US2725723A - Automatic refrigerator control - Google Patents

Automatic refrigerator control Download PDF

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US2725723A
US2725723A US351559A US35155953A US2725723A US 2725723 A US2725723 A US 2725723A US 351559 A US351559 A US 351559A US 35155953 A US35155953 A US 35155953A US 2725723 A US2725723 A US 2725723A
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arm
timing mechanism
defrosting
temperature
refrigerator
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US351559A
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Donald E Hilliker
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General Electric Co
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General Electric Co
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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
    • F25D21/00—Defrosting; Preventing frosting; Removing condensed or defrost water
    • F25D21/002—Defroster control
    • F25D21/004—Control mechanisms

Definitions

  • the primary object of my invention is to provide a new and improved automatic refrigerator controlling means for maintaining a substantially constant refrigerator temperature and for initiating defrosting operations.
  • Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved automatic refrigerator controlling means including a spring powered timing mechanism and adapted for initiating defrosting operations as a function of cumulative door opened time during unit running time.
  • Still another object of my invention is to provide with an automatic refrigerator control including a spring powered timing mechanism, means adapted for winding the timing mechanism in response to refrigerator door openings.
  • I provide an operating arm movable between a refrigerating unit operating position and a defrosting position. Temperature responsive means actuates the arm to the unit operating position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward the defrosting position at a predetermined low temperature. Additionally, I provide a spring powered timing mechanism adapted for being wound in response to refrigerator door openings. The timing mechanism is stopped when either the refrigerator door is closed or the arm is out of the unit operating position. Normally when the arm is actuated toward the defrosting position, it is intercepted at an intermediate unit deenergizing position by means operated by the timing mechanism.
  • the last-mentioned means actuates therarm to the defrosting position.
  • the arm In the defrosting position, the arm is attracted by a magnet.
  • the temperature responsive means overcomes the magnet and returns the arm to the unit operating position.
  • Fig. 1 is a fragmentary sectional view of a refrigerator cabinet illustrating my control mounted therein and the cooperation between my control and the refrigerator door;
  • Fig. 2 is an enlarged fragmentary detailed perspective view of my control
  • Fig. 3 is a plan view of my control illustrating the operating arm therein in a unit operating position
  • Fig. 4 is a plan view of my control illustrating the operating arm in a defrosting position
  • Fig. 5 is a fragmentary plan view of my control illusice trating the arm in an intermediate unit deenergizing position.
  • V i is a fragmentary plan view of my control illusice trating the arm in an intermediate unit deenergizing position.
  • Fig. 1 is partially shown a refrigerator cabinet including an outer case 2 and a spaced apart liner 3.
  • suitable heat insulation designated 4 Closing the space between the edges of the outer case and liner is a breaker strip 3a.
  • the liner 3 defines a food storage compartment 5 wherein is located an evaporator (not shown) for cooling the contents of the ,food storage compartment.
  • a door 6 Supported for closing an access opening to the food storage compartment is a door 6 supported .by suitable hinging means (not shown) secured to theouter case2.
  • a gasket 7 mounted on the door 6 and adapted for sealing the food storage compartment 5 when the door, is closed is a gasket 7.
  • a preferred embodiment of my automatic refrigerator control Suitably mounted in the space between ,the outer case 2 and the liner 3 and directly behind the front portion of the breaker strip 3a is a preferred embodiment of my automatic refrigerator control generally designated 8 and shown in detailin Figs. 2-5.
  • the control 8 is mounted on a base 9 formed of a suitable insulating material and includes an operating arm 10.
  • the operating arm 10 is formed of magnetic material and is provided at the rearward end thereof with an extension 11.
  • the extension 11 projects through an aperture 12 in a vertical end portion 13 of a bracket 14 fixedly mounted on the base 9. Straddling the extension 11.is a pair ofknife-edges 15;
  • the knife-edges .15 are disposed in reentrant portions 16 formed in the vertical end portion 13' of the bracket 14 whereby pivotal movement of the arm 10 is permitted about the knife-edges.
  • an insulative L-jshaped member 17 including an arm 18disposed in a hook portion 19 formed at the upper end of a vertically extending resilient contact arm 20 suitably secured to the base 9. Carried on one side of the hook portion 19 of the contact arm 20 is one of a pair of refrigerating unit contacts 21. Carried on the side of the hook portion 19 opposite the contacts 21 is one of a pair of defrost contacts 22. When the arm ,18 of the insulative member -17 is so positioned that it causes the unit contacts 21 to close in the manner shown in Figs.
  • the operating arm 10 carrying the insulative member is in a first or refrigerating unit operating position and a refrigerating unit (not shown) is energized for lowering the temperature of the evaporator in the food storage compartment of the refrigerator.
  • a refrigerating unit (not shown) is energized for lowering the temperature of the evaporator in the food storage compartment of the refrigerator.
  • the operating arm 10 is in a second or defrosting position and the unit is deenergized and defrosting means such as aheater .(not shown) is energized whereoy frost formed in therefrigerator is melted.
  • the operating arm iii stands in an intermediate unitdeenergizing position.
  • a toggle spring 23 Provided for cooperating with the operating arm it; to bias the operating arm to either the unit operating posh tion or the defrosting position is a toggle spring 23.
  • two legs of the toggle spring 23 each include a depression 24.
  • Pivotally seated in one of the depressions 24 is a knife-edge 25 formed on a forwardlyextending arm 2e bent off the side of the operating arm it).
  • Pivotally seated in the other depression 24 is an end of a resilient arm 27 suitably secured to an upstanding portion 28 of the base 9.
  • Adjustments to the tension of the toggte spring 23 is accomplished by turning an adjustment screw 29 which is threaded in a second upright portion 35; of thebase 9.
  • the temperature responsive means 31 includes a metal bellows 32 mounted on a vertical side portion 33 of the bracket 14 and a tube 34 connecting the bellows with a volatile fluid containing bulb (not shown) disposed in heat exchange relationship with the evaporator.
  • a pin 35 is interposed between the bellows 32 and the operating arm 10.
  • On the side of the operating arm 10 opposite the bellows and pin is a coil spring 36.
  • One end of the coil spring is disposed in a spring seat formed by a plurality of projections 37 formed on the arm 10.
  • the other end of the spring 36 is seated in a cap 38.
  • the cap 38 is formed to include a lateral extension 39 adapted for sliding movement in a horizontal slot 40 in the vertical end portion 13 of the bracket 14 whereby the cap is rendered movable horizontally but prevented from rotating.
  • Threaded in the cap 38 is an adjustment screw 41.
  • the adjustment screw 41 is rotatable in and suitably prevented from moving longitudinally with respect to another vertical side portion 42 of the bracket 14. In this arrangement, the spring 36 causes the operating arm 10 and the pin 35 to follow the contractive movements of the bellows 32.
  • Reduction of the evaporator temperature effects reduction in pressure of the control bulb and corresponding contraction of the bellows 32.
  • the contraction of the bellows is such that the spring 36 is able to overcome the effects of the pin 35 and the toggle spring 23.
  • the operating arm 10 moves out of its first position and the insulative member 17 carried thereon opens the unit contacts 21 for stopping the refrigerating unit.
