases or cabinets of the closed type with forced air circulation
- A47F3/0413—Cases or cabinets of the counter type
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- 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
- F25D17/00—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces
- F25D17/04—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating air, e.g. by convection
- F25D17/06—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating air, e.g. by convection by forced circulation
- F25D17/08—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating air, e.g. by convection by forced circulation using ducts
Definitions
- the present invention concerns a refrigerated display case for displaying and preserving food products, such as ice cream and suchlike.
- the present invention can also be applied to other goods that generally require display and preservation at a controlled temperature.
- Food products at least those that require low temperature storage, that is, lower than 0°C, and exposure to air, are generally displayed and stored in a refrigerated display case, which prevents the formation of frost on them.
- the refrigerated display case comprises at least two compartments: a first compartment, or display compartment, where the food products are put and displayed, and a second compartment, or technical compartment, generally disposed below the first compartment.
- the display compartment generally consists of a support plane on which the food products are positioned, and a display cabinet made of a transparent material to allow the food to be visible inside the showcase.
- the display cabinet can in turn be provided with a door, usually sliding, to allow access to and removal of food products from the display compartment.
- the technical compartment is provided with a refrigeration plant, which generates and circulates a flow of refrigerated air in the refrigerated display case.
- the flow of air keeps the food products at the desired temperature.
- the refrigeration plant is provided with at least an evaporator that cools the air.
- the refrigerated display case also comprises a fan, usually installed in the technical compartment and configured to generate a flow of air through the evaporator and along an air passage circuit comprised between the evaporator, over the food products, and again through the evaporator.
- the evaporator Due to its low temperature, the evaporator captures the air humidity that is deposited on it, forming condensation.
- the condensation transforms into frost or ice, which reduces the functioning efficiency of the evaporator with negative consequences both for the preservation of the food products and also for the performance of the refrigeration plant.
- a defrosting step of the evaporator is required, using a defrosting device which heats the evaporator periodically and for a few minutes, taking it to temperatures of about 10°-15°C and thus removing the frost or ice.
- the state of the art provides to interrupt the flow of air in the circuit by blocking the fan for short and regular periods of time, thus facilitating the heating of the evaporator. Furthermore, stopping the fan allows to not introduce into the air circuit the humidity generated by the melting of the frost or ice present on the evaporator.
- the air in the display compartment can be heated by the air of the external environment, taking on humidity.
- the air humidity in the display compartment can then be deposited on the food products, causing the disadvantages described above.
- One known solution provides to install at least two evaporators in the technical compartment, which are made to function alternately, that is, while one is functioning, the other is switched off to allow it to be heated and therefore allow the ice that has formed to be defrosted.
- This solution guarantees a continuous circulation of the flow of air over the food products, but it is very expensive because two evaporators are installed, and it is particularly complex to manage.
- Another solution provides to divide the evaporator into two or more parts, so that when at least one of its parts is activated, the other one or more parts are subjected to defrosting.
- One purpose of the present invention is to obtain a refrigerated display case that is extremely effective in preserving food, preventing any deterioration thereof.
- the Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.
- a refrigerated display case comprises a display compartment in which food products or other goods are displayed on trays or in tubs, and a technical compartment, separate from the display compartment and located in fluidic communication with the latter, for example by means of air feed channels, and in which at least one evaporator of a refrigeration plant is installed.
- the evaporator is associated with a defrosting device configured to defrost the evaporator.
- the technical compartment comprises at least a first pipe in which the evaporator is installed and defining with the display compartment a first circuit for the passage of the air.
- the technical compartment also comprises a second pipe in which a eutectic container made of deformable plastic is installed and defining with the display compartment a second circuit for the passage of the air.
- the refrigerated display case also comprises at least one fan, installed in the technical compartment and configured to selectively generate a flow of air through the first circuit or through the second circuit for the passage of air.
- the fan when the evaporator is active, the fan generates a flow of air that passes through the evaporator and the display compartment, refrigerating the food products in the classic way.
- the fan When the defrosting of the evaporator is required, the fan generates a second flow of air that passes through the heat accumulator, which in the meantime has accumulated refrigeration thermal energy, to be cooled and sent to the display compartment.
- the evaporator is switched off and defrosted using the defrosting device.
- the separation of the evaporator and the heat accumulator, achieved by the first pipe and the second pipe, prevents any possible humidity that forms during the defrosting of the evaporator from being circulated toward the display compartment, thus deteriorating any food products present therein.
- the present invention also concerns a method to refrigerate food products contained in a display compartment that provides:
- the evaporator during the activation of the evaporator it is provided to generate a first flow of air through a first air passage circuit, defined between the display compartment and a first pipe of the technical compartment in which the evaporator is installed.
- the evaporator During the defrosting of the evaporator, on the contrary, it is provided to generate a second flow of air through a second air passage circuit, defined between the display compartment and a second pipe in which at least a eutectic container, made of a deformable plastic material, is installed and able to supply refrigeration energy.
- the first flow of air and the second flow of air are generated by at least one fan installed in the technical compartment.
- a refrigerated display case 10 comprises a display compartment 11 in which food products or other goods are displayed in containers 12, such as trays or tubs, and a technical compartment 13 disposed in a separate place from the display compartment 11, and in which at least part of a refrigeration plant 14 is installed.
- the display compartment 11 can comprise a support structure 15 configured to support the containers 12.
- the support structure 15 can itself define the separation between the display compartment 11 and the technical compartment 13.
- the display compartment 11 can also comprise a panel 16 made of transparent material to allow the food products contained in the containers 12 to be visible.
