US20230330969A1 - Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor - Google Patents
Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230330969A1 US20230330969A1 US18/341,359 US202318341359A US2023330969A1 US 20230330969 A1 US20230330969 A1 US 20230330969A1 US 202318341359 A US202318341359 A US 202318341359A US 2023330969 A1 US2023330969 A1 US 2023330969A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- channel
- breaker
- perimetrical
- inner liner
- wrapper
- 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.)
- Pending
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B15/00—Layered products comprising a layer of metal
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B15/00—Layered products comprising a layer of metal
- B32B15/04—Layered products comprising a layer of metal comprising metal as the main or only constituent of a layer, which is next to another layer of the same or of a different material
- B32B15/043—Layered products comprising a layer of metal comprising metal as the main or only constituent of a layer, which is next to another layer of the same or of a different material of metal
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B15/00—Layered products comprising a layer of metal
- B32B15/04—Layered products comprising a layer of metal comprising metal as the main or only constituent of a layer, which is next to another layer of the same or of a different material
- B32B15/08—Layered products comprising a layer of metal comprising metal as the main or only constituent of a layer, which is next to another layer of the same or of a different material of synthetic resin
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B7/00—Layered products characterised by the relation between layers; Layered products characterised by the relative orientation of features between layers, or by the relative values of a measurable parameter between layers, i.e. products comprising layers having different physical, chemical or physicochemical properties; Layered products characterised by the interconnection of layers
- B32B7/04—Interconnection of layers
- B32B7/08—Interconnection of layers by mechanical means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B7/00—Layered products characterised by the relation between layers; Layered products characterised by the relative orientation of features between layers, or by the relative values of a measurable parameter between layers, i.e. products comprising layers having different physical, chemical or physicochemical properties; Layered products characterised by the interconnection of layers
- B32B7/04—Interconnection of layers
- B32B7/12—Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
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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
- F25D23/00—General constructional features
- F25D23/02—Doors; Covers
-
- 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
- F25D23/08—Parts formed wholly or mainly of plastics materials
- F25D23/082—Strips
- F25D23/085—Breaking strips
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/72—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by combined operations or combined techniques, e.g. welding and stitching
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
- B32B2307/50—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular mechanical properties
- B32B2307/546—Flexural strength; Flexion stiffness
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B2509/00—Household appliances
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
- B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
- B32B2509/00—Household appliances
- B32B2509/10—Refrigerators or refrigerating equipment
-
- 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
- F25D23/00—General constructional features
- F25D23/02—Doors; Covers
- F25D23/021—Sliding doors
-
- 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
- F25D23/064—Walls defining a cabinet formed by moulding, e.g. moulding in situ
-
- 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
- F25D23/08—Parts formed wholly or mainly of plastics materials
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B40/00—Technologies aiming at improving the efficiency of home appliances, e.g. induction cooking or efficient technologies for refrigerators, freezers or dish washers
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
- Y10T428/24777—Edge feature
Definitions
- the device is in the field of insulation structures for appliances, and more specifically, a multi-component structural panel for an appliance having at least one stamped component.
- an operable panel for an appliance includes a metallic outer wrapper having a perimetrical wrapper edge that partially defines a perimetrical breaker channel, an inner liner and a plurality of corner brackets disposed proximate the perimetrical wrapper edge. Each corner bracket cooperates with the perimetrical wrapper edge to define the perimetrical breaker channel.
- a trim breaker is adhered to the metallic outer wrapper and the corner brackets at the perimetrical breaker channel and includes a liner channel that receives a portion of the inner liner. The trim breaker extends between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
- An insulation material is disposed within an insulating cavity defined between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
- a method for forming a vacuum insulated structure for an appliance includes stamping a first metallic sheet into a flat liner pattern that corresponds to an inner liner for an appliance.
- the inner liner has a plurality of liner walls and a perimetrical liner tab.
- the flat liner pattern is shaped into the inner liner.
- a second metallic sheet is stamped into a flat wrapper pattern that corresponds to an outer wrapper for an appliance.
- the outer wrapper has a plurality of wrapper walls and a perimetrical wrapper edge.
- the flat wrapper pattern is shaped into the outer wrapper.
- a trim breaker is formed having a liner channel and a wrapper channel.
- the perimetrical liner tab and the perimetrical wrapper edge are secured with the liner and wrapper channels, respectively.
- An insulating material is disposed within an insulating cavity formed between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
- a method for forming a vacuum insulated structure for an appliance includes forming a first planar sheet into an inner liner.
- a second planar sheet is formed into an outer wrapper having a plurality of wrapper walls and a wrapper edge that at least partially defines a perimetrical breaker channel.
- a trim breaker is formed having a liner channel for receiving a portion of the inner liner and a wrapper channel for seating within the perimetrical breaker channel.
- the inner liner is secured within the liner channel and the wrapper channel is placed within the perimetrical breaker channel.
- An insulating material is disposed within an insulating cavity formed between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
- FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an appliance having operable panels that are formed using an aspect of the method for forming a vacuum insulated structure;
- FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the drawer panel of the appliance of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the drawer panel of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the drawer panel of FIG. 3 with the drawer glides removed;
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the drawer panel of FIG. 3 taken along line V-V;
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the drawer panel of FIG. 5 taken at area VI, with the gasket removed;
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the drawer panel
- FIG. 8 is a partially exploded perspective view of the outer wrapper of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the corner bracket of FIG. 8 ;
- FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the corner detail of the drawer panel of FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 11 is a plan view of an aspect of a stamped metallic panel including guide lines that can be shaped to form an aspect of an outer wrapper of an operable panel for an appliance;
- FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an aspect of an operable panel incorporating a stamped inner liner that includes an injection molded portion proximate a trim breaker;
- FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aspect of the operable panel for an appliance exemplifying an aspect of a trim breaker having elongated legs;
- FIG. 14 is a partially exploded view of an aspect of an inner liner for an operable panel for an appliance showing a stamped inner liner and an injection molded end piece;
- FIG. 15 is a schematic linear flow diagram illustrating a method for forming a vacuum insulated structure for an appliance.
- FIG. 16 is a schematic linear flow diagram illustrating a method for forming a vacuum insulated structure for an appliance.
- 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.
- reference numeral 10 generally refers to an operable panel for an appliance 12 , where the operable panel 10 can be in the form of a rotating door 14 or a slidable drawer 16 for the appliance 12 to define open and closed positions of various interior compartments 18 of the appliance 12 .
- the operable panel 10 for the appliance 12 can include a metallic outer wrapper 20 having a perimetrical wrapper edge 22 that partially defines a perimetrical breaker channel 24 .
- the operable panel 10 can also include an inner liner 26 . It is contemplated that the metallic outer wrapper 20 and the inner liner 26 can be coupled together to define an insulating cavity 28 therebetween.
- a plurality of corner brackets 30 can be disposed proximate the perimetrical wrapper edge 22 , where each corner bracket 30 cooperates with the perimetrical wrapper edge 22 to fully define the perimetrical breaker channel 24 of the outer wrapper 20 .
- the corner brackets 30 will be disposed in the outer corners 32 of the outer wrapper 20 , such that where the operable panel 10 is rectangular, four corner brackets 30 will be disposed in each of the four outer corners 32 of the outer wrapper 20 .
- a trim breaker 34 is adhered to the metallic outer wrapper 20 and the corner brackets 30 at the perimetrical breaker channel 24 .
- the trim breaker 34 includes a liner channel 36 that receives a portion of the inner liner 26 .