  • the toggle spring 23 actuates the operating arm 10 toward its second position wherein the insulative member 17 would close the defrost heater contacts 22 and thereby energize the heater. Since it is not desirable to energize the defrost heater after each cycle of unit operation, I have provided means for intercepting the operating arm at the intermediate unit deenergizing position shown in Fig. 5 when the evaporator temperature decreases to the predetermined low until that time when it is desired that a defrosting operation be initiated.
  • a spring powered timing mechanism g nerally designated 44 The timing mechanism 44 includes a main shaft 45 having secured thereto the inner end of a main spring 46.
  • the outer end of the main spring 46 is formed as a detent 47 for cooperating with a plurality of inwardly projecting ridges 48 formed spacedly on the inner periphery of a rotatable spring case 49 housing the main spring.
  • This arrangement permits the detent 47 to snap past the ridges 48 when excessive torque is developed in the main spring and thereby provides for a constant spring torque.
  • Secured to the spring case 49 is a ratchet wheel 56.
  • a pawl 51 Suitably secured to the base and provided for engaging the ratchet wheel to prevent unwinding of the main spring through the spring case is a pawl 51.
  • Cooperating with both the pawl 51 and the ratchet wheel 50 is another pawl 52.
  • the pawl 52 is carried by a plunger 53 adapted for having its forward end extend through the front face portion of the outer case 2 and cooperate with the refrigerator door 6 in the manner shown in Figs. 1 and 2.
  • Carried on the plunger 53 between a spring seat 54 secured thereon and an upright bracket 55 formed off the base 9 is a coil spring 56 sufiiciently strong to overcome the main spring 46. In this arrangement, the spring 56 is compressed and the pawl 52 is maintained in the position of Fig.
  • the timing; mechanism 44 is wound in response to refrigerator door openings.
  • Controlled relief of the torque in the main spring 46 of my timing mechanism 44 to provide a timing operation is effected in much the same way as in most spring powered timing devices.
  • Fixed on the main shaft 45 is a main pinion 57 meshing with a gear 53 rotatable on a second shaft 59.
  • Secured to the gear 58 is another pinion 60 meshing with another gear 61 rotatable on the third shaft 62.
  • Secured to the gear 61 is an escapement wheel 63.
  • Cooperating with the escapement wheel 63 is a pair of pallets 64 carried on the tines of a first bifurcated end 65 of an escapement lever 66.
  • a pivot pin 67 passing through and secured to the escapement lever 66 adjacent the first bifurcated end 65 serves as a fulcrum for the escapement lever.
  • the escapement lever 66 additionally includes a second bifurcated end 63 adapted for receiving and cooperating with a pendent pin 69 carried by a balance wheel 76 adjacent the periphery thereof.
  • the balance wheel 70' is secured to a: pivot pin 71 to which is also secured the inner end of ahairspringna
  • the outer end of the hair spring 72 is suitably secured to a base mounted bracket 73.
  • the hair spring72 oscillates the balance wheel 70 which in turn oscillates the escapement lever 66 to provide cooperation between the escapement wheel 63 and the pallets 64 thereby to permit through the gear train between the pinion 57 and the escapement wheel 63 timed controlled rotation of the pinion 57 by the main spring- 46. 7
  • a braking element 74 suitably mounted onthe operating arm and adapted for cooperating with the balance wheel 70.
  • the braking element 74 engages the periphery of the balance wheel 70 inthe manner shown in Fig. 4- whenever the operating arm 10 is not in the first position for thereby stopping. the timing mechanism.
  • the braking element 74 engages the balance wheel periphery at an off center location. Therefore, when the operating arm 10 is subsequently returned to its first or unit operating position, the braking element 74 disengages the balance wheel periphery with a wipingaction. This wiping action provides the impetus necessary for satisfactorily starting the'balance wheel to oscillate and thereby restart the timing mechanism 44.
  • a braking element 75 suitably mounted on the plunger 53 and adapted for cooperating with the balance wheel 70.
  • the braking element 75 engages the periphery of the balance wheel 70 in the manner shown in Fig. 2 whenever the refrigerator door 6 is closed and the plunger 53 is actuated inwardly. As seen in Fig.- 2, the braking element 75 also engages the balance wheel 70 at an off center location. Therefore, whenever the refrigerator door 6 is opened and'the unit is operating, the braking element 75 disengages the balance wheel with a wiping action and thereby provides 'the impetus necessary for starting the-balance wheel" to oscillateand thereby restart thetiming mechanism.
  • Bent out of the pinion 57 is an upstanding lug 76.
  • Carried rotatably on the main shaft in spaced relationship to the pinion 57 is a cam 77 formed to include a large recess 78.
  • a stud 79 suitably fitted and retained in the cam 77 at a point substantially diametrically opposite the recess 78 includes a lug portion 80 which projects through the cam toward the pinion and is adapted for being engaged by the upstanding lug.
  • the stud 79 is in effect a hammerelementand connected between the stud and the rear end-portion lfi'of the bracket 14isa coil spring 81. The purpose for thisarrangenient will be seen hereinafter.
  • the operating arm 10 carries a stop'82 and durin'g normal operation and until an elapse'of a predetermined cumulative amount of-runningtime of the timing'mechanism 44, the recess 78 in the cam 77 is not aligned with the'stop 82. Accordingly,-when" the temperature of the evaporator decreases to-the predeterminedlow temperature and the operating arm 10 is actuated out of its first-or unit operating position and toward the defrosting position by the springs 23 and 36, the stop 82 engagesthe periphery of the cam and the operating arm is thereby intercepted at the intermediate unit deenergizingposition of Fig. 5.
  • the insulative-member17 carried thereon maintains both the unitcontacts 21 and thedefrost'heater contacts 22 open and the braking element 74, also carried by the operating arm, engages the balance wheel 70 to stop the timing mechanism 44. 7
  • the bellows 32 expands sufficiently for overcoming the springs 23 and 36 and returning the operating arm 10 to its first position wherein the unit contacts 21 are closed and the braking element 74 disengages and exerts a starting impetus on the balance wheel 70, which will be effective for restarting the timing mechanism only if the door is open and the other braking element 75 is disengaged from the balance Wheel.
  • the cam 77 Upon the lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of the timing mechanism 44, the cam 77 is driven to the position thereof shown in Fig. 3, from which position the spring 81 snaps over center. In snapping over center, the spring 81 causes the hammer element 79 to engage the outer end of a semi-circular arm 83 secured to the operating arm 10. Thus, the operating arm 10 is actuated or driven out of the first or unit operatting position. When the hammer element 79 engages the semi-circular arm 83, the recess 78 in the cam 77 is aligned with the stop 82 carried by the operating arm.
  • the stop 82 becomes seated in the recess 78 and the operating arm 10 is permitted to move to the second position thereof shown in Fig. 4, in which position the insulative member 17 opens the unit contacts 21- and closes the heater contacts 22 for thereby initiating a defrosting operation.
  • the braking element 74 carried thereby engages the balance wheel 79 and stops the timing mechanism Additionally, the forward extremity of the operating arm 10 moves into a concentrated field of attraction of a permanent magnet 84 secured to the side of a bracket 85 on the base 9.
  • the magnet 84 attracts the operating arm and determines the temperature of the evaporator at which the bellows 32 will be effective for terminating the defrosting operation and returning the operating arm to the unit operating position.