- the panel 16 can be suitably shaped, for example rounded, to confer a particular aesthetic appearance on the display compartment 11.
- the display compartment 11 can also be provided with at least one aperture 17 to allow access to the food products contained in the display compartment 11.
- a closing element such as a door or other comparable or similar elements, can be associated, or associable on each occasion, with the aperture 17.
- air blade devices can be associated with the aperture 17 to prevent the air outside the display compartment 11 from entering through the aperture 17.
- the display compartment 11 is put in fluidic communication with the technical compartment 13 so that the air generated in the technical compartment 13, as described below, can be circulated, in a closed loop, to the display compartment 11.
- the technical compartment 13 and the display compartment 11 can be fluidically connected by means of a first connection channel 18 and a second connection channel 19.
- Mouths 20 for the passage of the air can be associated with the first connection channel 18 and/or the second connection channel 19.
- the refrigerated display case 10 also comprises a support base 21 configured to support the technical compartment 13 and the display compartment 11, as well as the components associated with them.
- the support base 21 can define at least part of the technical compartment 13.
- the technical compartment 13 can be defined by a plurality of walls 22 connected to each other to define a concave conformation, open upward during use, and in which at least part of the support structure 15 is positioned.
- the walls 22, or at least some of them, can be made of heat insulating material to limit heat losses to the outside.
- At least one evaporator 23 is installed in the technical compartment 13, configured to cool a flow of air that is made to pass through it.
- the evaporator 23 can be part of the refrigeration plant 14.
- the evaporator 23 is the type with refrigerating liquid air, that is, a finned battery in which the refrigerating liquid of the refrigeration plant 14 is made to circulate while the air is forced against the surfaces of the finned battery to be cooled.
- the evaporator 23 is associated with a defrosting device 24 configured to defrost the ice that forms in the evaporator 23.
- the defrosting device 24 can comprise at least one of either an electric resistance or a circuit to feed a heated fluid.
- the defrosting device 24 can be installed inside the technical compartment 13 as shown in figs. 1 and 2 , or outside it.
- Devices to discharge the liquid deriving from the defrosting of the evaporator 23, can also be associated with the defrosting device 24 and/or the evaporator 23.
- the technical compartment 13 is provided with a first pipe 25 for the passage of air, in which the evaporator 23 is installed.
- the first pipe 25 is put in fluidic communication with the display compartment 11, in this way defining a first circuit 26 for the passage of air, schematized in figs. 1 and 2 by the lines of dots and dashes.
- the first pipe 25 for the passage of air can be connected to the display compartment 11 by means of the first connection channel 18 and/or second connection channel 19.
- the technical compartment 13 is provided with a second pipe 27, separated from the first pipe 25 and in which at least one eutectic container 28 is installed, made of deformable plastic material and configured to accumulate cooling thermal energy, to be released when the evaporator 23 is deactivated.
- the eutectic container 28, shown in one embodiment in figs. 3 and 4 comprises opposite walls formed by a first undulating profile 36 opposite to a second undulating profile 37.
- the undulating profiles 36 and 37 advantageously allow to have a high heat exchange surface, on both sides of the eutectic container 28, between the air circulating in the refrigerated display case 10 and the eutectic container 28 itself.
- a chamber 38 to contain a eutectic solution is substantially defined.
- the undulating profiles 36 or 37 also allow the eutectic container 28 to rest stably on a corresponding support plane, for example a separation panel 30, even in the presence of deformations due to temperature variations in the eutectic solution.
- the deformable plastic material of which the eutectic container 28 is made also allows it to suitably adapt to the dilations due to the temperature variations of the eutectic solution.
- the eutectic container 28 is therefore more effective and efficient.
- the eutectic container 28 is certainly more economical.
- the eutectic container 28 could be formed by a plurality of eutectic modules, for example similar in shape to the eutectic container shown. Such eutectic modules would allow to advantageously modify and vary the desired defrosting effect inside the refrigerated display case 10.
- the eutectic container 28 is also advantageous because, compared to another type of traditional heat accumulator, it can easily be extracted, even by the final user, from the refrigerated display case 10. This possibility of extracting it therefore allows quick cleaning operations, possible replacement, or other.
- the eutectic container 28 also has a considerable capacity for the eutectic solution, which is a kind of thermal flywheel. Thanks to this feature, it is possible to obtain an extension of the duration of the ON/OFF cycles of the compressor provided in the refrigeration plant 14.
- the compressor will be started fewer times in the unit of time, for example, the number of times the compressor is started every hour will be reduced.
- the life of the compressor is lengthened and consumption is reduced.
- the undulating profiles 36 and 37 of the eutectic container 28 allow to have a high heat exchange surface compared with traditional heat accumulators and also provide the structural resistance needed to support and control heat dilations without being damaged.
- the eutectic container 28 provided with undulating profiles 36 and 37 rests perfectly on the support plane by means of the ridges 39.
- a container with a rectangular section could suffer uncontrollable deformations of the flat support wall. Such deformations could be the result, for example, of the solidification of the eutectic solution, so that the support wall would tend to bulge, for example in the center, therefore reducing its support surface and its supporting stability.
- the second pipe 27 is also put in fluidic communication with the display compartment 11, for example by means of the first connection channel 18 and/or second connection channel 19, to define a second circuit 29 for the air to pass.
- the first pipe 25 and the second pipe 27 can be defined by the separation panel 30 installed in the technical compartment 13 to separate the latter into two portions, that is, the first pipe 25 and the second pipe 27.