- the trim breaker 34 is adapted to extend between the inner liner 26 and the outer wrapper 20 to substantially seal the edges of the outer wrapper 20 and the inner liner 26 and enclose the insulating cavity 28 defined therebetween.
- the trim breaker 34 is adapted to engage the perimetrical breaker channel 24 defined by the outer wrapper 20 and the plurality of corner brackets 30 .
- a flexible gasket 50 can be disposed within a gasket channel 52 defined within the trim breaker 34 . It is contemplated that the gasket channel 52 is positioned proximate a wrapper channel 54 that is adapted to be disposed within the perimetrical breaker channel 24 . The wrapper channel 54 of the trim breaker 34 is adapted to seat within the perimetrical breaker channel 24 of the outer wrapper 20 and the corner brackets 30 . It is contemplated that the trim breaker 34 can include a U-shaped channel that defines each of the wrapper channel 54 and the gasket channel 52 .
- one surface of the U-shaped channel of the trim breaker 34 defines the wrapper channel 54 and the opposing surface of the U-shaped channel defines the gasket channel 52 .
- the outward extending surface of the U-shaped channel can define the wrapper channel 54 that seats within the perimetrical breaker channel 24 of the metallic outer wrapper 20 .
- the inwardly extending surface of the U-shaped channel is adapted to receive a portion of the gasket 50 such that the gasket 50 seats within the gasket channel 52 of the trim breaker 34 .
- the U-shaped channel it is contemplated that at least a portion of the gasket 50 can be positioned and supported within the channel volume defined by the perimetrical breaker channel 24 of the metallic outer wrapper 20 and the corner brackets 30 .
- the various corner brackets 30 can include an outer engagement surface 60 that engages an interior surface 62 of the outer wrapper 20 at each of the outer corners 32 .
- Each corner bracket 30 can include a plurality of adhesion grooves 64 defined within the engagement surface 60 .
- Each of these adhesion grooves 64 can serve to retain an adhesive 116 therein such that when the engagement surface 60 of the corner bracket 30 engages the interior surface 62 of the outer wrapper 20 , adhesive 116 disposed within each of the adhesion grooves 64 can serve to apply the adhesive 116 to form a secure and hermetically sealed engagement between each corner bracket 30 and the interior surface 62 of the outer wrapper 20 .
- each corner bracket 30 can include a structural body 68 that engages a plurality of interior surfaces 62 defined within the outer corner 32 of the outer wrapper 20 .
- a flat wrapper pattern 80 that is stamped within a metallic sheet that can be folded upward to form the various contours of the outer wrapper 20 .
- each edge and the portions of the perimetrical breaker channel 24 within each edge of the outer wrapper 20 can be formed from a separate wing 82 defined within the flat wrapper pattern 80 .
- a seam 84 is formed along each outer corner 32 where two adjacent wings 82 of the flat wrapper pattern 80 engage one another.
- each corner bracket 30 engages various interior surfaces 62 of each of these wings 82 to reinforce the outer corner 32 of the outer wrapper 20 and also reinforce the perimetrical breaker channel 24 of the outer wrapper 20 .
- the adhesive 116 disposed within the adhesion grooves 64 of each corner bracket 30 can be deposited proximate the seam 84 to fill and seal and potentially hermetically seal each of these seams 84 to form secure connections between each of the wings 82 that form the outer corners 32 of the outer wrapper 20 .
- the seam 84 can be further sealed through a secondary process to re-strike each outer corner 32 of the outer wrapper 20 and close any visible gaps that appear as a result of the seam 84 .
- the outer wrapper 20 can appear as a substantially monolithic member, lacking visible seams 84 within portions of the exterior surface 86 of the outer wrapper 20 .
- the operable panel 10 described herein can include a panel for a rotationally operable door 14 that can include a hinge assembly 90 that is attached to the outer wrapper 20 , the trim breaker 34 and/or the inner liner 26 . It is contemplated that the hinge assembly 90 can extend from the operable panel 10 , and typically the outer wrapper 20 and extend to a cabinet structure 92 of the appliance 12 . It is contemplated that such a hinge assembly 90 can be attached to a reinforcing structure disposed proximate the interior surface 62 of the outer wrapper 20 that substantially prevents deflection at the outer wrapper 20 and other portions of the operable panel 10 during use of the appliance 12 .
- the operable panel 10 can be a panel for a drawer 16 where a drawer glide assembly 94 is attached to at least one of the inner liner 26 and the outer wrapper 20 .
- the drawer glide assembly 94 can be adapted to extend from the operable panel 10 to a portion of the cabinet structure 92 to secure the operable panel 10 thereto.
- the drawer glide assembly 94 can include a reinforcing structure disposed proximate the interior surface 62 of the outer wrapper 20 to prevent bending, warping and other deflection of the operable panel 10 during use of the appliance 12 .
- an insulation material 100 can be disposed within the insulating cavity 28 defined between the inner liner 26 , the outer wrapper 20 and trim breaker 34 extending therebetween.
- Various insulation materials 100 can be included within the insulating cavity 28 .
- Such insulating materials can include, but are not limited to, microspheres, nanospheres, silica-type materials, granulated insulation material, powder-based insulation material, foam insulation, vacuum insulated panels, combinations thereof, other similar insulating materials.
- the engagement between the outer wrapper 20 , the inner liner 26 , and the trim breaker 34 can form a substantially hermetic seal.
- This hermetic seal can allow for the expression or expulsion of gas from within the insulating cavity 28 such that the operable panel 10 can be manufactured to include an at least partial vacuum within the insulating cavity 28 to define the operable panel 10 as a self-contained vacuum insulation structure.
- a vacuum port may be disposed within a portion of the operable panel 10 such that gas can be expressed or expelled through the vacuum port and sealed to maintain the at least partial vacuum within the insulating cavity 28 .
- the inner liner 26 can be formed from a first metallic sheet 110 that is stamped into a flat liner pattern 112 , or stamped into the shape of a metallic inner liner 26 for use in the operable panel 10 . It is also contemplated that the inner liner 26 can be formed from the plastic-type material that can be molded, stamped, or otherwise formed into the shape of the inner liner 26 .
- the outer wrapper 20 can also be made of various materials that can include, but are not limited to, metal, plastic, combinations thereof and other similar materials. Typically, the outer wrapper 20 will be formed from a second metallic sheet 114 such that the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 are each metallic sheets that form the operable panel 10 .
- the trim breaker 34 can be in the form of an injection molded piece that is injection molded around portions of the inner liner 26 and the outer wrapper 20 .
- the trim breaker 34 can be a separately molded plastic member that can be attached to the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 through adhesives 116 , welding, or other similar process to secure the trim breaker 34 to the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 . It is contemplated that when the trim breaker 34 is attached to the outer wrapper 20 , an adhesive 116 can be placed within the perimetrical breaker channel 24 and the wrapper channel 54 of the trim breaker 34 can be set within the perimetrical breaker channel 24 and secured therein through the adhesive 116 .
- the adhesive 116 used in attaching the trim breaker 34 to the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 can assist in forming the hermetic seal of the operable panel 10 . It is also contemplated that in forming the inner liner 26 and/or outer wrapper 20 , at least one wrapper wall 120 or liner wall 122 can be in an injection molded member (shown in FIG. 12 ) that defines at least a portion of the inner liner 26 and/or the outer wrapper 20 and also serves to define a portion of the trim breaker 34 extending therebetween. In order to increase and strengthen the engagement between the trim breaker 34 an the inner liner 26 and/or the outer wrapper 20 , the trim breaker 34 can include an elongated flange 124 (shown in FIG.
- a method 400 for forming a structural panel for an appliance 12 .