  • Threaded into the bracket 85 and cooperating with the operating arm It? is a set screw 86.
  • the set screw 86 limits the movement of the operating arm toward the magnet 84 and provides for adjustment of the space between the magnet and the operating arm. By adjusting the space and, therefore, the attraction between the magnet and' the operating arm, independent adjustment of the defrosting temperature or the temperature at which defrosting will terminate may be obtained.
  • the force exerted on the operating arm by the bellows 32 becomes sufficient for overcoming the influence of the magnet 84- and the toggle spring 23 on the operating arm 1! Thereafter, through the pin 35, the bellows returns the operating arm to its first position thereby terminating the defrosting operation and closing the unit contacts 21 for initiating a normal refrigerating cycle.
  • my control 8 provides for independent adjustment of both the normal operating and defrosting temperatures of the refrigerator. That is, through adjustments made to the tension of the toggle spring 23 by turning the screw 29, the temperature ranges of each of the settings of the knob 43 may be adjusted. Also, adjustments to the spacing etween the operating arm 10 and the magnet 84 as effected by turning the screw 86 determines the duration of and, therefore, the abnormally high temperature attained during each defrosting operation.
  • My control 8 further provides means whereby the user may manually set it in a permanently off position, enabling the user to shut down the refrigerator easily when its service is not required, as during vacation periods. Additionally, my control 8 provides means whereby the user may set it for fast freeze or continuous refrigerator operation during a heavy load period.
  • the means whereby the control may be set for off or fast freeze comprises a bellcrank S7 pivotally mounted as at 87:: on the side portion 4-2 of the bracket 14 and including a forwardly projecting arm 88. Carried on the arm 88 is an element 88a having portions straddling the arm 18 of the insulative member 17 secured to the side of the operating arm 10.
  • Another arm 89 of the bellcrank 87 is adapted for extending through a horizontal slot 9t, in the side wall of the liner 3 in the manner shown in Fig. 1. Th extremity of the arm 89 is positioned in and cooperates with a cam slot 91 formed in the rear face of the knob 43.
  • the cam slot 91 is such that in the normal range of control setting of the knob 43, it cooperates with the bellcrank 87 to maintain the element 88a in the position of Figs. 25. In this position the element 88 has no effect on the movement on the operating arm 10 and the control 8 operates normally for cyclically operating the refrigerating unit and periodically initiating defrosting operations.
  • the control When it is desired to shut down the refrigerator, the control may be set in its permanently off position by turning the knob 43 to its most counterclockwise position in Fig. 2 to cause an outwardly extending portion 92 of the cam slot 91 to cooperate with the arm 39 of the bellcrank 87.
  • the element 83a remains so positioned that it obstructs movement of the operating arm to its first position and thereby prevents restarting of the refrigerating unit.
  • the knob 43 should be set in the off position when the operating arm 10 is in its intermediate position or in the second or defrosting position, the resultant actuation of the element 88a has no immediate effect thereon. However, subsequently and until the knob setting is changed, the element 88a obstructs movement of the operating arm to its first position and thereby prevents closing of the units contacts 21 and restarting of the refrigerating unit.
  • the knob 43 may be turned to its most clockwise position in Fig. 2. This causes an inwardly extending portion 93 of the cam slot 1 to cooperate with the arm 89 of the bellcrank and actuate the bellcrank and the element 88a clockwise from the position of Figs. 25 to a position in which the element 88a engages the arm 18 of the member 17 and maintains the operating arm 10 in its first or unit operating position in which the unit contacts 21 are closed. Until the knob 43 is turned out of this setting, the refrigerating unit operates continuously and provides fast-freezing.
  • the user may manually terminate a defrosting operation and reset the control for normal unit operation which it may be desired to do if for instance a defrosting operation is initiated while a frozen dessert or the like is being prepared or when a plenteous supply of ice cubes is required.
  • This the user may accomplish simply by turning the knob 43 to the fast-freezing position and then returning it to one of the normal setting positions.
  • This causes the element 88a to actuate the operating arm 10 to its first position whereby the stop 82 thereon is lifted out of the cam recess 73 permitting further counterclockwise rotation of the cam by the spring 81 and conditioning the control for normal operation until the lapse of another predetermined cumulative amount of door open time during unit running time.
  • the timing mechanism 44 By omitting both of the braking elements 74 and '75, the timing mechanism 44 would be caused to run at all times. After a predetermined running time, for example 24 hours, the recess 78 in the cam 77 would be driven into alignment with the stop 82 on the operating arm 10. If the operating arm 10 were in the intermediate unit deenergizing position when this alignment occurred the stop would simply fall into the recess and the operating arm would move to its defrosting position under the influence of the spring 23. If the operating arm 10 were in its first or operating position when the alignment occurred, the spring 81 would snap the hammer element 79 into engagement with the semi-circular arm 83 and thereby drive the operating arm into the defrosting position. The defrosting operation would be terminated in the same manner as described above.
  • the timing mechanism could also be caused to run at all times when the refrigerating unit is operating and defrosting would be initiated as a function of cumulative unit running time. This could be accomplished by retaining the braking element 74 and omitting the door operated braking element 75. In such an arrangement, the timing mechanism 44 would drive the cam 77 only during unit running time. After a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of the timing mechanism 44, equal to the cumulative unit running time, the recess 78 in the cam 77 would be aligned with the stop 32 on the operating arm 10.
  • the stop would simply fall into the recess and the operating arm would move into its defrosting position under the influence of the spring 23 and if the operating arm were in its first or operating position when the alignment occurred, the spring 81 would snap the hammer element into engagement with the semi-circular arm 83 and thereby drive the operating arm into the defrosting position.
  • the defrosting operation would be terminated in the same manner as described above with regard to the preferred embodiment.
  • my control 8 could be modified by retaining the door operated braking element 75 and omitting the braking element 74.
  • the timing mechanism 44 would drive the cam 77 whenever the refrigerator door 6 stood open. After a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of the timing mechanism 44 equal to the cumulative door open time, the cam recess 77 would be aligned with the stop on the operating arm. In this form also, if the operating arm were in the intermediate unit deenergizing position when this alignment occurred, the stop would simply fall into the recess and the operating arm would move to its defrosting position under the influence of the spring 23.
  • the defrosting operation would be terminated in the manner described above with respect to the preferred embodiment.