- the separation panel 30 can be made with a heat insulating material, thus preventing the possible thermal heating energy, provided for example for defrosting the evaporator 23, from also heating the eutectic container 28 as well, decreasing its efficiency.
- the second pipe 27 is positioned in direct proximity to the support structure 15, that is, in a position closer to the food products. This position prevents excessive cooling of the food products during the refrigeration step, or their heating during the defrosting step.
- the refrigerated display case 10 comprises at least one fan 31 installed in the technical compartment 13 and configured to selectively generate a first flow of air through the first circuit 26 and a second flow of air through the second circuit 29.
- At least one flow divider member 32 can be installed in the technical compartment 13, configured to allow and/or prevent the passage of the flow of air through the first pipe 25 or through the second pipe 27, and therefore to interrupt the first circuit 26 and/or the second circuit 29.
- both the first pipe 25 and the second pipe 27 are provided with a respective divider member 32.
- the divider member 32 can comprise a reed valve or a non-return valve.
- the first pipe 25 and the second pipe 27 are provided with an inlet end 33 and an outlet end 34 through which the flow of air is respectively introduced and discharged.
- the divider member 32 is installed in correspondence with the inlet ends 33 of the first pipe 25 and the second pipe 27.
- a single fan 31 is installed in the technical compartment 13, cooperating with the divider member 32 to selectively generate the flow of air either in the first circuit 26 or in the second circuit 29. This allows to reduce the overall costs of the refrigerated display case 10.
- the single fan 31 is installed in correspondence with the outlet end 34 of the first pipe 25 and the second pipe 27, thus generating a flow through the evaporator 23 or toward the eutectic container 28 through air suction.
- the fan 31 can be installed in correspondence with the inlet end 33 of the first pipe 25 and the second pipe 27.
- the divider member 32 is put to close the second pipe 27, or in this specific case, it occludes the inlet end 33 of the latter. In this way the flow of air is prevented towards the eutectic container 28 and therefore through the second circuit 29.
- the eutectic container 28 accumulates thermal cooling energy, for example by heat convection.
- the accumulation of heat energy in the eutectic container 28 can take place quite slowly, for example within a time range comprised between about 2 and 4 hours, that is, the rate at which the defrosting is performed.
- the slow accumulation of energy avoids overloading the refrigeration plant 14 during its normal functioning.
- the fan 31 is driven to generate a flow of air through the first circuit 26.
- the divider member 32 is positioned to close the first pipe 25, or in this specific case to close the inlet end 33 of the latter.
- the fan 31 thus generates a flow of air that passes through the second circuit 29, while the divider member 32 prevents its passage through the first pipe 25.
- the defrosting device 24 is activated to defrost the evaporator 23.
- the defrosting lasts only a few minutes, for example comprised between about 5 and 10 minutes.
- the refrigerated display case 10 comprises a first fan 131 installed in the first pipe 25 and a second fan 135 installed in the second pipe 27, configured to generate respectively a first flow of air through the first circuit 26 and a second flow of air through the second circuit 29.
- the first fan 131 and the second fan 135 are installed in correspondence with the respective outlet ends 34 of the first pipe 25 and the second pipe 27. This positioning of the fans 131, 135 allows to obtain an efficient heat exchange through the evaporator 23 and respectively through the eutectic container 28.
- the first fan 131 and the second fan 135 can be installed in correspondence with the inlet end 33 of the first pipe 25 and/or the second pipe 27.
- the refrigerated display case 10 may not have the divider member 32, although it is not excluded that in possible embodiments the divider member 32 may be present.
- the evaporator 23 and the first fan 131 are activated while the second fan 135 is deactivated, thus allowing the generation of a flow of air through the first circuit 26 and preventing it through the second circuit 29.
- the first fan 131 When it is required to defrost the evaporator 23, the first fan 131 is deactivated and the defrosting device 24 and the second fan 135 are driven.
- At least the second pipe 27, in which the eutectic container 28 is installed is installed inclined, so that the outlet end 34 is in a lower position than the inlet end 33. This positioning allows an easy outflow of the possible condensation that is generated in the second pipe 27.
- the eutectic container 28 is also associated with a defrosting circuit, for example in the second pipe 27. This defrosting action of the eutectic container 28 can be performed less frequently than that of the evaporator 23, for example once every 2-3 days.
- the refrigerated display case 10 can be provided with sensors configured to detect the temperature in the display compartment 11 and adjust, for example, the functioning modes of the refrigeration plant and/or fans 31, 131, 135.
- the refrigerated display case 10 can be provided with sensors to detect the formation of ice, configured to detect the presence of ice in the evaporator 23.
- the sensors to detect the formation of ice can be electrically connected to a control and command unit configured to manage the functioning of the evaporator 23, the divider member 32 and the at least one fan 31, 131, 135 according to one or other of the above methods.
- the divider member 32 runs the risk of icing over and therefore of remaining blocked in one position or another.
- the divider member 32 can clearly open one pipe at a time, hence either pipe 25 or pipe 27.
- the simultaneous delivery of air in both pipes 25 and 27 can advantageously be performed by simultaneously switching on the two fans 131 and 135.
- the evaporator 23 could be at a temperature comprised between 10°C and 20°C, and therefore the compressor of the refrigeration plant 14 is restarted in order to restore its function as a cold generator.
- the fan 131 of the evaporator 23 remains switched off until the temperature of the evaporator 23 falls to about -2°C.
- the fan 131 of the evaporator 23 is switched on, the fan 131 of the eutectic container 28 should not be switched off again, at least for a few minutes, because the temperature of the eutectic container 28 is still lower than the temperature of the evaporator 23.
