EP3884224A1

EP3884224A1 - Sensor mounting mechanism

Info

Publication number: EP3884224A1
Application number: EP19818416.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Stella M. Oggianu; Ankit Anand Gupta; Kumar Anup
Original assignee: Carrier Corp
Current assignee: Carrier Corp
Priority date: 2018-11-20
Filing date: 2019-11-19
Publication date: 2021-09-29
Also published as: CN112334723A; WO2020106701A1

Abstract

A sensor assembly includes a mounting mechanism for mounting the sensor assembly to a component, a power and control subsystem connected to a first portion of the mounting mechanism, and a sensor subsystem connected to a second portion of the mounting mechanism. The sensor subsystem is operably coupled to the power and control subsystem.

Description

SENSOR MOUNTING MECHANISM

BACKGROUND

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a refrigerated sales cabinet, and more particularly, to a method of detecting a condensate water level in a refrigerated sales cabinet.

[0002] Refrigerated sales cabinet for presenting cooled and/or frozen goods to potential customers include standalone and semi-plug in cabinets, as well as other types of cabinets which include a complete refrigeration circuit and need only to be connected to an electric power supply in order to operate the refrigeration circuit, are known in the art. The operation of the refrigeration circuit within such cabinets usually causes the humidity in the air to condense. This condensed water needs to be disposed from the goods presentation and air circulation space in order to maintain an attractive goods presentation and in order to maintain the cooling capacity of the refrigeration circuit.

[0003] It is known in the art to collect the condensed water in a condensed water collecting container, which is arranged below the evaporator. In existing refrigerated sales cabinet, the condensed water accumulates over time and may overflow from the collecting container. Existing systems do not typically include an alarm system that is capable of indicating the level of water within the container or that maintenance is required.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0004] According to an embodiment, a sensor assembly includes a mounting mechanism for mounting the sensor assembly to a component, a power and control subsystem connected to a first portion of the mounting mechanism, and a sensor subsystem connected to a second portion of the mounting mechanism. The sensor subsystem is operably coupled to the power and control subsystem.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the mounting mechanism includes a first member and a second member, the power and control subsystem being affixed to the first member and the sensor subsystem being connected to the second member.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the power and control subsystem includes at least one of a power supply, electronics for controlling operation of the power supply, and electronics for controlling operation of the sensor subsystem. [0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the power and control subsystem includes a processing device for processing data collected by the sensor subsystem.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the sensor subsystem includes at least one sensor operable to measure a distance to an adjacent surface.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the sensor subsystem includes a plurality of substantially identical sensors.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the sensor subsystem includes a first sensor and a second sensor, the first sensor being distinct from the second sensor.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the power and control subsystem further comprises a communication module.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the sensor subsystem is arranged in wireless communication with the power and control subsystem.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the sensor subsystem is arranged in wired communication with the power and control subsystem.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the mounting mechanism is permanently coupleable to the component.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the mounting mechanism is removably coupleable to the component.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a mounting position of the sensor subsystem relative to the mounting mechanism is adjustable.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the mounting mechanism further comprises a first member, a second member pivotally mounted to the first member via a pin, and a biasing mechanism mounted about the pin and coupled to the first member and the second member. [0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the mounting mechanism is transformable between a first position and a second positon, a clearance being formed between an end of the first member and a corresponding end of the second member when in the second position.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of the component is receivable within the clearance.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the power and control subsystem further comprises a power harvesting device.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the component is a water collecting container of a refrigerated sales cabinet.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the sensor assembly is usable in retrofit applications within modifying a structure of the component.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-section of an example of a refrigerated sales cabinet; and

[0025] FIG. 2 is a front view of a sensor assembly according to an embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a sensor subsystem and a power and control subsystem of a sensor assembly according to an embodiment; and

[0027] FIG. 4 is a front view of a sensor assembly mounted to a water collecting container of a refrigerated sales cabinet according to an embodiment.

DETAIFED DESCRIPTION

[0028] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

[0029] Referring now to FIG. 1, an example of a refrigerated sales cabinet 20 is illustrated. The refrigerated sales cabinet 20 includes a cabinet 22 having a refrigerated interior product display space 24 and an equipment compartment 26 disposed separate from the refrigerated interior product display space 24. As shown, the cabinet 22 includes a top wall 28 and a bottom wall 30 disposed between the refrigerated interior product display space 24 and the equipment compartment 26 located there beneath. The cabinet 22 additionally includes a surrounding side wall structure including a rear wall 32, a front wall 34, and opposed generally vertical extending side walls (not shown).