  • I refer to the contacts 22 as defrost heater contacts, they could be employed for controlling other defrosting means. For instance, they could control a solenoid valve in a reverse cycle system and effect defrosting by opening the valve and applying hot refrigerant to the evaporator in the system when the operating arm is in its second or defrosting position.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings for winding said timing mechanism, and means operated by said timing mechanism intercepting said arm at a unit deener- ,gizing position intermediate said first and second posi .tions when said temperature decreases to said predeterminedlow temperature until alapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a .first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating'said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally'high temperature and toward said second position at a'predetermincd low temperature, a springpowered timing iriechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings for winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing trolling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm elfecting'opera'tion of said refrigerating unit in saidfirst position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position,
  • temperature responsive means actuating said arm tofsaid first position at a predetermined normally high tempera- 'ture and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, and means operated by "said timing mechanism intercepting said arm at a unit *deenergizing position intermediate said first and second -positions "when saidtemperaturedecreases to said predetermined low temperature until a lapseof: a .predeter- 10 mined cumulative amount of runningtimeof said timing mechanism.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in'said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when either said arm is out of said first position or said refrigerator door is closed, and means operated by said timing mechanism intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases below said predetermined low temperature until a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a secondposition, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first'position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mecha nism when said arm is out of said first position, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low emperature, said lastmentioned means permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an .arm movable between a first and a second position,;said arm effecting operation ofsaid refrigerating unit in said first position and, energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energizetion of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when either said arm is out of said first position or said refrigerator door is closed, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, and means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position if said arm is in said first position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
  • automatic refrigerator con trolling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said arm is out of said first position, and means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings Winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, and means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position if said arm is in said first position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when either said arm is out of said first position or said refrigerator door is closed, and means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit de energizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position if said arm is in said first position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome'and 'said arrn being returned tosaid
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unitinsaid first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position,
  • temperature responsive means actuating'said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature
  • a spring powered timing mechanism means responsive to refrigerator door openings'winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said arm is out of said first position, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuatingsaid arm from said firstposition to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said'timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm efiecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and sec ond positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position if said arm is in said first position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm eifecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when either said arm is out of said first position or said refrigerator door is closed, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm in said second position, the
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism,
  • a rotatable cam driven by said timing mechanism, said cam normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said cam permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, a hammer element carried by said cam, an overcenter spring effective upon said lapse of time for actuating said hammer element to drive said arm into said second position if said arm is in said first position 'upon said lapse of said time, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism including a balance wheel, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, a braking element carried by said arm, said braking element engaging said balance wheel and stopping said timing mechanism when said arm is out of said first position, said braking element providing a starting impetus for said balance Wheel when said arm returns to said first position, a rotatable cam driven by said timing mechanism, said cam normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said cam permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism including a balance wheel, a door operated plunger adapted for winding said timing mechanism, a braking element carried by said plunger, said braking element engaging said balance wheel and stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, said braking element providing a starting impetus for said balance wheel when said door is opened, a rotatable cam driven by said timing mechanism, said cam normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said cam permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of
  • automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism including a balance wheel, a door operated plunger adapted for winding said timing mechanism, a braking element carried by said arm, said braking element engaging said balance wheel and stopping said timing mechanism when said arm is out of said first position and disengaging said balance wheel and providing a starting impetus therefor when said arm is returned to said first position, another braking element carried by said plunger, said last-mentioned braking element engaging said balance wheel and stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed and disengaging said balance wheel and providing a starting impetus therefor when said door is opened,

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
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  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Defrosting Systems (AREA)

Description

Dec. 6, 1955 D. E. HlLLlKER I 2,725,723
AUTOMATIC REFRIGERATOR CONTROL Filed April 28, 1953 2 Sheets-Sheet l Inventor: Donald E. Hilliker,
l-lis Attorney,
Dec. 6, 1955 HILLIKER AUTOMATIC REFRIGERATOR CONTROL Filed April 28, 1953 2 Sheets-Sheet 2 United States Patent AUTOMATIC nnnnionnnron eonrnor Application April 28, 1953, S erial No. 351,559 20 Claims. (Cl. .62 ---4) My invention relates to refrigeration apparatus andpertains more particularly to automatic controlling means therefor.
The primary object of my invention is to provide a new and improved automatic refrigerator controlling means for maintaining a substantially constant refrigerator temperature and for initiating defrosting operations.
Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved automatic refrigerator controlling means including a spring powered timing mechanism and adapted for initiating defrosting operations as a function of cumulative door opened time during unit running time.
Still another object of my invention is to provide with an automatic refrigerator control including a spring powered timing mechanism, means adapted for winding the timing mechanism in response to refrigerator door openings.
Further objects of my invention will become apparent as the following description proceeds and the features of novelty which characterize my invention will be pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming part of this specification.
In carrying out the objects of my invention, I provide an operating arm movable between a refrigerating unit operating position and a defrosting position. Temperature responsive means actuates the arm to the unit operating position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward the defrosting position at a predetermined low temperature. Additionally, I provide a spring powered timing mechanism adapted for being wound in response to refrigerator door openings. The timing mechanism is stopped when either the refrigerator door is closed or the arm is out of the unit operating position. Normally when the arm is actuated toward the defrosting position, it is intercepted at an intermediate unit deenergizing position by means operated by the timing mechanism. Upon the lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of the timing mechanism the last-mentioned means actuates therarm to the defrosting position. In the defrosting position, the arm is attracted by a magnet. At a predetermined abnormally high, temperature the temperature responsive means overcomes the magnet and returns the arm to the unit operating position.
For a better understanding of my invention, reference may be had to the accompanying drawing in which:
Fig. 1 is a fragmentary sectional view of a refrigerator cabinet illustrating my control mounted therein and the cooperation between my control and the refrigerator door;
Fig. 2 is an enlarged fragmentary detailed perspective view of my control;
Fig. 3 is a plan view of my control illustrating the operating arm therein in a unit operating position;
Fig. 4 is a plan view of my control illustrating the operating arm in a defrosting position; and
Fig. 5 is a fragmentary plan view of my control illusice trating the arm in an intermediate unit deenergizing position. V i
In Fig. 1 is partially shown a refrigerator cabinet including an outer case 2 and a spaced apart liner 3. Provided in the space between the outer case and liner is suitable heat insulation designated 4. Closing the space between the edges of the outer case and liner is a breaker strip 3a. The liner 3 defines a food storage compartment 5 wherein is located an evaporator (not shown) for cooling the contents of the ,food storage compartment. Provided for closing an access opening to the food storage compartment is a door 6 supported .by suitable hinging means (not shown) secured to theouter case2. Mounted on the door 6 and adapted for sealing the food storage compartment 5 when the door, is closed is a gasket 7. Suitably mounted in the space between ,the outer case 2 and the liner 3 and directly behind the front portion of the breaker strip 3a is a preferred embodiment of my automatic refrigerator control generally designated 8 and shown in detailin Figs. 2-5.
As seen in Figs. 3-5, the control 8 is mounted on a base 9 formed of a suitable insulating material and includes an operating arm 10. The operating arm 10 is formed of magnetic material and is provided at the rearward end thereof with an extension 11. The extension 11 projects through an aperture 12 in a vertical end portion 13 of a bracket 14 fixedly mounted on the base 9. Straddling the extension 11.is a pair ofknife-edges 15; The knife-edges .15 are disposed in reentrant portions 16 formed in the vertical end portion 13' of the bracket 14 whereby pivotal movement of the arm 10 is permitted about the knife-edges. Secured to the outer side of the operating arm 10 is an insulative L-jshaped member 17 including an arm 18disposed in a hook portion 19 formed at the upper end of a vertically extending resilient contact arm 20 suitably secured to the base 9. Carried on one side of the hook portion 19 of the contact arm 20 is one of a pair of refrigerating unit contacts 21. Carried on the side of the hook portion 19 opposite the contacts 21 is one of a pair of defrost contacts 22. When the arm ,18 of the insulative member -17 is so positioned that it causes the unit contacts 21 to close in the manner shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the operating arm 10 carrying the insulative member is in a first or refrigerating unit operating position and a refrigerating unit (not shown) is energized for lowering the temperature of the evaporator in the food storage compartment of the refrigerator. When the armlta of the insulative member 17 is so positioned that it opens the contacts 21 and closes'the defrost contacts 22 in the manner shown in Fig. 4, the operating arm 10 is in a second or defrosting position and the unit is deenergized and defrosting means such as aheater .(not shown) is energized whereoy frost formed in therefrigerator is melted. When the arm 18 of the insulative member 17 is so positioned that it maintains both pairs of contacts 21 and 22open in the manner shown in big. 5, the operating arm iii stands in an intermediate unitdeenergizing position.