- the fans 131 and 135 to function together for a certain period of time, for example a few minutes, until the evaporator 23 reaches a lower temperature than that of the eutectic container 28, for example between about -16°C and -18°C.
- the fan 135 of the eutectic container 28 can be switched off and the eutectic container 28 can be recharged in a subsequent period of time, for example between 2 and 4 hours, which is enough time for it to be ready for a new defrosting cycle.
- both fans 131 and 135 remain switched on simultaneously for a certain period of time.
- the refrigerated display case 10 can be structured differently from the embodiments shown in figs. 1 and 2 , for example, it can be oriented vertically to create a refrigerated wall display case.
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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)
- Cold Air Circulating Systems And Constructional Details In Refrigerators (AREA)
- Defrosting Systems (AREA)
Description
- The present invention concerns a refrigerated display case for displaying and preserving food products, such as ice cream and suchlike. The present invention can also be applied to other goods that generally require display and preservation at a controlled temperature.
- It is known that the humidity in the air tends to deposit on the surface of the body which has a lower temperature than that of the air. The deposition of humidity on food products forms a layer of condensation that, at the temperatures considered, can cause the formation of frost or ice. This formation can lead to a loss of the organoleptic properties and/or a reduction in the aesthetic value, or a deterioration in the food products.
- Food products, at least those that require low temperature storage, that is, lower than 0°C, and exposure to air, are generally displayed and stored in a refrigerated display case, which prevents the formation of frost on them.
- In document
JP H08136107 A - A known refrigeration cabinet for individually sold food products is also described in document
FR 2688299 A1 - The refrigerated display case comprises at least two compartments: a first compartment, or display compartment, where the food products are put and displayed, and a second compartment, or technical compartment, generally disposed below the first compartment.
- The display compartment generally consists of a support plane on which the food products are positioned, and a display cabinet made of a transparent material to allow the food to be visible inside the showcase.
- The display cabinet can in turn be provided with a door, usually sliding, to allow access to and removal of food products from the display compartment.
- The technical compartment is provided with a refrigeration plant, which generates and circulates a flow of refrigerated air in the refrigerated display case.
- The flow of air keeps the food products at the desired temperature.
- The refrigeration plant is provided with at least an evaporator that cools the air. The refrigerated display case also comprises a fan, usually installed in the technical compartment and configured to generate a flow of air through the evaporator and along an air passage circuit comprised between the evaporator, over the food products, and again through the evaporator.
- Due to its low temperature, the evaporator captures the air humidity that is deposited on it, forming condensation.
- The condensation transforms into frost or ice, which reduces the functioning efficiency of the evaporator with negative consequences both for the preservation of the food products and also for the performance of the refrigeration plant.
- Therefore, a defrosting step of the evaporator is required, using a defrosting device which heats the evaporator periodically and for a few minutes, taking it to temperatures of about 10°-15°C and thus removing the frost or ice.
- It is known that the air that circulates in the refrigeration plant has a very low temperature, which can also reach about -20°C and which impedes the heating of the evaporator and the removal of frost or ice.
- The state of the art provides to interrupt the flow of air in the circuit by blocking the fan for short and regular periods of time, thus facilitating the heating of the evaporator. Furthermore, stopping the fan allows to not introduce into the air circuit the humidity generated by the melting of the frost or ice present on the evaporator.
- When the flow of air is interrupted, the air in the display compartment can be heated by the air of the external environment, taking on humidity. The air humidity in the display compartment can then be deposited on the food products, causing the disadvantages described above.
- One known solution provides to install at least two evaporators in the technical compartment, which are made to function alternately, that is, while one is functioning, the other is switched off to allow it to be heated and therefore allow the ice that has formed to be defrosted. This solution guarantees a continuous circulation of the flow of air over the food products, but it is very expensive because two evaporators are installed, and it is particularly complex to manage.
- Another solution provides to divide the evaporator into two or more parts, so that when at least one of its parts is activated, the other one or more parts are subjected to defrosting.
- One disadvantage of this solution is the complexity of the manufacturing and management of the refrigeration plant.
- There is therefore a need to obtain a refrigerated display case which can overcome at least one of the disadvantages of the state of the art.
- One purpose of the present invention is to obtain a refrigerated display case that is extremely effective in preserving food, preventing any deterioration thereof.
- It is also a purpose of the present invention to obtain a refrigerated display case that is economical to make.
- It is also a purpose of the present invention to obtain a refrigerated display case that has high functioning efficiency.
- It is also a purpose of the present invention to obtain a refrigerated display case that is simple to manage.
- It is also a purpose of the present invention to allow to modify refrigerated display cases already existing and installed in certain workplaces both simply, economically, and with few maintenance operations.
- The Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.
- The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims, while the dependent claims describe other characteristics of the invention.
- In accordance with the above purposes, a refrigerated display case, according to the present invention, comprises a display compartment in which food products or other goods are displayed on trays or in tubs, and a technical compartment, separate from the display compartment and located in fluidic communication with the latter, for example by means of air feed channels, and in which at least one evaporator of a refrigeration plant is installed.
- The evaporator is associated with a defrosting device configured to defrost the evaporator.
- The technical compartment comprises at least a first pipe in which the evaporator is installed and defining with the display compartment a first circuit for the passage of the air.
- According to the present invention, the technical compartment also comprises a second pipe in which a eutectic container made of deformable plastic is installed and defining with the display compartment a second circuit for the passage of the air.
- The refrigerated display case also comprises at least one fan, installed in the technical compartment and configured to selectively generate a flow of air through the first circuit or through the second circuit for the passage of air.