[0030] The interior product display space 24 may be accessed from an exterior of the cabinet 22 through an access opening 36, which in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, is an open area formed at the front of the cabinet 22. This open area may be open to the environment, or alternatively, may be covered by at least one door 38 mounted to the cabinet 22, as shown in the FIG. The door 38 extends across the open area and may include a transparent viewing area, such as a glass panel for example, through which at least a portion of the interior product display space 24 can be viewed. The door 38 is selectively movable between a closed position covering the open area (as shown) and an open position in which a consumer can access the interior product display space 24 to remove a product therefrom. The door 38 may be mounted to the cabinet 22 in a conventional manner, such as via hinges for pivotal movement, or on a track for sliding movement. Although the refrigerated sales cabinet 20 is illustrated with a single door 38 mounted adjacent the open area, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the refrigerated sales cabinet 20 may include any number of doors, such as two, three, or four doors for example, that collectively cover the open area when in the closed position.

[0031] In an embodiment, the plurality of walls 28, 30, 32, 34 of the cabinet 22 are heat transfer insulated for insulating the refrigerated interior product display space 24 from the environment exterior to the interior product display space 24. A plurality of shelves 40 are mounted within the interior product display space 24 to support various products 42 being displayed for purchase. The specific number, arrangement, and configuration of the shelves 40 will vary based on the products positioned within the interior product display space 24. Examples of products that may be stored within the interior product display space 24 include bottled or canned soda, milk, water, juices, fruit drinks, beer, and other beverages. However, it should be understood that the refrigerated sales cabinet 20 may be used to displaying any type of perishable and/or frozen comestibles and beverages, including for example meats, poultry, fish, daisy products, prepackaged frozen foods, and other products that need to be maintained in a controlled environment.

[0032] Conditioned air generated within the equipment compartment is delivered to the interior product display space 24 to cool the product displayed therein. The equipment compartment 26 is located within the cabinet 22, beneath the lower wall 30 such that the equipment compartment 26 is separated from the interior product display space 24. A refrigeration system 60 for providing cool air to the interior product display space is arranged within the equipment compartment 26. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the equipment compartment 26 is divided into an upper portion and a lower portion.

[0033] When the refrigeration system 60 is operating, an evaporator 64 thereof cools a stream of air which is guided through an air circulation space 63 by an air movement mechanism 62. The cooled air is then directed into the interior product display space 24 to cool the goods 42 provided on the shelves 40. During operation, humidity within the equipment compartment 26, and in particular within the air stream flowing through the air circulation space 63 may condense therein.

[0034] In order to collect the condensed water dropping from the evaporator 64, a water collecting container 80 is arranged in the lower portion of the equipment compartment 26, such as directly underneath the evaporator 64 for example. In an embodiment, the water collecting container 80 may he heated to evaporate the water collected in the water collecting container 80 to the second air stream passing through the lower portion of the equipment compartment 26. It should be understood that the refrigerated sales cabinet 20 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only.

[0035] With reference now to FIGS. 2 and 3, an example of a sensor assembly 100 operable to detect the presence and or level of water within the water collecting container. The sensor assembly 100 may be used with in retrofit applications with existing cabinets 22 without requiring any modification thereof. The sensor assembly 100 includes a mounting mechanism 102 for affixing the sensor assembly 100 to a component. In an embodiment, the mounting mechanism 102 is operable to permanently affix the sensor assembly 100 to a component. Alternatively, the mounting mechanism 102 may removably couple the sensor assembly 100 to a component

[0036] An example of a removable mounting mechanism 102 is illustrated in the FIG 2. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the mounting mechanism 102 includes a seissor-lype mechanism having a first member 104 and a second member 106 pivotally coupled about a pin 108. A biasing mechanism 110, such as a torsion spring for example, is connected to the first and second members 104, 106. The mounting mechanism 102 is configured to transform between a first position and a second position. In the first position the first ends 1 12, 1 14 of the first member 104 and the second member 106 respectively, are generally separated from one another by a gap 116, and the second ends 1 18, 120 of the first member 104 and the second member 106 respectively, are biased towards one another. In an embodiment the first and second members 104, 106 adjacent the second ends 118, 120 may be in in contact with one another.