Provided for cooperating with the operating arm it; to bias the operating arm to either the unit operating posh tion or the defrosting position is a toggle spring 23. 'i'he two legs of the toggle spring 23 each include a depression 24. Pivotally seated in one of the depressions 24 is a knife-edge 25 formed on a forwardlyextending arm 2e bent off the side of the operating arm it). Pivotally seated in the other depression 24 is an end of a resilient arm 27 suitably secured to an upstanding portion 28 of the base 9. Adjustments to the tension of the toggte spring 23 is accomplished by turning an adjustment screw 29 which is threaded in a second upright portion 35; of thebase 9. Turning the screw .29 inwardly increases the tension of the toggle spring .23 and therefore the force with which the operating arm is biased. Turning the screw 29 outwardly relieves the tension of the spring 23 and reduces the biasing elfect thereof on the operating arm. By adjusting the tension of the spring 23 in the just-described manner, the normal operating temperature to be maintained in the food storage compartment of the refrigerator may be independently determined.
Provided for opening and closing the unit contacts 21 in accordance with the temperature of the evaporator thereby to maintain a substantially constant normal temperature in the food storage compartment is temperature responsive means generally designated 31. The temperature responsive means 31 includes a metal bellows 32 mounted on a vertical side portion 33 of the bracket 14 and a tube 34 connecting the bellows with a volatile fluid containing bulb (not shown) disposed in heat exchange relationship with the evaporator. In accordance with the temperature change at the evaporator, the saturation pressure of the fluid in the bulb results in corresponding longitudinal expansion and contraction movements of the bellows 32. A pin 35 is interposed between the bellows 32 and the operating arm 10. On the side of the operating arm 10 opposite the bellows and pin is a coil spring 36. One end of the coil spring is disposed in a spring seat formed by a plurality of projections 37 formed on the arm 10. The other end of the spring 36 is seated in a cap 38. The cap 38 is formed to include a lateral extension 39 adapted for sliding movement in a horizontal slot 40 in the vertical end portion 13 of the bracket 14 whereby the cap is rendered movable horizontally but prevented from rotating. Threaded in the cap 38 is an adjustment screw 41. The adjustment screw 41 is rotatable in and suitably prevented from moving longitudinally with respect to another vertical side portion 42 of the bracket 14. In this arrangement, the spring 36 causes the operating arm 10 and the pin 35 to follow the contractive movements of the bellows 32. In turn, expansive movements of the bellows 32 actuates the pin 35 to move the operating arm against the bias of the coil spring 36. The compression of the spring 36 and, therefore, the expansive movements of the bellows 32, are determined by the setting of the adjustment screw 41. Turning the screw 41 in one direction moves the cap 38 inwardly for increasing the compression of the coil spring 36 and turning the screw 41 oppositely moves the cap outwardly for reducing the compression of the coil spring 36. Provided for facilitating the turning of the adjustment screw 41 is a knob 43. As seen in Fig. l, the shank of the screw 41 is adapted for extending through the side wall of the liner 3 and the knob 43 is adapted for being secured on the shank of the screw on the inner side of the liner 3 or in the food storage compartment 5. Adjustments to the control by turning the knob 43 are intended to be made by the person using the refrigerator and suitable legends may be provided on the liner behind the knob to indicate the temperature to be expected to be maintained by the control 8 at various settings of the knob.
In the operation of the arrangement described to this point an increase in temperature at the evaporator results in an increase in pressure of the fluid in the control bulb and corresponding expansion of the bellows 32. At a predetermined normally high temperature determined by the setting of the knob 43 and the adjustment screw 29, the bellows 32 exerts a force on the operating arm 10 through the pin 35 sufiicient for overcoming the bias of the toggle spring 23 and the coil spring 36 and rotating the operating arm clockwise about the knife-edges toward the unit operating position of the operating arm. Movement of the operating arm 10 in this manner results in the toggle spring 23 snapping the arm to the unit operating position and in the insulative member 17 closing the unit contacts 21. This results in operation of the refrigerating unit whereby the temperature of the evaporator is reduced. Reduction of the evaporator temperature effects reduction in pressure of the control bulb and corresponding contraction of the bellows 32. Upon reduction of the evaporator temperature to a predetermined low temperature also determined by the setting of the knob 43 and the adjustment screw 29, the contraction of the bellows is such that the spring 36 is able to overcome the effects of the pin 35 and the toggle spring 23. As a result, the operating arm 10 moves out of its first position and the insulative member 17 carried thereon opens the unit contacts 21 for stopping the refrigerating unit.
Thereafter, the toggle spring 23 actuates the operating arm 10 toward its second position wherein the insulative member 17 would close the defrost heater contacts 22 and thereby energize the heater. Since it is not desirable to energize the defrost heater after each cycle of unit operation, I have provided means for intercepting the operating arm at the intermediate unit deenergizing position shown in Fig. 5 when the evaporator temperature decreases to the predetermined low until that time when it is desired that a defrosting operation be initiated.
In the preferred form of my invention, defrosting is initiated as a function of refrigerator door opened time during unit running time. To accomplish this, I have pro vided a spring powered timing mechanism g nerally designated 44. The timing mechanism 44 includes a main shaft 45 having secured thereto the inner end of a main spring 46. The outer end of the main spring 46 is formed as a detent 47 for cooperating with a plurality of inwardly projecting ridges 48 formed spacedly on the inner periphery of a rotatable spring case 49 housing the main spring. This arrangement permits the detent 47 to snap past the ridges 48 when excessive torque is developed in the main spring and thereby provides for a constant spring torque. Secured to the spring case 49 is a ratchet wheel 56. Suitably secured to the base and provided for engaging the ratchet wheel to prevent unwinding of the main spring through the spring case is a pawl 51. Cooperating with both the pawl 51 and the ratchet wheel 50 is another pawl 52. The pawl 52 is carried by a plunger 53 adapted for having its forward end extend through the front face portion of the outer case 2 and cooperate with the refrigerator door 6 in the manner shown in Figs. 1 and 2. Carried on the plunger 53 between a spring seat 54 secured thereon and an upright bracket 55 formed off the base 9 is a coil spring 56 sufiiciently strong to overcome the main spring 46. In this arrangement, the spring 56 is compressed and the pawl 52 is maintained in the position of Fig. 2 in which it is in engagement with the pawl 51 when the door 6 is closed. When the door is opened, the spring 56 actuatcs the plunger 53 forwardly or outwardly from the refrigerator cabinet causing the pawl 52 to ride down the pawl 51 and into engagement with the tooth of the ratchet Wheel engaged by the pawl 51 and displacing the ratchet w ecl 50 and the spring case 49 one tooth space thereby to increase the torque of the main spring 46. Thus, the timing; mechanism 44 is wound in response to refrigerator door openings.