- a first metallic sheet 110 can be stamped into the shape of a flat liner pattern 112 that corresponds to the inner liner 26 of an appliance 12 (step 402 ).
- the flat liner pattern 112 can include various geometries that can correspond to a plurality of liner walls 122 and a perimetrical liner tab 130 , where the perimetrical liner tab 130 can be adapted to engage with a liner channel 36 at the trim breaker 34 during assembly of the operable panel 10 .
- the flat liner pattern 112 can be shaped into the shape of the inner liner 26 (step 404 ).
- the inner liner 26 can be stamped directly into the shape of an inner liner 26 , or at least a portion of the inner liner 26 , without necessarily including the step of forming the flat liner pattern 112 through a separate stamping process.
- the material of the inner liner 26 is a more flexible and pliable material such as plastic, polymers and other similar materials that can be stamped without significant wrinkling, bunching or other unwanted deformations.
- a second metallic sheet 114 can be stamped into a flat wrapper pattern 80 that corresponds to an outer wrapper 20 for an appliance 12 (step 406 ).
- the outer wrapper 20 includes a plurality of wrapper walls 120 and a perimetrical wrapper edge 22 . It is contemplated that the perimetrical wrapper edge 22 can define at least part of the perimetrical breaker channel 24 that receives the wrapper channel 54 of the trim breaker 34 .
- the flat wrapper pattern 80 can be shaped into the form of the outer wrapper 20 (step 408 ).
- the steps of stamping first and second metallic sheets 110 , 114 into the flat liner pattern 112 and flat wrapper pattern 80 can include disposing guide lines 140 within the flat liner and flat wrapper patterns 112 , 80 . It is contemplated that these guide lines 140 can correspond to edges and corners of the plurality of liner walls 122 and edges of the plurality of wrapper walls 120 . The use of guide lines 140 can also assist in the forming step of the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 , such that clean and precise edges can be formed as the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 are folded into their respective final shapes.
- a trim breaker 34 is formed, where the trim breaker 34 includes a liner channel 36 and wrapper channel 54 (step 410 ).
- the perimetrical liner tab 130 and the perimetrical wrapper edge 22 can be secured to the liner and wrapper channels 36 , 54 of the trim breaker 34 , respectively (step 412 ).
- the trim breaker 34 can be preformed and the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 can be adhered, welded, or otherwise secured to the trim breaker 34 . It is also contemplated that the trim breaker 34 can be injection molded around portions of the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 to form a secure structure between these components.
- portions of the inner liner 26 and/or outer wrapper 20 can include injection molded or separately formed plastic components that can be integrated with the trim breaker 34 and attached to portions of the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 .
- the inner liner 26 can include an elongated band that is stamped or otherwise shaped into a profile of the inner liner 26 .
- At least one of a top and bottom cap 150 of the inner liner 26 can be either injection molded or premolded and attached to the stamped portion of the inner liner 26 to fully define the shape of the inner liner 26 .
- this injection molded portion of the inner liner 26 can either be attached to the trim breaker 34 or can be injection molded as part of the trim breaker 34 .
- the stamped portion of the inner liner 26 can define a main body 152 of the inner liner 26 .
- the end portions 154 of the inner liner 26 which may be injection molded or otherwise formed from plastic or other polymer-type material, can be a cap 150 attached to the end portions 154 of the main body 152 of the inner liner 26 . It is also contemplated that the cap 150 attached to the main body 152 of the inner liner 26 can be in the form of a sheet member made of metal and/or plastic that is adhered to the edge of the main body 152 of the inner liner 26 . Accordingly, the caps 150 can be in the form of a two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape that can be attached to the main body 152 of the inner liner 26 .
- the trim breaker 34 can be injection molded, overmolded or otherwise formed to only one of the inner liner 26 and the outer wrapper 20 .
- the other of the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 can then be adhered, fastened, or otherwise attached to the trim breaker 34 to form the operable panel 10 .
- the trim breaker 34 can be overmolded onto a portion of the inner liner 26 proximate the perimetrical liner tab 130 .
- the outer wrapper 20 can then be adhered to the trim breaker 34 through the engagement of the wrapper channel 54 of the trim breaker 34 and the perimetrical breaker channel 24 of the outer wrapper 20 .
- an insulation material 100 can be disposed within the insulating cavity 28 formed within the inner liner 26 and the outer wrapper 20 (step 414 ).
- a gasket 50 can be disposed within a gasket channel 52 of the trim breaker 34 , where the gasket channel 52 is disposed proximate the wrapper channel 54 of the trim breaker 34 (step 416 ).
- various corner brackets 30 can be disposed against an interior surface 62 of the outer wrapper 20 at each outer corner 32 , respectively. It is contemplated that the outer wrapper 20 and corner brackets 30 cooperate to define the perimetrical channel of the outer wrapper 20 .
- the corner brackets 30 can be positioned on the flat wrapper pattern 80 and then the flat wrapper pattern 80 can be formed around the brackets.
- the outer wrapper 20 can be formed and then the corner brackets 30 can be disposed in the outer corners 32 of the pre-formed outer wrapper 20 .
- corner brackets 30 can be pre-formed to a desired shape, or can be injection molded within the outer corners 32 of the outer wrapper 20 . Where the corner brackets 30 are pre-formed, an adhesive 116 is typically included within the adhesion grooves 64 defined within the engagement surface 60 of each corner bracket 30 , as described above.
- various aspects of the method can include a step of sealing the outer corners 32 proximate the outer wrapper 20 of the corner brackets 30 .
- two distinct edges of the flat wrapper pattern 80 defined by wings 82 of the flat wrapper pattern 80 can define a seam 84 at each outer corner 32 .
- the corner brackets 30 can be entirely disposed within the insulating cavity 28 to support the outer corner 32 of the outer wrapper 20 during sealing of each outer corner 32 .
- sealing the outer corners 32 can include welding, striking, the use of adhesives 116 , combinations thereof, and other similar methods that can seal two adjacent wings 82 of the flat wrapper pattern 80 .
- a method 500 is disclosed for forming a structural panel for an appliance 12 .
- a first planar sheet is formed into the shape of an inner liner 26 (step 502 ).
- the first planar sheet can be metallic, plastic, other polymer-type material, combinations thereof, and other similar materials that can be used to shape the inner liner 26 .
- the exact forming process used to form the inner liner 26 can depend upon the material of the first planar sheet.
- a second planar sheet is formed into the shape of an outer wrapper 20 (step 504 ).
- the outer wrapper 20 can include a plurality of wrapper walls 120 and a wrapper edge 22 that at least partially defines the perimetrical breaker channel 24 .
- the second planar sheet will be a metallic panel that is stamped and then folded into the shape of the outer wrapper 20 . It is contemplated that other materials can be used to form the outer wrapper 20 , such as plastic, other polymer materials, composites, combinations thereof, and other similar panel-forming materials.
- the inner liner 26 is then secured within the liner channel 36 and the wrapper channel 54 is placed within the perimetrical breaker channel 24 (step 508 ).
- An insulation material 100 is also disposed within the insulating cavity 28 formed between the inner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 (step 510 ). It is contemplated that the insulation material 100 can be disposed within the insulating cavity 28 at various steps within the formation of the operable panel 10 . It is contemplated that the operable panel 10 can be manufactured to include an insulation port through which insulation material 100 can be disposed after the inner liner 26 , outer wrapper 20 and trim breaker 34 are attached together to form the structure of the operable panel 10 . It is also contemplated that the insulation material 100 can be disposed within the outer wrapper 20 and then the trim breaker 34 and inner liner 26 can be attached to the outer wrapper 20 to contain the insulation material 100 within the now-formed insulating cavity 28 .