- In this way, when the evaporator is active, the fan generates a flow of air that passes through the evaporator and the display compartment, refrigerating the food products in the classic way.
- When the defrosting of the evaporator is required, the fan generates a second flow of air that passes through the heat accumulator, which in the meantime has accumulated refrigeration thermal energy, to be cooled and sent to the display compartment.
- During this step, the evaporator is switched off and defrosted using the defrosting device. The separation of the evaporator and the heat accumulator, achieved by the first pipe and the second pipe, prevents any possible humidity that forms during the defrosting of the evaporator from being circulated toward the display compartment, thus deteriorating any food products present therein.
- The present invention also concerns a method to refrigerate food products contained in a display compartment that provides:
- to activate an evaporator of a refrigeration plant to cool a flow of air circulating between the display compartment and a technical compartment, in which the evaporator is installed,
- to defrost the evaporator using a defrosting device.
- According to one aspect of the method according to the present invention, during the activation of the evaporator it is provided to generate a first flow of air through a first air passage circuit, defined between the display compartment and a first pipe of the technical compartment in which the evaporator is installed.
- During the defrosting of the evaporator, on the contrary, it is provided to generate a second flow of air through a second air passage circuit, defined between the display compartment and a second pipe in which at least a eutectic container, made of a deformable plastic material, is installed and able to supply refrigeration energy. The first flow of air and the second flow of air are generated by at least one fan installed in the technical compartment.
- These and other characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments, given as a non-restrictive example with reference to the attached drawings wherein:
-
fig. 1 is a cross section of a refrigerated display case, object of the invention; -
fig. 2 is a variant offig. 1 ; -
fig. 3 is a three-dimensional view of a container made of a deformable plastic material that can be used as a heat accumulator in both variants of the invention; -
fig. 4 is a longitudinal section view of the heat accumulator infig. 3 . - To facilitate comprehension, the same reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the drawings. It is understood that elements and characteristics of one embodiment can conveniently be incorporated into other embodiments without further clarifications.
- A refrigerated
display case 10 according to the present invention comprises adisplay compartment 11 in which food products or other goods are displayed incontainers 12, such as trays or tubs, and atechnical compartment 13 disposed in a separate place from thedisplay compartment 11, and in which at least part of arefrigeration plant 14 is installed. - The
display compartment 11 can comprise asupport structure 15 configured to support thecontainers 12. - According to possible solutions, the
support structure 15 can itself define the separation between thedisplay compartment 11 and thetechnical compartment 13. - The
display compartment 11 can also comprise apanel 16 made of transparent material to allow the food products contained in thecontainers 12 to be visible. - The
panel 16 can be suitably shaped, for example rounded, to confer a particular aesthetic appearance on thedisplay compartment 11. - The
display compartment 11 can also be provided with at least oneaperture 17 to allow access to the food products contained in thedisplay compartment 11. - A closing element, such as a door or other comparable or similar elements, can be associated, or associable on each occasion, with the
aperture 17. - According to possible variant embodiments, air blade devices can be associated with the
aperture 17 to prevent the air outside thedisplay compartment 11 from entering through theaperture 17. - The
display compartment 11 is put in fluidic communication with thetechnical compartment 13 so that the air generated in thetechnical compartment 13, as described below, can be circulated, in a closed loop, to thedisplay compartment 11. - According to possible solutions, the
technical compartment 13 and thedisplay compartment 11 can be fluidically connected by means of afirst connection channel 18 and asecond connection channel 19. -
Mouths 20 for the passage of the air can be associated with thefirst connection channel 18 and/or thesecond connection channel 19. - The
refrigerated display case 10 also comprises asupport base 21 configured to support thetechnical compartment 13 and thedisplay compartment 11, as well as the components associated with them. - The
support base 21 can define at least part of thetechnical compartment 13. - The
technical compartment 13 can be defined by a plurality ofwalls 22 connected to each other to define a concave conformation, open upward during use, and in which at least part of thesupport structure 15 is positioned. - The
walls 22, or at least some of them, can be made of heat insulating material to limit heat losses to the outside. - At least one
evaporator 23 is installed in thetechnical compartment 13, configured to cool a flow of air that is made to pass through it. - The
evaporator 23 can be part of therefrigeration plant 14. - In particular, it can be provided that the
evaporator 23 is the type with refrigerating liquid air, that is, a finned battery in which the refrigerating liquid of therefrigeration plant 14 is made to circulate while the air is forced against the surfaces of the finned battery to be cooled. - According to one aspect of the present invention, the
evaporator 23 is associated with adefrosting device 24 configured to defrost the ice that forms in theevaporator 23. - The
defrosting device 24 can comprise at least one of either an electric resistance or a circuit to feed a heated fluid. - The
defrosting device 24 can be installed inside thetechnical compartment 13 as shown infigs. 1 and 2 , or outside it. - Devices, not shown in the drawings, to discharge the liquid deriving from the defrosting of the
evaporator 23, can also be associated with thedefrosting device 24 and/or theevaporator 23. - According to another aspect of the present invention, the
technical compartment 13 is provided with afirst pipe 25 for the passage of air, in which theevaporator 23 is installed. - The
first pipe 25 is put in fluidic communication with thedisplay compartment 11, in this way defining afirst circuit 26 for the passage of air, schematized infigs. 1 and 2 by the lines of dots and dashes. - The
first pipe 25 for the passage of air can be connected to thedisplay compartment 11 by means of thefirst connection channel 18 and/orsecond connection channel 19. - According to the present invention, the
technical compartment 13 is provided with asecond pipe 27, separated from thefirst pipe 25 and in which at least oneeutectic container 28 is installed, made of deformable plastic material and configured to accumulate cooling thermal energy, to be released when theevaporator 23 is deactivated. - The
eutectic container 28, shown in one embodiment infigs. 3 and 4 , comprises opposite walls formed by a first undulatingprofile 36 opposite to a second undulatingprofile 37. - The undulating profiles 36 and 37 advantageously allow to have a high heat exchange surface, on both sides of the
eutectic container 28, between the air circulating in the refrigerateddisplay case 10 and theeutectic container 28 itself. - Between the undulating