Controlled relief of the torque in the main spring 46 of my timing mechanism 44 to provide a timing operation is effected in much the same way as in most spring powered timing devices. Fixed on the main shaft 45 is a main pinion 57 meshing with a gear 53 rotatable on a second shaft 59. Secured to the gear 58 is another pinion 60 meshing with another gear 61 rotatable on the third shaft 62. Secured to the gear 61 is an escapement wheel 63. Cooperating with the escapement wheel 63 is a pair of pallets 64 carried on the tines of a first bifurcated end 65 of an escapement lever 66. A pivot pin 67 passing through and secured to the escapement lever 66 adjacent the first bifurcated end 65 serves as a fulcrum for the escapement lever. The escapement lever 66 additionally includes a second bifurcated end 63 adapted for receiving and cooperating with a pendent pin 69 carried by a balance wheel 76 adjacent the periphery thereof. The balance wheel 70' is secured to a: pivot pin 71 to which is also secured the inner end of ahairspringna The outer end of the hair spring 72 is suitably secured to a base mounted bracket 73. 'In this arrangement, the hair spring72 oscillates the balance wheel 70 which in turn oscillates the escapement lever 66 to provide cooperation between the escapement wheel 63 and the pallets 64 thereby to permit through the gear train between the pinion 57 and the escapement wheel 63 timed controlled rotation of the pinion 57 by the main spring- 46. 7
Provided for stopping the timing mechanism 44 when the operating arm 10 is out of the first or unit operatingposition is a braking element 74 suitably mounted onthe operating arm and adapted for cooperating with the balance wheel 70. The braking element 74 engages the periphery of the balance wheel 70 inthe manner shown in Fig. 4- whenever the operating arm 10 is not in the first position for thereby stopping. the timing mechanism. As seen in Fig. 4, the braking element 74 engages the balance wheel periphery at an off center location. Therefore, when the operating arm 10 is subsequently returned to its first or unit operating position, the braking element 74 disengages the balance wheel periphery with a wipingaction. This wiping action provides the impetus necessary for satisfactorily starting the'balance wheel to oscillate and thereby restart the timing mechanism 44.
Provided for stopping the timing mechanism 44' when the refrigerator door 6 isclosed is a braking element 75 suitably mounted on the plunger 53 and adapted for cooperating with the balance wheel 70. The braking element 75 engages the periphery of the balance wheel 70 in the manner shown in Fig. 2 whenever the refrigerator door 6 is closed and the plunger 53 is actuated inwardly. As seen in Fig.- 2, the braking element 75 also engages the balance wheel 70 at an off center location. Therefore, whenever the refrigerator door 6 is opened and'the unit is operating, the braking element 75 disengages the balance wheel with a wiping action and thereby provides 'the impetus necessary for starting the-balance wheel" to oscillateand thereby restart thetiming mechanism.
Bent out of the pinion 57 is an upstanding lug 76. Carried rotatably on the main shaft in spaced relationship to the pinion 57 is a cam 77 formed to include a large recess 78. A stud 79 suitably fitted and retained in the cam 77 at a point substantially diametrically opposite the recess 78 includes a lug portion 80 which projects through the cam toward the pinion and is adapted for being engaged by the upstanding lug. 76 on the pinion; The stud 79 is in effect a hammerelementand connected between the stud and the rear end-portion lfi'of the bracket 14isa coil spring 81. The purpose for thisarrangenient will be seen hereinafter. Since the timing mechanism 44 is stopped by the braking elements 74- and 75, when either the operating arm 10 is out of the unit operating position thereof or the refrigerator door 6is closed,-the pinion'57' rotates only when the refrigerator door is open and the unit is operating. Rotation of the pinion 57 causes the lug 76 carried thereby to engage andpush the lug portion 80 of the stud 79 fitted in the cam-77. Thus,-rotation of the pinion 57 causes angular displacement or rotation of the cam 77.
The operating arm 10 carries a stop'82 and durin'g normal operation and until an elapse'of a predetermined cumulative amount of-runningtime of the timing'mechanism 44, the recess 78 in the cam 77 is not aligned with the'stop 82. Accordingly,-when" the temperature of the evaporator decreases to-the predeterminedlow temperature and the operating arm 10 is actuated out of its first-or unit operating position and toward the defrosting position by the springs 23 and 36, the stop 82 engagesthe periphery of the cam and the operating arm is thereby intercepted at the intermediate unit deenergizingposition of Fig. 5. When the operatingarm is in the unitdeenergizing position, the insulative-member17 carried thereon maintains both the unitcontacts 21 and thedefrost'heater contacts 22 open and the braking element 74, also carried by the operating arm, engages the balance wheel 70 to stop the timing mechanism 44. 7
Subsequently, when the temperature of the evaporator increases to the predetermined normally high temperature, the bellows 32 expands sufficiently for overcoming the springs 23 and 36 and returning the operating arm 10 to its first position wherein the unit contacts 21 are closed and the braking element 74 disengages and exerts a starting impetus on the balance wheel 70, which will be effective for restarting the timing mechanism only if the door is open and the other braking element 75 is disengaged from the balance Wheel.
Upon the lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of the timing mechanism 44, the cam 77 is driven to the position thereof shown in Fig. 3, from which position the spring 81 snaps over center. In snapping over center, the spring 81 causes the hammer element 79 to engage the outer end of a semi-circular arm 83 secured to the operating arm 10. Thus, the operating arm 10 is actuated or driven out of the first or unit operatting position. When the hammer element 79 engages the semi-circular arm 83, the recess 78 in the cam 77 is aligned with the stop 82 carried by the operating arm.
' Therefore, the stop 82 becomes seated in the recess 78 and the operating arm 10 is permitted to move to the second position thereof shown in Fig. 4, in which position the insulative member 17 opens the unit contacts 21- and closes the heater contacts 22 for thereby initiating a defrosting operation.
When the operating arm 10 is in its second or defrosting position, the braking element 74 carried thereby engages the balance wheel 79 and stops the timing mechanism Additionally, the forward extremity of the operating arm 10 moves into a concentrated field of attraction of a permanent magnet 84 secured to the side of a bracket 85 on the base 9. The magnet 84 attracts the operating arm and determines the temperature of the evaporator at which the bellows 32 will be effective for terminating the defrosting operation and returning the operating arm to the unit operating position. Threaded into the bracket 85 and cooperating with the operating arm It? is a set screw 86. The set screw 86 limits the movement of the operating arm toward the magnet 84 and provides for adjustment of the space between the magnet and the operating arm. By adjusting the space and, therefore, the attraction between the magnet and' the operating arm, independent adjustment of the defrosting temperature or the temperature at which defrosting will terminate may be obtained.
Upon attainment of a predetermined abnormally high temperature at the evaporator suflicient for melting all the frost thereon and determined by the setting of the screw 86, the force exerted on the operating arm by the bellows 32 becomes sufficient for overcoming the influence of the magnet 84- and the toggle spring 23 on the operating arm 1! Thereafter, through the pin 35, the bellows returns the operating arm to its first position thereby terminating the defrosting operation and closing the unit contacts 21 for initiating a normal refrigerating cycle.