- the various aspects of the operable panel 10 and the various aspects of the methods described herein can be used to form operable panels 10 for various appliances 12 .
- Such appliances 12 can include, but are not limited to, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, laundry appliances, ovens, coolers, water heaters, and other similar appliances 12 that include an insulation system.
- the inner liner 26 , outer wrapper 20 and trim breaker 34 can be made of various materials that can be stamped, formed, folded or otherwise shaped into the final form of the operable panel 10 . It is contemplated that the exact material used for these components can dictate the methods and sequence of steps that may be used to form the inner liner 26 , outer wrapper 20 and trim breaker 34 . Where a metallic sheet is used for the inner liner 26 and/or outer wrapper 20 , the metallic sheet will typically be stamped into a particular pattern and then the pattern will be bent or otherwise shaped into the final form or substantially the final form of the inner liner 26 and/or outer wrapper 20 .
- these operations can be used in conjunction with various plastic forming, injection molding, overmolding or plastic attaching processes that can fully form the shape of the inner liner 26 and/or the outer wrapper 20 .
- the inner liner 26 and/or outer wrapper 20 are formed of plastic
- a single stamping, heat forming, molding, or other shaping process can be used to form the inner liner 26 and/or outer wrapper 20 .
- Such plastic materials can be shaped, bent, or otherwise formed more easily and without the occurrence of wrinkling, pinching or other unwanted physical features occurring within the inner liner 26 and/or the outer wrapper 20 .
- 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 present innovations. 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 spirit of the present innovations.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Refrigerator Housings (AREA)
- Thermal Insulation (AREA)
- Connection Of Plates (AREA)
- Insulating Bodies (AREA)
Abstract
An operable panel for an appliance includes a metallic outer wrapper having a perimetrical wrapper edge that partially defines a perimetrical breaker channel, an inner liner and a plurality of corner brackets disposed proximate the perimetrical wrapper edge. Each corner bracket cooperates with the perimetrical wrapper edge to fully define the perimetrical breaker channel. A trim breaker is adhered to the metallic outer wrapper and the corner brackets at the perimetrical breaker channel and having a liner channel that receives a portion of the inner liner. The trim breaker extends between the inner liner and the outer wrapper. An insulation material is disposed within an insulating cavity defined between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
Description
- The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/899,905 filed Aug. 31, 2022, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/339,035 filed Jun. 4, 2021, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,479,021, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/308,979, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,065,842, filed Dec. 11, 2018, which is a national stage of International Application No. PCT/US2016/054121 filed Sep. 28, 2016, all of which are entitled STRUCTURAL PANEL FOR AN APPLIANCE HAVING STAMPED COMPONENTS AND METHOD THEREFOR, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
- The device is in the field of insulation structures for appliances, and more specifically, a multi-component structural panel for an appliance having at least one stamped component.
- In at least one aspect, an operable panel for an appliance includes a metallic outer wrapper having a perimetrical wrapper edge that partially defines a perimetrical breaker channel, an inner liner and a plurality of corner brackets disposed proximate the perimetrical wrapper edge. Each corner bracket cooperates with the perimetrical wrapper edge to define the perimetrical breaker channel. A trim breaker is adhered to the metallic outer wrapper and the corner brackets at the perimetrical breaker channel and includes a liner channel that receives a portion of the inner liner. The trim breaker extends between the inner liner and the outer wrapper. An insulation material is disposed within an insulating cavity defined between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
- In at least another aspect, a method for forming a vacuum insulated structure for an appliance includes stamping a first metallic sheet into a flat liner pattern that corresponds to an inner liner for an appliance. The inner liner has a plurality of liner walls and a perimetrical liner tab. The flat liner pattern is shaped into the inner liner. A second metallic sheet is stamped into a flat wrapper pattern that corresponds to an outer wrapper for an appliance. The outer wrapper has a plurality of wrapper walls and a perimetrical wrapper edge. The flat wrapper pattern is shaped into the outer wrapper. A trim breaker is formed having a liner channel and a wrapper channel. The perimetrical liner tab and the perimetrical wrapper edge are secured with the liner and wrapper channels, respectively. An insulating material is disposed within an insulating cavity formed between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
- In at least another aspect, a method for forming a vacuum insulated structure for an appliance includes forming a first planar sheet into an inner liner. A second planar sheet is formed into an outer wrapper having a plurality of wrapper walls and a wrapper edge that at least partially defines a perimetrical breaker channel. A trim breaker is formed having a liner channel for receiving a portion of the inner liner and a wrapper channel for seating within the perimetrical breaker channel. The inner liner is secured within the liner channel and the wrapper channel is placed within the perimetrical breaker channel. An insulating material is disposed within an insulating cavity formed between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
- These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present device will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.
- In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an appliance having operable panels that are formed using an aspect of the method for forming a vacuum insulated structure; -
FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the drawer panel of the appliance ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the drawer panel ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the drawer panel ofFIG. 3 with the drawer glides removed; -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the drawer panel ofFIG. 3 taken along line V-V; -
FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the drawer panel ofFIG. 5 taken at area VI, with the gasket removed; -
FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the drawer panel; -
FIG. 8 is a partially exploded perspective view of the outer wrapper ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the corner bracket ofFIG. 8 ; -
FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the corner detail of the drawer panel ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 11 is a plan view of an aspect of a stamped metallic panel including guide lines that can be shaped to form an aspect of an outer wrapper of an operable panel for an appliance; -
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an aspect of an operable panel incorporating a stamped inner liner that includes an injection molded portion proximate a trim breaker; -
FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aspect of the operable panel for an appliance exemplifying an aspect of a trim breaker having elongated legs; -
FIG. 14 is a partially exploded view of an aspect of an inner liner for an operable panel for an appliance showing a stamped inner liner and an injection molded end piece; -
FIG. 15 is a schematic linear flow diagram illustrating a method for forming a vacuum insulated structure for an appliance; and -
FIG. 16 is a schematic linear flow diagram illustrating a method for forming a vacuum insulated structure for an appliance. - For purposes of description herein the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the device as oriented in