[0037] To transform the mounting mechanism 102 to the second position, a force is applied to the first ends 112, 114 of the first member 104 and the second member 106. The force applied to the first ends 112, 114 opposes and overcomes the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 1 10 causing the first member 104 and the second member 106 to rotate relative to one another about the axis defined by the pin 108. As the gap 1 16 between the first ends 112, 114 is eliminated, the second ends 118, 120 of the first member 104 and the second member 106 pivot about the axis away from one another. As a result, when the mounting mechanism 102 is in the second position, a clearance 122 is formed extending generally between the pin 108 and the second ends 118, 120 of the first member 104 and the second member 106, respectively. Upon removal of the force from the first ends 112, 114, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 110 causes the first member 104 and the second member 106 to pivot about the axis back to the first position. It should be understood that the mounting mechanism 102 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that other suitable mounting mechanisms are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0038] The sensor assembly 100 additionally includes a sensor subsystem 130 mounted to the mounting mechanism 102. The sensor subsystem 130 includes one or more sensors 132. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the sensor subsystem 130 includes a single sensor 132, and the sensor 132 is an ultrasonic sensor capable of measuring a distance by emission of sound waves. However it should be understood that other types of distance sensing sensors as well as other types of sensors in general may be used in the sensor subsystem 130. In addition, although a single sensor 132 is shown in FIG. 2, it should be understood that embodiments including a plurality of sensors (see FIG. 3) are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, in embodiments including multiple sensors, the plurality of sensors 132 may be substantially identical, or alternatively, may be different.

[0039] At least one sensor of the sensor subsystem 130 may be attached to the mounting mechanism 102 via any suitable method. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of openings 134 are formed in the second member 106 of the mounting mechanism 102 such that the at least one sensor 132 may be coupled to the mounting mechanism 102 at various positions about the second member 106 via the openings 134. With the plurality of openings 134, the height of the sensor may he adjusted based on the requirements of a given application. The sensor 132 may he mounted via a connector 136 such that the sensor 132 is in direct contact with a surface 138 of the second member 106, or alternatively, the sensor 132 may be offset from an adjacent surface 138 of the second member 106, in a cantilevered manner. In embodiments where the sensor subsystem 130 includes a plurality of sensors, the plurality of sensors may be vertically and/or laterally offset from one another to prevent interference there between.

[0040] A power and control subsystem 140 associated with the sensor subsystem 130 is also mounted to a portion of the mounting mechanism 102, such as the first member 104 for example. However, it should be understood that the power and control subsystem 140 may be mounted at any suitable location of the mounting mechanism 102. As best shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 3, the power and control subsystem 140 may include any of a power supply 142, a communication system 144, and a processing device 146 for controlling operation of the power supply 142 and/or the sensor subsystem 130 and for processing the data collected by the sensor subsystem 130. The power supply 142 may be a battery or other energy storage device, a supercap, or alternatively, a wired power unit with or without a transformer. However, it should be understood that embodiments where power for the sensor 132 is provided from another component within the cabinet 22, or from a source external to the cabinet 22, in place of the power supply 142 are also within the scope of the disclosure. The communication system 144 of the power and control subsystem 140 may be configured to communicate either wirelessly or via a wired connection with the sensor subsystem 130 and/or a controller of the cabinet 22. In an embodiment, the communication system 144 is hard wired to the sensor subsystem 130. Further, the communication system 144 may communicated with a remote server, such as“the cloud,” a building management system, or a remote alarm system or notification device. In an embodiment, the processing device 146 is configured to receive and analyze the data from the sensor system 130. Alternatively, an optional processing device 141 located remotely from the sensor assembly 100 may be operably coupled to the power and control subsystem 140 to receive and/or analyze the data from the sensor system 130. The processing device 141 may be configured to communicate the data and/or analysis based on the data to a cabinet controller, a service team, or a building system.

[0041] Hie power and control subsystem 140 may optionally include a power harvesting device 150. The power harvesting device 150 may be configured to generate power via connection with a component. Accordingly, the power harvesting device 150 may be customized based on the application within which the sensor assembly 100 is to be used. For example, in embodiments where the sensor assembly 100 is mounted to a water collecting container 80, such as of a refrigerated sales cabinet, the energy of the condensed water flowing into the water collecting container 80 may be used to harvest energy for operation of the sensor assembly 100.