As seen in Fig. 4, all of the tension in the spring 81 is not relieved when the stop 82 is in the recess 78. That is, when the operating arm 16 is in the defrosting position the stop 82 limits the rotation of the cam 77 at the position of Fig. 4 and the cam is biased for rotating beyond that position. Accordingly, when the operating'arm 10 is returned to the unit operating position in the above described manner, the stop 82 is lifted out of the recess. 78 and the spring 31 rotates the cam further counterclockwise or to the position of Fig. 2 for'insuring engage-- merit of the periphery of the cam by the stop 82 when the evaporator temperature decreases to the predetermined low temperature. Thus, the control 8 is conditioned for normal operation until the lapse of another predeterenemas mined cumulative amount of running time of the timing mechanism 44.
As pointed out above, my control 8 provides for independent adjustment of both the normal operating and defrosting temperatures of the refrigerator. That is, through adjustments made to the tension of the toggle spring 23 by turning the screw 29, the temperature ranges of each of the settings of the knob 43 may be adjusted. Also, adjustments to the spacing etween the operating arm 10 and the magnet 84 as effected by turning the screw 86 determines the duration of and, therefore, the abnormally high temperature attained during each defrosting operation.
My control 8 further provides means whereby the user may manually set it in a permanently off position, enabling the user to shut down the refrigerator easily when its service is not required, as during vacation periods. Additionally, my control 8 provides means whereby the user may set it for fast freeze or continuous refrigerator operation during a heavy load period.
The means whereby the control may be set for off or fast freeze comprises a bellcrank S7 pivotally mounted as at 87:: on the side portion 4-2 of the bracket 14 and including a forwardly projecting arm 88. Carried on the arm 88 is an element 88a having portions straddling the arm 18 of the insulative member 17 secured to the side of the operating arm 10. Another arm 89 of the bellcrank 87 is adapted for extending through a horizontal slot 9t, in the side wall of the liner 3 in the manner shown in Fig. 1. Th extremity of the arm 89 is positioned in and cooperates with a cam slot 91 formed in the rear face of the knob 43. The cam slot 91 is such that in the normal range of control setting of the knob 43, it cooperates with the bellcrank 87 to maintain the element 88a in the position of Figs. 25. In this position the element 88 has no effect on the movement on the operating arm 10 and the control 8 operates normally for cyclically operating the refrigerating unit and periodically initiating defrosting operations.
When it is desired to shut down the refrigerator, the control may be set in its permanently off position by turning the knob 43 to its most counterclockwise position in Fig. 2 to cause an outwardly extending portion 92 of the cam slot 91 to cooperate with the arm 39 of the bellcrank 87. This results in a counterclockwise actuation of the bellcrank 87 and the element 88a which moves the operating arm 10 out of its first or operating position and opens the unit contacts 21 if the operating arm is in its first position when the control knob 43 is set in the off position. Until this setting is changed, the element 83a remains so positioned that it obstructs movement of the operating arm to its first position and thereby prevents restarting of the refrigerating unit. If the knob 43 should be set in the off position when the operating arm 10 is in its intermediate position or in the second or defrosting position, the resultant actuation of the element 88a has no immediate effect thereon. However, subsequently and until the knob setting is changed, the element 88a obstructs movement of the operating arm to its first position and thereby prevents closing of the units contacts 21 and restarting of the refrigerating unit.
To set the control for fast-freeze and thereby provide continuous refrigerator operation during heavy load periods, the knob 43 may be turned to its most clockwise position in Fig. 2. This causes an inwardly extending portion 93 of the cam slot 1 to cooperate with the arm 89 of the bellcrank and actuate the bellcrank and the element 88a clockwise from the position of Figs. 25 to a position in which the element 88a engages the arm 18 of the member 17 and maintains the operating arm 10 in its first or unit operating position in which the unit contacts 21 are closed. Until the knob 43 is turned out of this setting, the refrigerating unit operates continuously and provides fast-freezing.
By means of this last described feature of my control,
the user may manually terminate a defrosting operation and reset the control for normal unit operation which it may be desired to do if for instance a defrosting operation is initiated while a frozen dessert or the like is being prepared or when a plenteous supply of ice cubes is required. This the user may accomplish simply by turning the knob 43 to the fast-freezing position and then returning it to one of the normal setting positions. This causes the element 88a to actuate the operating arm 10 to its first position whereby the stop 82 thereon is lifted out of the cam recess 73 permitting further counterclockwise rotation of the cam by the spring 81 and conditioning the control for normal operation until the lapse of another predetermined cumulative amount of door open time during unit running time.
It will be seen that while I prefer initiating the defrosting operation as a function of door open time during unit running time, my control 8 could be modified to initiate the defrosting operation as a function of just time, of accumulative unit running time, or of cumulative door open time.
By omitting both of the braking elements 74 and '75, the timing mechanism 44 would be caused to run at all times. After a predetermined running time, for example 24 hours, the recess 78 in the cam 77 would be driven into alignment with the stop 82 on the operating arm 10. If the operating arm 10 were in the intermediate unit deenergizing position when this alignment occurred the stop would simply fall into the recess and the operating arm would move to its defrosting position under the influence of the spring 23. If the operating arm 10 were in its first or operating position when the alignment occurred, the spring 81 would snap the hammer element 79 into engagement with the semi-circular arm 83 and thereby drive the operating arm into the defrosting position. The defrosting operation would be terminated in the same manner as described above.
The timing mechanism could also be caused to run at all times when the refrigerating unit is operating and defrosting would be initiated as a function of cumulative unit running time. This could be accomplished by retaining the braking element 74 and omitting the door operated braking element 75. In such an arrangement, the timing mechanism 44 would drive the cam 77 only during unit running time. After a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of the timing mechanism 44, equal to the cumulative unit running time, the recess 78 in the cam 77 would be aligned with the stop 32 on the operating arm 10. Again, if the operating arm 10 were in the intermediate unit deenergizing position when this alignment occurred, the stop would simply fall into the recess and the operating arm would move into its defrosting position under the influence of the spring 23 and if the operating arm were in its first or operating position when the alignment occurred, the spring 81 would snap the hammer element into engagement with the semi-circular arm 83 and thereby drive the operating arm into the defrosting position. In this form also, the defrosting operation would be terminated in the same manner as described above with regard to the preferred embodiment.
If it is desired to initiate defrosting as a function of cumulative door opened time, my control 8 could be modified by retaining the door operated braking element 75 and omitting the braking element 74. In this form the timing mechanism 44 would drive the cam 77 whenever the refrigerator door 6 stood open. After a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of the timing mechanism 44 equal to the cumulative door open time, the cam recess 77 would be aligned with the stop on the operating arm. In this form also, if the operating arm were in the intermediate unit deenergizing position when this alignment occurred, the stop would simply fall into the recess and the operating arm would move to its defrosting position under the influence of the spring 23. If the operating arm were in its first or operating position when the alignment occurred, the spring 81 would snap the hammer element 79 into engagement with the semi=circular arm 83 and thereby drive the operating arm into the defrosting position. In this form also, the defrosting operation would be terminated in the manner described above with respect to the preferred embodiment.
It will be seen further that while I refer to the contacts 22 as defrost heater contacts, they could be employed for controlling other defrosting means. For instance, they could control a solenoid valve in a reverse cycle system and effect defrosting by opening the valve and applying hot refrigerant to the evaporator in the system when the operating arm is in its second or defrosting position.