FIG. 1 . However, it is to be understood that the device may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 1-6 ,reference numeral 10 generally refers to an operable panel for anappliance 12, where theoperable panel 10 can be in the form of a rotatingdoor 14 or aslidable drawer 16 for theappliance 12 to define open and closed positions of variousinterior compartments 18 of theappliance 12. According to the various aspects of the device, theoperable panel 10 for theappliance 12 can include a metallicouter wrapper 20 having aperimetrical wrapper edge 22 that partially defines aperimetrical breaker channel 24. Theoperable panel 10 can also include aninner liner 26. It is contemplated that the metallicouter wrapper 20 and theinner liner 26 can be coupled together to define aninsulating cavity 28 therebetween. A plurality ofcorner brackets 30 can be disposed proximate theperimetrical wrapper edge 22, where eachcorner bracket 30 cooperates with theperimetrical wrapper edge 22 to fully define theperimetrical breaker channel 24 of theouter wrapper 20. Typically, thecorner brackets 30 will be disposed in theouter corners 32 of theouter wrapper 20, such that where theoperable panel 10 is rectangular, fourcorner brackets 30 will be disposed in each of the fourouter corners 32 of theouter wrapper 20. Atrim breaker 34 is adhered to the metallicouter wrapper 20 and thecorner brackets 30 at theperimetrical breaker channel 24. Thetrim breaker 34 includes aliner channel 36 that receives a portion of theinner liner 26. Thetrim breaker 34 is adapted to extend between theinner liner 26 and theouter wrapper 20 to substantially seal the edges of theouter wrapper 20 and theinner liner 26 and enclose theinsulating cavity 28 defined therebetween. Thetrim breaker 34 is adapted to engage theperimetrical breaker channel 24 defined by theouter wrapper 20 and the plurality ofcorner brackets 30. - Referring again to
FIGS. 3-8 , aflexible gasket 50 can be disposed within agasket channel 52 defined within thetrim breaker 34. It is contemplated that thegasket channel 52 is positioned proximate awrapper channel 54 that is adapted to be disposed within theperimetrical breaker channel 24. Thewrapper channel 54 of thetrim breaker 34 is adapted to seat within theperimetrical breaker channel 24 of theouter wrapper 20 and thecorner brackets 30. It is contemplated that thetrim breaker 34 can include a U-shaped channel that defines each of thewrapper channel 54 and thegasket channel 52. In such an embodiment, one surface of the U-shaped channel of thetrim breaker 34 defines thewrapper channel 54 and the opposing surface of the U-shaped channel defines thegasket channel 52. Accordingly, it is contemplated that the outward extending surface of the U-shaped channel can define thewrapper channel 54 that seats within theperimetrical breaker channel 24 of the metallicouter wrapper 20. Conversely, the inwardly extending surface of the U-shaped channel is adapted to receive a portion of thegasket 50 such that thegasket 50 seats within thegasket channel 52 of thetrim breaker 34. Through the use of the U-shaped channel, it is contemplated that at least a portion of thegasket 50 can be positioned and supported within the channel volume defined by theperimetrical breaker channel 24 of the metallicouter wrapper 20 and thecorner brackets 30. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2-9 , it is contemplated that thevarious corner brackets 30 can include anouter engagement surface 60 that engages aninterior surface 62 of theouter wrapper 20 at each of theouter corners 32. Eachcorner bracket 30 can include a plurality ofadhesion grooves 64 defined within theengagement surface 60. Each of theseadhesion grooves 64 can serve to retain an adhesive 116 therein such that when theengagement surface 60 of thecorner bracket 30 engages theinterior surface 62 of theouter wrapper 20, adhesive 116 disposed within each of theadhesion grooves 64 can serve to apply the adhesive 116 to form a secure and hermetically sealed engagement between eachcorner bracket 30 and theinterior surface 62 of theouter wrapper 20. This engagement also serves to secure achannel portion 66 of eachcorner bracket 30 in alignment with the remainder of theperimetrical breaker channel 24 of theouter wrapper 20. This engagement serves to define or fully define theperimetrical breaker channel 24 within which thewrapper channel 54 of thetrim breaker 34 can seat. In addition to thechannel portion 66, eachcorner bracket 30 can include astructural body 68 that engages a plurality ofinterior surfaces 62 defined within theouter corner 32 of theouter wrapper 20. - By way of example, and not limitation, when various aspects of the
outer wrapper 20 are formed, aflat wrapper pattern 80 that is stamped within a metallic sheet that can be folded upward to form the various contours of theouter wrapper 20. In such an embodiment, each edge and the portions of theperimetrical breaker channel 24 within each edge of theouter wrapper 20 can be formed from aseparate wing 82 defined within theflat wrapper pattern 80. As thesewings 82 are folded upward, aseam 84 is formed along eachouter corner 32 where twoadjacent wings 82 of theflat wrapper pattern 80 engage one another. It is contemplated that eachcorner bracket 30 engages variousinterior surfaces 62 of each of thesewings 82 to reinforce theouter corner 32 of theouter wrapper 20 and also reinforce theperimetrical breaker channel 24 of theouter wrapper 20. - According to the various embodiments, as exemplified in
FIGS. 5-11 , the adhesive 116 disposed within theadhesion grooves 64 of eachcorner bracket 30 can be deposited proximate theseam 84 to fill and seal and potentially hermetically seal each of theseseams 84 to form secure connections between each of thewings 82 that form theouter corners 32 of theouter wrapper 20. To further reinforce theseam 84 between theadjacent wings 82 of theflat wrapper pattern 80, theseam 84 can be further sealed through a secondary process to re-strike eachouter corner 32 of theouter wrapper 20 and close any visible gaps that appear as a result of theseam 84. Such re-striking process can be performed through pinching, welding, grinding, adhering, combinations thereof, and other similar methods that can close and seal theseam 84 to make theseam 84 substantially air-tight and unnoticeable. Accordingly, theouter wrapper 20 can appear as a substantially monolithic member, lackingvisible seams 84 within portions of theexterior surface 86 of theouter wrapper 20. - Referring again to
FIGS. 1-10 , it is contemplated that theoperable panel 10 described herein can include a panel for a rotationallyoperable door 14 that can include ahinge assembly 90 that is attached to theouter wrapper 20, thetrim breaker 34 and/or theinner liner 26. It is contemplated that thehinge assembly 90 can extend from theoperable panel 10, and typically theouter wrapper 20 and extend to acabinet structure 92 of theappliance 12. It is contemplated that such ahinge assembly 90 can be attached to a reinforcing structure disposed proximate theinterior surface 62 of theouter wrapper 20 that substantially prevents deflection at theouter wrapper 20 and other portions of theoperable panel 10 during use of theappliance 12. It is contemplated that theoperable panel 10 can be a panel for adrawer 16 where adrawer glide assembly 94 is attached to at least one of theinner liner 26 and theouter wrapper 20. In such an embodiment, thedrawer glide assembly 94 can be adapted to extend from theoperable panel 10 to a portion of thecabinet structure 92 to secure theoperable panel 10 thereto. As with thehinge assembly 90, thedrawer glide assembly 94 can include a reinforcing structure disposed proximate theinterior surface 62 of theouter wrapper 20 to prevent bending, warping and other deflection of theoperable panel 10 during use of theappliance 12. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-6 , it is contemplated that aninsulation material 100 can be disposed within the insulatingcavity 28 defined between theinner liner 26, theouter wrapper 20 andtrim breaker 34 extending therebetween.Various insulation materials 100 can be included within the insulatingcavity 28. Such insulating materials can include, but are not limited to, microspheres, nanospheres, silica-type materials, granulated insulation material, powder-based insulation material, foam insulation, vacuum insulated panels, combinations thereof, other similar insulating materials. It is also contemplated that the engagement between theouter wrapper 20, theinner liner 26, and thetrim breaker 34 can form a substantially hermetic seal. This hermetic seal can allow for the expression or expulsion of gas from within the insulatingcavity 28 such that theoperable panel 10 can be manufactured to include an at least partial vacuum within the insulatingcavity 28 to define theoperable panel 10 as a self-contained vacuum insulation structure. In such an embodiment, a vacuum port may be disposed within a portion of theoperable panel 10 such that gas can be expressed or expelled through the vacuum port and sealed to maintain the at least partial vacuum within the insulatingcavity 28. - Referring again to
FIGS. 1-10 , it is contemplated that theinner liner 26 can be formed from a firstmetallic sheet 110 that is stamped into aflat liner pattern 112, or stamped into the shape of a metallicinner liner 26 for use in theoperable panel 10. It is also contemplated that theinner liner 26 can be formed from the plastic-type material that can be molded, stamped, or otherwise formed into the shape of theinner liner 26. Theouter wrapper 20 can also be made of various materials that can include, but are not limited to, metal, plastic, combinations thereof and other similar materials. Typically, theouter wrapper 20 will be formed from a secondmetallic sheet 114 such that theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20 are each metallic sheets that form theoperable panel 10. Thetrim breaker 34 can be in the form of an injection molded piece that is injection molded around portions of theinner liner 26 and theouter wrapper 20. - According to the various embodiments, as exemplified in