profiles chamber 38 to contain a eutectic solution is substantially defined. - The undulating profiles 36 or 37 also allow the
eutectic container 28 to rest stably on a corresponding support plane, for example aseparation panel 30, even in the presence of deformations due to temperature variations in the eutectic solution. - This support will be guaranteed constantly and in multiple points by the
various ridges 39 of the undulatingprofiles - The deformable plastic material of which the
eutectic container 28 is made also allows it to suitably adapt to the dilations due to the temperature variations of the eutectic solution. - Compared to a traditional heat accumulator, for example a metal block, the
eutectic container 28 is therefore more effective and efficient. - In general, compared to traditional heat accumulators, the
eutectic container 28 is certainly more economical. - Furthermore, as an alternative to what is shown here, the
eutectic container 28 could be formed by a plurality of eutectic modules, for example similar in shape to the eutectic container shown. Such eutectic modules would allow to advantageously modify and vary the desired defrosting effect inside the refrigerateddisplay case 10. - The
eutectic container 28 is also advantageous because, compared to another type of traditional heat accumulator, it can easily be extracted, even by the final user, from the refrigerateddisplay case 10. This possibility of extracting it therefore allows quick cleaning operations, possible replacement, or other. - The
eutectic container 28 also has a considerable capacity for the eutectic solution, which is a kind of thermal flywheel. Thanks to this feature, it is possible to obtain an extension of the duration of the ON/OFF cycles of the compressor provided in therefrigeration plant 14. - If the duration of these compressor cycles is greater, the compressor will be started fewer times in the unit of time, for example, the number of times the compressor is started every hour will be reduced. Advantageously, by reducing the number of compressor start-ups in the unit of time, the life of the compressor is lengthened and consumption is reduced.
- As we said, the undulating
profiles eutectic container 28 allow to have a high heat exchange surface compared with traditional heat accumulators and also provide the structural resistance needed to support and control heat dilations without being damaged. - In particular, as we said, the
eutectic container 28 provided with undulatingprofiles ridges 39. A container with a rectangular section, for example, although in some ways equally advantageous with respect to traditional metal heat accumulators, could suffer uncontrollable deformations of the flat support wall. Such deformations could be the result, for example, of the solidification of the eutectic solution, so that the support wall would tend to bulge, for example in the center, therefore reducing its support surface and its supporting stability. - The
second pipe 27 is also put in fluidic communication with thedisplay compartment 11, for example by means of thefirst connection channel 18 and/orsecond connection channel 19, to define asecond circuit 29 for the air to pass. - The
first pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27 can be defined by theseparation panel 30 installed in thetechnical compartment 13 to separate the latter into two portions, that is, thefirst pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27. - The
separation panel 30 can be made with a heat insulating material, thus preventing the possible thermal heating energy, provided for example for defrosting theevaporator 23, from also heating theeutectic container 28 as well, decreasing its efficiency. - According to one aspect of the present invention, the
second pipe 27 is positioned in direct proximity to thesupport structure 15, that is, in a position closer to the food products. This position prevents excessive cooling of the food products during the refrigeration step, or their heating during the defrosting step. - According to a first variant embodiment, shown by way of example in
fig. 1 , therefrigerated display case 10 comprises at least onefan 31 installed in thetechnical compartment 13 and configured to selectively generate a first flow of air through thefirst circuit 26 and a second flow of air through thesecond circuit 29. - According to this solution, at least one
flow divider member 32 can be installed in thetechnical compartment 13, configured to allow and/or prevent the passage of the flow of air through thefirst pipe 25 or through thesecond pipe 27, and therefore to interrupt thefirst circuit 26 and/or thesecond circuit 29. - In particular, it is possible to provide a single
flow divider member 32 installed in correspondence with thefirst pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27 and configured to allow the air to pass through thefirst pipe 25 and to prevent it through thesecond pipe 27, or vice versa. - According to a variant embodiment, not shown, both the
first pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27 are provided with arespective divider member 32. - The
divider member 32 can comprise a reed valve or a non-return valve. - According to the solution shown in
fig. 1 , thefirst pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27 are provided with aninlet end 33 and anoutlet end 34 through which the flow of air is respectively introduced and discharged. - According to a possible solution, shown for example in
fig. 1 , thedivider member 32 is installed in correspondence with the inlet ends 33 of thefirst pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27. - According to the embodiment shown in
fig. 1 , asingle fan 31 is installed in thetechnical compartment 13, cooperating with thedivider member 32 to selectively generate the flow of air either in thefirst circuit 26 or in thesecond circuit 29. This allows to reduce the overall costs of the refrigerateddisplay case 10. - According to a possible solution, the
single fan 31 is installed in correspondence with the outlet end 34 of thefirst pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27, thus generating a flow through theevaporator 23 or toward theeutectic container 28 through air suction. However, it is not excluded that thefan 31 can be installed in correspondence with theinlet end 33 of thefirst pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27. - In the normal functioning of the refrigerated
display case 10, thedivider member 32 is put to close thesecond pipe 27, or in this specific case, it occludes theinlet end 33 of the latter. In this way the flow of air is prevented towards theeutectic container 28 and therefore through thesecond circuit 29. - During this step, the
eutectic container 28 accumulates thermal cooling energy, for example by heat convection. - The accumulation of heat energy in the
eutectic container 28 can take place quite slowly, for example within a time range comprised between about 2 and 4 hours, that is, the rate at which the defrosting is performed. The slow accumulation of energy avoids overloading therefrigeration plant 14 during its normal functioning. - The
fan 31 is driven to generate a flow of air through thefirst circuit 26. - When defrosting of the
evaporator 23 is required, thedivider member 32 is positioned to close thefirst pipe 25, or in this specific case to close theinlet end 33 of the latter. - The
fan 31 thus generates a flow of air that passes through thesecond circuit 29, while thedivider member 32 prevents its passage through thefirst pipe 25. - In this condition, the
defrosting device 24 is activated to defrost theevaporator 23. - The defrosting lasts only a few minutes, for example comprised between about 5 and 10 minutes.