While I have shown and described a specific-embodiment of my invention, I do not desire my invention to be limited to the particular form shown and described, and I intend by the appended claims to cover all modifications within the spirit and scope of my invention.
What I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent of the United States is:
1. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings for winding said timing mechanism, and means operated by said timing mechanism intercepting said arm at a unit deener- ,gizing position intermediate said first and second posi .tions when said temperature decreases to said predeterminedlow temperature until alapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
2. .In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a .first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating'said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally'high temperature and toward said second position at a'predetermincd low temperature, a springpowered timing iriechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings for winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing trolling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm elfecting'opera'tion of said refrigerating unit in saidfirst position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position,
temperature responsive means actuating said arm tofsaid first position at a predetermined normally high tempera- 'ture and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, and means operated by "said timing mechanism intercepting said arm at a unit *deenergizing position intermediate said first and second -positions "when saidtemperaturedecreases to said predetermined low temperature until a lapseof: a .predeter- 10 mined cumulative amount of runningtimeof said timing mechanism.
4. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in'said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when either said arm is out of said first position or said refrigerator door is closed, and means operated by said timing mechanism intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases below said predetermined low temperature until a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
5. in a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
6. In a. refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a secondposition, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first'position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mecha nism when said arm is out of said first position, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low emperature, said lastmentioned means permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to, said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
7. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an .arm movable between a first and a second position,;said arm effecting operation ofsaid refrigerating unit in said first position and, energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
8. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energizetion of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when either said arm is out of said first position or said refrigerator door is closed, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
9. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, and means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position if said arm is in said first position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
10. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator con trolling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said arm is out of said first position, and means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
11. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings Winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, and means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position if said arm is in said first position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
12. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when either said arm is out of said first position or said refrigerator door is closed, and means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism.
13. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit de energizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position if said arm is in said first position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome'and 'said arrn being returned tosaid first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
14. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unitinsaid first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position,
temperature responsive means actuating'said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings'winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said arm is out of said first position, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuatingsaid arm from said firstposition to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said'timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
15. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm efiecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and sec ond positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position if said arm is in said first position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
16. in a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm eifecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, means stopping said timing mechanism when either said arm is out of said first position or said refrigerator door is closed, means operated by said timing mechanism normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said last-mentioned means actuating said arm from said first position to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, and a magnet attracting said arm in said second position, the
attraction of said-magnet being overcome and said arm being returnedto said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
17. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism,
means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, a rotatable cam driven by said timing mechanism, said cam normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said cam permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, a hammer element carried by said cam, an overcenter spring effective upon said lapse of time for actuating said hammer element to drive said arm into said second position if said arm is in said first position 'upon said lapse of said time, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
18. In a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism including a balance wheel, means responsive to refrigerator door openings winding said timing mechanism, a braking element carried by said arm, said braking element engaging said balance wheel and stopping said timing mechanism when said arm is out of said first position, said braking element providing a starting impetus for said balance Wheel when said arm returns to said first position, a rotatable cam driven by said timing mechanism, said cam normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said cam permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, a hammer element carried by said cam, an overcenter spring effective upon said lapse of time for actuating said hammer element to drive said arm into said second position, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
19. in a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism including a balance wheel, a door operated plunger adapted for winding said timing mechanism, a braking element carried by said plunger, said braking element engaging said balance wheel and stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed, said braking element providing a starting impetus for said balance wheel when said door is opened, a rotatable cam driven by said timing mechanism, said cam normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said cam permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, a hammer element carried by said cam, an overcenter spring efiective upon said lapse of time for actuating said hammer element to drive said arm into said second position if said arm is in said first position upon said lapse of time, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
20. in a refrigerator including a door, a refrigerating unit and defrosting means, automatic refrigerator controlling means comprising; an arm movable between a first and a second position, said arm effecting operation of said refrigerating unit in said first position and energization of said defrosting means in said second position, temperature responsive means actuating said arm to said first position at a predetermined normally high temperature and toward said second position at a predetermined low temperature, a spring powered timing mechanism including a balance wheel, a door operated plunger adapted for winding said timing mechanism, a braking element carried by said arm, said braking element engaging said balance wheel and stopping said timing mechanism when said arm is out of said first position and disengaging said balance wheel and providing a starting impetus therefor when said arm is returned to said first position, another braking element carried by said plunger, said last-mentioned braking element engaging said balance wheel and stopping said timing mechanism when said door is closed and disengaging said balance wheel and providing a starting impetus therefor when said door is opened, a rotatable cam driven by said timing mechanism, said cam normally intercepting said arm at a unit deenergizing position intermediate said first and second positions when said temperature decreases to said predetermined low temperature, said cam permitting movement of said arm to said second position upon a lapse of a predetermined cumulative amount of running time of said timing mechanism, a hammer element carried by said cam, an overcenter spring effective upon said lapse of time for actuating said hammer element to drive said arm into said second position, and a magnet attracting said arm when in said second position, the attraction of said magnet being overcome and said arm being returned to said first position by said temperature responsive means at a predetermined abnormally high temperature.
References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,064,396 Volpin Dec. 15, 1936 2,463,027 Frie Mar. 1, 1949 2,530,985 Morrison Nov. 21, 1950 2,595,967 McCloy May 6, 1952 2,612,026 Hansen Sept. 30, 1952
US351559A 1953-04-28 1953-04-28 Automatic refrigerator control Expired - Lifetime US2725723A (en)

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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3353426A (en) * 1965-10-28 1967-11-21 Mallory & Co Inc P R Speed reduction system for a timer
US20070157645A1 (en) * 2006-01-09 2007-07-12 Maytag Corp. Control for a refrigerator

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US2064396A (en) * 1934-08-27 1936-12-15 Servel Inc Automatic refrigerator defroster
US2463027A (en) * 1945-03-09 1949-03-01 Kramer Trenton Co Refrigeration apparatus arranged for periodic defrosting
US2530985A (en) * 1948-09-24 1950-11-21 Paragon Electric Company Timer for automatically defrosting refrigerators
US2595967A (en) * 1950-02-11 1952-05-06 Westinghouse Electric Corp Switch for refrigerators
US2612026A (en) * 1949-11-10 1952-09-30 Hansen Mfg Co Refrigerator defrosting system

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2064396A (en) * 1934-08-27 1936-12-15 Servel Inc Automatic refrigerator defroster
US2463027A (en) * 1945-03-09 1949-03-01 Kramer Trenton Co Refrigeration apparatus arranged for periodic defrosting
US2530985A (en) * 1948-09-24 1950-11-21 Paragon Electric Company Timer for automatically defrosting refrigerators
US2612026A (en) * 1949-11-10 1952-09-30 Hansen Mfg Co Refrigerator defrosting system
US2595967A (en) * 1950-02-11 1952-05-06 Westinghouse Electric Corp Switch for refrigerators

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3353426A (en) * 1965-10-28 1967-11-21 Mallory & Co Inc P R Speed reduction system for a timer
US20070157645A1 (en) * 2006-01-09 2007-07-12 Maytag Corp. Control for a refrigerator
US7765819B2 (en) 2006-01-09 2010-08-03 Maytag Corporation Control for a refrigerator

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