[0042] With reference now to FIG. 4, the sensor assembly 100 is illustrated connected to a water collecting container, such as container 80 for example, of a refrigerated sales cabinet 20. As shown a sidewall 82 of the container 80 is received within the clearance 122 defined between the first member 104 and the second member 106 of the mounting mechanism 102. The sensor assembly 100 is positioned such that the sensor subsystem 130 is mounted vertically above the upper surface 84 of the water collecting container 80, in alignment with an interior portion 86 of the water collecting container 80. By affixing the power and control subsystem 140 to the first member 104, the power and control subsystem 140 may be located at the exterior of the water collecting container 80 and thus o t of contact with the water collected by the water collecting container 80.

[0043] In embodiments where the at least one sensor 132 of the sensor subsystem 130 is an ultrasonic sensor, the sensor 132 emits sound waves and determines the length of time required for the emitted sound wave to reflect back to the sensor 132. Accordingly, the signals output from the ultrasonic sensor 132 are communicated to the power and control subsystem 140 where they are used to estimate the distance between the sensor 132 and the water contained within the water collecting container 80, thereby identifying the level of the water within the water collecting container 80. The one or more sensors 132 may be operable to sample the level of the water within the water collecting container 80 at intervals or continuously. As a result the sensor 132 is operable to detect if the water level within the water collecting container 80 is rising and/or approaching a level or threshold where the refrigerated sales cabinet 20 requires maintenance.

[0044] Although described with respect to a water collecting container 80 of a refrigerated sales cabinet, the sensor assembly 100 illustrated and described herein may be used in a variety of applications with differing types of sensors. Further, tire sensor assembly 100 may be easily fit onto a component, such as water collecting container 80, without modifying the water collecting container 80. The sensor assembly 100 may be easily removed for maintenance, and due to inclusion of the power and control subsyste may be robust enough to last for the lifetime of the component.

[0045] The term“about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application. [0046] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms“a”,“an” and“the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or“comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and/or groups thereof.

[0047] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A sensor assembly comprising:

a mounting mechanism for mounting the sensor assembly to a component;

a power and control subsystem connected to a first portion of the mounting mechanism; and

a sensor subsystem connected to a second portion of the mounting mechanism, wherein the sensor subsystem is operably coupled to the power and control subsystem.

2. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a first member and a second member, the power and control subsystem being affixed to the first member and the sensor subsystem being connected to the second member.

3. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the power and control subsystem includes at least one of a power supply, electronics for controlling operation of the power supply, and electronics for controlling operation of the sensor subsystem.

4. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the power and control subsystem includes a processing device for processing data collected by the sensor subsystem.

5. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the sensor subsystem includes at least one sensor operable to measure a distance to an adjacent surface.

6. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the sensor subsystem includes a plurality of substantially identical sensors.

7. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the sensor subsystem includes a first sensor and a second sensor, the first sensor being distinct from the second sensor.

8. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the power and control subsystem further comprises a communication module.

9. The sensor assembly of claim 8, wherein the sensor subsystem is arranged in wireless communication with the power and control subsystem.

10. The sensor assembly of claim 8, wherein the sensor subsystem is arranged in wired communication with the power and control subsystem.

11. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the mounting mechanism is permanently coupleable to the component.

12. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the mounting mechanism is removably coupleable to the component.

13. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein a mounting position of the sensor subsystem relative to the mounting mechanism is adjustable.

14. The sensor assembly of any of claims 2-13, wherein the mounting mechanism further comprises:

a first member;

a second member pivotally mounted to the first member via a pin; and

a biasing mechanism mounted about the pin and coupled to the first member and the second member.

15. The sensor assembly of claim 14, wherein the mounting mechanism is transformable between a first position and a second positon, a clearance being formed between an end of the first member and a corresponding end of the second member when in the second position.

16. The sensor assembly of claim 15, wherein a portion of the component is receivable within the clearance.

17. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the power and control subsystem further comprises a power harvesting device.

18. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the component is a water collecting container of a refrigerated sales cabinet.

19. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the sensor assembly is usable in retrofit applications within modifying a structure of the component.