- According to the variant embodiment shown in
fig. 2 , therefrigerated display case 10 comprises afirst fan 131 installed in thefirst pipe 25 and asecond fan 135 installed in thesecond pipe 27, configured to generate respectively a first flow of air through thefirst circuit 26 and a second flow of air through thesecond circuit 29. - According to this solution, it can be provided that the
first fan 131 and thesecond fan 135 are installed in correspondence with the respective outlet ends 34 of thefirst pipe 25 and thesecond pipe 27. This positioning of thefans evaporator 23 and respectively through theeutectic container 28. - According to a variant embodiment, the
first fan 131 and thesecond fan 135 can be installed in correspondence with theinlet end 33 of thefirst pipe 25 and/or thesecond pipe 27. - According to the embodiment shown in
fig. 2 , therefrigerated display case 10 may not have thedivider member 32, although it is not excluded that in possible embodiments thedivider member 32 may be present. - According to the solution shown in
fig. 2 , during the normal functioning of the refrigerateddisplay case 10 it is provided that theevaporator 23 and thefirst fan 131 are activated while thesecond fan 135 is deactivated, thus allowing the generation of a flow of air through thefirst circuit 26 and preventing it through thesecond circuit 29. - When it is required to defrost the
evaporator 23, thefirst fan 131 is deactivated and thedefrosting device 24 and thesecond fan 135 are driven. - In this way, in the second circuit 29 a flow of air is generated that hits the
eutectic container 28 while the passage of air through theevaporator 23 is prevented, to prevent any moisture generated during the defrosting of the latter from circulating to thedisplay compartment 11. - According to another solution of the present invention it is provided that at least the
second pipe 27, in which theeutectic container 28 is installed, is installed inclined, so that theoutlet end 34 is in a lower position than theinlet end 33. This positioning allows an easy outflow of the possible condensation that is generated in thesecond pipe 27. - According to possible variant embodiments, not shown in the drawings, it can be provided that the
eutectic container 28 is also associated with a defrosting circuit, for example in thesecond pipe 27. This defrosting action of theeutectic container 28 can be performed less frequently than that of theevaporator 23, for example once every 2-3 days. - According to other solutions of the present invention, the
refrigerated display case 10 can be provided with sensors configured to detect the temperature in thedisplay compartment 11 and adjust, for example, the functioning modes of the refrigeration plant and/orfans - According to other embodiments, the
refrigerated display case 10 can be provided with sensors to detect the formation of ice, configured to detect the presence of ice in theevaporator 23. - According to possible solutions, the sensors to detect the formation of ice can be electrically connected to a control and command unit configured to manage the functioning of the
evaporator 23, thedivider member 32 and the at least onefan - It has been found experimentally that, even if the solution with one
fan 31 and adivider member 32 is effective and satisfies the purposes of the invention, the variant infig. 2 , in which twofans divider member 32 and onefan 31. - For example, in certain situations where it is not used for long periods, the
divider member 32 runs the risk of icing over and therefore of remaining blocked in one position or another. - Furthermore, the
divider member 32 can clearly open one pipe at a time, hence eitherpipe 25 orpipe 27. - According to another step of the present refrigeration method, on the contrary, it can be extremely useful and advantageous that for a given period of time, for example a few minutes, the two
pipes pipes - The simultaneous delivery of air in both
pipes fans - For example, at the end of defrosting, the
evaporator 23 could be at a temperature comprised between 10°C and 20°C, and therefore the compressor of therefrigeration plant 14 is restarted in order to restore its function as a cold generator. Thefan 131 of theevaporator 23 remains switched off until the temperature of theevaporator 23 falls to about -2°C. When thefan 131 of theevaporator 23 is switched on, thefan 131 of theeutectic container 28 should not be switched off again, at least for a few minutes, because the temperature of theeutectic container 28 is still lower than the temperature of theevaporator 23. - It is therefore desirable for the
fans evaporator 23 reaches a lower temperature than that of theeutectic container 28, for example between about -16°C and -18°C. - When the temperature of the
evaporator 23 drops below the temperature of theeutectic container 28, thefan 135 of theeutectic container 28 can be switched off and theeutectic container 28 can be recharged in a subsequent period of time, for example between 2 and 4 hours, which is enough time for it to be ready for a new defrosting cycle. - It is therefore advantageous that in one step of the present refrigeration method, both
fans - It is clear that modifications and/or additions of parts and/or steps can be made to the refrigerated
display case 10 and to the corresponding refrigeration method described heretofore, without departing from the field of the present invention. - For example, the
refrigerated display case 10 can be structured differently from the embodiments shown infigs. 1 and 2 , for example, it can be oriented vertically to create a refrigerated wall display case. - It is also clear that, although the present invention has been described with reference to some specific examples, a person of skill in the art shall certainly be able to achieve many other forms of
refrigerated display case 10 and corresponding refrigeration method, having the characteristics as set forth in the claims and hence all coming within the field of protection defined thereby.