FIGS. 1-10 , it is also contemplated that thetrim breaker 34 can be a separately molded plastic member that can be attached to theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20 throughadhesives 116, welding, or other similar process to secure thetrim breaker 34 to theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20. It is contemplated that when thetrim breaker 34 is attached to theouter wrapper 20, an adhesive 116 can be placed within theperimetrical breaker channel 24 and thewrapper channel 54 of thetrim breaker 34 can be set within theperimetrical breaker channel 24 and secured therein through the adhesive 116. The adhesive 116 used in attaching thetrim breaker 34 to theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20 can assist in forming the hermetic seal of theoperable panel 10. It is also contemplated that in forming theinner liner 26 and/orouter wrapper 20, at least onewrapper wall 120 orliner wall 122 can be in an injection molded member (shown inFIG. 12 ) that defines at least a portion of theinner liner 26 and/or theouter wrapper 20 and also serves to define a portion of thetrim breaker 34 extending therebetween. In order to increase and strengthen the engagement between thetrim breaker 34 an theinner liner 26 and/or theouter wrapper 20, thetrim breaker 34 can include an elongated flange 124 (shown inFIG. 13 ) that provides a more extensive surface engagement between thetrim breaker 34 and at least one of theinner liner 26 and theouter wrapper 20. This added surface engagement can serve to enhance the hermetic seal defined by theoperable panel 10 such that a more complete vacuum can be defined within the insulatingcavity 28 of theoperable panel 10. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1-15 , having described various aspects of theoperable panel 10 and construction thereof, amethod 400 is disclosed for forming a structural panel for anappliance 12. According to themethod 400, a firstmetallic sheet 110 can be stamped into the shape of aflat liner pattern 112 that corresponds to theinner liner 26 of an appliance 12 (step 402). Theflat liner pattern 112 can include various geometries that can correspond to a plurality ofliner walls 122 and aperimetrical liner tab 130, where theperimetrical liner tab 130 can be adapted to engage with aliner channel 36 at thetrim breaker 34 during assembly of theoperable panel 10. Once theflat liner pattern 112 is formed, theflat liner pattern 112 can be shaped into the shape of the inner liner 26 (step 404). - According to the various embodiments, it is contemplated that the
inner liner 26 can be stamped directly into the shape of aninner liner 26, or at least a portion of theinner liner 26, without necessarily including the step of forming theflat liner pattern 112 through a separate stamping process. Typically, where theliner pattern 112 is directly stamped into the shape of theinner liner 26, the material of theinner liner 26 is a more flexible and pliable material such as plastic, polymers and other similar materials that can be stamped without significant wrinkling, bunching or other unwanted deformations. - Referring again to
FIGS. 1-15 , according to themethod 400, a secondmetallic sheet 114 can be stamped into aflat wrapper pattern 80 that corresponds to anouter wrapper 20 for an appliance 12 (step 406). As discussed above, theouter wrapper 20 includes a plurality ofwrapper walls 120 and aperimetrical wrapper edge 22. It is contemplated that theperimetrical wrapper edge 22 can define at least part of theperimetrical breaker channel 24 that receives thewrapper channel 54 of thetrim breaker 34. Once theflat wrapper pattern 80 is formed, theflat wrapper pattern 80 can be shaped into the form of the outer wrapper 20 (step 408). - According to the various embodiments and aspects of the various methods, the steps of stamping first and second
metallic sheets flat liner pattern 112 andflat wrapper pattern 80, respectively, can include disposingguide lines 140 within the flat liner andflat wrapper patterns guide lines 140 can correspond to edges and corners of the plurality ofliner walls 122 and edges of the plurality ofwrapper walls 120. The use ofguide lines 140 can also assist in the forming step of theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20, such that clean and precise edges can be formed as theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20 are folded into their respective final shapes. - Referring again to
FIGS. 1-15 , according to themethod 400, atrim breaker 34 is formed, where thetrim breaker 34 includes aliner channel 36 and wrapper channel 54 (step 410). After thetrim breaker 34 is formed, theperimetrical liner tab 130 and theperimetrical wrapper edge 22 can be secured to the liner andwrapper channels trim breaker 34, respectively (step 412). According to the various embodiments, it is contemplated that thetrim breaker 34 can be preformed and theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20 can be adhered, welded, or otherwise secured to thetrim breaker 34. It is also contemplated that thetrim breaker 34 can be injection molded around portions of theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20 to form a secure structure between these components. - According to various embodiments, it is contemplated that portions of the
inner liner 26 and/orouter wrapper 20 can include injection molded or separately formed plastic components that can be integrated with thetrim breaker 34 and attached to portions of theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20. - As exemplified in
FIGS. 12 and 14 , theinner liner 26 can include an elongated band that is stamped or otherwise shaped into a profile of theinner liner 26. At least one of a top andbottom cap 150 of theinner liner 26 can be either injection molded or premolded and attached to the stamped portion of theinner liner 26 to fully define the shape of theinner liner 26. It is contemplated that this injection molded portion of theinner liner 26 can either be attached to thetrim breaker 34 or can be injection molded as part of thetrim breaker 34. In such an embodiment, the stamped portion of theinner liner 26 can define amain body 152 of theinner liner 26. Theend portions 154 of theinner liner 26, which may be injection molded or otherwise formed from plastic or other polymer-type material, can be acap 150 attached to theend portions 154 of themain body 152 of theinner liner 26. It is also contemplated that thecap 150 attached to themain body 152 of theinner liner 26 can be in the form of a sheet member made of metal and/or plastic that is adhered to the edge of themain body 152 of theinner liner 26. Accordingly, thecaps 150 can be in the form of a two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape that can be attached to themain body 152 of theinner liner 26. - According to the various embodiments, it is contemplated that the
trim breaker 34 can be injection molded, overmolded or otherwise formed to only one of theinner liner 26 and theouter wrapper 20. The other of theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20 can then be adhered, fastened, or otherwise attached to thetrim breaker 34 to form theoperable panel 10. By way of example, and not limitation, thetrim breaker 34 can be overmolded onto a portion of theinner liner 26 proximate theperimetrical liner tab 130. Theouter wrapper 20 can then be adhered to thetrim breaker 34 through the engagement of thewrapper channel 54 of thetrim breaker 34 and theperimetrical breaker channel 24 of theouter wrapper 20. - Referring again to
FIGS. 1-15 , aninsulation material 100 can be disposed within the insulatingcavity 28 formed within theinner liner 26 and the outer wrapper 20 (step 414). Once theoperable panel 10 is substantially formed, agasket 50 can be disposed within agasket channel 52 of thetrim breaker 34, where thegasket channel 52 is disposed proximate thewrapper channel 54 of the trim breaker 34 (step 416). - Referring again to
FIGS. 7-10 , according to various aspects of themethod 400, as theflat wrapper pattern 80 is shaped,various corner brackets 30 can be disposed against aninterior surface 62 of theouter wrapper 20 at eachouter corner 32, respectively. It is contemplated that theouter wrapper 20 andcorner brackets 30 cooperate to define the perimetrical channel of theouter wrapper 20. During formation of theouter wrapper 20, thecorner brackets 30 can be positioned on theflat wrapper pattern 80 and then theflat wrapper pattern 80 can be formed around the brackets. Alternatively, theouter wrapper 20 can be formed and then thecorner brackets 30 can be disposed in theouter corners 32 of the pre-formedouter wrapper 20. It is further contemplated that thecorner brackets 30 can be pre-formed to a desired shape, or can be injection molded within theouter corners 32 of theouter wrapper 20. Where thecorner brackets 30 are pre-formed, an adhesive 116 is typically included within theadhesion grooves 64 defined within theengagement surface 60 of eachcorner bracket 30, as described above. - Referring again to
FIG. 10 , various aspects of the method can include a step of sealing theouter corners 32 proximate theouter wrapper 20 of thecorner brackets 30. In such an embodiment, two distinct edges of theflat wrapper pattern 80 defined bywings 82 of theflat wrapper pattern 80 can define aseam 84 at eachouter corner 32. It is contemplated that thecorner brackets 30 can be entirely disposed within the insulatingcavity 28 to support theouter corner 32 of theouter wrapper 20 during sealing of eachouter corner 32. As discussed above, sealing theouter corners 32 can include welding, striking, the use ofadhesives 116, combinations thereof, and other similar methods that can seal twoadjacent wings 82 of theflat wrapper pattern 80. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1-14 and 16 , amethod 500 is disclosed for forming a structural panel for anappliance 12. According to themethod 500, a first planar sheet is formed into the shape of an inner liner 26 (step 502). As discussed above, the first planar sheet can be metallic, plastic, other polymer-type material, combinations thereof, and other similar materials that can be used to shape theinner liner 26. The exact forming process used to form theinner liner 26 can depend upon the material of the first planar sheet. A second planar sheet is formed into the shape of an outer wrapper 20 (step 504). As discussed above, theouter wrapper 20 can include a plurality ofwrapper walls 120 and awrapper edge 22 that at least partially defines theperimetrical breaker channel 24. Typically, the second planar sheet will be a metallic panel that is stamped and then folded into the shape of theouter wrapper 20. It is contemplated that other materials can be used to form theouter wrapper 20, such as plastic, other polymer materials, composites, combinations thereof, and other similar panel-forming materials. Once theinner liner 26 andouter wrapper 20 are formed, atrim breaker 34 is formed having aliner channel 36 for receiving a portion of theinner liner 26 and awrapper channel 54 for seating within the perimetrical breaker channel 24 (step 506). Theinner liner 26 is then secured within theliner channel 36 and thewrapper channel 54 is placed within the perimetrical breaker channel 24 (step 508). Aninsulation material 100 is also disposed within the insulatingcavity 28 formed between theinner liner 26 and outer wrapper 20 (step 510). It is contemplated that theinsulation material 100 can be disposed within the insulatingcavity 28 at various steps within the formation of theoperable panel 10. It is contemplated that theoperable panel 10 can be manufactured to include an insulation port through whichinsulation material 100 can be disposed after theinner liner 26,outer wrapper 20 andtrim breaker 34 are attached together to form the structure of theoperable panel 10. It is also contemplated that theinsulation material 100 can be disposed within theouter wrapper 20 and then thetrim breaker 34 andinner liner 26 can be attached to theouter wrapper 20 to contain theinsulation material 100 within the now-formed insulatingcavity 28. - According to the various embodiments, the various aspects of the
operable panel 10 and the various aspects of the methods described herein can be used to formoperable panels 10 forvarious appliances 12.Such appliances 12 can include, but are not limited to, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, laundry appliances, ovens, coolers, water heaters, and othersimilar appliances 12 that include an insulation system. - As discussed above, the
inner liner 26,outer wrapper 20 andtrim breaker 34 can be made of various materials that can be stamped, formed, folded or otherwise shaped into the final form of theoperable panel 10. It is contemplated that the exact material used for these components can dictate the methods and sequence of steps that may be used to form theinner liner 26,outer wrapper 20 andtrim breaker 34. Where a metallic sheet is used for theinner liner 26 and/orouter wrapper 20, the metallic sheet will typically be stamped into a particular pattern and then the pattern will be bent or otherwise shaped into the final form or substantially the final form of theinner liner 26 and/orouter wrapper 20. It is contemplated that these operations can be used in conjunction with various plastic forming, injection molding, overmolding or plastic attaching processes that can fully form the shape of theinner liner 26 and/or theouter wrapper 20. Where theinner liner 26 and/orouter wrapper 20 are formed of plastic, a single stamping, heat forming, molding, or other shaping process can be used to form theinner liner 26 and/orouter wrapper 20. Such plastic materials can be shaped, bent, or otherwise formed more easily and without the occurrence of wrinkling, pinching or other unwanted physical features occurring within theinner liner 26 and/or theouter wrapper 20. - It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described device and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the device disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.
- For purposes of this disclosure, 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.
- It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the device as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, 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. It should be noted that 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 present innovations. 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 spirit of the present innovations.
- It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present device. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.
- It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present device, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
- The above description is considered that of the illustrated embodiments only. Modifications of the device will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the device. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above is merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope of the device, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the Doctrine of Equivalents.
Claims (20)
1. An operable panel for an appliance, the operable panel comprising:
a metallic inner liner having a main body and opposing outer walls extending from the main body, wherein the opposing outer walls partially define a perimetrical breaker channel;
end caps that engage the main body and the opposing outer walls, the end caps cooperating with the opposing outer walls to form a continuous outer wall and to fully define the perimetrical breaker channel as a continuous groove that extends around a perimeter of the continuous outer wall; and
a trim breaker coupled to the metallic inner liner and the end caps at the continuous groove of the perimetrical breaker channel, wherein the trim breaker is configured to receive a metallic outer wrapper to define an insulating cavity.
2. The operable panel of claim 1 , wherein the trim breaker includes a gasket channel that is at least partially surrounded by the perimetrical breaker channel.
3. The operable panel of claim 1 , further comprising:
a gasket disposed within a gasket channel of the trim breaker, wherein the gasket channel is positioned proximate a liner channel that seats within the perimetrical breaker channel of the metallic inner liner and the end caps.
4. The operable panel of claim 1 , wherein the trim breaker is adhered to the perimetrical breaker channel.
5. The operable panel of claim 3 , wherein the perimetrical breaker channel partially surrounds a U-shaped channel of the trim breaker to form a nested configuration.
6. The operable panel of claim 5 , wherein one surface of the U-shaped channel defines the liner channel and an opposing surface of the U-shaped channel defines the gasket channel.
7. The operable panel of claim 1 , wherein each end cap of the end caps includes an engagement surface that defines a plurality of adhesion grooves that retain an adhesive therein, and wherein the adhesive at least partially secures each end cap to an outer edge of the metallic inner liner.
8. The operable panel of claim 2 , wherein the perimetrical breaker channel is defined within a perimetrical liner edge of the opposing outer walls, and wherein a liner channel of the trim breaker seats within the perimetrical breaker channel.
9. The operable panel of claim 1 , wherein the end caps each abut the opposing outer walls and are aligned with the perimetrical breaker channel.
10. The operable panel of claim 1 , wherein the metallic inner liner is a planar metallic sheet that is folded to define the main body and the opposing outer walls.
11. The operable panel of claim 10 , wherein the planar metallic sheet is rectangular.
12. An operable panel for an appliance, the operable panel comprising:
an inner liner comprising a folded metallic sheet that partially defines a perimetrical breaker channel, the inner liner comprising the folded metallic sheet;
an outer wrapper;
at least one end cap that is coupled to the inner liner and cooperates with the inner liner to fully define the perimetrical breaker channel as a continuous channel; and
a trim breaker adhered to the inner liner and the at least one end cap at the perimetrical breaker channel, the trim breaker having a wrapper channel that receives a portion of the outer wrapper, the trim breaker extending between the inner liner and the outer wrapper.