Claims (10)
- Refrigerated display case comprising a display compartment (11) for food products and a technical compartment (13), separate from said display compartment (11) and located in fluidic communication with the latter, at least one evaporator (23) of a refrigeration plant (14) being installed in said technical compartment (13), a defrosting device (24) being associated with said evaporator (23) to defrost said evaporator (23), said technical compartment (13) comprises:- a first pipe (25) in which said evaporator (23) is installed and defining with said display compartment (11) a first circuit (26) for the passage of the air, and comprising at least one fan (31,131,135), installed in said technical compartment (13) and configured to selectively generate a flow of air through said first circuit (26) or through a second circuit (29),characterized by- a second pipe (27) in which a eutectic container (28) made of deformable plastic material is installed and defining with said display compartment (11) said second circuit (29) for the passage of the air, wherein said eutectic container (28) comprises opposite walls formed by undulating profiles (36, 37) able to create ample heat exchange surfaces and wherein the deformable plastic material of which the eutectic container (28) is made also allows it to suitably adapt to the dilations due to the temperature variations of the eutectic solution.
- Refrigerated display case as in claim 1, characterized in that said undulating profiles (36, 37) comprise ridges (39) to support the eutectic container (28).
- Refrigerated display case as in claim 1, characterized in that said eutectic container (28) is modular and formed by a plurality of eutectic modules.
- Refrigerated display case as in claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a first fan (131) installed in said first pipe (25) and a second fan (135) installed in said second pipe (27), configured to generate respectively a first flow of air through said first circuit (26) and a second flow of air through said second circuit (29).
- Refrigerated display case as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that at least one stream divider member (32) is installed in said technical compartment (13), configured to allow and/or prevent the passage of the flow of air through said first pipe (25) or through said second pipe (27).
- Refrigerated display case as in claim 5, characterized in that it comprises a single fan (31) installed in said technical compartment (13) and cooperating with said divider member (32) to selectively generate the flow of air either in said first circuit (26) or in said second circuit (29).
- Method to refrigerate food products contained in a display compartment (11) of a refrigerated display case as in any claim hereinbefore, that provides:- to activate an evaporator (23) of a refrigeration plant (14) to cool a flow of air circulating between said display compartment (11) and a technical compartment (13), in which said evaporator (23) is installed,- to defrost said evaporator (23) using a defrosting device (24),characterized in that
during the activation of said evaporator (23) the generation of a first flow of air is provided through a first circuit (26) for the passage of the air defined between said display compartment (11) and a first pipe (25) of said technical compartment (13) in which said evaporator (23) is installed, and in that during the defrosting of said evaporator (23) the generation of a second flow of air is provided through a second circuit (29) for the passage of the air defined between said display compartment (11) and a second pipe (27) in which a eutectic container (28), made of a deformable plastic material, is installed and able to supply refrigeration energy, said first flow of air and said second flow of air being generated by at least one fan (31; 131, 135) installed in said technical compartment (13), wherein said eutectic container (28) comprises opposite walls formed by undulating profiles (36, 37) able to create ample heat exchange surfaces and wherein the deformable plastic material of which the eutectic container (28) is made also allows it to suitably adapt to the dilations due to the temperature variations of the eutectic solution. - Method as in claim 7, characterized in that said first flow of air is generated by the activation of a first fan (131) installed in said first pipe (25), and in that said second flow of air is generated by the activation of a second fan (135) installed in said second pipe (27).
- Method as in claim 7, characterized in that it comprises at least a simultaneous switching-on step of said first fan (131) and said second fan (135).
- Method as in claim 7, characterized in that during the activation of said evaporator (23) a divider member (32) is located to close said second pipe (27) and in that during the defrosting of said evaporator (23) said divider member (32) is located to close said first pipe (25).
Priority Applications (1)
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PL17188153T PL3290835T3 (en) | 2016-08-30 | 2017-08-28 | Refrigerated display case and corresponding refrigeration method |
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IT102016000088205A IT201600088205A1 (en) | 2016-08-30 | 2016-08-30 | REFRIGERATED DISPLAY AND RELATIVE REFRIGERATION METHOD |
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EP3290835B1 true EP3290835B1 (en) | 2019-09-25 |
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US3499295A (en) * | 1968-06-17 | 1970-03-10 | Emhart Corp | Refrigeration system |
JPH071128B2 (en) * | 1987-02-27 | 1995-01-11 | 株式会社東芝 | Refrigeration cycle for refrigerator |
IT227797Y1 (en) * | 1992-02-24 | 1998-01-21 | Bocchini Spa | REFRIGERATOR COUNTER, WITH CONSTANT TEMPERATURE DEFROST, FOR BULK FOOD PRODUCTS |
JPH08136107A (en) * | 1994-11-15 | 1996-05-31 | Fuji Electric Co Ltd | Cold air circulation type showcase |
JP2001330384A (en) * | 2000-05-24 | 2001-11-30 | Mitsubishi Cable Ind Ltd | Cold storage body and showcase using the same |
TWI477726B (en) * | 2012-01-20 | 2015-03-21 | Innovation Thru Energy Co Ltd | Mixed refrigerated cabinets |
-
2016
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