13. The operable panel of claim 12 , further comprising:
a gasket disposed within a gasket channel of the trim breaker, wherein the gasket channel is positioned proximate a liner channel that seats within the perimetrical breaker channel of the outer wrapper, wherein the perimetrical breaker channel partially surrounds the gasket channel of the trim breaker.
14. The operable panel of claim 13 , wherein the trim breaker includes a U-shaped channel, wherein one surface of the U-shaped channel defines the wrapper channel and an opposing surface of the U-shaped channel defines the gasket channel.
15. The operable panel of claim 12 , wherein the inner liner includes a base portion and opposing outer walls that extend therefrom, and wherein the at least one end cap includes two opposing end caps that are each engaged to the base portion and the opposing outer walls to define the perimetrical breaker channel.
16. The operable panel of claim 12 , wherein the at least one end cap is injection molded onto the inner liner.
17. An operable panel for an appliance, the operable panel comprising:
an inner liner that includes a base portion and includes a plurality of outer walls that partially define a perimetrical breaker channel;
a metallic outer wrapper;
at least one end cap that is coupled to the inner liner and cooperates with the inner liner to fully define the perimetrical breaker channel as a continuous channel;
a trim breaker adhered to the inner liner and the at least one end cap at the perimetrical breaker channel, the trim breaker having an elongated flange that receives an engagement tab of the inner liner, the metallic outer wrapper having a wrapper wall that receives a portion of the trim breaker, the trim breaker extending between the inner liner and the metallic outer wrapper; and
a gasket disposed within a gasket channel of the trim breaker, wherein the gasket channel is positioned proximate the wrapper wall that engages a portion of the perimetrical breaker channel, wherein the perimetrical breaker channel partially surrounds the gasket channel of the trim breaker.
18. The operable panel of claim 17 , wherein the inner liner includes a base portion and opposing outer walls that extend therefrom, and wherein the at least one end cap includes two opposing end caps that are each engaged to the base portion and the opposing outer walls to define the perimetrical breaker channel.
19. The operable panel of claim 17 , wherein the at least one end cap is injection molded onto the inner liner.
20. The operable panel of claim 19 , wherein the trim breaker is adhered to the perimetrical breaker channel.
Priority Applications (1)
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US18/341,359 US20230330969A1 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2023-06-26 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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PCT/US2016/054121 WO2018063182A1 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2016-09-28 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US201816308979A | 2018-12-11 | 2018-12-11 | |
US17/339,035 US11479021B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2021-06-04 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US17/899,905 US11724479B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2022-08-31 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US18/341,359 US20230330969A1 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2023-06-26 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
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US17/899,905 Continuation US11724479B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2022-08-31 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
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US20230330969A1 true US20230330969A1 (en) | 2023-10-19 |
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US16/308,979 Active 2037-03-24 US11065842B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2016-09-28 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US17/339,035 Active US11479021B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2021-06-04 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US17/899,905 Active US11724479B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2022-08-31 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US18/341,359 Pending US20230330969A1 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2023-06-26 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
Family Applications Before (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US16/308,979 Active 2037-03-24 US11065842B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2016-09-28 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US17/339,035 Active US11479021B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2021-06-04 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US17/899,905 Active US11724479B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2022-08-31 | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
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US (4) | US11065842B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3519745B1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2018063182A1 (en) |
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US11065842B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2021-07-20 | Whirlpool Corporation | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
US11313611B2 (en) | 2019-05-01 | 2022-04-26 | Whirlpool Corporation | Construction method for vacuum insulated door |
US12018881B2 (en) * | 2020-11-23 | 2024-06-25 | Whirlpool Corporation | Adjustment assembly for appliance door |
TR202021383A1 (en) * | 2020-12-23 | 2022-07-21 | Bsh Ev Aletleri San Ve Tic As | COOLING DEVICE WITH AT LEAST TWO STORAGE COMPARTMENTS |
US11614271B2 (en) * | 2020-12-29 | 2023-03-28 | Whirlpool Corporation | Vacuum insulated structure with sheet metal features to control vacuum bow |
US11624547B2 (en) | 2021-06-14 | 2023-04-11 | Whirlpool Corporation | Bin attachment assembly for a trim breaker |
USD1005769S1 (en) | 2021-09-08 | 2023-11-28 | Newage Products Inc. | Oven |
US12031769B2 (en) | 2021-09-15 | 2024-07-09 | Whirlpool Corporation | Attachment assembly for an insulated door |
CN114576905A (en) * | 2022-03-09 | 2022-06-03 | 安徽康佳同创电器有限公司 | Refrigerator door and refrigerator with same |
EP4317872A1 (en) * | 2022-08-01 | 2024-02-07 | Whirlpool Corporation | Attachment assembly for an insulated door |
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US2114880A (en) | 1934-12-27 | 1938-04-19 | Gen Electric | Refrigerator cabinet |
JPS5976981U (en) | 1982-11-15 | 1984-05-24 | 株式会社東芝 | refrigerator insulated door |
CA2155056C (en) * | 1994-08-08 | 2007-03-06 | John R. Revlett | Refrigeration appliance door with reinforcement sheet |
US5588731A (en) | 1995-07-17 | 1996-12-31 | Whirlpool Corporation | Refrigerator door construction |
DE29912917U1 (en) | 1999-07-23 | 1999-11-18 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH, 81669 München | Insulating wall |
CN101541575A (en) * | 2006-02-24 | 2009-09-23 | 开利公司 | Composite doors for transport refrigeration unit |
US20110095669A1 (en) | 2009-10-22 | 2011-04-28 | Moon William T | Refrigerator vacuum insulation application |
CN102116554A (en) | 2010-01-04 | 2011-07-06 | Lg电子株式会社 | Refrigerator |
DE102011079209A1 (en) | 2011-07-14 | 2013-01-17 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Vacuum insulation element |
KR101410459B1 (en) | 2012-05-02 | 2014-06-27 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Refrigerator And Method Of Manufacturing Door Thereof |
KR102001145B1 (en) | 2012-06-12 | 2019-10-21 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Door for a refrigerator and method for manufacturing a door, metal container and method for manufacturing the same, method for processing a metal sheet, and apparatus for processing a metal sheet |
KR102025177B1 (en) | 2012-11-09 | 2019-09-26 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Refrigerator and method of making the inner door thereof |
KR20140137108A (en) | 2013-05-22 | 2014-12-02 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | refrigerator and manufacturing method thereof |
KR102216442B1 (en) | 2013-11-27 | 2021-02-17 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Refrigerator |
US10052819B2 (en) | 2014-02-24 | 2018-08-21 | Whirlpool Corporation | Vacuum packaged 3D vacuum insulated door structure and method therefor using a tooling fixture |
US20160258671A1 (en) * | 2015-03-02 | 2016-09-08 | Whirlpool Corporation | Gas barrier for vacuum insulation |
US11065842B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2021-07-20 | Whirlpool Corporation | Structural panel for an appliance having stamped components and method therefor |
-
2016
- 2016-09-28 US US16/308,979 patent/US11065842B2/en active Active
- 2016-09-28 EP EP16917892.8A patent/EP3519745B1/en active Active
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WO2018063182A1 (en) | 2018-04-05 |
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US20220410532A1 (en) | 2022-12-29 |
US11065842B2 (en) | 2021-07-20 |
EP3519745A1 (en) | 2019-08-07 |
US11724479B2 (en) | 2023-08-15 |
US11479021B2 (en) | 2022-10-25 |
US20190308393A1 (en) | 2019-10-10 |
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